CW NOV 09

in

thursday 26 november 12noon to 8pm

www.mycanarywharf.com

shops | bars | restaurants

winter

(5pm to 8pm) (from 5pm, whilst stocks last)

Canary wharf’s ever popular winter in Style event is the perfect introduction to the party season ahead. with a superb selection of leading brands, you’ll find a fabulous choice of fashions and

accessories. to get your festive shopping off to a flying start, many stores are offering discounts of up to 30% on the day.*

A Gift From the Gods. . . . . . . . . . 20% offAspinal of London . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offAustin reed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offBrilliant inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off Cards Galore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCharbonnel et walker . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCharles Fish (excluding watch brands) . . . . 20% off Charles tyrwhitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offChoice (selected items only) . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCecil Gee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offCrabtree & evelyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offDavid Clulow Opticians . . . . . . . . 20% offDune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offFat Face. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offFiorelli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offFrench Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offGap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offGap Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off Jones Bootmaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offKate Kuba. . . . . . . 20% off (15% off Ugg Australia)

Karen Millen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offLaline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off

L.K. Bennett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offL’Occitane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offMolton Brown (when spending £40 or more) 20% off Myla . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30% offneal’s Yard remedies . . . . . . . . . . 20% offOasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offPaperchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offPerfect Presents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offPhase eight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offrobert Dyas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offrunners need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offScribbler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offSweaty Betty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offted Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offthe Body Shop (when spending £25 or more) 20% offVision express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offwarehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off

*Correct at time of print, terms and conditions apply to individual store offers.


Other offers available at: Bang & Olufsen, Burger King, Crussh, Montblanc, nicolas wine,

Singapore Sam, the Gentry Barber Shop, the Gentry Hair & Spa, tiffinbites, Zazà

LETTINGS

Humber Road, SE3 £369,995Situated in the heart of the Westcombe Park area we strongly urge an immediate appointment to view ideally located for Westcombe Park and Maze Hill BR.

St Johns Park, SE3 £335,000First floor one bedroom converted apartment offering stylish contemporaryliving with all the charm of the era. Accommodation comprises lounge to front, immaculate kitchen and luxury bathroom.

St Josephs Vale £310,000Two bedroom, two bathroom purpose built flat situated in the ever popularSt Joseph’s Vale development so this flat is sure to prove popular with the city professionals.

Eltham Road, SE12 £309,995Hall floor two bedroom conversion represents one not to be missed. In addition there is a pretty 30’ private rear garden and off street parking. The property is conveniently located for local shops and BR stations.

Lee Terrace, SE3 £460,000Three bedroom garden flat offered with sole use of an 80’ private garden. A short walk from the village, the property also benefits from a 20’9 reception room, modern fitted kitchen, off street parking.

Dacre Gardens, SE13 £285,000Purpose build maisonette with accommodation set over three levels andgives a great feel of light and space. A location which is popular with first time buyers.

Shell Road SE13 £395,000A attractive bay fronted Victorian home. Lounge with doors dividing, quality fitted kitchen/diner which leads onto a secluded lawned rear garden, three good size bedrooms.

Braxfield Road SE4 £449,995A charming a very well presented three bedroom period terrace house, situated in a very popular road and is offered with no on-going chain.

Church View House SE4 £329,900A wonderful opportunity to purchase this unique four bedroom detached family house, located on a quiet street close to all the local amenities and benefits from no on-going chain

Sales

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 9700

[email protected] www.kingsturge.co.ukWith London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath, Brockley and Greenwich

FULL PAGE COMPOSITE ADVERT FOR SALE (SINGLE OFFICE& DETAILS) X 12EA-RES-ADV-COMP-DK-3-SALE

additional Footer Example, various options for the footer see below.

FULL PAGE COMPOSITE ADVERT TO LET (SINGLE OFFICE & DETAILS) X 12EA-RES-ADV-COMP-DK-3-LET


gEnERally THE nEwspapER OR pUBlICaTIOn wIll sET THE TExT anD pOsITIOn THE pHOTO.THEy sHOUlD always FOllOw THE CORpORaTE layOUT as ExaMplE sHOwn.

THIs ExaMplE Has OTHER OFFICEs lIsTED In THE FOOTER, yOU Can sElECT any OFFICEs yOU wIsH TOappEaR HERE IE, FOR THE nORTHERn TEaMs yOU May wanT TO pRInT ‘wITH OFFICEs In ManCHEsTER,

lIvERpOOl anD lEEDs’

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 [email protected] www.kingsturge.co.uk

With London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath and Greenwich

Ares Court E14 £219,950 LeaseholdHighly desirable one bedroom apartment in this sought after gated riverside development offering on-site facilities including pool, gym, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and 24 hour concierge. Close to Mudchute DLR.

Michigan Building E14 £259,950 LeaseholdSpacious one bedroom apartment located in a peaceful riverside setting in the highly desirable New Providence Wharf. Just a short walk to Canary Wharf’s bars, restaurants and finest shops boasting two balconies, state of the art gym and waterside pool.

Pan Peninsula E14 £335,000 LeaseholdA large 14th floor one bedroom apartment in this exclusive development. Finished to the highest standards including a marble tiled bathroom, solid wood floors and air conditioning. Located next to South Quay DLR station and close to the extensive amenities of Canary Wharf.

City Tower E14 £350,000 LeaseholdA large two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the prestigious City Tower development. Presented in good condition and located near to Canary Wharf/Transport. Benefits from concierge and parking.

Boatyard Apartments E14 £410,000 Leasehold Belgrave Court E14 £650,000 LeaseholdA luxury two bedroom, third floor flat in Canary Wharf’s finest new riverside address. Its offers impressive Thames / Canary Wharf views and a high specification including wood flooring & stone worktops. Close to Island Gardens DLR giving great access to Greenwich and Canary Wharf.

A luxury two bedroom, two bathroom 5th floor apartment in Canary Riverside presented in excellent condition offering views of the River Thames. The development benefits from security, concierge and one secure parking space. Short walk from Canary Wharf.

styleexclusive store discounts | fashion shows |entertainment | goodie bags

xxxxxxx 3

in

thursday 26 november 12noon to 8pm



winter

(5pm to 8pm) (from 5pm, whilst stocks last)

Canary wharf’s ever popular winter in Style event is the perfect introduction to the party season ahead. with a superb selection of leading brands, you’ll find a fabulous choice of fashions and

accessories. to get your festive shopping off to a flying start, many stores are offering discounts of up to 30% on the day.*

A Gift From the Gods. . . . . . . . . . 20% offAspinal of London . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offAustin reed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offBrilliant inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off Cards Galore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCharbonnel et walker . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCharles Fish (excluding watch brands) . . . . 20% off Charles tyrwhitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offChoice (selected items only) . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offCecil Gee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offCrabtree & evelyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offDavid Clulow Opticians . . . . . . . . 20% offDune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offFat Face. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offFiorelli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offFrench Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offGap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offGap Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off Jones Bootmaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offKate Kuba. . . . . . . 20% off (15% off Ugg Australia)

Karen Millen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offLaline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off

L.K. Bennett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offL’Occitane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offMolton Brown (when spending £40 or more) 20% off Myla . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30% offneal’s Yard remedies . . . . . . . . . . 20% offOasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offPaperchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% offPerfect Presents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offPhase eight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offrobert Dyas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offrunners need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offScribbler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offSweaty Betty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offted Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% offthe Body Shop (when spending £25 or more) 20% offVision express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15% offwarehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% off

*Correct at time of print, terms and conditions apply to individual store offers.


Other offers available at: Bang & Olufsen, Burger King, Crussh, Montblanc, nicolas wine,

Singapore Sam, the Gentry Barber Shop, the Gentry Hair & Spa, tiffinbites, Zazà

www.lotusevora.com

An exclusive proposition, the Evora uses unique and innovative aluminium chassis technology wrapped in iconic Lotus styling. Its character traits of sophistication, agility and dynamism are clearly portrayed, backed up by legendary Lotus ride and handling.

Inside, bold shapes and beautiful materials are linked in unison, offering a virtuous combination of simplicity, comfort and style using exquisite detailing and hand-built craftmanship. A unique mid-engined 2+2 layout offers striking levels of everyday practicality without compromising the characteristics of a true sportscar.

An extraordinary combination of performance and economy confirm the Evora as the 21st century sportscar, a true Lotus, worthy of the name.

Lotus Evora 2+0 £48,450 OTR, Lotus Evora 2+2 £50,825 OTR. Model shown: Evora 2+2 £54,299 OTR, including optional Premium Upgrade Pack (£2495) and Quartz Silver Lifestyle Paint (£979).

OTR costs include: VAT at 15%, delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, valet, 12 months’ road licence and a full tank of fuel.

True characters are a rare breed that stand out from the crowd. Just like the new Lotus Evora, they lead, not follow.

Fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km): Urban 22.8 (12.4), Extra Urban 43.5 (6.5), Combined 32.5 (8.7) CO2 emissions: 205g/km

True Character

RWM advert.indd 4 24/9/09 09:02:06

www.lotusevora.com

An exclusive proposition, the Evora uses unique and innovative aluminium chassis technology wrapped in iconic Lotus styling. Its character traits of sophistication, agility and dynamism are clearly portrayed, backed up by legendary Lotus ride and handling.

Inside, bold shapes and beautiful materials are linked in unison, offering a virtuous combination of simplicity, comfort and style using exquisite detailing and hand-built craftmanship. A unique mid-engined 2+2 layout offers striking levels of everyday practicality without compromising the characteristics of a true sportscar.

An extraordinary combination of performance and economy confirm the Evora as the 21st century sportscar, a true Lotus, worthy of the name.

Lotus Evora 2+0 £48,450 OTR, Lotus Evora 2+2 £50,825 OTR. Model shown: Evora 2+2 £54,299 OTR, including optional Premium Upgrade Pack (£2495) and Quartz Silver Lifestyle Paint (£979).

OTR costs include: VAT at 15%, delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, valet, 12 months’ road licence and a full tank of fuel.

True characters are a rare breed that stand out from the crowd. Just like the new Lotus Evora, they lead, not follow.

Fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km): Urban 22.8 (12.4), Extra Urban 43.5 (6.5), Combined 32.5 (8.7) CO2 emissions: 205g/km

True Character

RWM advert.indd 4 24/9/09 09:02:06

16 WORKING IN THE WEST BANK Life from a new perspective

42 BEST OF BRITISH The man behind the William & Son brand

52 THE MAYR CURE Detox your mind, body and soul

74 THE MAVERICK Henri Leconte puts on a good show

C O V E R S T O R I E S

F E AT U R E S

30

16

74

contents

18 AGAINST THE ODDS Why the British support the underdog

21 THE GRASS IS GREENER Why more people are going back to ex-employers

30 TURNING JAPANESE Chef Rainer Becker tells us more about his new restaurant

34 FASHION Country Pursuits

49 FOLLOW YOUR NOSE Claire Adler profiles Floris

56 A WORLD APART Kate Harrison explores the tranquil island of Ko Phangan

59 SNOW MEN & SKI BUNNIES The best early skiing destinations 60 EAST MEETS WEST Josephine O’Donoghue enjoys the best of eastern and western Europe

80 STREETS AHEAD The story behind the capital’s streets

56

59

56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE PICCADILLY LONDON W1J 0QN TEL 020 7499 6814 - 9 HATTON GARDEN LONDON EC1N 8AH TEL 020 7831 3333

B U R L I N G T O N R O S E

NATURAL P INK AND WHITE D IAMONDSONE OF A K IND HANDMADE BY H IRSH

www.h i r sh l ondon . com

WHERE EVERY PIECE IS A WORK OF ART

24531_BurRose_CanaryWharf:24531_BurRose_CanaryWharf 27/10/09 10:33 Page 1

R E G U L A R S

contents

69

84

10 EDITOR’S LETTER

13 OUT & ABOUT

22 MARKET COMMENT

41 OBJECT OF DESIRE

47 HEALTH & BEAUTY

55 24 HOURS IN...

63 GADGETS

66 MOTORING

73 SPORT

76 ARTS & CULTURE

83 FOOD & DRINK

97 BUSINESS ExPERTS

103 INTERIORS

113 CITYLIFE RECOMMENDS

121 PROPERTY

63

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

HORA MUNDI I

www.jean-mairetgillman.com

objects of desire

Hora Mundi i

www.jean-mairetgillman.com

CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE:

Claire Adler is a London-based freelance journalist, specialising in jewellery, watches and luxury brands. Her work has appeared in the Financial Times, the Daily Mail, the Sunday Times, The Guardian, The Times, Spectator Business, Wallpaper*, Intelligent Life and House & Garden. She also writes for magazines published by Bentley, Harrods and Watches of Switzerland, amongst others.

Dr. David Kuo is one of the UK’s leading commentators on money matters. He is a Director at the popular investing website The Motley Fool – Fool.co.uk. As well as providing daily insight and fi nancial news for BBC London’s (97.4FM) Breakfast Show , he also presents Money Talk – the Fool’s weekly podcasts where guests from the world of money thrash out the fi nancial issues of the day.

Martin Bamford is one of the youngest and most successful fi nancial planners in the UK. He runs his own fi rm of fi nancial advisers – Informed Choice – and regularly contributes to various fi nancial publications. His personal fi nance book The Money Tree, published in 2006, is a best seller.

Jamie Carter is a freelance journalist specializing in gadgets and technology, Jamie has written for the likes of T3, Home Cinema Choice and The Guardian as well as a number of websites.

LIFE MAGAZINESW H A R FCANARY

EDITOR’S LETTERAs the clocks go back and the winter nights draw in it’s a time for refl ection: A new season dawns and the scene is being set for Christmas... and here at RUNWILD we’re taking advantage of this time to make some changes.

One of these is yours truly. But please don’t worry, our founding editor, Lesley will remain very much involved in the direction and strategy of our titles as Editor-in-Chief. Beyond this you will be noticing some changes coming through the titles in the next few months, with the introduction of some new regular features and a more ‘bite-size’ appeal. As always, your feedback is requested and welcomed...

As for this issue, the time for refl ection continues with our lead articles; Bel Trew looks at complete lifestyle changes working with those less fortunate in Palestine (p.16), Catherine Quinn asks if the workplace grass really is greener (p.27) and Kate Harrison tests out The Mayr Cure (p.52) for the ultimate body and lifestyle detox.

For those in less refl ective mood but still looking for a bit of a change, we’ve holiday destinations to tempt you, test drives that make your heart beat that little bit extra and festive dining to tantalise your tastebuds.

So sit back, relax and enjoy the read.

CITYLIFE NOVEMBER 2009 � ISSUE 52

THE MAVERICKHENRI LECONTE PUTS ON A GOOD SHOW WORKING IN THE WEST BANKLIFE FROM A NEW PERSPECTIVE THE MAYR CUREDETOX YOUR MIND, BODY AND SOUL BEST OF BRITISHTHE MAN BEHIND THE WILLIAM & SON BRAND

HOT PROPERTIESUK & INTERNATIONAL

CANARYW H A R F

CANARY WHARF Photography by Chetan Patel

www.dijitproductions.com

020 7987 4320020 7005 0045

[email protected]

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf, London E14 4JB

RUNWILDM E D I A G R O U P

RunWild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and RunWild Media Ltd. take

no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Subscription: A free subscription service is available to employees at Canary Wharf offi ces. E-mail [email protected] for further details.

For all other areas, 6 & 12 month subscriptions are available at £15 & £25 respectively, to cover postage and packaging. For details of subscriptions and advertising, please contact us on 020 7987 4320.

Louisa CastleEditor

Editor-in-Chief

Editor

Editorial Director

Deputy Editor

Editorial Assistant

Motoring Editor

Fashion Editor

Senior Designers

Production Manager

Group Publishing Director

P.A. to Group Publishing Director

Sales Manager

PR & Marketing Manager

Managing Director

Finance Manager

Lesley Ellwood

Louisa Castle

Kate Harrison

Josephine O’Donoghue

Ruth Sherrington

Matthew Carter

Lucie Dodds

Hiren Chandarana

Jenisa PatelLaddawan Juhong

Dan Hyde

Eren Ellwood

Ella Kilgarriff

Andy Williams

Rebecca Walton

Giles Ellwood

Annette Habel

Sofa from £3,684 Coffee table £599

no limitsin cool design

no style is out of reach. no style is the same.no limits in BoConcept.

Ice Hotel · Sweden

BoConcept TCR · 158 Tottenham Court Road · London W1T 7NH · Tel. 0207 388 2447 · www.boconcept.co.uk

free interiordesign service.

32986_UK_BoCIce_CanWharf_1_1.indd 16 28/10/09 10:43:04

lifestyle 13

outThe nights may be drawing in, but there’s plenty to do...

CIGAR CHICThe Lanesborough is ticking all the right boxes this season ensuring they retain their prestigious following in the heart of Knightsbridge. They are the first hotel to offer state of the art VAIO laptops to all guests and the only place to sell the world’s oldest cognac, dating back to 1770. Head to the Garden Room for a taste of liquid history (that was bottled in

the same year Beethoven was born) where experts are on hand to pair this tipple with high quality cigars. So, with your ancient cognac in one hand and cigar in the other spend an evening

in London’s most talked about smoking venue.

www.lanesborough.com

DAZZLE LONDON

This exhibition at the National Theatre is the perfect opportunity

to buy from fifty of the top jewellery designers such as

Sophie Harley, whose designs featured in the latest Bond movie. If

you’re not shopping for gifts, why not treat yourself to some Christmas party statement jewellery from by Marie Anderson which would look fabulous paired with a classic black low cut dress in this season’s velvet. 9 November – 9 Januarywww.dazzle-exhibitions.co.uk

CANARY WHARF ICE RINKCanada Square Park will be transformed once more this season

in to the perfect winter’s venue for entertaining friends, family or colleagues; book the ‘skate and party’ package for ice breaking

hilarity! The rink is open from 14 November but early booking

is advised as the bigger and better viewing bar adjacent to the rink is an addition not

to be missed. www.canarywharficerink.com

&DECODE: DIGITAL DESIGN SENSATIONSThis fantastic exhibition explores artistic compositions that marry the relationships between music, movement and high tech gadgets. Showcasing the latest developments in digital and interactive design (from small screen based graphics to large-scale installations) the works are displayed in collaboration with leading digital arts organisation onedotzero. Also showcased is YesYesNo, an advanced facial mapping technique and voice recognition system that creates music based on the individual allowing you to compose a masterpiece.

From 8 December For more information, call 0844 209 1770 or visit www.vam.ac.uk

about

14 lifestyle

ANISH KAPOOR EXCLUSIVE SUNDAY EVENINGSThe Dukes Hotel in Mayfair has collaborated with the Royal Arts Academy to present a highlight to otherwise dull Sunday evenings. Internationally renowned modern artist Anish Kapoor will be exhibited for a limited time only, featuring famous sculptures such as Shooting in the Corner. A visit to Dukes would not be complete without an indulgent cocktail where Ian Fleming is said to have coined the term “shaken not stirred.”

Exclusive ticket holders will also receive an invite to a two course meal and a glass of Villa Maria wine.Tickets cost £38.75 per person.For bookings call 020 7491 4840

BONFIRE NIGHT AT ALTITUDE 360

Escape the crowds this bonfire night at

Altitude 360. Enjoy panoramic views of all the firework displays across our fair city, whilst sitting atop the Millbank Tower. This venue caters for all levels of leisure, be it an intimate dinner for ten or a roof raising party for 600; let loose in style at this chic and elegant venue.

ALTITUDE 360 29th Floor, Millbank Tower www.altitudelondon.com

BELGRAVIA CHRISTMAS SUNDAYThis event could convert even Scrooge himself, as in and around Belgravia will be restricted to the transportation of Santa, his reindeer and rickshaw elves. Stalls selling homemade gifts and mulled wine offer refreshment between an opportunity to sing carols with the choir. This event is guaranteed to delight each one of your senses, and get you firmly in that festive mood.

6 DecemberPimlico Road, Elizabeth Street and Motcomb Street

LONDON JAZZ FESTIVALCalling all Jazz lovers (or those wanting to try something new), the London Jazz Festival runs from 13-22 November and brings the best Jazz performances from America, Europe and of course, Britain. With free performances on offer the festival is designed to captivate and broaden audiences with a chance to become actively involved with the music.www.londonjazzfestival.org.uk

LA CLIQUEA jaw dropping mixture of the most outrageous performances in cabaret, burlesque and circus acts ensures an unforgettable night. Coming to London at The Roundhouse from 20 November, this world sell out tour has been classed as impossible to define. Don’t miss this visual spectacle, and satisfy your intrigue and experience this marvellous event for yourself! www.lacliquelondon.com

The recession may have disrupted your long-term career plans here in the UK, but travel overseas to work with those less fortunate and you’ll soon have a new perspective, says Bel Trew

WORKING IN THE WEST BANK

It is 6pm, just outside Balata Refugee camp, in The West Bank, Palestine. A football match is in its closing seconds; some kids are in trainers, most are not.

The final goal is scored and one boy, shirt over his head, starts doing a victory lap around the scrubby concrete pitch. Their 28-year-old referee and coach, James*, gently consoles the losers in broken Arabic. The boys chatter away in basic English about Real Madrid and next week’s match. They tease James about his height and his sunburnt nose.

Two months previously, at 6pm James would have been in a suit at his desk in the City. “I knew about the ‘re-structure’ almost a month before it happened, it wasn’t a case of ‘if’, just ‘when’. I was determined to make the most if it. It is terrifying and wonderful at the same time to take break from your career, from your life. So I took my redundancy package and decided to come to Palestine. To work with people who have so little.”

James is not alone. The VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) has seen a two-fold increase

currentaffairs 17

in applications since last October – with the majority of these additional applicants coming from a financial background. Project Hope (the Palestinian-International NGO James is linked with) had never had a banker volunteer. However, since January at least five volunteers are ex-employees of the financial industries. “Times are very exciting out here” says James as he picks up the football cones (Project Hope’s resources are pretty limited, and with a lack of funding James had to bring a lot of his own equipment). “Nablus has basically been closed off to the world for nine years – the checkpoints and curfews made it almost impossible to enter. But in the last month the Israelis opened these checkpoints into the city; it makes it so much easier for international NGOs to get in and out.”

Grassroots charities in Palestine, like Project Hope, struggle with funding mainly because of badly informed Western ideas about this part of the world and the situation. Even the kids feel it – when I asked them what the Western perception of their culture was, ‘terrorist’, ‘third world’, ‘suicide bombs’ and ‘violence’ were the words used. Quite a highly-charged vocabulary for a class of 12 year olds with beginner’s English.

It’s clear that Project Hope is an integral part of Nablus’s development, especially whilst the city fights to rectify the catastrophic economic effects of the conflict. Set up in 2003 in the thick of the Intifada by a 23-year-old Palestinian woman Samah Atout, and 25-year-old Canadian Jeremy Wildeman, Project Hope is one of the only NGOs offering education in the area. Most importantly it is run by both internationals and Palestinians together, and for many children Project Hope is the only language education they get.

“Education is everything here in Nablus” Sophie* explains, a 32-year-old American ex-consultant – another employment victim of the recession. “When Tawjihi results

(A-Level equivalent) are announced the whole city holds its breath – the celebrations here were crazy.”

In times of relative peace the people in Nablus are very conscious of the importance of academic qualifications, particularly as unemployment is estimated to have risen to 20% in the city and almost double that in the camps. To give you a comparison, that’s twice (or in the case of the camps four times) the unemployment rate in the UK during the worst of the recession. This is tough for a city

that used to be the financial centre of Palestine – nine years of curfews and checkpoints have destroyed the economy.

Sophie continues, “What is also really interesting about Nablus, and Palestine as a whole, is the emphasis on education for women”. At the main University in Nablus, more than half of the students are female – many traditional ‘male’ jobs are also available for women, for example there are female police officers.

“I came here with Project Hope because of their emphasis on peace and education” explains James (HOPE actually stands for Humanitarian Opportunities for Peace and Education). “I teach English and Sports with the kids, and have Business English classes

and a CV workshop for the Uni students.” Sophie teaches English, Art and Aerobics – fitness classes for the local women are in high demand especially as obesity is a rising problem in this area. French, Photography, Music and Drama are also offered.

Both James and Sophie talk warmly about their classes in two of Nablus’s refugee camps, Askar and Balata. Comprised of the Palestinians who fled their homes in 1948, the children James and Sophie teach are now third generation refugees. Project Hope runs blog classes with the kids as part of their ‘Bridge to the World’ programme, allowing the refugee children to communicate their stories to the rest of the world. Oxford University is currently using the programme as the basis of research for their Refugee Studies Centre.

“What these children have lived through is breathtaking – they’ve seen family members killed in front of them, they’ve dodged tanks, and had their houses bombed” says James, “The psychological damage is palpable, for example, wetting the bed is a huge problem for the children out here. Especially as the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) are still in the city and camps in the middle of night making arrests. But that’s another story.”

Sophie has plans to set up her own yoga school, whilst James still applies for jobs abroad but he’s changed his tack. “It’s a cliché, but seeing old bullet holes in the wall of a child’s room puts your life very sharply into perspective. I’m not just looking for a role in the financial industries any more. Who knows; I’ve got an interview on my return to the UK, we’ll have to see.”

And will he be back? “Of course! Who’s going to keep an eye on my budding Beckhams?!” n

For information about working with or donating to Project Hope, visit www.projecthope.ps

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18 currentaffairs

From Susan Boyle to Billy Elliot, Britain loves the underdog. Kaye Holland wonders why...

THE UNDERDOG!COME ON,

“As the guard of honour was forming and the dignitaries were getting into position, a chant rose soft at first, but growing in resonance and fervour until it was taken up by every man in the stadium: ‘Roddick, Roddick, Roddick . . . ’” writes The Mail’s Martin Samuel. “The loser stood and the roar that greeted [him] was louder than has been heard for any beaten finalist. Indeed, when Federer was called forward there was barely a difference in decibel level.”

Both of the above stories show how Brits love to support the underdog – the person (or team) with the least potential to win. The question is why? The answer, I think, is three fold. First there’s the element of surprise. No one expected Boyle to possess a voice so stunning that it could cause Demi Moore to well up. Similarly few, if any, thought the all American Roddick could (and would) push Federer to the brink. And, for example, when Manchester United won the 2008-9 Premiership for the 11th time everyone (save for die hard Reds) yawned, because victory was inevitable, thus proving that the unpredictability of underdogs is part of their allure.

But only part; when, in August, the newly-promoted Burnley FC shocked mighty Manchester United (and the world) by winning 1-0 at their tiny Turf Moor stadium, we rejoiced not only because it was against all the odds (Burnley are listed as 5000 to 1 to win the Premier League this season, while

It’s 11 April 2009 and the first round of the Britain’s Got Talent competition. As 47-year-old Susan Boyle, a dowdy never-been-kissed charity worker from West Lothian,

took to the stage and spoke of her dream (to become a successful singer like Elaine Paige) the judges and crowd collectively sniggered, sneered and rolled their eyes.

But as ‘SuBo’, as the press have dubbed her, stepped forward, opened her mouth and began to sing I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables, everything changed. The judges’ jaws dropped, the crowd was on its feet cheering, and today (thanks to the wonders of YouTube) the Scottish Cinderella can count President Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Demi Moore as fans.

Fast-forward a few months to the Wimbledon final, which saw Swiss star Roger Federer seeking his sixth victory at the All England Club, and a record 15th grand slam title. The Wimbledon crowd loves Federer – one of the favourite sons of SW19 – and most showed up expecting to see their hero send his American opponent, Andy Roddick, packing as he had done so often in the past.

But a resurgent Roddick refused to lie down and it took 4 hours, 18 minutes and a fifth set that lasted an hour and a half, and an incredible 30 games before Federer finally won the 2009 Wimbledon crown (if not the crowd, who had found themselves unexpectedly rooting for Roddick).

United are near favourites) but because it appeals to our sense of fairness. Manchester United has a huge payroll and an endless supply of talent; conversely the Clarets have no national sponsors and their kits boast an emblem from a local oil supplier.

Our deep rooted desire to see justice served is certainly one reason why we love the underdog, as a study by Joseph Vandello (University of South Florida and author of The Underdog Effect) makes clear. Vandello looked not only at sports, but also at politics: in one study involving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, participants were given the same document about the history of the area but two different maps. One map depicted Palestine as the smaller country, the other Israel. In each and every instance, the subjects sided with the smaller – thus underdog – representation.

But mostly we love the underdog because we see in them something of ourselves. Simply put, most of us are not children of privilege and as such we can identify with the person who comes from the back of the pack: for example, Barrack Obama (the son of single mother) compared with George W Bush (the offspring of a president and the grandson of a United States Senator).

We empathise with the underdog not only because we can relate, but crucially because their success and endeavours allow us to dream for we all have our own private dreams; from the middle-aged man who still thinks he might be ‘discovered’ playing five-a-side football to the teenage girl singing into her hairbrush, hoping to become the next Britney or Madonna. The triumph of the underdog gives us hope that our time too might still come. n

wahaca brings the spirit of Mexican

market eating to Canary Wharf: respect for quality ingredients, passion for vibrant, honest food and

the pleasure of sharing with others…

Voted Best Mexican in London

Opening November 9th

Voted Best Mexican in London

Opening November 9th

The Park Pavilion,

Canada Square

blog.wahaca.co.uk

wahaca.co.uk

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business&finance 21

When it comes to making progress in your career, the trick is to move forward. Which is why few staff look

back once they’ve opted to leave one company in favour of another. But this could all be about to change as the current skill-short market forces employers to try and tempt ex-staff back into the fold. But would you really want to work for the same company after you’d already left?

“I’m really pleased to be back” says Fiona Thomson who works as a PA for Sky, having left briefly to try out a different role, before

returning to her previous employer. Although Fiona was perfectly happy in her original role, a newspaper jobs page caught her eye, persuading her to try out for a different position elsewhere. “It teamed some of my personal interests with a promotion, so I applied, and got the job,” she explains. “But I was always very happy working for Sky.”

According to the statistics, Fiona is by no means alone in returning to a former employer. Sky has benefited from 65 returning staff in the last 12 months alone, and recent findings by Enterprise Rent-A-Car show that

THE GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENERWould you go back to work for your ex-employer? Catherine Quinn discovers why ‘boomerang hiring’ is seeing staff reunited with the companies they left behind

a quarter of staff return to old organisations. In fact Fiona is just one of many so-called ‘boomerang hires’ – or staff who return to an original role or company having initially left for pastures new.

The phenomenon is tipped to be due to the recent economic downturn, where staff opt for the safety and comfort of companies they already know, rather than risking a new role in a new organisation. For some, however, the idea of returning to a company once you’ve left has the ring of failure about it. After all, in terms of career progression, forging forwards is often linked with moving on. And surely if a staff member has left a company it’s because the working environment hasn’t suited their needs?

Mike Dickson, director of executive recruiter Hudson disagrees. “Boomerang hiring is not a reflection of a company’s ability or inability to retain” he explains. “In fact, it says the opposite – it says that a company has managed to create an environment that the candidate should never have left in the first place. Bringing someone back to the company is actually a fantastic retention tool – it gives you the chance to send a message to the rest of the company that your business is so good, people who have seen what else is out there still want to return.”

For some staff, however, the idea of going back to an old employer is unappealing, despite the allure of a familiar environment. A survey on behalf of office recruiter La Crème found that less than a third (31%) of staff would consider working for an ex-employer.

“Obviously in a skill short market, employers are looking at new and different

ways of filling their vacancies and ex-employees are a logical pool of potential talent,” says La Crème director Jo Stuteley. “But it can be risky, particularly if their original reasons for leaving have not really been addressed”.

For many, of course, the trend can also be seen as somewhat symbiotic – particularly during a period of recovery from economic hardship. Returning staff know what they’re coming back to, whilst employers benefit from lower training and induction costs, not to mention validation of their working environment.

One employee who certainly agrees with this sentiment is Fiona Thompson. Having successfully been rehired by Sky, she’s is more than happy with her decision. “I have discovered the grass is definitely not greener, and I’m hoping to be here for some time to come.” n

Alpesh B Patel, Fund Manager and Principal, Praefinium Partners

Market coMMent

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to

repeat it”

S antayana’s quotation is often used in moral discourses. Is this of any value with regards to your financial planning?

If we compare the great depression of the 1930’s with today, using equity indices to replicate economic conditions as illustrated:

One may ask; is there a striking similarity? For some this creates anxiety, for others, opportunities; should you be concerned? Do you think history repeats itself?

Before you run off and sell all your remaining stocks, we suggest that you first consider the differences between the 1930’s and current global economies. Some politicians will now praise their ‘bail-out spending’, but let us think differently. In the 1930’s, the world economy was largely dominated by the so called ‘Western economies’. What’s different today? Indeed, most ’Western economies’ have been diagnosed with the crisis virus. However, Asia’s share of the global economy is now significant. In these difficult times GDP growth rates have remained strong – for example: India’s GDP for 2009 is forecasted

as + 5.4 % by some and as high as 9% by others while western economies struggle to achieve positive growth at all.

What if you expect that things will evolve differently from the 1930’s, are you prepared to take a ‘historic risk’? Investors who have survived the recent financial market bust with money to invest are all facing the same dilemma. Should I leave my money in the bank where interest rates are at historic lows? Do I have the confidence that my bank will be around in a year from now? If you are looking for alternatives, we suggest that you consider Indian equities.

Why is India different? To put it simply, there is solid domestic demand, this has been unleashed through significant buying power from the growing middle class. In addition, India is much like a crouching Bengali tiger in the form of growth from a significant agricultural sector.

Therefore, if you are looking to increase your wealth at a pace faster than your peers, we suggest that you consider an allocation to India into your portfolio. n

Next month: How to participate in the Indian growth story

Alpesh B [email protected] runs an India Fund

Praefinium shares an insight on 2009 investment

22 business&finance

citylifepromotion 23

BENEFITS OF A WIZZ2U CONCIERGE INCLUDE:

Increased productivity and concentration during working hours

Better company image and appeal by making a strong statement to staff and customers that you value and support your workforce

Improvement in staff morale

An important selling point when it comes to recruitment

Increased workforce focus by ensuring that PAs and other support staff concentrate on work related matters rather than personal tasks for their immediate employer

Time and cost saving assistance to the employer with tasks such as corporate travel, corporate gifts, corporate entertainment etc..

Did you know that a recent survey identified

that 80% of employees spend at least 20% of

their working day on personal tasks?

As expectations increase and technology

promotes instant communication, workers

often find themselves under pressure to

answer the demands of their personal lives,

alongside their daily workload in the office.

Certainly, most employees would rather

not spend time at work trying to organise

personal tasks and do not want to waste

lunch breaks and weekends doing mundane

time-consuming chores.

Costly to employers and stressful for

employees, this lost time is precious and is an

indication of the need for change. The UK’s

leading on-site concierge business, Wizz2u,

services major corporate and residential clients;

with almost ten years experience, they hold an

unrivalled reputation in the on-site concierge

industry and are well known for exceeding their

clients and customers expectations.

Wizz2u can assist employers in introducing

benefits that are practical, useful and valued

by the entire workforce with products and

services to suit all budgets and tastes within

the company. The hours wasted by staff

are visibly reduced and their contentment

increases, as the on-site concierge handles

requests efficiently and cost effectively.

Anthony Gee, Managing Director, states that

placing a trained and experienced concierge

directly into your offices to look after your

employee’s lifestyle management has proved

to be incredibly successful, and the company

boasts a high level of long term client

retention. Usually located in highly visible and

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rest area) your employees can telephone,

email or visit the concierge desk with their

requests and access a comprehensive range

of products and services.

Wizz2u concierges are based in their client’s

offices so that the tailored service becomes

incredibly personal to the employees; the

concierges immerse themselves into the

culture of their assigned company and

Gee says that maintaining this high level of

customer service ensures that all employees

feel valued by their employer.

Wizz2u offers on-site concierge services from just £50 per employee per annum

For more information, visit www.wizz2u.com or email [email protected]

A HELPING HANDFor those who just can’t find enough hours in the day, why not consider an on-site corporate concierge service to help ease the load, says Joe Mann

Accessible, great value and offering that world-renowned hospitality, Ireland offers the business traveller a new alternative for conferences and events.

Years of growth and unprecedented levels of investment in infrastructure means that Ireland offers some of the most sophisticated and well-equipped venues in Europe. It also offers variety; from Dublin’s new iconic convention centre that can accommodate up to 8,000 people and is due to open in 2010, to the new Aviva Stadium on the site of the world’s oldest international stadium, formerly Lansdowne Road, and from the stylish designer city centre hotels to the luxury lakeside havens.

But there’s so much more to offer than state-of-the art conferencing facilities; excellent local produce served simply or in a Michelin-star restaurant and washed down with a requisite Jameson’s, Guinness or Irish coffee; endless outdoor activities to explore from the races and golf to walking and fishing; and boundless landscapes to experience and welcoming faces to remember.

This is a great time to discover what the magic of Ireland can add to your next event.

For further information and inspiration please visit the website.

TOURISM IReland,

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IRELAND: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

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• Close to home, yet a world away – average one hour fl ying time

• Over 100 fl ights from 29 regional airports

• First class facilities

• Day delegate rates from £22pp

• 24hr delegate rates from £70pp

• Stunning locations – choose from city chic or country style and everything in between

• Tee-off on world-class golf courses

• Indulge in pure spa experiences

• Take advantage of the exciting team building opportunities from race days to cookery courses

• Join in the craic at the end of the working day

ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE

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CANARY WHARFNEWS

East London Business Place (ELBP), the organisation created to enable economic benefit for East London and Thames Gateway businesses, has already exceeded most of the targets put in place at its launch last year.

Since April 2008 the organisation has helped small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) place over £34.6m worth of contracts, against a target of £20m by March 2010.

“Despite the economic climate there is a huge amount of development underway in East London and the Thames Gateway. We want to ensure that ELBP helps local business

to gain access to this.”

Over 2,500 businesses are now registered for the free service, which links SMEs with buyers from major organisations in East London and the Thames Gateway, including those in Canary Wharf, the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics Site and other developments. This is against a target of 2,200 registered businesses by March 2010.

“We are delighted about the performance to date and while we have already hit most of our targets, we will not be resting on our laurels,” says ELBP Director Gay Harrington.

Canary Wharf was recently the centre of celebrations for the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles (or Booths).

Canary Wharf Group plc (CWG) constructed a tabernacle (succah) in Montgomery Square, which hosted a variety of luncheons for workers based at Canary Wharf and the local community.

Clifford Chance, HSBC and employees of BGC Partners, Citi and Morgan Stanley sponsored events at the Tabernacle and CWG hosted a buffet lunch for Canary Wharf Workers and guests from Stepney Day Centre, Dennis Centre, Brenner Centre, Nightingale House, Schonfeld Square, The Sam Beckman Day

Care Centre and members of the East London Synagogues Association.

Danny Seliger, Associate Director Administration at CWG, said: “It’s a pleasure to provide a focal point for the local Jewish community to come together. Many hundreds of the Canary Wharf workers and a variety of East London organisations are able to enjoy use of the Tabernacle every year.

“This is just one of the many community events CWG supports throughout the year. It’s important that we work together with our local communities; it’s what being a good neighbour is all about,” he said.

CELEBRATING THE JEWISH FEAST OF TABERNACLES

SEARCHING FOR EAST LONDON’S OUTSTANDING SPORTSPEOPLE

Canary Wharf Group plc is calling for East London’s sporting achievers to step forward for the Canary Wharf Sports Personality of the Year Awards 2009.

Entries are now open for the awards, which give annual recognition to locals who have demonstrated excellence, commitment and achievement in their

chosen sport over the past year.

Mimi Tran, Community & Sports Co-ordinator at Canary Wharf Group plc said:

“Throughout the year we see amazing sporting talent displayed by people of many different kinds of backgrounds in East London. Such sporting role models have the potential to inspire whole communities to better things.

“An investment in sporting excellence can be an investment in the social and economic regeneration of East London, as the 2012 Olympics are proving,” she said.

Contact : [email protected] for application details.

ELBP KEEPS EAST LONDON ON TRACK FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS

Our Clients Are For Life(not just for conveyancing)

Alexander JLO Solicitors are Docklands’ longest established law firm, providing a full range of legal and property services for you, your family and your business. We have more than 30 years experience in giving expert advice on divorce and family problems.

Our solkicitors SRA-accredited in Family Law and members of Resolution – an

association promoting a non-confrontational approach to family problems.

Appointments available from 7.30am T: 020 7531 8820 E: [email protected]

11 Lanark Square, Glengall Bridge, Isle of Dogs, London E14 9RE

For you, your family and your business

www.london-law.co.uk

Our solicitors are SRA–accredited in Family Law and members of Resolution – an

association promoting a non confrontational approach to family problems.



TURNING JAPANESE

“I still get the same feeling as when I opened the first Zuma in London in 2002. There’s a quiet confidence but there’s also that nervous feeling you get when you just don’t know what’s going to happen.”

Becker has restaurants in all four corners of the world: Dubai, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Arizona and a new restaurant launches in Miami next year. However, German-born Becker describes London as his home and spends most of his time here. After leaving a 14-year-career at the Hyatt hotel group spanning several different countries, he chose to launch his first restaurant Zuma in London.

“For me, London was and still is the culinary centre of Europe. There’s lots of competition here which makes the restaurant scene very good and it keeps you on your toes. As long as you ensure that the product you’re offering here is good, the rewards can be great because it’s is such a huge and multicultural city, there are lots of tourists.”

His first restaurant in London was located in Knightsbridge and his second, Roka, opened in 2004 in Fitzrovia. Yet Becker insists he has had his eye on a site in Canary Wharf for a long time.

“I’ve been watching Canary Wharf with amazement over the past five years – it just keeps growing and expanding. We have always looked at Canary Wharf and considered locating there, but over the past couple of years the company’s success has just been so

overwhelming and so quick that we hadn’t had a chance.”Indeed, Becker explains the last five years have been “exhausting”

and he still seems in shock at what he has achieved. There is none of the bluster and swagger of Gordon Ramsay, instead Becker seems baffled at how he and business partner Arjun Waney have achieved such meteoric success.

“We really didn’t plan this, it wasn’t a structured business plan, it evolved. Now looking back I don’t know how we did it because we didn’t have a big corporate structure.”

There is, however, one key country which is missing the Becker touch – his homeland, Germany. He hesitates when I ask him when he will open a restaurant there and

then answers more carefully. “Being German of course I would love to open a restaurant there but it’s not on our map at the moment because German cities do not have the size and energy we need at this time. London and other cities which are similar in terms of size and culture really work for us; German cities are smaller and not so multicultural and so we wouldn’t have the confidence that it would be busy enough every night as we are in all our other restaurants.” Becker may be a German who specialises in cooking Japanese food, but he is still a Londoner at heart. It was, however, traditional German cooking which fired Becker’s passion for food from an early age. “My passion for cooking started when I was six or seven years

I’vE bEEN wATchING cANARy whARf wITh AmAzEmENT ovER ThE PAST

fIvE yEARS – IT JUST kEEPS GRowING ANd ExPANdING

Some chefs take decades to build up an international restaurant empire and a worldwide reputation. But for Rainer Becker, success has followed success and in the last five years he will have opened eight Japanese restaurants across the world. Canary Wharf is the latest location to get a taste of Becker’s award winning restaurants but he admits to Dominique Brady that he still gets first night nerves

interview 31

old and I would help my mum in the kitchen and I started learning different cooking techniques.”

After training as a chef, he had stints at some of Germany’s top restaurants, including the Michelin-star Koenigshof in Munich and Goethehaus in Bensberg. Then he joined the Hyatt group and his interest in Asian food blossomed.

“I opened a restaurant in the Hyatt Regency hotel in Cologne called Graugan, where the concept was east-meets-west fusion food. They sent me round the world to experience the flavours of the east and I stopped in Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. But straight away Japanese food had the strongest appeal.”

After three years in Cologne, he was first sent to Australia as an executive chef, then to Tokyo to be the executive chef at their Park Hyatt. Over six years he launched five award-winning restaurants and developed his own twist on Japanese flavours.

“When I arrived in Japan I initially found Japanese food a little bland because my palate had been exposed to so many international flavours and spices – Japanese cuisine doesn’t use many spices to enhance the flavour – they work more with the natural flavour of the product. But after a couple of months my palate changed and I began to notice the complexity of the food. It looks simple but requires very different methods of cooking and an understanding of flavour.”

He describes Roka not as a “traditional” Japanese restaurant but as “Japanese restaurant that has adapted to the western palate.” And, undoubtedly it’s been a hit with critics and customers alike judging

by the number of awards and packed restaurants that Becker can, but doesn’t, boast of. One of the reasons why Roka will be a success in Canary Wharf, as elsewhere is Becker’s understanding of what a customer wants.

“I just want them to enjoy it. For me, going to a restaurant is about enjoyment of – the food, the service, and the atmosphere. All of these things are very important and we’ve got a beautiful bar in front of the restaurant where you can come and just chill out after a day at work. Roka most importantly is about enjoying yourself.”

Becker is clearly excited about this latest opening at Canary Wharf “we wanted Roka Canary Wharf to be a combination of our Charlotte Street original but have a personality of it’s own, we have dishes that are exclusive to Canary Wharf created by our group executive chef Nic Watt and head chef Yoshi Muranaka”

He apologises profusely at the end of the interview “My English is not the best, I probably haven’t phrased things as well as I meant them.” I find myself reassuring one of the most globally recognised chefs on his near perfect English. But it’s this modesty and down to earth approach, as well as his enjoyment of life, which informs his restaurants and must be his secret ingredient to global success. n

Roka, Canary Wharf is now open. For reservations call 020 7636 5228The Park Pavilion Canada Square

Canary Wharf www.rokarestaurant.com

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS AT HOMECreate an elegant, luxurious look at home this Christmas with The

White Company using shimmering shades of grey, glistening glass, crisp white china and linen, sparkling decorations and sophisticated silver.

Bring old and new styles together this season for the ultimate contemporary look and add a hint of romance with spicy ginger candles for a wonderful welcoming home.

All products shown here are available from The White Company. Home delivery is free on all ordered items, excluding furniture.

1 BauBle sets from - £10

2 20 sparklers - £6 riBBed tea light (small) - £8 silver riBBed planter - £12 riBBed oval tea light (small) - £8

3 photo frames from - £20

4 from left: fine large riB Candle stiCk - £30 fine small riB Candle stiCk - £20 ophelia Candle stiCk - £25 santorini taBle runner silver - £25 small riBBed tealight - £8 small silver riBBed tealight - £6 santorini napkins (set of 4) - £30 silver Beaded plaCemats (set of 2) - £20

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The White CompanyCabot Place West Canary Wharf

020 7719 6381www.thewhitecompany.com

The White Company are offering a 15% discount on full price products (excluding furniture) for Canary Wharf’s Winter in Style shopping event taking place on Thursday 26 November from 12 noon - 8pm.

Photography by: Jason Moore at Tiger CreativeFashion Editor: Lucie Dodds

Country Pursuits

Alex wears brown suede and fur collared jacket, £1,495; grey cashmere zip jumper, £145; grey cashmere scarf, £125 all

Gieves & Hawkes, 1 Saville Row, W1, 020 7434 2001 www.gievesandhawkes.com

Brown leather driving gloves, £99 from Pickett 32/33 Burlington Arcade, W1, 020 7493 8939 www.pickett.co.uk

Alex wears black and white herringbone tweed panelled cap, £175; midnight blue/black dry hand wool linen jacket with velvet collar, £795; black chalk stripe doeskin yoke-back tapered leg trousers, £495; mole wool mohair argyle v-neck sweater, £450 all Burberry, 020 7806 1303 www.burberry.com

Black quilted leather jacket, £3,559; cream silk polo neck jumper, £949; grey tan leather trousers, £769 all Ermenegildo

Zegna, 37/38 New Bond St, W1, 020 7518 2700 www.zegna.com

Brown leather driving gloves, £79; Aspinal www.aspinaloflondon.com

Brown leather boots, £265; Gieves & Hawkes as before

Black quilted leather jacket, £5,675; navy/black polo neck, £630; jeans, £500; crocodile loafers, £2,960; glasses, £250; all Tom Ford at Harrods 020 7730 1234

Tan leather driving gloves, £79; Aspinal as before

All vintage sporting props with thanks to Farley, 020 8749 9925 and Bapty Ltd, 020 8574 7700

Grooming: Ben Mohapi @ Punishment Ltd

Models: Alex and Etienne at Premier Model ManagementThanks to Flo

Green tweed jacket, £450; tan tweed waistcoat, £150; check shirt, £80; tartan wool tie, £50; tan cord trousers,

£120; tweed cap, £45; tweed saddle bag, £150; all Hackett, 137/138 Sloane Street, SW1, 020 7939 6865

www.hackett.com

CELEBRATE...Festive packages now availableRequest a copy of our popular Winter Festivity Brochure today!

Telephone: 0207 093 1000

The London Marriott West India Quay Hotel and Executive Apartments. LondonMarriottWestIndiaQuay.co.uk

CELEBRATE...Festive packages now availableRequest a copy of our popular Winter Festivity Brochure today!

Telephone: 0207 093 1000

The London Marriott West India Quay Hotel and Executive Apartments. LondonMarriottWestIndiaQuay.co.uk

WIQ0121 CurveFastLunPOS 03 3/11/08 12:34 Page 1

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THE NEW ‘EXPRESS LUNCH MENU’ AT CURVE

Reservations: 020 7517 2808London Marriott West India Quay

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Dishes starting from £6.50Great menu, great service, great value!

lifestyle 41

To celebrate 150 years of pioneering Swiss watch

making, Tag Heuer brings to commercial reality the first advanced integrated mechanical movement of

the third millennium.

The mechanical wonderment of the TAG Heuer Monaco

V4 was first unveiled as a concept watch at BaselWorld

2004, the world’s first watch with belt drives, linear mass

and ball bearings. Today, the dream has become a reality.

Only 150 pieces, made in platinum, have been

hand manufactured in the TAG Heuer La Chaux-de-

Fonds workshop. Available November 2009.

100,000 CHF (approx. £65,000)

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William Asprey is the seventh generation of the Asprey family to make his fortune through the

sale of classic luxury goods – so he knows exactly what he’s doing. In the space of just ten years, he has built a hugely successful luxury brand, going from strength to strength, even in the midst of the recession.

Located in a prestigious location on Mount Street in Mayfair, and boasting a Royal Warrant within the first decade of business, William & Son is the quintessential British luxury brand. “We chose the Mount Street store in Mayfair, quite simply because it was the best we could find. It’s difficult to find good properties in the City and we were lucky that Coutts were moving out of there. For luxury brands, it’s the place to be.”

Branching away from the family company, Asprey, William decided to launch his own high-end company, with his own selection of luxury gifts, watches and jewellery. I asked him what the company was all about, and he replied that his ethos was really quite simple: “We care about the quality and beauty of each and every product, alongside the quality of service that we offer to all our clients. We aim to provide them with exactly what they want, and they benefit from our knowledge and dedication – something that is not always available in a lot of places.

QUINTESSENTIALLY

Josephine O’Donoghue meets William Asprey to find out more about the luxury Mayfair brand, William & Son, and what makes them stand out from the crowd

British

Our gifts are classic because we dOn’t brand

them, and the quality speaks fOr itself. we

design and make things tO last, and it shOws

A patriotic brand, William & Son is proud to showcase a range of the ‘Best of British’. “The ‘Made in Britain’ stamp is so important to us,” emphasizes William “Because we still have the skills and craftsmanship in this country. We always try and find British suppliers and craftsman first, before looking elsewhere. Actually, we are the last privately owned British luxury goods company and so buy British wherever possible.”

An ‘Aladdin’s cave’ of treasures ranging from leather goods and pens, to watches and jewellery, a trip to William & Son turns out something different every time: “We don’t tend to order or make things in bulk” explains William. Clients at William & Son know that their purchases are classic not only

for their timeless design, but also because every other home and/or person doesn’t have that same product.

“We target anyone who appreciates originality and unique beauty” says William. “Our range appeals to the individuals who enjoy individuality – all of our products can be personalised too, which adds another dimension to finding something special for a particular room, person or occasion.”

Browsing the eclectic range of products, there seems to be something for everyone – a variety of styles and colours within the

‘classic British’ brand. “We have no ‘typical’ client,” says William.

“A few months ago a man came in to the store;

he was a dish-washer at a nearby hotel. He had just gained British citizenship and

was looking for a new passport cover. The same

day, we could serve royalty or a pop star.”

Coming up to Christmas, the store becomes even more magical, filled with beautiful gifts and home accessories perfect for dressing your house for the festive season. “For Christmas we’re expecting the William & Son crackers to sell very well” says William. “With beautiful packaging, each one still has the traditional paper hat and joke but also contains a gift from out range, chosen specifically for the recipient.

“Come to William & Son to find the perfect gift – we will have it. Even for the man or woman who has everything, we can help you design something new or personalise one of our existing products. Our timeless pieces always sell well – beautiful watches, well-cut diamonds. Everything in our range is classic, which means they’ll still be stylish in twenty, thirty, forty years time.”

While ‘classic British’ is the overall focus, William insists you can still find accessories and jewellery which are on-

trend for seasonal fashions. “Although we don’t follow high fashion and vogue trends, you have to pay attention to the colours and styles to some extent. We combine these trends with high quality materials and craftsmanship to create a product that lasts longer than the fashion trends. You will find things in our store that nod to the current

fashions, but they will last a long time – they’re not disposable style.”

Unlike some of the older luxury companies in the City, William & Son is young enough to adapt and change as it grows. Inspired by clients, William chooses new lines based on their shopping habits and responses. “The bespoke service we offer is popular, and often helps us to develop our own range” he reveals. “A few years ago we had a lady who ordered a backgammon set in brilliant orange leather. We would never have chosen this for the range, but once made, it looked fantastic! We asked her if she wouldn’t mind, and the following year we included some of the orange leather in the range. The bespoke service allows us to hear from our clients and find out what they really want – an input which is valuable to our new designs.”

A family business with a name synonymous with luxury, a visit to William & Son is the epitome of British style. From the eclectic to the extravagant, from the special to the surprising, with William & Son you’ll find the perfect gift every time. n

For more information, visit www.williamandson.com

interview 43

MUST-HAVE ITEM

Graf von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2009 at William & Son

This year’s ‘must-have item’ from William & Son is the Limited Edition Pen of the Year 2009. Inspired by the horse (and brought to life by German weaving expert Dorit Berger), the pen is woven with horse hair.

Towards the end of the eighteenth century, the mane and tail of the horse began to enjoy a high status as an elegant material for chair coverings; because of its natural properties and sophisticated processing, horsehair is still today used for extravagant furnishings and luxurious fashion accessories. The use of horsehair for weaving can only be achieved by masters the traditional art of weaving by hand and Dorit Berger is the only expert in Germany. However, horsehair presents an extra difficulty as the hairs are relatively stiff and short, so cannot be spun to a continuous thread and are unable to be woven in the conventional way.

To create the filigree pattern of this pen, the horsehairs have to be carefully selected and roughly 70 hairs are interwoven individually for each centimetre of fabric – an extremely time-consuming process. Hair by hair, a weave comes about with a unique changing texture, contrasting the platinum body of the pen; every horsehair fountain pen is a work of art.

Each pen is accompanied by a certificate bearing Dorit Berger’s signature, attesting to the limited edition and certifying the quality and genuineness of the horsehair used. The pen is carefully ‘run in’ by hand, and the 18-carat bicolour gold nib is available in the widths B, M, and F. Each pen is individually numbered and only 2,000 will be produced worldwide. On request, a pen can be specially made from the tail hair of your own horse.

Graf von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2009 £2,200

For those who need to re-address the work-life balance in the run up to Christmas, a personal concierge might be the perfect solution...

BON VIVANT Bon Vivant is a concierge and luxury lifestyle management service based in London, offering a highly personalised service. Bon Vivant’s members have access to an all-encompassing luxury lifestyle management and concierge service; travel services (including the creation of bespoke travel itineraries, flights, hotels, restaurants, reduced rates, free upgrades and complimentary benefits); Members’ Clubs with entry to private clubs, guest-lists, and table service at exclusive nightclubs; Priority reservations and complimentary champagne at top London restaurants; discounts at a range of lifestyle services (including hair salons, spas and florists); and all your travel, leisure and lifestyle needs catered for in one membership. All members are allocated a personal bespoke lifestyle executive, whom they contact on a one-to-one basis, ensuring the highest level of personal service. Each member is also entitled to nominate one additional person who may use the service on the member’s behalf, at no additional cost.

Bon Vivant offers personal and corporate memberships on a monthly and annual basis.

For more information, visit www.bonvivant.co.uk or email [email protected]

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WIZZ2U One of the UK’s leading on-site concierge businesses, Wizz2u services major corporate and residential clients – and with almost ten years experience, they hold an unrivalled reputation in the industry. Benefits gained from a Wizz2u concierge include increased productivity, focus and concentration from employees; better company image and appeal; improvement in staff morale and cost-saving assistance to the client with tasks such as corporate travel, corporate gifts, and corporate entertainment all arranged from a one-stop-shop.

Unique in its field, Wizz2u find that having an on-site presence helps to distinguish themselves from their competitors. Wizz2u not only delivers a professional, efficient and cost effective concierge service, but they also have their own in-house travel agency, cleaning & maintenance companies to further add to the peace of mind offered to clients. With their 400 suppliers, Wizz2u can help you cope with anything from a passport renewal, a leaky roof, your kids birthday party to Christmas shopping or an intensive house clean. Wizz2u take on the stressful part of the daily routine leaving you with enough time to enjoy life to the full!

For more information, visit www.wizz2u.com

OF THE BESTOF THE BESTOF THE BESTOF THE BEST

LIVE MORE LIFE I’m waiting for the plumber; I forgot your birthday; I can’t get out of the office; I just don’t have the time. For those always strapped for time and reaching for the next excuse, lifestyle management could be the perfect solution. With LiveMoreLife, clients can stop saying sorry and start saying “It’s under control”. Clients pass the company a list of things to do and quite simply, they carry out the tasks quickly, efficiently and to deadline – people will start to wonder how you get it all done! Their day job is letting you focus on your day job; you can’t afford not to!

For more information, call LiveMoreLife Lifestyle Management on 020 7384 3295, email [email protected] or visit www.livemorelife.co.uk

LONDON CONCIERGE SERVICESIn today’s busy world it’s refreshing to know that there is a company you can call on around the clock to make your life a little easier. London Concierge Services provide a personal lifestyle manager 365 days a year. The company’s current clients use their concierge around the clock for services such as Christmas shopping, restaurant reservations, travel services, sold out concert tickets, property services and errand running. We will deliver any requirement no matter how obscure.

There are two simple ways to make use of the service; an annual membership priced at £1,260 per annum gives you your own personal concierge 365 days a year, or a pay as you require service at £20 per hour for office based requests and £35 per hour if we are out on your behalf.

For more information call 07875 321 634 / 01622 206 940, email [email protected] or visit www.londonconciergeservices.co.uk


MY LIFESTYLE PA Based in London, My Lifestyle PA offers a huge number of services, ranging from booking a holiday, sorting out home filing systems, to viewing flats on their clients’ behalf and finding hard to source items. Director Emma Fletcher comments, “There are so many time-poor people in London who would benefit hugely from their own Private PA.” My Lifestyle PA provides clients with professional PA and lifestyle management services so that your free time becomes your own. However hectic your life, they will help you take control, smooth things out and relax.

And with Christmas fast approaching, what better time is there to get organised? In addition to the huge number of services already on offer, My Lifestyle PA can assist with Christmas shopping; gift-wrapping; decorating your tree; stocking the fridge and cupboards for Christmas; writing and sending out your Christmas cards; assisting with Christmas parties; organising special Christmas treats; car hire for the Christmas period; and even planning a special break! Give yourself a stress-free Christmas, and let My Lifestyle PA do all the hard work.

With no membership fee you can use My Lifestyle PA’s services as much or as little as you need, simply pay by the hour when you need their services. Fully insured and with rates starting at £35 per hour, it couldn’t be simpler to have support on a completely flexible basis.

For more information, call 0300 900 1000, email [email protected] or visit www.mylifestylepa.com

health&beauty 47

LUXURY MANICUREThis luxury treatment includes a full manicure as well as a scrub and massage of the hands. The scrub is carried out with a refreshing Comfort Zone Fruity Peel before a relaxing massage with Comfort Zone Lushly Hand Balm. In addition, enjoy a paraffin wax treatment, which will leave your hands feeling silky soft. Finish off with a choice of nail polish colours from Essie (all latest colours, including the matt grey tones in vogue this season).The perfect manicure.

60 minutes, £60www.the-berkeley.co.uk

Pedicures, perfumes and pampering to indulge in during these winter months

HEALTH & BEAUTY

CAvIAR HYdRAtINg PEdICURE This is a fabulous firming and hydrating treatment for renewing tired feet. After intensive softening masks and caviar products to recondition your skin, they are left soft, silky and finished with your choice of polish.

75 minutes, £85www.lanesborough.com

tHE ULtIMAtE OXYgEN FOOt tREAtMENtMargaret Dabbs is widely known as London’s premier podiatrist, using innovative techniques to gibe effective long-lasting results for chiropody conditions. The Ultimate Oxygen Foot Treatment is a luxurious experience which trims, buffs and files away dead tissues, revealing fresh illuminated skin underneath. Clients are seated in the Oxygen Therapy and Vibration chair, which slowly releases oxygen directly onto the face, whilst the client simultaneously receives a luxury foot massage using Margaret Dabbs’ own, specially-formulated oils and pedicure lotions. Finally, nails are buffed and shaped to perfection to complete the ultimate foot pampering treatment.

60 minutes, from £135 www.margaretdabbs.co.uk

OUR TOP 5 WINTER FRAGRANCES FOR HIM & HER

FOR HER

Amber & LAvender CoLogne, Jo mALone £64 (100ml), www.jomalone.co.uk

L’eAu Ambree, PrAdA £64 (80ml), Stockists: 020 7494 6220

Love in White, Creed£130 (75ml) available from Harrods, 020 7730 1234

FOR HIM

1 miLLion, PACo rAbAnne £44 (100ml), www.pacorabanne.com

8 88, Comme des gArCons£61 (100ml) Stockists: 020 7494 6220

health&beauty 49

the company has always held at least one. Today, Floris holds Royal Warrants from both the Queen and Prince Charles.

But British royals are far from the company’s only high profile customers. Bodenham is himself loathe to namedrop, but James Bond creator Ian Fleming always wore Floris; Florence Nightingale penned personal thank you letters for it; and in the 1992 film Scent of a Woman, Al Pacino plays a blind character who recognises the woman he desires by the fact that she is wearing Floris. Noel Coward was a regular customer and references Floris in his 1925 London play Hay Fever. Laurence Olivier favoured Floris Malmaison and Carnation, while Oscar Wilde sprayed his carnation with it.

As Bodenham leads me up the stairs at the back of the shop through the offices, almost every wall is covered with either old portrait paintings of family members or certificates of royal warrants. From inside the first floor boardroom, looking out through the windows onto Jermyn Street, the view includes the outline of the richly-coloured red and gold coat of arms, the symbol of that first Royal Warrant – from

His Majesty King George IV – which still hangs above the outside of the shop.

It all started when Juan Famenias Floris arrived in London fleeing his birthplace of Menorca, then at risk of being overtaken by the Spanish. Seeking his fortune in London, he became the resident barber at the St James’s Hotel on Jermyn Street, building up a loyal clientele powdering wigs and shaving.

He soon married the woman of his dreams, who brought with her a handsome dowry enabling him to set up his own business. Re-creating the aromas of his Mediterranean youth from memory, blending oils and essences transported from Europe, he imported hair combs from Menorca and made shaving brushes, hatpins, toothbrushes and fine tooth-combs on the premises.

FOLLOWYOURNOSEOver the years, Floris customers have spanned the gamut from conservative to bling – from Margaret Thatcher to Donatella Versace, David Cameron to the Sultan of Brunei. But Claire Adler discovers the sweet smell of success is an unapologetically old-fashioned experience

Ever since its beginnings in 1730, the covetable location of the Floris boutique on Jermyn

Street has proved an advantage when it comes to supplying London’s royal palaces.

“Staff can walk round orders to Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace, although it’s not as easy with Windsor and Balmoral of course,” says chairman John Bodenham, the eighth generation of his family business.

Bodenham may make it sound blasé, but Floris has been serving the British monarchy and the high society of St. James’s for 279 years. Back in 1820, James Floris, the son of the company’s founder, received the first of 16 Royal Warrants granted to Floris. Ever since,

50 health&beauty

This was the age of the dandy. Vain and fashion-conscious gentlemen routinely sported bouffant hairstyles, rendering combs essential items. Floris’ first royal warrant in 1820 was an appointment as smooth pointed comb maker to George V.

“This was a time when even if a bomb went off, a man’s hair wouldn’t budge,” quips Bodenham.

Floris customers included Beau Brummell, the ultimate nineteenth century dandy and the man credited with having taken five hours to dress, and recommending his boots be polished with champagne. His choice of Floris fragrance was clearly nothing if not discerning.

“Today each Floris product, be it fragrance, bath essence or hand cream, may have up to 40 different ingredients,” says Bodenham. “We are involved in selecting each one, checking the quality and ensuring we pay the right price for it.”

Attention to detail at Floris means that when sales staff return change to customers, they place it on a velvet pad before passing it over. The custom harks back to a time when it was considered unseemly to touch a customer’s hand.

Earlier this year, Floris began responding to an increasing number of requests for bespoke perfume and recently introduced a Bespoke Perfumery Service. The company is quite literally, turning back the pages of its original hand-written fragrance formulation books. On view at the back of the shop in a dimly lit, other-worldly room, hefty volumes display beautiful hand-written records of ingredients swirled together to blend the perfect fragrance for aristocrats centuries ago, from Russia’s

Grand Duke Orloff to Horatio Lord Nelson. They are surrounded by paraphernalia dating back to the company’s beginnings, including original Floris perfume bottles, hair combs and handwritten letters from the likes of Florence Nightingale and Mary Shelley.

During up to five consultations, customers can choose and understand the essential oils of the scent that best suits them and even select genuine antique Floris bottles. The last time the company clocked this much interest in customised fragrance was in the late 1970s.

Some established British families have enjoyed a tradition of repeat ordering special Floris fragrances for generations. “The Guinness family have always used a burning essence vaporising set, which we continue to produce exclusively for them. The volume of the order means we can justify making it,” explains Bodenham.

Classics from those old custom-made fragrance order books include the refreshing citrus floral fragrance Special 127, probably the brand’s most well known and well

loved fragrance to this day and one of John Bodenham’s own favourites. Bringing together the leaf, flower and fruit of the orange tree with petitgrain, neroli and orange oils blended with lavender, geranium, patchouli and musk, it was originally created in 1890 for Russia’s Grand Duke Orloff.

“When the Grand Duke Orloff popped his clogs, my grandfather brought it out in larger volumes and it is still hugely popular,” says Bodenham.

But Special 127 has long been a favourite of women too. Eva Peron preferred it customised with slightly fresher top notes and regularly had it shipped to Buenos Aires in large containers, while the Duke of Windsor used it to woo Mrs Simpson.

Today, the youngest generation of Bodenham’s are all trained in the world’s perfume capital, Grasse, in the South of France and the Floris store routinely hosts talks by head perfumer Shelagh Foyle, to groups of enthusiasts whose interests range from the history of London to how to choose and wear perfume. n

www.florislondon.com

BELLEDiscover individuality in the heart of Greenwich

20 College Approach, Greenwich, London SE10 9HY020 8465 5777

www.bellefashion.co.uk

Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm Sunday 11am - 6pm Late Night every Thursday until 8pm

Photography Fergus NooneMake-up Sally MarshallHair Jessica Magontier

Velvet • Paige • Odd Molly • Karen Cole • Marilyn Moore • Sita Murt and many more

Right hand page

I’ve always liked the idea of detox; the theory that I can flush out all the negative pollutants in my body and start again from scratch, building it up into something

healthier and stronger. I’ve tried several detox programmes, some at home, some in health spas and even the odd beauty bootcamp! But it didn’t take me long to realise that this one was different. This one offers a lifetime of improvement, not just a quick fix.

Although I was apprehensive about the scale of change from my daily routine (and the stricter rules than previous detox programmes), the Mayr Cure is a reassuringly well-established eating plan – with the backing of genuine medical experts – and has been working for its followers for nearly a century. I chose the famous Mayr & More clinic, established for over thirty years and overlooking the beautiful Lake Wörthersee in Austria – the stunning scenery compensating for the punishing week ahead.

READER’S DIGESTKate Harrison travels to Austria to test the infamous Mayr Cure but can she change her ‘digestion lifestyle’ and give her body a true detox?

After a thorough initial consult and examination where my tongue, eyes, posture and the shape of my intestine were assessed, I was placed on the Level 2 diet, which consisted of a spelt roll with a protein spread and sheep’s yoghurt for breakfast; a watery alkaline soup (to rebalance my body’s PH level) for lunch; and perhaps a weak broth for dinner. Level 1 is a spelt roll and some milk in the morning and tea for the remainder of the day, so I counted myself lucky!.

Although grateful to have something to accompany my daily protein spread, the spelt roll isn’t much of a treat. Left to harden for three days after baking, it is a key part of the Mayr diet, known primarily as a ‘chewing trainer’ and only secondly as a food substance. Most people today swallow their food after giving it one or two chews and it enters the intestines very hard which puts stress on the gut. Here, you learn to chew every mouthful of food 40 times until it is a thin liquid pulp. Mayr believed that if

WHAT IS THE MAYR CURE?

Devised in the early 1920s by Austrian nutritionist Dr Franz Mayr who lived to the age of 90 and believed that all health problems are digestion related, The Cure is not only based around what you eat, but how and when you do it.

By fasting once a week or fortnight, and living ‘on the cure’ for 2-4 weeks every year, you remove the toxins in your intestines on a regular basis – consequently improving not only your digestion, but your overall health.

The Cure aims to change your eating habits, help you to develop a healthier lifestyle and attitude, and improve your personal weight and posture.

health&beauty 53

you chew your food to liquid it’s easier to digest, which makes your gut more efficient which is the root to good health. It takes ages to chew every mouthful 40 times, so when you’ve spent 20 minutes masticating spelt bread, you’re not only bored, you’re also full.

Each day begins with a dose of Epsom salts (taken to increase bile flow and flush out the intestines) – so the small amounts we did eat didn’t stay inside for long, especially as we were advised to consume three to four litres of water per day!

75 per cent of guests at the Mayr are regulars, returning for their annual MOT and all claim to return from their stay looking and feeling ten years younger, with friends insisting that they must have had ‘work’ done whilst away. I tried hard to keep this in mind as my head began to pound on day three of the diet. The daily massage sessions became my main focus to see me through the mornings and the wonderful pampering beauty treatments on offer were an extra pleasure to fine-tune my exterior to match my ‘regenerating’ insides.

Vigorous exercise is not advised whilst on The Cure as energy levels can, understandably, dip in your first few days. There is a gym with state-of-the-art machines, a pool and pedaloes to take out onto the lake, but they don’t mind if all you do is a little light yoga, as too much exercise impedes the detoxification process. Nordic walking soon became my exercise of choice and, pacing through the local nature trails, I could feel myself being rejuvenated in the sunshine and the Austrian fresh air.

The most modern of medical methods have been adopted at the clinic and a stay at Mayr & More can involve regular appointments with fully trained doctors, with an array of tests available to simply put your mind at ease or diagnose a nagging complaint. With a focus on preventative care and diagnostic treatment I was fascinated by the range of treatments on offer, from full body ultrasound scans and innovative laser treatments to blood oxygenation and ear acupuncture. Subjecting myself to various intolerance tests, thyroid checks and hooking myself up to a drip to be infused with vitamin C and B, I really felt I had immersed myself into The Cure.

Kneipping was also a daily treatment for me during my time at Mayr & More, to help improve my circulation. It very simply entailed alternately dipping my legs into tubs of hot and cold water which was much

needed on days that I was resting for large amounts of time.

Guests are strongly recommended to take morning and afternoon naps to really relax, and three times a week I was brought a hay-compress to place on my liver. The heat of the compress aids liver detox, and sent me off to sleep for my nap, just like a hot water bottle. Although the pace may seem slow, the reduced calorie intake and tiring effects of the detox meant that early nights were a must; I was tucked up in bed by 9pm each night – a refreshing change from my life in London.

The Mayr regime is not just about cleansing the system but also about teaching the patient how to carry on into real life. After a week at Mayr & More I felt relaxed and rejuvenated and leaving 6lbs lighter and with a noticeably flatter stomach, I felt ready to keep up the good work. The best bit about The Mayr Cure is that it is achievable and sustainable. Whilst the time spent in the clinic is a more involved and dedicated treatment, eating well and slowly is something that we can all integrate into our daily lives.

Testament to The Cure is the fact that four months later trace elements remain in my household. Breakfast has become the new dinner, tea the new coffee and we all sit around the table to chew our food properly. I still walk around my local park, Nordic walking sticks in hand and have learned to breathe through my stomach. What’s more, if I do fall off the wagon or need some support, The Organic Pharmacy health clinics throughout London are open to all clients who have visited the Mayr & More and have followed The Mayr Cure. Having tried and tested so many methods, the Mayr is certainly one of my favourites, however I will be returning next year to get me back on track and complete my yearly cleanse. n

7 nights at Mayr & More starts from €1,745 per person (approx. £1,500) based on a single occupancy in Category A room. The price includes initial and final medical consultation, 2 x manual abdominal treatment, 1x therapy rate, 1 x detox massage, 2 x 25min massage, 1 x alkaline powder, 1 x urine analysis, 1 x stool blood test, 3 x hay liver packs, 2 alkaline detox bath, 1 x alkaline mineral infusion, 1 x salt therapy as well as use of all facilities and access to daily exercise classes. Flights are not included in the price.

For information and bookings please call 360 Travel on 020 7437 3601 or email [email protected]

ORGANIC PHARMACY:

The Organic Pharmacy has partnered with the Mayr and offers a pre-detox three weeks prior to your departure date, to ensure you get the most out of your stay. Their team of expert homeopaths are trained on The Mayr cure and act as a support system to keep you on track once back to the routine of everyday life.

For more information or advise call The Organic Pharmacy on 020 7351 2232.

DOCTOR MAYR’S RULES:

•Eatslowly,takeshortbreaks between mouthfuls; look at your food

•Chewslowlyandcarefully,breaking down the entire mouthful

•Donotread,watchTVortalkduring a meal

•Donoteatanythingpast7:00pm

•Eatyourmainmealsforbreakfast and lunch, and only eat a very small dinner

•Drink3-4litresadayduringthe cure, and 2.5 litres on a normal day

•Donotdrinksparklingdrinksor fruit juices

•Brewherbalteatobeweakand avoid caffeine

•Maketimetorestintheday,aswell as at night

•Spendmoretimeoutdoors

•Repeatthecureonceayear

AMAZON CREEK

CANARY WHARF - October 2009H: 297mm W: 210mm Bleed: 3mm Scale: S/S Colours: 4 (CMYK)

Qty: TBC NOTE: RIGHT HAND PAGE

Chalet Amazon Creek, Chamonix

We specialise in bespoke, luxury holidays with an emphasis on first class personal service and tailor made activities. Our exceptional standards, experienced staff and attention to detail will provide you with a truly memorable stay.

Our stunning chalets offer a service that is second to none including our complimentary Amazon Creek Ski Programme, offering ski instruction and hosting from our experienced instructors. Relax after a day on the slopes in the chalet spas, choose your favourite bottle from the chalet wine cellar and indulge with a 3-course dinner prepared by our chalet chefs. Take advantage of our chauffeured vehicles, offering dedicated service until the early hours and enjoy an evening in one of Chamonix town’s many bars.

We are also delighted to announce the launch of our first custom-built 77ft sailing yacht ‘Swallows and Amazons’. Fully crewed and luxuriously catered, she is available for winter Caribbean and summer Mediterranean charter.

Sign up to our exclusive mailing list via our website to be the first to hear about new properties, offers and news.

Please telephone +44 (0)1344 894576 to discuss your holiday or email: [email protected]

www.amazoncreek.co.uk

Chalets Villas Yachts Lifestyle Antigua Chamonix Corsica Languedoc

CANARY_WHARF_210x297mm_OCT_2009_v2.indd 1 26/10/2009 21:54

travel 55

10am: EXPLOREStart the day with a stroll down one of the most famous boulevards in the world, La Rambla, with its bustling mile-long

collection of fortune-tellers, human statues and musicians. Food aficionados must pay a visit to La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets. The market gets busy by the afternoon so it’s best to head there in the morning and the early bird will secure a spot at the popular pintxos bars (the Catalonian version of tapas). Bar Central and Bar Pinotoxo are among the most popular with locals.

12pm: A TASTE OF GAUDI Cross over the Placa de Catalunya and onto the Passeig de Gracia for La Pedrera (The Stone Quary). This is one of Gaudi’s most mind boggling buildings and his last great civic work before he devoted his life to the Sagrada family. The stunning wave-like architecture and every detail from the maniacal balconies to the light fittings confound the senses with Gaudi’s visionary style. Make sure you head to the rooftop for stunning views of the city and more of Gaudi’s sculptural magic.

2pm: TAPAS HEAVENIt would be unforgivable not to sample the city’s finest tapas for lunch. Tabaç24 on the Calle de Diputació is an almost a hidden gem but this basement bar serves excellent tapas. Choose from traditional dishes like the Iberian ham croquettes and lemon anchovies or one of chef Carles Abellan’s more individual nibbles: the McFoie burger, a small burger served on foie gras and oxtail and the Bikini C24, a small cheese and ham toastie served with truffle are well worth adding to your culinary CV.

3pm: CULTURE VULTUREGet the metro to the Parc de Montjuïc (the closest metro stop is the Paral-lel). The park

sits on a small mountain on the edge of the city and once you’ve taken in the views, visit the numerous gardens or the 1992 Olympic site. Then a short amble through the park will take you to the Fundació Joan Miró, home to over 225 paintings and 125 sculptures by the Spanish surrealist.

6pm: SALUD!It’s time to relax in one of Barcelona’s most stylish cocktail bars, Marmalade. Located on the Riera Alta it has a nod to 1950s New York Style with its copper clad antique walls, leather sofas and art deco bar. Happy hour is daily between 7pm-9pm, so there’s no excuse not to sample the extensive cocktail list.

8pm: CHRISTMAS MARKET WITH A TWISTIn front of the Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, Barcelona’s Christmas market is a quirky Catalonian treat (29 November - 23 December). Alongside the more conventional Christmas wares on sale including mistletoe and trees, you can also buy a cagatió, a Christmas log with a face painted on it and wearing a bright red peasant’s hat. This jocular looking decoration is traditionally hidden under a blanket by Spanish children on Christmas day and beaten with a stick, while they sing to it to demand presents. Also tuck into Spanish Christmas delicacies including the turron (nougat) and polvorones (crumbly almond cookies).

10pm: DINNER ON THE SEA FRONTBarcelona’s coastal location makes it perfect for fresh seafood. Jump on the metro to Barceloneta and take your pick from numerous restaurants in the old fisherman’s quarters. Recommended is El Merendero de la Mari, one of four restaurants on the Pauca Pau Villa. With views of the boats and sea,

you can sit back and tuck into their popular fish soups or fresh fish and pick a glass from their wine list which includes more than 200 bottles.

12pm: POST-DINNER Explore the back streets and quirky bars that line the sea front around La Barceloneta. Or, if you still have the energy, head for dancing and drinks at Le Kasbah, a North African style club with low tables, plush cushions and an outside terrace. Their cocktails can help to get you in the mood to join the busy dance floor and enjoy Barcelona’s legendary nightlife.

HOURS IN....

BARCELONADominique Brady explores Spain’s second city and shares some of its best kept secrets for a 24 hour stay

1

La Pedrera Port Vell

La Rambla

Koh Phangan, a tropical backpacker mecca, renowned for its laidback culture, glistening white

beaches and perfect weather has long been a destination for footloose and fancy free school leavers, drawn to the beautiful beaches, plethora of bars and hostels and the stunning scenery. But, hidden away at one end of this beautiful island, is something altogether different, and rather more luxurious.

Santhiya is a stunning boutique hideaway, with 76 rooms and suites nestled into the lush tropical hillside, with sweeping views across the island and out to the sparkling blue ocean. We arrived in the early evening, on a speedboat direct from Koh Samui, as the sun was going down and the resort was bathed in golden light. Pulling to the bay, faced with beautiful wooden villas, and gentle swaying palms, we literally felt the rest of the world receding; and after the hustle and bustle of Koh Samui, and the breathtaking dash across the sea to the island, the tranquil calm of Santhiya was a welcome change.

Our villa suite was perfection – a wooden oasis of light and warmth, draped in swathes of soft white cotton, with subtle Thai decor, and a vast balcony complete with private pool, open air bathroom and a dining and lounging area. Sipping a cool champagne cocktail on arrival as we watched the sunset from our balcony was the perfect way to leave the rest of the world behind, and really relax.

All the hideaway villa suites at Santhiya offer the choice of an open air, or enclosed bathroom, as well as a secluded private pool; and the pool villa suites – perfect for sharing with friends – have two bedrooms and large, freeform pools, where you can while away the hours gazing at the view, and enjoying the crisp, cool water.

Our suite was equipped with all the usual luxury amenities, including LCD television, air-conditioning, internet, safe and DVD player. But it was the extra details that made this place so special: the open air bathroom, whose huge tub was filled with hot water, essential oils and strewn with rose petals; or the ever changing dappled light as the sun trickled through the trees surrounding our villa; and the fresh coconut smoothies we enjoyed each morning, listening to the quiet calls of the birds while we awoke from another night’s deep, comfortable sleep.

We nearly didn’t want to leave our suite, but the extensive menu at Chantara, not to mention its wonderful location and selection of fine wines, proved too much of a temptation. Situated in a grand wooden structure, based on traditional Thai architecture, and surrounded by perfect white sand, the restaurant is so well placed that from breakfast through to dinner you can enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view, watching as the sun moves through the sky, reflecting on the sparkling ocean. We ate there several times, never growing tired of the sumptuous Thai cuisine, or the excellent international dishes, all infused with a local flavour.

The resort also boasts a romantic seaside bar – serving lunch and dinner it is the perfect place to enjoy a cool cocktail and a fresh Thai salad, BBQ meats or local grilled fish. We loved wandering from our pool, or fresh from a swim in the warm sea, at midday, to relax in the shade and enjoy a cool glass of wine and some fresh sushi. During the day you can also stop for a coffee at Mahkok, a café nestled in the jungle, serving pastries and cakes, as well as doubling as a souvenir shop.

It’s hard not to feel relaxed at

Santhiya; the entire place exudes tranquillity and calm. And nowhere more so than the Ayurvana Spa – a fabulous space that gives a whole new meaning to ‘getting away from it all.’ Relaxing on the large open air sala, with views across the bay, we really enjoyed our traditional Thai massage; and found our spirits soothed by a reflexology treatment. The spa runs a number of dual treatments for couples, the ultimate romantic indulgence – we particularly loved the aromatherapy massages. Inspired by the soothing, calm environment we also took advantage of the yoga and meditation classes available, leaving us stretched, toned and peaceful.

Santhiya is a perfect haven of calm and luxury, a perfect place to escape the world and take some much needed time out. This wonderful resort can be easily reached by speedboat or ferry from Koh Samui, and flights to Koh Samui from Bangkok are very regular. Boutique Thai airline Bangkok Airways even offers up to 20 flights a day to Koh Samui – so getting to paradise couldn’t be easier. n

A world ApArtKate Harrison finds tranquil perfection in a Thai oasis on Koh Phangan

ACCOMMODATION

Santhiya, Koh Pha-ngan

Prices at Santhiya Resort & Spa start from 12,000 Thai Baht (approx £212) per room per night, based on two sharing a Santhiya Deluxe Room on a bed and breakfast between 6 January and 30 April 2010. Visit www.santhiya.com or e-mail [email protected]

GETTING THERE

London to Bangkok

Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, flies twice a day from London to Bangkok. A return flight starts from £384. For information on schedules and fares visit www.jetairways.com or call 0808 101 1199 Bangkok to Koh Samui

Bangkok Airways, Asia’s boutique airline offers up to 20 flights daily from Bangkok to Koh Samui, with prices from £158 per person return including taxes. For information and reservations visit www.bangkokair.com or call 01293 596626

travel 57

travel 59

If you’re one of those people who just can’t wait to hit the slopes, we reveal some of the best places to get an early season ski trip in. But how can you be

sure that you’ll find snow, rather than grass on the slopes?

Well, the general rules for early season skiing are similar to late season skiing; head high or head north if you want the best chance of hitting the slopes before the New Year. Resorts that have invested heavily in snow making systems are also most likely to be able to guarantee the goods.

Val Thorens (France)As Europe’s highest ski resort, most of the skiing here is over 2,000m, which means the snow starts falling early. Part of the huge Three Valleys ski area, Val Thorens is an excellent bet for good snow conditions early in the season.

niseko (Japan) The land of the rising sun’s most famous ski resort, Niseko normally opens by late November with the help of the Siberian weather fronts and powder snow. Already massively popular with Australian skiers, Niseko’s notoriety is fast spreading worldwide.

Åre, (sweden) Sweden’s number one resort, which also claims to be Northern Europe’s largest and most advanced, Åre boasts a season that starts in November and lasts until May. Choose from 100 pistes and night skiing too.

Tignes (France)Winter sports enthusiasts can start skiing early here on the glacier which offers an impressive 20km of runs and a vertical drop of over 750m. Skiing on the rest of the mountain starts in mid-December, making Tignes a fairly solid choice for an early season schuss.

ZermaTT (swiTZerland) This famous Swiss ski resort has lifts that take you to a dizzy 3,899m, and offers skiing that starts in late November. Zermatt is one of the few, truly year-round ski destinations in the world and a sure bet for pre-Christmas skiing.

liVigno (iTaly) One of the higher resorts in Europe with pistes to 3,000m and a good snow record, Livigno’s skiing normally starts in late November on a good year. The town’s tax-

With winter on its way, snow lovers are already sharpening their edges, polishing their goggles and scanning the snow reports for the first signs of the white stuff...

CALLING SKI BUNNIES AND SNOW MEN!

free tax status is also a considerable draw, meaning that food and drink are excellent value here.

whisTler-BlackcomB (canada)The excellent slope grooming and snow-making facilities at Whistler Blackcomb help to ensure a lengthy season that starts in late November/early December. This Canadian super resort has repeatedly been voted the best ski resort in the world.

solden (ausTria)Like Zermatt, Solden has year-round skiing on its two glaciers, so when it comes to early trips, it’s a pretty sure bet – so sure in fact that Solden say “snow is absolutely guaranteed from November to May”. With a state of the art mountain railway, and a massive ski area, Solden is a great choice for the early-bird skier. n

For more information on holidays and flights please visit www.skyscanner.net

T o me, a short break means three days in a European capital. Lovely, yes – but formulaic after

a time. Think Easyjet; boutique hotels; street cafés; and an inescapable pressure to ‘see the sights’ and appreciate the culture.

With three days off work, I wanted to get away from the office and away from London – but without the pressures that a city break so often includes. Forget cocktail bars on the top floor of a towering hotel; forget art exhibitions that take up half a day; I wanted the laid back continental lifestyle for a few days, without time constraints or any great expectations.

Fortunately, a couple of friends had just returned from the charming coastal town of Rovinj (in the northern region of Istria, Croatia) raving about its old world charm, friendly locals and slower pace of life. With temperatures ranging from 20-30°C in summer (and sea temperatures reaching an impressive 28°C in August) it

presents itself as the perfect location for a short break. I decided to put it to the test.

Travelling with friends, we arrived in Rovinj one late afternoon in early June. Leaving our bags at the hotel (the fabulous 5* Hotel Monte Mulini, with beautiful rooms and wonderful staff), we decided to take an early evening stroll through the town as the sun dropped into the sea and the sky turned from pink, to orange, to purple. The town is widely known as one of “the most photogenic towns in the Mediterranean” and it doesn’t take long to appreciate its unique beauty.

Once an island (a shape clearly visible in its layout) and fishing town, Rovinj sits on a stunning piece of coastline, with twenty-two tiny islands close by. An area of protected natural heritage, its rocky coast, beautiful woodland and ancient town offer endless possibilities for recreation (biking, horse riding, jogging and sailing amongst

EAST MEETS WESTJosephine O’Donoghue combines a short break to northern Croatia with a day in Venice and a night aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express

the most popular). Utterly charming (especially as the sun sets and the night lights begin to twinkle), Rovinj is a maze of winding streets, interlocking squares, markets, craft shops, restaurants, bars and musicians. An enchanting location, you can feel your worries ebb away with the gentle crashing of the waves around the town – hardly surprising then, that it is becoming ever more popular with the stressed British.

Whilst there is quite a choice of hotel accomodation in Rovinj, the newest and most luxurious hotel is the beautiful Monte Mulini. My room had a subtle interior decor based on the natural surroundings and gorgeous balcony which I could leave open overnight. With a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea and Zlatni rt woodland along the coast, it was the perfect place to unwind with a book or glass of wine.

Despite the numerous restaurants in Rovinj, the hotel restaurant is usually the best choice for the first night of a holiday; we dined at the restaurant Mediterraneo, and sampled dishes from an innovative fusion of well-known and traditional Greek, Spanish, Lebanese and North African cuisines. The Wine Vault is the second of Monte Mulini’s fine dining restaurants serving a combination of French and Mediterranean cuisines, and is the more formal of the two. With 550 carefully selected Croatian and imported labels and one of the best Croatian sommeliers, Emil Perdec – the Wine Vault is widely considered the hottest restaurant in Istria.

Happily ensconced in the Hotel Monte Mulini for three nights, we got to know the local area well; the surrounding natural beauty is breathtaking and whether you’re going for a fish picnic on the Limska draga fjord (which comes highly recommended) or going truffle-hunting in nearby Grožnjan the views are absolutely spectacular.

For most travellers on short breaks in Europe, the journey home is nothing to look forward to. Budget airlines with hidden costs and ridiculous limitations on luggage make the journey a stressful end to what should be a relaxing break. But this is where a little extra planning goes a long way. Rather than driving back to Pula or Trieste airports (the two closest to Rovinj), we drove around the coastline to Venice, where we spent the morning exploring the winding canals of this beautiful city. From Venice we were able to board the iconic Venice Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) train and travel in glorious luxury all the way back to London. No arduous check-in or extra baggage charges here! (Good job too, as my suitcase was crammed with bottles of delicious Istrian olive oil, jars of truffles and Croatian wine not available outside the country).

Looking forward to the journey home was an entirely new experience, but one I am keen to repeat. The VSOE (as appears in the

Old city of Rovinj

most recent Chanel No 5 advert starring Audrey Tautou) is the epitome of glamour; original 1920s carriages restored to their former glory, Venetian glass panels in the dining cars, walnut panelling in each compartment, and the finest attention to detail I have ever experienced. This is what luxury, glamour and timeless elegance looks like.

Leaving Venice late on a Saturday morning, the glossy blue and gold train snaked through the breathtaking scenery of the Italian Dolomites and the Swiss Alps. We enjoyed a delicious lunch together whilst watching the mountains pass us by, chatting to the other passengers and marvelling at the beauty of the famous train. As I sipped champagne in a high-backed arm chair, and gazed out at the sublime mountain views I soon acknowledged that nothing comes close to this kind of travel.

Attentive stewards serve tea and cakes in each private compartment mid-afternoon – after which you might take a nap or enjoy a book. There’s

something about train travel that slows you right down; alongside the gourmet cuisine and endless champagne, time is another luxury offered by the VSOE. As we socialised over cocktails in the bar car and dined on the most exquisite French cuisine that evening, the stewards passed through the carriages,

converting the compartments into comfortable bedrooms with soft white towels, crisp bed linens and extra blankets. The train continues its journey through the night, and once tucked up in my bed, I was gently rocked into a deep sleep by the rhythmic movement of the carriage.

The train passed through Paris Gare de l’Est the following morning, stopping to pick up fresh lobsters for brunch later that morning – after a quick stroll for a morning newspaper in Paris and a mouth-watering brunch with champagne, we were speeding towards Calais and the British Pullman train at Folkestone.

All too soon we were pulling into London Victoria train station, at around 6pm on a Sunday evening. Boarding the plane to Trieste on Wednesday seemed but a dim memory after five days exploring the beautiful region of Istria and journeying across Europe on the Orient Express. Yes, this was a short break, but for once I came home feeling rejuvenated, and satisfied that I had experienced something more than a weekend tourist trap. A fantastic combination, Rovinj and the VSOE combine the very best of Europe on both sides of the Adriatic and I cannot wait to do it all over again next year.

THE VENICE SIMPLON ORIENT EXPRESSFor more information, visitwww.orient-express.com

most recent Chanel No 5 advert

something about train travel that slows you right down; alongside the gourmet cuisine and endless champagne, time is another luxury offered by the VSOE. As we socialised over cocktails in the bar car and dined on the most exquisite French cuisine that evening, the stewards passed through the carriages,

Express. Yes, this was a short

home feeling rejuvenated, and satisfied that I had experienced something more than a weekend tourist trap. A fantastic combination, Rovinj and the VSOE combine the

Adriatic and I cannot

For more information, visitwww.orient-express.com

ISTRIADON’T MISS…

...the main Church of St. Euphemia in Rovinj where the relics of the saint (a fourth-century woman from Constantinople) are kept. From the church plateau there is a wonderful view of the open sea

...the Batana (fl at-boat) Museum in the town centre; this fl at-bottomed boat is unique to Rovinj (and the small museum takes no more than 30 minutes)

...walking or cycling in the Zlatni rt parkland forest, near to the Hotel Monte Mulini

...an island cruise – boats leave hourly from the Rovinj port to St Andrew’s island where the Laterna restaurant serves delicious Istrian dishes for lunch and dinner

...spa treatments at the Monte Mulini Hotel – the hotel’s Signature Gold Massage was one of the best I’ve ever had, using rich massage oil made from ancient Asian medicinal herbs, 22-carat gold, essential plant oils and algae

...a visit to the nearby town of Pula to see one of the most well preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world (alongside a selection of high-end boutiques and wine bars!)

into comfortable bedrooms with soft white towels, crisp bed linens

ISTRIADON’T MISS…DON’T MISS…

...the main Euphemiathe relics of the saint (a fourth-century woman from

soft white towels, crisp bed linens

WHERE TO STAY:

Double rooms at Hotel

Monte Mulini start from €230

including breakfast.

For reservations visit

www.maistra.com or call

+385 52 800 250

travel 61

Hotel pool

Mediterraneo restaurant

Hotel spa

Hotel lobby

dream catchersdream catchers

Contact: 07706 100258www.mydreamcatchers.cominfo.mydreamcatchers.com

Creating dreams with you, for you, by us.

JAMIE CARTER PRESENTS THIS MONTH’S HOTTEST GADGETS

GADGETSG DGETS

READER MEET AUTHOR It’s not been the phenomenon some predicted, but Sony’s idea to put 350 e-books into a five-inch tablet is proving a slow burning success. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Sony’s latest portable Reader is its battery life, which stretches to two weeks of constant use. With a 3G-capable device recently launched in the US, Sony’s new concept looks set to become the essential travelling companion.

Sony Reader Pocket Edition, £169.99 www.johnlewis.com

IRIVER RUNS THROUGH ITFolk often forget that there’s one thing the all-conquering iPhone doesn’t have: a DAB radio. Those after some crystal clear footie commentary, particularly, will love iRiver’s new B30. It’s not just got built-in FM, DAB and next-gen DAB+ radio tuners, but can even record radio shows and show you the week’s schedules. Add the ability to play MP3 music, videos – with a ‘shake’ function to change tracks – and the B30 becomes a totally unique gadget for fans of the ‘wireless’.

iRiver B30 portable MP3 and DAB radio 8/16GB, £139 www.dadaudio.co.uk

HIGH CLASS HI-DEFWhen it comes to Blu-ray, it’s all about the quest for pin-sharp high definition – but there are a lot of budget players around that don’t always get the best out of the latest shiny discs. Denon’s latest Blu-ray player has features and quality galore. As well as supporting ‘lossless’ audio, the DBP1610BK can download extra disc content from the internet, play DivX video files and even hi-def video from camcorders’ SD cards.

Denon DBP1610BK Blu-ray player, £399.99 www.denon.co.uk

gadgets 63

LIGHT WORKAs laptops have got cheaper, it’s been tempting to carry around the largest you can manage. That’s a false economy and Sony has sought to ease our load with its latest X Series VAIO, claimed to be the world’s lightest laptop at just 655g. This gold, black or carbon 11.1-inch laptop is also very slim at 13.9mm and includes high-speed mobile broadband with ‘Everywair’ wireless connectivity. Sony VAIO VPC-X11S1E/B laptop, £POAwww.sony.co.uk

SENSITIVE SOULIf an iPod dock wants to be a de facto hi-fi for the home, in our opinion it needs a digital DAB radio tuner – and that’s just what MagicBox’s Touch Nocturne XP-1 offers. Its slide in/slide out dock charges an iPod while it plays through two 7W speakers. There’s even a 20W subwoofer built-in, though it’s the touch sensitive blue-on-black controls that are likely to catch your eye.

MagicBox Touch Nocturne XP-1 iPod dock & DAB/FM radio, £99.99 www.magicboxproducts.co.uk

DARK CRYSTALWith huge HD Ready tellies now installed in most lounges, the Christmas rush for bedroom TVs is about to begin. M&S is seeking to tap in to that trend with this Swarovski crystal-studded LCD TV. Available in black and bright pink, this 19-inch is HD Ready and Freeview-ready.

M&S Swarovski Crystal 19-inch LCD TV, £POAwww.marksandspencer.com

CALLED TO THE BARMessy 5.1 home cinemas are so last century. KEF’s stylish KHT range now includes this sleek soundbar that offers a three-way speaker system complete with subwoofer; surround sound it may not be, but a vast improvement on your TV’s sound quality is assured. It’s designed to discretely accompany a 42-inch plasma or LCD TV and can be easily mounted on a wall.

KEF KHT8005 Soundbar, £1,099www2.kef.com/gb

CAUGHT IN THE NETAll-in-one home cinemas have been around a while, but since they’ve started to include Blu-ray players they’ve become a must-have in the lounge. LG’s new HB954SP not only offers Full HD playback of Blu-ray discs, 5.1 surround sound using satellite speakers and 1,000W of audio power, but some other nifty features – an iPod dock, downloads from BD Live, and one click access to YouTube and its 2.5 billion videos.

LG HB954SP Blu-ray home cinema, £699.99 www.lge.co.uk

TOUCH OF CLASSRadio may never be the same again. It may have a huge colour touchscreen, customised ‘apps’ and a Wi-Fi digital streamer, but Pure’s breakthrough Sensia gadget is, at its heart, a digital DAB radio. Controlled via the touchscreen through iPhone-esque scrolling, tapping and swiping, the elliptical Sensia is available in red, yellow, black or white.

Pure Sensia DAB radio & internet radio, £249.99 www.touchmyradio.com

SOUND AND VISION Hi-fi is back. After a few years in the doldrums, compact hi-fis – like this Teac – are embracing DAB radio and digital music. Teac’s DR-H358i goes one better by offering not only CD playback, but even DVD discs – and you can hook it up to a TV via its HDMI output. It also plays MP3 and WMA music, and also DivX video files.

Teac DR-H358i DAB/FM receiver & CD/DVD player, £379www.teac.co.uk

64 gadgets

Light, nimble and blessed with the kind of agility only the most special cars possess, we’ve really put the Lotus Exige through its paces in both town and country. This month Eren Ellwood makes the most of our last days of dry with a trip to Beaulieu to visit famous relatives

WARNING:

Over the past few weeks I have desperately been trying to make the most of each and every dry

day that we are blessed with. Not that the Exige hasn’t proven perfectly manageable in the rain whatever I’ve thrown at it (not that I’m bringing traction control into the picture at all!) but I still love the security and feedback you get from attacking A roads in perfect conditions.

Now, I’m not saying that I’m now having to find excuses to get out in the Lotus, heaven forbid. The magic is still there and the keys are still firmly mine (ask anyone around me and they’ll confirm that one for sure) but eight months on and I’m still getting excited about ‘just going for a drive’. The Exige has a habit of doing this to me... With all the best intentions in the world I still thought the novelty

of having a sports car might wear off after a few months.

This couldn’t have been farther from the truth: I still find myself driving home from Canary Wharf, driving past the house and heading towards the M11. It’s turning into a bit of an addiction, at least three times a week.

Last weekend my addiction got the better of me and I decided it was time to take a field trip. The plan was to go to Beaulieu , Britain’s National Motor Museum. It was also a great excuse to check out the original Lotus Esprit that emerged from the Bahaman Ocean in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ not to mention the Lotus 78 (better known as the John Player Special 16) - a little bit of history to prepare me for the fact that I will now be, by default, supporting Lotus F1 Racing as they make their comeback to Formula 1.

ADDICTEDYOU COULD

BECOME

motoring 67

The drive down was fantastic. It was on the weekend,

you probably remember the eerily good weathered one (where we had sun both days!). The journey down to outskirts of Hampshire was one of a mixed bag, well actually more like that pack of fruit pastilles that somehow has only got two red ones in and a lifetime supply of yellows and greens.

First was the journey across London to get to the M3: Relentless traffic (yellows and greens!). In the Exige this is further exacerbated, in the same way that a cheetah shouldn’t be caged. You’re constantly looking for gaps to open it up and let the engine breathe, and it’s these small gaps are the ones that motivate you to keep going.

Once through London it’s an easy ride down; motorway driving is done with ease and whilst you feel more stable (thanks to the rear wing) you’re much more engaged in the driving than in a standard car. The net result is that it’s all over very quickly and before you know it you’re on the A roads leading to Beaulieu

(all reds!) and arguably where the Lotus gives you the best return on your investment. Now I know I’m a car enthusiast but I dare anyone to tell me that it’s not thrilling to have such precision and control at your fingertips and toes.

Once at Beaulieu, I pulled in just in time to see a load of American tourists disgorging from a coach and making their way over to the entrance, straight past me. Now I know America is a much bigger place but I also know that have a good Lotus following there, so when one of the girls in the group started shouting “oh my God, oh my God, it’s the Batmobile!” I had to start laughing, which then turned into the affirmation that this really is one of the coolest cars around.

I’ve been lucky enough to drive most modern day super cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Mercedes SLRs and I have to say that I get even more interest sitting in the Exige than in any of the others. What’s more it’s not attention in the traditional envious sense. I think there’s a huge amount of awe and

patriotism that goes together with Lotus and the Exige. It’s almost as if people acknowledge that if you’ve got an Exige its not just to flex your wallet but more that you’re serious about driving.

Now for the embarrassing part, what seems to happen at most dinners, events and anywhere else I go in this car: I end up rushing through whatever I’m doing to get back in it. The museum was hugely interesting and to see the heritage and history of motoring in this country was an eye opener. But with respect, I’m still more excited by the cars still moving! n

NEXT MONTH: We take the Exige and Evora from Goodwood to Macon on The Beaujolais Run…

www.grouplotus.com

The best Italian in town.

Lamborghini Sevenoaks

92 London Road

Sevenoaks

Kent

TN13 1BA

Tel 01732 430 039

www.lamborghini-sevenoaks.com

Lamborghini Reading

Bennet Road

Reading

Berkshire

RG2 0QX

Tel 0118 336 0116

www.lamborghini-reading.com

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni, now available at Lamborghini Sevenoaks and Lamborghini Reading.

Lamborghini Sevenoaks and Lamborghini Reading, part of Jardine Motors Group.

Lambo Canary Wharf ad Oct 09 23/10/09 12:35 Page 1

motoring 69

HEAVYLEXUS

GETS

The Lexus LFA is a 200mph supercar powered by a front-mounted, 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine developing 552bhp.

Despite the extra cylinders, the V10 is said to be as compact as a conventional V8 and weigh as much as a typical V6. The engine’s red line is set as an unbelievable 9,000 rpm.

A technological showcase, the LFA uses Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic not just for the bodywork but for the chassis as well. Said to be four times as strong as aluminium, CFRP is exceptionally stiff and strong and yet weighs notably less than the metal. CFRP accounts for around 65 per cent of the car’s body weight.

LFA is rear wheel drive and has a purpose-designed six-speed automatic sequential transmission with paddle shifters behind the wheel. Changes are said to take 0.2 seconds. The system has four modes – Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet – and each setting affects not just the transmission but the engine and brake systems. Zero to 62mph takes 3.7 seconds and the top speed is 202 mph.

Best of all this is a real car, not a motor show concept. Production is due to start soon in Japan, though only 500 hand-built examples will ever be made, at a rate of 20 a month. And the price? A hefty €368,000 or £336,000. n

Star of October’s Tokyo Motor Show was not an environmentally friendly electric car or a retro-cute city car, but a fire-breathing monster finds Matthew Carter

Now here’s a tricky one. Ahead of me are two virtually

identical cars, both white and both wearing purposeful alloy wheels and the lowered look of a serious hot hatch.

Both appear to be Golf GTIs, but they’re not. One is a GTD. From the outside the only way to tell them apart is either by looking at the badge on the boot or realising that the petrol GTI has red highlights around its honeycomb grill while the diesel GTD uses chrome.

For more than three decades, the GTI has been the car that defined the breed, the ultimate hot hatch. But times are changing. Although the latest generation – the Mk6 – GTI is quicker, handles better and is both cleaner and more efficient than the previous version, it still uses more fuel and produces higher CO2 emissions than a diesel.

So which should I drive? The GTI beckons. It offers VW’s latest 2.0-litre turbo-charged direct injection engine promising a creamy smooth

210hp, enough to cut the 0-62mph time to around 7secs. Handling has been enhanced by a new rear suspension system which also does its bit for refinement and ride comfort.

But I ignore the obvious and head out in the GTD. Underneath the sharp new bonnet of this Mk6 Golf lies a 2.0-litre common rail diesel producing 170hp, some 40hp fewer than the GTI. But, as ever with a diesel, it has far greater mid-range punch thanks to the engine’s great torque or pulling power.

In terms of straight-line acceleration, then, the GTD is slower than the GTI. It takes a little over 8secs to hit 62mph from rest… but while a second is a lifetime on a Grand Prix grid let’s be honest, it makes no difference on the open road.

In fact that extra punch makes the GTD arguably the better car in everyday use. The engine’s flexibility – especially when coupled to VW’s wonderful DSG automatic/manual transmission – makes overtaking a breeze; there always seems to be enough grunt on hand to make rapid

progress. The engine even sounds urgent – not always the case with a diesel.

But where it really makes sense over the petrol equivalent is at the exhaust pipe and the pumps. With just 139g/km of CO2 (147g/km if you opt for the DSG ‘box) it saves a few bob on road tax, while the combined fuel economy figure is 53.3mpg. The GTI manages 38.7mpg.

The diesel’s eagerness is matched by the lowered chassis which offers up a combination of nimble handling, ample grip and exceptional ride comfort. Same as the GTI in fact.

DECISION, DECISIONSDECISION, DECISION, DECISION, DECISION, DECISIONSDECISIONSDECISIONSDECISIONSDECISION, DECISIONSIt looks all but identical

to the iconic GTI but Matthew Carter

reckons the new VW Golf GTD is the better

long-term bet

IN BRIEF

CaR: Volkswagen Golf GTD

PRICE: £23,035

ENgINE: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel

PowER: 170hp

DRIvE: Front-wheel drive

And it’s the same as the GTI in virtually every other respect, too. The design of the latest Golf has, at last, given the venerable machine a fresh new look. Yes it’s still a Golf, but the front and rear end treatment is sharp, modern and tips its hat to the VW Scirocco, one of the best looking cars on the road today. Shame VW has now nicked the look and given it to the altogether duller new Polo.

Inside, the latest Golf oozes quality. The GTD and GTI both have squared-off, multi-function steering wheels and sports seats – covered in the GTD in a grey

tartan cloth unless you opt for leather – while the dashboard is a lovely, logical, ergonomic delight. And it’s spacious and practical, though clambering into the back of the three-door version demands a certain agility.

It’s also reasonably well equipped, with full climate control, seven airbags, plus traction and stability control on the standard equipment list. At £23,035 (plus £1,310 for DSQ), the five-door GTD undercuts the GTI by £560. But as with German cars in general (and VWs in particular) if you want the works you need to dig deep:

sat nav, a decent sound system, leather, parking sensors or even Bi-Xenon headlamps are all extra.

So which to choose? The GTI (yes, I drove it too, couldn’t resist) is a little livelier and marginally more fun to drive, over the longer term the GTD just edges it. There are significant fuel savings to be made while the lower emissions are not to be ignored. It looks the part, too. In fact all you need is a little red paint on that chrome trim and few would realise it’s not a GTI. n

motoring 71

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Saturday ScrumS A packed month of rugby union’s Autumn International games should clear your social schedule every Saturday. Watch England take on Australia (Nov 7) and Argentina (Nov 14) battle New Zealand (Nov 21). You might well need an extra pint or two – five of England’s Lions players from the South Africa Test are injured as are more than a third of the players from the two senior national squads. Martin Johnson is going to have to conjure a bit of managerial magic to make England deliver. November 7-28

claSh of the titanSTennis’ top eight male players will battle it out in London this month to be ranked the year-end number one and to be crowned the ATP World Tour Champion. This is the first time the eight day battle has come to London and over 20,000 fans will pack out The O2 each day to watch the greats compete. Expect fast balls and high octane thrills – we’re cheering on our national favourite Andy Murray.

November 22-29, The O2

sports 73

Buy it: Crocodile ShoesECCO has launched their most exclusive range of golf shoes yet. Their Premium 109 collection is handmade to order and individually produced with hand selected crocodile skins. With only 109 being made (hence the name), you’ll need to get your order in soon. Shoes from £2,000, exclusively available to order from Wentworth golf club, 01344 846306

Play it: Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 Pro Evo is back and better than ever. With new 360 degree control and all the major national teams and UEFA teams now included, your sofa suddenly seems a better spot than a night out. The new menu and amazingly realistic graphics make this one of the best football games around and a must have for any self respecting football fan.

PC, PSP, PS3, Wii, X360, from £44.99

Say What? Yes, Terry is my pet:

Looks like Chelsea manager has a soft spot for his captain John Edward...

five thingS you didn’t knoW aBout... nikolai valuev

He is the tallest, heaviest heavyweight boxing champion in history

He is a bit of a culture vulture; he likes history, poetry and reading Sir Arthur Conan Doyle…

… and more strangely Agatha Christie

He is close friends with Arsenal’s Andrey Arshavin

He prides himself on his good manners and sportsmanship and gets upset when people call him a “beast”

david and goliathLondoner David Haye “The Hayemaker” is taking on Russian Nikolai Valuev “The Beast from the East” in this eagerly anticipated WBA Heavyweight title fight. It’ll be a big ask for the Hayemaker to take on the 7ft, 23-stone Russian who has yet to be floored or knocked out in 16 years. Besides the fact that it’s only Haye’s third heavyweight fight, he has already provoked the Goliathan boxer by calling him a “circus freak” and “ugly”. Rather him than us...

Sky Box Office, November 7, 9pm

newssports

what to watch:

u

u

u

u

u

sport 75

When it comes to naming the greatest tennis players

never to win a grand slam tournament, few will rank higher than the popular and charismatic Frenchman that is Henri Leconte. The 46-year-old was synonymous with a mesmerizing range of shots and dedication to game and next month, Leconte will once again bring his irresistible charm and sense of fun to the Royal Albert Hall for the season-ending Masters tournament on the ATP Champions Tour.

“I always look forward to playing at the Royal Albert Hall,” said Leconte. “It’s a real pleasure to comeback every year in such a magnificent arena. It’s like being able to play at the Opéra National de Paris. You just know that it’s special.”

The AEGON Masters attracts the best tennis players from around the world who have retired from the main tour and competed on the ATP men’s seniors’ tour. However to maintain the standards, players must have been ranked number one in the world, reached a Grand Slam final or won a Davis Cup as a singles player as well as having retired from the professional circuit.

The seniors go for finesse and crowd-pleasing shots rather than the power hitting and lightening quick serves which you’ll see on the main tour which leads Leconte to cheekily suggest that

the Masters is a better watch than the ATP World Finals which takes place the week before. “The Royal Albert Hall is an excellent venue. They may have the best players but we have the old farts playing. We’re here to play doubles, have a good time and put on a good show.”

At 46, Leconte feels that his best days are behind him, so will focus on the doubles event at the Masters. However, he’s still mischievous enough to suggest that he could give the top players a run for their money in a one-off match. “Of course, it would be difficult,” Leconte initially concedes, “but I just played a singles exhibition in Budapest in Hungary against Stefan Edberg and Pat Cash and I beat them both so I’m in quite good form. But I can play like that for week and then I don’t know what will happen the next. I just love to play tennis and have a good match.”

A junior French Open champion aged just 17; Leconte graduated to the professional tour and promptly won his first singles title less than two years later. He won a French Open doubles title, partnering Yannick Noah, in 1984 but just missed out on in the French Open singles title when he lost to Mats Wilander in 1988. Nevertheless, the French maverick never failed to send his legion of fans home happy with the highlight of his career coming in 1991 Davis Cup Final when he guided

his country to victory over the United States. “For us, the Davis Cup came before the Grand Slams in importance,” said Leconte of the international team knock-out competition. “I think it’s very important to play for your country.”

An extrovert performer through and through, Leconte was one of a selection of players who ensured that the crowd got their money’s worth when they came to see him. Today, the sport lacks that personality as the professionalism of the game takes over. “The game is getting more and more serious, the quality of the tennis is constantly pushing the bar and the level of expectation is enormous,” said Leconte. “They play so many tournaments in a season and simply don’t have the time to settle down, relax and take things a little less seriously.”

However, together with his doubles partner Mansour Bahrami, Leconte is desperate to ensure there’s not a frown in the house when they take to the court for a series of doubles matches at next month’s AEGON Masters. “We go there to have fun, play some tennis and most importantly put on a good show.” n

Henri Leconte will be competing at the AEGON Masters Tennis, taking place 1-6 December at the Royal Albert Hall.

020 7070 4404www.aegonmasterstennis.com

Henri Leconte: THE FRENCH MAVERICKLawrence Barretto catches up with enigmatic tennis hero Henri Leconte ahead of his return to the Royal Albert Hall next month for the AEGON Masters

84 xxxxxxxxxx

Andy Warhol was famously quoted as saying, “Everyone will be world famous for fifteen minutes”. He is right in a way,

and today we live in a society become obsessed with fame and celebrity. This is the subject of Chris Atkins’ new film Starsuckers, a thought- provoking documentary which aims to expose the darker side of celebrity-obsessed media.

Starsuckers is an independent picture, filmed in secret over two years. It uses a mix of animation, stunts, undercover reporting and never-before-seen footage to expose the working methods of the media industry. The film (whose tag line reads “When the media makes a star, you get made the sucker”) attacks the industry’s bosses from all sides looking at the effects of ‘celebrity culture’ on our children, to how ‘celebrity’ is used to manipulate high-street retail.

Atkins (who was also behind the BAFTA nominated Taking Liberties) and his controversial film have already been making headlines and it has been widely reported that he fed tabloid newspapers fake stories to be printed. “We wanted to test how much truth there is in the celebrity stories that now dominate our news media,” Atkins explains “And we specifically wanted to see how much journalists fact-checked their stories. In order to do this, we made some stories up.” The Daily Star, The Daily Express, The Daily Mirror and The Sun all printed at least one of the Atkins’ fake stories.

This film will no doubt have the media big wigs sitting up and taking note, especially as Atkins has actively encouraged people to sell a fake celebrity story. See the Starsuckers website for more details (www.starsuckersmovie.com)

Don’t Miss...G-force is Disney’s latest live-action-digital film out on DVD. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the story follows a group of special agent guinea pigs, known as G force. Ready for action are Darwin (Sam Rockwell), Blaster (Tracy Morgan) Juarez (Penelope Cruz) and Speckles (Nicolas Cage), a star nosed mole. This fearless bunch of rodents set out to save the world on a high-octane adventure.

In stores from 30 November

Also out this Month:A school girl perception of life changes when she meets an older man in An Education (30 October). George Clooney stars in Men Who Stare at Goats; a comedy in which a reporter falls in love with a Special Forces agent (6 November). The Christmas season is set to bring yet another adaption of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (6 November). Roland Emmerich’s latest mega-disaster movie sees a struggle to survive an onslaught of earthquakes, tidal waves and volcanoes in 2012 (13 November). Get ready for an onslaught of Twilight-mania as the next instalment Twilight: New Moon hits the big screens (27 November). Stephen Turnbull recalls the disastrous trek around Europe he took with his best friend Bunny in Paul King’s Bunny and the Bull (27 November)

DVD

Cat Hughes previews Starsuckers

CULTUREFILM & FILM & CULTURE

EntErtA inMEnt

Sponsored by

0871 200 2000www.cineworld.co.uk

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culture 77

COMPUTER GAMES1 PES 2010: Pro Evolution Soccer (PS3/Xbox/PC/Wii)

2 Borderlands (with Exclusive Gearbox Mercenary Weapon Pack) (PS3/Xbox)

3 Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PS3)

4 Forza Motorsport 3 (Xbox)

5 Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games (Wii)

6 Fifa 10 (PS3/Xbox/PC/Wii)

7 Grand Theft Auto IV (PS3/Xbox/PC)

8 Toy Story Mania! (Wii)

9 Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune (PS3)

10 Operation Flashpoint 2: Dragon Rising (PS3/Xbox/Wii)

EntErta inmEnt

Foo Fighters, Greatest HitsBon Jovi, The CircleFlight of the Conchords, I Told You I Was FreakyJulian Casablancas (The Strokes), Phrazes for the Young

Robbie Williams, Reality Killed The Video StarJLS (X Factor), JLSRod Stewart, Soul Book

Leona Lewis, EchoStereophonics, Keep Calm & Carry OnRonan Keating, Winter Songs

Susan Boyle (Britain’s Got Talent), I Dreamed A DreamEminem, Relapse 2Lady Gaga, The Fame Monster

Take That, The Greatest Day: Take That Present The Circus LiveWestlife, Where We Are

TOP 10

ALBUM RELEASES

9TH

16TH

23TH

30TH

2ND

You’ve probably dabbled in a bit of Scandinavian pop, tuning in on a friend’s iPod, or bewildered by its happy harmonies pumping through a blurry, debauched house party somewhere. Well, it’s time

to pick up your earphones and give due respect to Sweden,

Norway, Finland and Denmark’s finest.Despite being woefully out of kilter with current pop trends

in the UK (mainly X-Factor tripe and suchlike factory ‘music’), I

have a soft spot for the delights of Scandinavia’s musical exports.I like a good tune. On this front, the Swedes et al rarely fail

to deliver. And it’s not all happy-go-lucky twee-ness, either. Artists like Loney Dear and Tobias Froberg add a certain husky folksiness to the mix that’s quite irresistible at times while Envelopes (a Swedish/French alliance) captivate in rock-

infused indie mixes with plenty of punch and plot-filled lyrics.You’re more likely to have heard of I’m From Barcelona,

a 29-strong (I think) group who make joyful pieces of music that tend to breed dimples on their listeners’ faces. The lyrics seem meaningless at times (“You know I can’t believe I’m telling everyone that I know | That every stamp in my collection is a place we could go!”, par example), but are always full of fun.

And ‘meaning’ is so 90s anyway.I’ve saved my favourite until last. Hello Saferide is

the bizarre alias for Annika Norlin. Excitingly, Norlin is something of a part-time pop sensation, and is in fact a journalist by trade. Her latest album (September 2008) suggests that she’s enjoying making records though, and the Emmys she won for her Swedish-language oddity under a different name (“Säkert!”) only further highlight her talent and popularity among audiences and critics alike. Marvellous. I think she’s great, too, so there’s another seal of approval. I’d also reccommend the 2007 EP/single release, I was definitely made for these times, which is a belter of a get-up-and-go tune, coupled with the beautiful B-side, The Quiz.

FLATPACK POPYou might be pretty pleased with that IKEA coffee table, but have you checked out Sweden’s musical exports too?By Chris Baraniuk

CANARY WHARFEVENTS

STARLIGHT CINEMA

Muriel’s Wedding (15)

Tuesday 10 November 2009

6.45pm (Doors 6pm)

East Wintergarden, Bank Street, Canary Wharf, E14

FREE

Due to circumstances beyond our control Canary Wharf Arts & Events has been prohibited from showing the film Mamma Mia! as previously advertised. Instead we are delighted to bring you Muriel’s Wedding and hope that you will enjoy this beloved Australian film classic.

Muriel’s Wedding stars Toni Collette and Rachel Griffiths in an ugly duckling story with a twist. Follow Muriel from Porpoise Spit to Sydney as she tries to follow her dreams and find the perfect man to walk down the aisle with! With an almost non-stop ABBA soundtrack this sparky, bittersweet comedy won a host of awards on its release in 1994 and is still as fabulous today!

Join us for this FREE screening with full bar plus popcorn and hotdogs available to buy from doors opening.

Space is limited and unreserved and available on a first come first served basis.

CANARY WHARF COMEDY CLUBTuesday 17 November 2009

7.15pm (Doors 6.15pm)

East Wintergarden, Bank Street, Canary Wharf, E14

Tickets £10 – Book early to avoid disappointment

Line up*: with Maff Brown (MC), Josh Howie, Kevin Bridges, JJ Whitehead and Mike WilmotOur sell-out comedy clubs continue with another evening of raucous entertainment. Enjoy the musings of a medley of top notch comedians whilst MC Maff Brown tries desperately to keep them all in line!

Tickets £10

IN ADVANCE: Visit www.ticketweb.co.uk or call 0844 847 2268 (Booking fee applies)

IN PERSON: On the door, subject to availability

*Line up correct at time of publication

CANARY WHARF ICE RINKFrom Saturday 14 November 2009

Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf

Mon-Sat 9.45am – 11pm

Sun 9.45am - 7.30pm

(Last session begins 1 hour prior to closing time)

The Canary Wharf Ice Rink, sponsored by Thomson Reuters, returns again this winter against a stunning backdrop in Canada Square Park. Bring the office, bring a date or skate with the whole family or friends! Enjoy a glass of mulled cider at The Moose Bar and watch the world whiz by.

Book skating lessons via the on-site box office and stock up on official merchandise to make sure you look your best on the ice.

Ice Rink Booking:

ONLINE: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Tel: 0844 847 1556

Group tickets: 0844 847 1546

Booking fee applies

IN PERSON: On site box offi ce from 14 Nov

Maff Brown (MC)

Josh Howie

Kevin Bridges

JJ Whitehead

Mike Wilmot

A ROAD BY ANY OTHER NAME

localfeature 81

I n fact, Old Bailey is named after a motte-and-bailey (a form of castle positioned on a raised mound, or motte in French, and encircled by a courtyard, or bailey, and surrounded by a large ditch to dispel invaders) that used to run in front of the city wall.

Within this particular example, a prison was built when a new gate was made in the city wall in 1188 AD. The prison was demolished in 1902, and in 1904 the Old Bailey (Central Criminal Court) was built on its foundations. The building was named after the street and not the other way round.

This is just one of the golden nuggets that I took away from my meeting with Sean Boru, the original London tour guide who has spent many years researching the true origins of London street names. Renowned for incorporating humour and forgotten facts and trivia about London into his tours, Sean’s knowledge of London’s monuments and street names won him a regular spot on Capital Gold Radio’s breakfast show in 2007. I also found out that Sean has survived Lymphoma cancer three times since 1998 and has ghost-written a best-selling biography for snooker legend Alex Higgins.

Sean’s enthusiasm and infatuation with London’s past is quite apparent as he imparts all sorts of marvellous facts and stories about our Capital.

Old Street (EC1) was originally named Eald Street after an Anglo-Saxon merchant, but later it deviated to Old Street, as it was the old road out of the city through the Aldersgate.

Fleet Street is named after the river that still flows below ground, and now discharges into the Thames at Blackfriars Bridge.

Liverpool Street is named after the Prime Minister Lord Liverpool (1812-27), and is actually built on the site of the original Bethlem Royal Hospital, which stood on the site for 400 yrs and had a

special ward for the criminally insane.

Other London streets have a more ominous history to them. Do you work in Bunhill Row? Well, be careful if you’re superstitious, as the street has foundations containing over 1,000 skeletons from the old St Paul’s graveyard. You’ll be in good company though, they are not just any old bones, amongst them is Daniel Defoe and his wife, along with John Bunyan and many other famous and infamous people. It was nicknamed `Bonehill` from the original name of Bonhil Fields.

Many streets get their names from their former owners, or because a business was associated with it: Soho was a military training camp until the 1500s when it became a famous hunting estate. The name came from the French hunting call “soho”, and the area was marked out using blue posts, hence the name of many pubs in the vicinity. And up until the mid 1850s, most streets in the east of the city sold the same product; in Poultry they sold, well, poultry of course, and in Wood Lane, Milk Lane, Honey Lane, Garlick Hill and Bread Street you could buy their namesakes. Friday Street was where the Catholics bought their fish, but only on a Friday, the Protestants and Huguenots bought their fish on Fish Hill.

Lombard Street is named after the 15thCentury Italian bankers who introduced paper money from Lombardi. They were promissory notes that ‘promised to pay the bearer the sum of…’ which you will still find on all bank notes today. They also gave us other words such as `bankrupt` which was the old Italian word for a broken bench, if you couldn’t pay the bearer of a note in coins at the end of the month, their henchmen would smash up your trading bench.

A fascinating trip back in time, discovering the history, intrigue and great stories about London is a unique way to spend a day. n

Sean’s book “Historie of London and Londoners: A Romp Through the Capital” is out now.

If you thought the street Old Bailey took its name from the courthouse, think again. Chelsey Baker uncovers the true origins of our London roads

CHEF COLLIN BROWN RESTAURANTAUTHENTIC DISHES FROM THE JEWELS OF THE CARIBBEAN

An electric mix from traditional to modern to

inspire your taste buds

Brought to you by award winning chef Collin

Brown

Fine dining in a laid-back lounge ambience

VIP area available for Group bookings

FREE Parking for all guests

Fine dining home delivery service available

2 Yabsley Street, E14 9RG Reservations: 020 7515 8177www.chefcollinbrown.com

Authentic dishes from the jewels of the Caribbean

food&drink 83

Product of the Month: Pour your champagne with style this season with the Grand Siècle champagne cradle by Laurent-Perrier. This chic handcrafted holder features a clever cooling mat inside the cradle, which can be frozen beforehand and then chills wine to a perfect 10oC. It even comes with a 75cl bottle of Grand Siècle. Available from Harrods, Selfridge’s and Fortnum & Mason for £350.

InsIder’s knowledge: Wine experts predict that next year’s Bordeaux has been predicted to be the best for decades and available at bargain prices. Critics and connoisseurs are eagerly awaiting the vintage which is predicted to have “fabulous aromatics and exquisite balance.”

www.bordeauxindex.com

new restaurant on the block: chef collIn brownNamed eponymously after its chef and owner, this new restaurant is set to bring a taste of the Caribbean to Canary Wharf. Collin has twice won the prestigious Caribbean Chef of the Year competition and his menu boasts a range of Caribbean classics including saltfish fritters, jerked chicken and goat curry.

www.chefcollinbrown.com

SeaSonal produce:

Rocket will be opening a new restaurant in Churchill Place in early 2010. The chain prides themselves on their pizzas, salads and champagnes. Also worth a look is their seasonal à la carte menu.

Bouquet garniA small bunch of herbs, usually a bay leaf, some sprigs of thyme and parsley which are wrapped in a leek leaf or bunched with celery and tied with string. Toss into soups, stews or stocks to add flavour and remove before serving.

Jamie oliver: Just because the Americans are

so good at rattling out accessible and cheap junk food, nobody looks twice when it comes to their food. But there are

golden nuggets everywhere.

reStaurant goSSip:

Food lingo: Quote: WebSite oF the month:

BeetrootBeetroot is more than a crinkle-cut, vinegary salad staple. Baby beetroots can be pan-fried in oil, then mixed with fried garlic and onion to accompany meat or fish or can be transformed into a delicious borsch. Small

is best when it comes to beets, as the larger, older roots take

longer to cook.

newsfood&drink

canaPés wIth a twIstA new Christmas menu has been launched in the UK by Parisian caterers NOMAD which is set to dazzle taste buds and provide visual theatrics. Head chef Patrick Collas will dip a range of ingredients into liquid nitrogen kept at -180oC in a style imitating celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal. Tempting dishes on offer include foie gras with maple syrup and pecan nuts, salmon with cream and pea mint and English strawberry covered in a light tiramisu cream. Already popular among Parisian elites, this stunningly attractive party food is set to wow the London scene. Menus priced from £38.

www.nomadlondon.co.uk

Perfect for chrIstMasAccountant-turned-chocolatier, Kirsty Joly has launched an exclusive chocolate range that is perfect to surprise loved ones with or as a corporate gift. All of her chocolate boxes are created bespoke for clients and you can choose from a range of flavours including strawberry and balsamic vinegar, lemon and mint and Earl Grey tea. If you’re feeling creative then you can challenge Kirsty to create a new flavour; she recently created an Argentine range for Gaucho Grill which included Dulche de Leche and Chimi Chimi marinade (usually used for meat).

www.perfectlytempered.com

With gift finder and short films of their restaurants to help you pick where to eat.

© David Loftus

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Upon entering the restaurant, through a doorway set apart from the main hotel reception, you’ll be met with a glittering,

under-lit bar, complete with comfortable tables and chairs and offering plenty of space for drinkers. The restaurant is located to the left and is a lot warmer than the bar, with a collection of reds and warm wooden tones. Tables are comfortable and relaxed and the layout makes the most of the large space. The lack of white tablecloths and overly fussy adornments are a welcome un-addition and the staff whilst friendly, are efficient and manage to deftly look after a busy restaurant without a lengthy increase in waiting times for food – like a well oiled machine.

Starters are priced in the £4-7 range and cover a wide range of dishes to tempt most palates. The Docklands sharing plate for two is a good starting place and also allows you to taste lots of dishes on the list. Complete with crab cakes (accompanied by a tasty aioli), mozzarella and vine tomatoes, chicken Ceasar salad, steamed mussels and mini

pumpkin and spring onion soup, the platter is a welcoming, warming winter dish.

Mains come in at the £7-21 mark, depending on whether you want a full meal or prefer a lighter salad. Our dinner was decidedly wintery in tone; we followed with the cranberry crusted lamb steak with roast garlic and pumpkin and the 28-day dry-aged sirloin steak from award-winning butcher, Aubrey Allen. The lamb was tender and pink and the crust not too intrusive. The roasted vegetables are, however, just what a girl needs to comfort herself as she sees the last of the summer days disappear over the horizon. The steak arrived, complete with wooden board, chunky chips and a creamy bearnaise, alas it defeated our female stomachs and I’d challenge the heartiest of eaters to win the challenge.

Finally come the desserts, and they are worth saving the space for. The St. Jude’s ice-creams and sorbets (£5.50) are a refreshing option and the cheese board (£4.50 for three cheeses) is also worthy of mention. A well balanced selection isn’t skimped on (complete with Blackstick blue and

Attached to the Crowne Plaza, the Docklands Bar & Grill offers a contemporary brasserie style restaurant with sparkling views of the cityscape. Katie Murray dines in and finds out if the food has just as much twinkle

DOCKLANDS DINNER Westcombe cheddar), and there’s a generous

helping of grapes, a variety of crackers and a deliciously sweet and mildly tangy chutney.

The wine menu is well described and covers a range of budgets and tastes and there’s a good choice of Old and New World to accompany your meal. The bar also does a great selection of extremely reasonably priced cocktails. There’s a choice covering all of the classics, from mojitos to White Russians (which will keep the Big Lebowski fans happy). There’s also a decent selection of spirits, and, impressively, they have Prosecco on tap here, costing just £4.75 a glass – a rarity in the UK. They also have a decent range of beer on draught, including Stella, Becks Vier, Leffe Blonde, Boddingtons and Murphys, which is a pleasant surprise for a bar like this. Alternatively, you can indulge in Corona, Heineken, Spitfire or Peroni in bottles.

Docklands Bar and Grill proves that location, location, location is all important. Being positioned in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, so close to the Excel Centre and the new communities that are springing up, means it has a steady flow of people coming in through the door. The bar is excellent and modern and the restaurant is a comforting choice to spend the winter evenings. n

Docklands Bar & GrillRoyal Victoria DockWestern GatewayLondon, E16 1AL 020 7055 2119www.docklandsbarandgrill.co.uk

83 xxxxxxxxxx84 food&drink

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY AT THIS FABULOUS VENUE

CAPACITY FROM 10 TO 800 PEOPLE

MENUS STARTING AT £25 PER PERSON

CELLAR BAR & FINE DINING RESTAURANT

S P O T C O L O U R P A N T O N E 2 6 2 3 C M Y K V E R S I O N 2 6 2 3

• Cellar bar at Dockmasters House is a 300 capacity bar with outdoor space and garden

• Exclusive hire available

• Bespoke packages available

Mishalle Deepchand

Events & Marketing Manager

020 7345 0345

[email protected]

1 Hertsmere Road

london E14 8JJ

www.dockmastershouse.com

For further information please contact:

M E M S A H E B o n t h a m e s

Free Parking

Free Local Devlivery

Monday-Friday: 12noon-3pm & 6pm-11.30pmSaturday: 6pm-11.30pm

Sunday: 12pm-4pm & 6pm-10.30pm

65-67 Amsterdam Road, London E14 3UU Near Crossharbour DLRTel: 020 7538 3008 Email: [email protected] www.memsaheb.uk.com te

l: 0

20 7

538

3008

“Staff are keen, cooking spot on”

Time Out Eating and Drinking Guide

“Delia Smith’s favourite restaurant” Women & Home Magazine

Christmas & New Year bookings now being taken

LA FIGA CHRISTMAS MENUPrimiAsparagus and Crabmeat Soup

Mare Monte

Smoked sword fish, smoked salmon, smoked duck & breseola

Insalata di Carciofi Pere e Pecorino

Grilled artichokes, pears & pecorino cheese served with a light honey,

balsamic vinegar, olive oil dressing e misticanza

Rigatoni con Pollo Affumicato

Tubular pasta with smoked chicken, sautŽ ed red onions served with a

spinach, cream & garlic sauce

Avocado Natalizio

Avocado, mozzarella, smoked salmon, fresh crab & prawns

SecondiPetto di Pollo con Carciofi

Breast of chicken cooked with artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes,

mozzarella and olives

Scaloppa alla Parmigiana

Pan-fried Veal escalope, aubergine, mozzarella, basil,

oregano & tomatoes sauce

Medaglioni di Filetto in Salsa di Brunello

Pan-Fried slices of fillet with a rich Brunello wine sauce, olive oil and herbs

Branzino con Gamberetti e Mango

Fillet of sea bass, shrimps cooked with slices mango served with

a brandy and cream sauce

Cannelloni con Ricotta Vegetale

Ricotta and vegetable cannelloni with a sweet puree and wild mushrooms

All main courses are served with seasonal vegetables

Selection of Homemade desserts

Selection of Coffees or Teas

LA FIGA, THE MOSAIC, 45 NARROW STREET, LIMEHOUSE, LONDON E14 8DN

TEL: 020 7790 0077WHERE FINE ITALIAN CUISINE, QUALITY, SERVICE AND AMBIENCE MEET

Come and enjoy our delicious seasonal Christmas menu


Beach Blanket Babylon (or ‘BBB’ to those in

the know) is an institution in Notting Hill best

known for its fine dining and moreish cocktails.

Luckily for Shoreditch residents, BBB has

launched a new eating and dining space on

Bethnal Green Road with all the decadence

and style to rival their original haunt.

Once a Victorian warehouse, the building

has now been transformed into an opulent

and chic venue. It still retains its original

character and features but now has that

certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to marvel the

Shoreditch set. Whether you fancy a quiet

cocktail after work, a night of dancing or a

culinary delight, you can have all your needs

sated at BBB.

After work pop down to the basement

cocktail lounge and relax with one of their

exclusively designed cocktails or dance

the night away with the DJ’s mix of lounge,

pop and retro classics. For a little more

exclusivity you can reserve a booth in the VIP

area which has its own dance floor, waiter

service and luxurious banquets - perfect for

a quieter catch-up or celebration.

Upstairs, the restaurant is a feat of style and

panache. Choose from two seating areas

to match your mood and tastes. The raised

mezzanine has a certain opulence, with

extravagant gold wallpaper designed by

Noblis Paris and baroque dining chairs made

from ostrich leather. It’s perfect if you want to

showcase the current 80s fashions and feel

like part of the brat pack.

This contrasts dramatically with the rest

of the restaurant which is modelled on a

Grand French Country chateau. It has a more

bohemian ambience with large urns and a

dramatic 18th century clock face from an old

French church. In such lavish settings all you

need to do is sit back, relax, sip champagne

and order their popular herb crusted rack of

lamb or chateaubriand.

So, if you want to have a cocktail in a

sophisticated setting you can’t go wrong with

the Shoreditch BBB. Throw on a pair of heels

or your sharpest suit and get ready to dazzle

your eyes and your taste buds with a blast of

absolute luxury.

Beach Blanket Babylon19 - 23 Bethnal Green RoadLondon, E1 6LA020 7749 3540www.beachblanket.co.uk

Telephone: 020 3002 5252

A GLASS OF PROSECCO

SEASONAL MEAT & VEGETABLE ANTIPASTI PLANKS with pickles, Italian cheeses & crunchy salad

TRUFFLE TAGLIATELLE (upgrade your party - optional £4.50 extra course)finely shaved wild black truffles with butter, parmesan & freshly grated nutmeg

JAMIE’S FESTIVE PORCHETTA the best slow roasted British pork belly filled with herbs, vin santo, salumi & chestnuts GRILLED MONKFISH TAILS WITH ROSEMARY & ORANGE SALT with crispy San Daniele prosciutto & wild fennel FANTASTIC BAKED AUBERGINE PARMIGIANA WITH FRESH TOMATOlayers of baked aubergines, tomatoes, smoked mozzarella cheese & fresh basil

All mains served with...Fried crushed heritage potatoes with smashed fennel & rosemary saltFlash cooked green beans with tomato & basil sauce

GENNAROS CHOCOLATE & HAZELNUT CAKEwith frangelico & runny honey

CREAMY PANNACOTTA with a compote of seasonal fruits

WINTER TUTTI FRUTI TIRAMISÚlayers of sponge with mixed winter berries, mascarpone & crunchy amaretto biscuits

ARTISAN PLATTER OF ITALIAN CHEESES (upgrade your party - optional £5.00 extra course)

with coffee scented wild Italian honey & Sardinian music bread

please note optional courses must apply to entire party

Available for parties of 8 and above

Churchill PlaceCanary Wharf

London E14 5RB

Jamie’s put together a real feast of traditional, hearty Italian dishes for our Christmas menu. Delicious slow roasted Porchetta stuffed with “loadsa” herbs .... beautiful monkfish tails with rosemary and orange salt ..... and some real show-stopping desserts (try winter tutti frutti tiramisu for a twist on the old classic!). If you want to celebrate Christmas in true Italian style come and join us!


When it comes to choosing a venue for

Christmas entertaining, are you looking for

somewhere that’s state-of-the art or maybe

a little more traditional? Are you planning an

elegant cocktail party or a fun-filled, themed

spectacular? Whatever your requirements, Inc

Group’s extensive portfolio of venues, flexible

catering options and experienced staff will

put the sparkle into any yuletide celebration.

Take Union Square for instance. Our

fabulous new flagship restaurant set in the

heart of the O2 makes for a unique setting,

with its eclectic blend of art deco and the

American West.

Staying within London’s state-of-the-art

entertainment complex and the newly

refurbished purpose built events space,

The Loft, can be dressed to fulfil any

Yuletide fantasy.

Also capable of transforming itself into your

own winter wonderland is American Bar

and Grill. The sheer scale of the restaurant

makes this eatery tailor-made for larger

Christmas parties.

If you would prefer a more intimate venue in

which to hold your festivities, then the 17th

century Spread Eagle has your name on the

tag. And you definitely won’t be saying Bah

Humbug either to The Trafalgar Tavern.

It was Charles Dickens’ favourite watering

hole and now you can have your very own

Christmas Carol courtesy of this beautiful

late Regency building set on the banks of the

River Thames.

Equally spectacular is Inc Group’s latest

venture, Battery. Due to open on 1

December and set at the top of an amazing

lighthouse-style building, this totally

refurbished venue really will provide you with

the complete package: glorious panoramic

views across the City and Docklands,

delicious modern European fare and first

rate service.

Whatever your requirements and whatever

your budget, make Inc Group the top of your

wish list this Christmas.

www.greenwichatchristmas.co.uk 020 8858 2437

FESTIVE SPARKLEAre you struggling for inspiration in the run up to the festive season? Choose the perfect party venue with the help of The Inc Group and enjoy a glittering success...

Union Square

Spread Eagle fine dining

Loft

Battery

Restaurantlistings

ArgentinianGAUCHO CANARY29 Westferry Circus E14 020 7987 9494

CarribeanCHEF COLLIN BROWN2 Yabsley Street E14020 7515 8177

EuropeanDOCKLANDS BAR AND GRILL

Royal Victoria DocksWestern Gateway, London, E16 1AL020 7055 2119

GOURMET BURGER KITCHENJubilee Place E14 020 7719 6408

FrenchCAFÉ ROUGE29-35 MacKenzie Walk E14 020 7537 9696

PLATEAU Canada Place E14 020 7715 7100

Gastro PubTHE GUN27 Coldharbour Lane E14020 7515 5222

THE NARROW44 Narrow Street E14020 7592 7950

IndianDOCKMASTERS 1 Hertsmere Road E14 020 7345 0345

MEMSAHEB65 - 67 Amsterdam Road E14 020 7538 3008

THE ROGUE TRADER 25 Westferry Road E14 020 7517 9233

TIFFINBITES Jubilee Place E14 020 7719 0333

Italian/PizzaAMERIGO VESPUCCI 25 Cabot Square MacKenzie Walk E14020 7513 0288

CARLUCCIO’S 2 Reuters Plaza E14 020 7719 1749

GOURMET PIZZA18-20 Cabot Square E14020 7345 9192

JAMIE'S ITALIAN Churchill Place E14020 3002 5252

PIZZA EXPRESS Cabot Place East E14020 7513 0513

QUADRATO The Four Seasons Hotel 46 Westferry Circus E14 020 7510 1857

Middle EasternMEZ RESTAURANT571 Manchester Road E14020 7005 0421

NINA'S TAZA EXPRESS322 Burdett Road E14020 7093 3552

OrientalITSU Level 2, Cabot Place East E14 020 7512 5790

SRI NAM 1 North Colonnade E14020 7715 9515

SeafoodCURVEMarriott Hotel, West India Quay 22 Hertsmere Road E14 020 7517 2808

FIRST EDITION25 Cabot Square Canary Wharf E14 020 7513 0300

SpanishEL FAROTurnberry Quay E14020 7987 5511

1. Core, dice and muddle Granny Smith apple into a boston glass.

2. Add ALL other ingredients including egg white. Shake vigorously and double strain (this is when you strain with a standard Hawthorne strainer through a secondary finer strainer like a tea strainer to get rid of all the tiny pieces).

3. Pour into a rocks glass full of crushed ice and garnish with an apple fan.

4. Sit back and enjoy!

104-108 Curtain Road, EC2A 3AH, 020 7613 2844 www.thehoxtonpony.com

GRANNY SOURWith winter almost upon us, apples are the most readily available and seasonal fruit, so why not use them to make a tasty, Hoxton Pony cocktail

INGREDIENTS

50ml Busnel VSOP 20ml homemade roast almond syrup2 dashes of angostura bitter25 ml fresh lemon juiceHalf Granny Smith apple10 ml egg white

Rocks glass (a short tumbler)Garnished with apple fan

AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence June 2009

Celebrate our 1st Anniversary with a complimentary drink on us!

Visit docklandsbarandgrill.co.ukor call 020 7055 2119 to book

Best European Cuisine, Archant Food & Drink Awards 2009

Thank you for your support over the past year, join us onThursday 19th November

and enjoy special 3 course meal for £19.95with a glass of Prosecco on us!

C

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CMY

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october2009bleed.pdf 20/10/2009 11:50:56

27th November, 4th-19th December (on Fridays and Saturdays) and 10th and 16th December 2009

Book a table for 10 on a club night and enjoy a 3 course set menu with drinks and the entertaining Globe Girls from £110 per person T: 0207 368 3960 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/clubchristmas

PR IVATE MEMBERS

CLUB

DAZZLE YOUR COLLEAGUES AND FR IENDS OR

JUST SAY Ô THANK YOU Õ TO YOUR CL IENTS AT THE

ROOF GARDENS THIS CHRISTMAS . STEP INTO A

NARNIA WINTER WONDERLAND AND AS YOU

MAKE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE WARDROBE

LOOK OUT FOR THE FAMOUS LAMPPOST AND

FOR ANIMALS TURNED TO STONE É

CHRISTMAS PARTIES & PRIVATE EVENTS AT

1st – 23rd December 2009

Festive menus from £70 per person for 50-500 guests

T: 0207 368 3971 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/eventschristmas

EVENTS & PRIVATE

PARTIES

CHRISTMAS PARTIES


Three-course set menus for tables of 8 or more available from £35.50 per person T: 0207 368 3993 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/babylonchristmas

B ABYLON RESTAURANT

The Roof Gardens Ð 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA www.roofgardens.virgin.com

27th November, 4th-19th December (on Fridays and Saturdays) and 10th and 16th December 2009

Book a table for 10 on a club night and enjoy a 3 course set menu with drinks and the entertaining Globe Girls from £110 per person T: 0207 368 3960 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/clubchristmas

PR IVATE MEMBERS

CLUB

DAZZLE YOUR COLLEAGUES AND FR IENDS OR

JUST SAY Ô THANK YOU Õ TO YOUR CL IENTS AT THE

ROOF GARDENS THIS CHRISTMAS . STEP INTO A

NARNIA WINTER WONDERLAND AND AS YOU

MAKE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE WARDROBE

LOOK OUT FOR THE FAMOUS LAMPPOST AND

FOR ANIMALS TURNED TO STONE É

CHRISTMAS PARTIES & PRIVATE EVENTS AT


Festive menus from £70 per person for 50-500 guests

T: 0207 368 3971 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/eventschristmas

EVENTS & PRIVATE

PARTIES


Three-course set menus for tables of 8 or more available from £35.50 per person T: 0207 368 3993 www.roofgardens.virgin.com/babylonchristmas

B ABYLON RESTAURANT

The Roof Gardens Ð 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA www.roofgardens.virgin.com

94 citylifepromotion

Having served the bustling Canary

Wharf business district for the past

five years, primarily with corporate

and performing arts events, this

year has seen East Wintergarden

branch into an increasingly creative

use of the event space.

One such example is the

first ever Indian wedding. “It

was an amazing sight,” says

Joanne Taylor, manager of East

Wintergarden. “Bank Street was

alive with colour, a procession of

drummers and guests dressed in

bright saris followed the groom as

he arrived on horseback.”

Three more Asian-themed

weddings are planned as well as

bar mitzvahs, civil ceremonies and

birthday parties. All three areas

of the East Wintergarden are

approved for the solemnization of

marriages and the registration of

Civil Partnerships.

With exclusive catering partners,

the venue can offer fully inclusive

catering options with a wide

variety of dining options, attention

to detail, personal service and

experienced event management.

Designed by Cesar Pelli, the

architect behind One Canada

Square, this flexible venue features

a spectacular 27-metre high glass

ceiling and nearly 700 square

metres of Italian marble floor.

The venue can hold dinners for

up to 500 and conferences for up

to 600 guests and there are some

attractive smaller spaces available,

including the gallery space on the

mezzanine floor, which can take up

to 250 for a reception.

There is also a separate

Promenade room, seating up to 40

theatre-style, or acting as a break-

out room for the main atrium.

“The audio-visual equipment here

is excellent and can produce a

top-quality show,” says Joanne.

Acoustics are enhanced by

a German-designed sound

absorbing system, and a new 4m

x 3m LED screen offers a very high

resolution for film, images and

powerpoint presentations, despite

the natural light pouring through

the glass sides of the building

during the day.

Recent events at East

Wintergarden have hit the

headlines: Prime Minister Gordon

Brown has spoken there twice in

recent months; BBC’s Question

Time chose to broadcast from

the venue for the second time

in 2009; the University of Wales

and University of Brighton hosted

fashion shows, and leading fashion

designers Julien Macdonald and

Wayne Hemingway gave speeches

aiming to inspire the next

generation of creative minds.

East Wintergarden really comes

into its own at Christmas time

though, and those still on the

look out for a venue for this year’s

Christmas party may still be in luck:

“Many clients go for a drinks

reception on the gallery, followed

by a dinner in the main hall.

Guests are literally seated under

the stars, thanks to a panoramic

view of Canary Wharf’s skyline,”

explains Joanne. “Entertainment

has included jazz bands, DJs or

even aerial dancers, perched high

up above the diners.”

East Wintergarden is located at

43 Bank Street above the Jubilee

Place shopping mall, adjacent to

the entrance to the Jubilee Line

underground station and the DLR

station at Heron Quays.

East Wintergarden 020 7418 2775 / [email protected] www.eastwintergarden.com

East WintErgardEn: a total solution

East Wintergarden, Canary Wharf’s premier event space, is attracting an ever-diversifying array of events

business 95

London’s business tourism industry is worth over £3.2billion.

Our capital is in the top three of the most popular cities in the world, as well as being the financial capital of the world.Our hotels run at a massive 85% occupancy and we also have the world’s busiest airport with Heathrow welcoming approximately 90million visitors each year.

Formed in order to strengthen and develop London’s business tourism offering, September saw the launch of a new Business Tourism Group, endorsed by the Mayor’s office. The group will be looking at improving and building London’s business tourism profile before, during, and after the 2012 Olympic Games, with a key focus on delivering conventions and events for London. The group will involve both the public and private sector to ensure that the City works together to bring further high profile events to the capital.

One such venture is the International Convention Centre (ICC) London ExCeL – a £165million development – the first purpose built large scale convention venue in London. Set to open in May 2010 (on time and on budget) it is the result of collaboration between clients, buyers, and industry experts. Kevin Murphy, CEO ExCeL London states “ICC London ExCeL is completely privately funded without strain on the public purse but with a projected economic benefit of £1.6billion by the end of 2011”. ICC London ExCeL also represents the first

Olympic venue to be completed, some two years ahead of the Games – it will host multiple sporting events, located between the Olympic Village, central London and London City Airport.

ExCeL is the perfect location for London’s ICC; in business tourism terms, London’s product has been moving east for the last decade. The regeneration of the Docklands, the transport connections, the success of London City Airport and the Eurostar, alongside the 2012 Olympic Games means the site can provide access to, host, sleep and entertain large scale events in a purpose built, safe and secure environment. n

2010 welcomes London’s first International Convention Centre

LONDON’S FIGHTING BACK

“London’s fighting back – we want to attract more international events and overseas companies to the capital, building on the seven million business travellers that come each year. This £165 million investment in the capital’s first

International Convention Centre (ICC) at ExCeL London underlines out commitment to offer top quality facilities for business. Add to that a superb range of hotels, a comprehensive transport network and an unrivalled range of attractions for business travellers, London is the place to be if you want to create a successful event.”

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

THE ICC

• 1,000 new jobs (estimated 3,200 by 2011)

• 32,500m² of flat-floor event space

• 4,500 m² semi-permanent auditorium with seating for 5,000 delegates

• 20 conference/meeting rooms

• Extra 625 underground car parking spaces bringing total to 2,225

• The expansion increases ExCeL London to almost 100,000 m² in size. The 50% increase is equivalent to 14 football pitches

For just £40 per person our Christmas package includes:• Free drinks between 6-11pm Single spirits and mixers, draught beers, house wines and soft drinks

• Professional DJ Playing all your party favourites

• A delicious Christmas buffet• Party hats, crackers and poppersWe are taking bookings now so to avoid disappointment contact us to reserve your party date. Booking deposit required £5 per person balance payable three weeks in advance of event.

T: 020 7537 3903 E: [email protected] W: www.astons-bar.com

Funky Fridays and South Quay Soul on Saturdays visit the Aston’s website for more information

InterExecÊ isÊ veryÊ successfulÊ inÊ maximisingÊ theÊ careersÊ oftopÊ executivesÊ withÊ anÊ unrivalledÊ reputationÊ forÊ results.

30Ê yearsÊ ofÊ globalÊ networkingÊ withÊ HeadhuntersÊ andCityÊ Institutions,Ê throughÊ aÊ uniqueÊ market-interactiveÊ team,providesÊ in-depthÊ knowledgeÊ andÊ confidentialÊ accesstoÊ currentÊ unpublishedÊ opportunitiesÊ acrossÊ allÊ industries.

ToÊ discussÊ yourÊ prospectsÊ callÊ forÊ anÊ exploratoryÊ meeting.

UKÊ andÊ InternationalÊ HO+44Ê (0)Ê 844Ê 561Ê 0531Ê [email protected]

Directors &Senior Executives

A DIRECT LINE TO THE HIDDEN SHORTLIST

xxxxxxxxxxEmploymEnt protEctions for cancEr patiEnts

DEar clarE

Martin’$ Money Matter$

The real cosT of economic recoveryMartin Bamford, Chartered Financial Planner, Informed Choice

I’m an executive in the insurance sector, and was diagnosed with breast cancer four months ago. I’ve just started chemo, though am not well enough to return to work yet. While my employer was initially supportive they’re now asking when I will be back at work. I don’t want to lose my job. What can I do?

Regards, JoannaDear Joanna I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through such a difficult time at the moment. Most employers are supportive in these circumstances and I’m glad to hear that for the most part yours has been too. Sometimes employer reactions change as the months pass due to unawareness of what the employee is going through and lack of ongoing communication. Your employer’s priority is to keep the business going in these challenging times; but they must still respect your need for time to recover (which can differ from patient to patient) and your employment protections.

You are covered automatically by the Disability Discrimination Act. Briefly, it requires your employer to make reasonable adjustments to your workplace or working arrangements to remove any obstacles to your returning to work when you are able. It also protects you against discrimination at work on grounds of your breast cancer or (without justification) for a reason related to it; against harassment; and against victimisation if you raise concerns. This is in addition to unfair dismissal protections.

Your employer must, for example, consider carefully how long it can manage without you and alternative arrangements to cover your role in your absence. It should also, for example, consider part-time/flexible working for you if necessary to help you return when you are able.

You can go some way to help your employer to reach a supportive decision by informing them (without committing yourself), how long you think you may be absent. Alternatively you might ask your doctor to write confidentially to your employer regarding your condition and if you may need to return on a phased, part-time basis initially

If pressure from your employer continues, you can raise a grievance about the pressure being placed on you at this difficult time.

There are some websites with more information on employment protections for cancer patients, especially www.breastcancercare.org.uk, which you may find useful. I wish you a full and complete recovery.

Regards, ClareClare Murray is managing partner at specialist employment law firm, CM Murray LLP. To submit a query, email [email protected] contents of this column are for general purposes only. Specialist legal advice

should be taken regarding specific circumstances

The figures associated with pulling the UK economy out of this recession are staggering. In addition to

the £1 trillion cost of the bank bailout, the Bank of England has continued with their ‘asset purchase programme’, at a total cost of £175 bn.

What impact will all of this spending and money creation have on our personal financial planning in the years to come?

Having to pay more taxes, particularly if you are a higher earner, seems inevitable.

A new 50% income tax rate for people earning over £150,000 a year is being introduced on 6th

April 2010. Whilst this is only likely to have an impact on 1% of earners, it will mean around £220 per month in additional income tax for this percentage.

People earning over £100,000 a year will see their income tax personal allowance (the amount of earnings on which you pay no tax) removed in stages from next April. Those earning £113,000 or more will have no personal allowance. It will be removed at a rate of £2 for every £1 of earnings over £100,000. Those caught up in this ‘personal allowance trap’ could reduce the damage to their finances with some sensible pension

contribution planning.In January we will see VAT

return to 17.5%, and there is every chance it could rise further still.Britain has one of the lowest VAT rates in Europe, with the average (according to research from KMPG) standing at 19.8%.

Working longer and retiring later forms a key part of Tory proposals, who suggest increasing the State pension age from 65 to 66, starting from 2016. We are already on track to see the State pension age increased to 68 for men and women from 2044, but more recently commentators have been calling for these necessary increases to be brought forward and even extended to age 70.

We are living in a low inflation environment, with the Retail Prices Index (RPI) recording inflation including mortgage interest and housing costs at -1.4% for the year to September. Analysts are divided on the eventual level of price inflation

in the medium to long term, but many expect a moderate (if only temporary) increase later this year.

In October we saw a prediction from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) that the Bank Rate will remain at 0.5% until at least 2011 and then stay under 2% until 2014. For those fortunate to be on Base Rate Tracker mortgage deals this is good news; but new mortgage (and remortgage) deals remain reasonably expensive and difficult to obtain.

Savers will also have to find a way to cope with this low interest rate environment and that could mean exposing their capital to greater investment risk in the search for better returns. n

Martin Bamford is site editor of BrilliantWithMoney and a Chartered Financial Planner at Informed Choice.

xxxxxxx xx

ClassicPronunciation: kla-sikNoun: serving as a standard of excellence; of recognized valueAdjective: historically memorable; judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality

Getty Images Gallery presents a selection of the most popular images from the legendary Hulton Archive

Exhibition opens 18 November 2009 – all prints are for saleGetty Images Gallery is at 1 Canada Square (street level)www.gettyimagesgallery.com

CANARY WHARFart

Until 27 november

A showcase for up-and-coming artists, designers and crafts people in Cabot Place East and Canada Place Retail Malls.

window galleries

The CommuniTy GallerySituated in Canada Place Mall, the community gallery is devoted to work produced by local art projects.

4 november – 6 JanuaryIsland History Trust – Portraits from the Collection

The Island History Trust is a community history project dedicated to recording and preserving the history and people of the Isle of Dogs. Its collection of over 5,000 photographs has been put together from family albums and other sources. Based in the Dockland Settlement in East Ferry Road, the Trust holds regular open days and welcomes visitors to the collection.See www.islandhistory.org.uk or call 020 7987 6041 for dates and times.

The 2010 Island Calendar is now on sale from the Island History Trust and Frontispiece in Canada Place Retail Mall.

Puff and Flock

New London-based collective Puff and Flock is made up of eight female designers focusing on innovative and smart textile design. Their aim is to bring magic into the heart of our cities and homes. Their portfolio includes urban upholstery, magnetic wall panels, affective and luminescent cushions, inflatable shower curtains, modular canopies and tectonic wallpapers. www.puffandflock.com

Samuel ClarkeSamuel Clarke deconstructs and adds to digital products such as radios and telephones, creating small elegant sculptures. Digital processes are often alienating and are not understood by the user due to the encasing of the technology. In Samuel’s work the digital process is demystified and made into interesting objects.www.rhoadsclarke.com

Wendy Taylor CBE, one of the UK’s pre-eminent living sculptors

exhibits The Seed Series in the lobby of One Canada Square.

FREEUntil 27 November 2009

Lobby, One Canada SquareMonday to Friday 5.30am – midnight;

Saturday & Sunday 7am – 11.30pm

wendy taylor Cbe: the seed series

URBANINTERIOR.CO.UK 020 7739 4644

27-33 BETHNAL GREEN ROAD LONDON E1 6LA

BATHROOMS | K ITCHENS | INTERIORS

L U X U R I O U S

Urban_0001_CanWharA4June_F2.indd 1 14/5/09 16:26:51

interiors 103THE DIARYSim Smith’s advice on where to fi nd great buys, be charitable and wake up warm on cold mornings

Now in its third year, Handmade in Britain will return to the Chelsea Town Hall

this month. Housing everything from smooth ceramics to sumptuous textiles

and delicate glass creations, this exhibition is well worth a visit.

Aimed to promote new designers and makers producing work in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the fair enables the public to experience design that would otherwise go unseen. A real treat for craft lovers and design enthusiasts, it’s a great place to gather

inspiration, be wowed by some outstanding home grown talent

and probably leave with a few little treasures under your arm.

11-14 November, Chelsea Old Town Hall, London, SW3 5EE

www.handmadeinbritain.co.uk

Visit Lazerides Soho gallery this month to view the work of Irish artist Conor Harrington. His work, famous for its fusion of fine art and street techniques, depicts a clash of styles and materials with inspiration drawn from the role of masculinity in contemporary society. Abstract oil paintings are worked

with spray paint creating an urban twist to an otherwise traditional work of art. This is intelligent graffiti for the urban consumer or for any admirer of the metropolitan scene.

Lazarides, 11 Rathbone Place, London, W1T 1HR020 7636 5443; www.lazinc.com

A real treat for wine connoisseurs, Spiral Cellars have just launched their most technologically advanced cellar to date. The company offer watertight, underground cylindrical wine cellars that can be installed in any ground floor room. New features include LED lighting systems, modern white interiors and motorised glass trap doors complete with remote control access. What more could a boy ask for?

0845 241 2768; www.spiralcellars.com

Ikea makes charitable donations easy this month with its Soft Toy Campaign launching on 1 November. Working

with their corporate partners UNICEF and Save the Children, this collaboration, now in its sixth year, aims to support educational projects for children around the world. Famed for its affordable and entertaining children’s products, IKEA pledges that for every soft toy you buy between 1 November and 23 December, €1 will be given directly to the charities. To quote their slogan: “Together we can give children a better future!”

1 November – 23 December0845 355 1144; www.ikea.co.uk

Make sure you snap up some hot pieces of design on the furniture floor at John Lewis, Oxford Street this season. An area spanning 3000 square feet has been totally dedicated to iconic furniture pieces by some of the world’s most renowned designers. It’s the first time that works from the likes of Phillipe Stark, Charles & Ray Eames and Robin Day will be available on the high street with the store boasting some exclusive pieces. Based on making good design available to everyone and the promotion of future design classics, John Lewis has cemented its position as one of Britain’s favourite retailers.

John Lewis, Oxford Street, London W1A 1EX 020 7629 7711; www.johnlewis.com

Need a little help waking up on cold mornings? You need the new A Modo Mio coffee machine from Lavazza. There are four espresso blends to choose from: Appassionatamente, Deliziosamente, Cremosamente Dek and Caffe Crema, all sealed and vacuum packed ensuring flavoursome coffee with that all important bit of authentic crema. Drink it neat or if you fancy something a little smoother froth up some milk to create great

lattes and cappuccinos. I know what I’ll be waking up to this winter...

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THE TRENDSim Smith looks at this season’s must haves for the modern man...

Welcome to the modern gentleman’s club.

Let me take you through its workings; its history, design and aspirations. Here you will experience

a true renaissance of everything believed to be popular, fashionable and modern. Leave your coat at the door and follow me through various rooms, through this glamorous world of Hollywood sets and Grand Prix racing.

First the office; its simple lines and symmetrical proportions fit in well with any working man’s habits. The walls are clad with vintage posters, mementos of iconic Grand Prix’s raced on the Circuit de Monaco. In the centre of the room sits a galvanized steel desk of visually imposing dimensions with instruments glimmering off of its surface; a platinum and black lacquer fountain pen complete with 18K gold nib and a money clip made from carbon fibre, a material associated with aerospace, civil engineering, and motorsports.

Through to the smoking room, take a seat in a modern classic based on the 18th century Wingback chair upholstered in black mohair velvet. To your left is a bar in lacquered wood with a lobster pink fabric interior, hiding gleaming decanters filled with your favourite poison, poker chips and decks of cards. Why not switch on the reading light and leaf through glorious pages bound together and encased in glossy covers. Once inside uncover tales of British Auto Legends and read of Steve McQueen manoeuvring his Porsche 908 through the streets of Le Mans.

Clos d’Ambonnay 1995 Champagne, Krug, £2,500, Lea & Sandeman 020 7244 0522; www.londonfi newine.co.uk

Chrome plated steel Adjustable fl oor lamp in black, £129, Marks & Spencer 0845 609 0200; www.marksandspencer.com

Black lacquered wood Bach bar unit with lobster pink techo fabric interior, Limited edition of 100, £13,680, Armani Casa 020 7079 1930; www.armanicasa.com

Leather and lacquer Brabham Vice Box in black, including 1 Broughton decanter, 4 Broughton DOFs, poker chips, 2 decks of cards, 4 coasters and compartment for cocktail napkins and picks, £4,100, Ralph Lauren Home 020 7535 4600; www.ralphlaurenhome.com

McQueen’s Machines The Cars and Bikes of a Hollywood Icon, by Matt Stone and Chad McQueen, £16.99, Potterton Books London 020 7730 4235; www.pottertonbookslondon.co.uk

British Auto Legends Classics of Style and Design, by Michel Zumbrunn and Richard Heseltine, £29.95, Potterton Books London 020 7730 4235; www.pottertonbookslondon.co.uk

Galvanised steel and a laminated beech wood top Chrysler desk in black, £3,295, The Conran Shop, 0844 848 4000; www.conranshop.co.uk

Platinum-Plated & Crystal Montblanc Bohème Fountain Pen with black lacquer stripes, £750, Mont Blanc 020 7730 7681; www.montblanc.com

Carbon fi bre money clip in black, £145, Dunhill 0845 458 0779; www.dunhill.com

Anti-Aging Treatment Cream, £155, M Lab www.mlabonline.com

Anti Aging Cleanser, £50, M Lab www.mlabonline.com

Now for the bedroom; there is music playing out of a piano lacquered cabinet and on entering your eye is drawn to the gold plated gun lamp and apparently broken vase on the opposite side of the room. Think James Bond drama, of gun fights in five star hotel bedrooms and casinos on the French Riviera. The bed tells another story altogether, that of mod subculture, of the boys riding through the streets of London on their Italian scooters dressed in tailormade suits. The covers are black on black, the epitome of modern monochromatic elegance with quirky style touches so true of the mod way of life, their preoccupation with fashion and modernity depicted on cushion covers.

This movement has reinvented classic pieces to create a modern take on timeless masculine style. Cool, avant-garde materials have been incorporated into key examples of design turning staple objects into must-have items. It is not merely a trend, but a lifestyle choice, perfect for the work hard play hard club.

106 interiors

Cotton MALOU bed linen in black, £29.99, IKEA 0845 355 1144; www.ikea.co.uk

Wenge-stained Pombal Shelving System, £995, The Conran Shop, 0844 848 4000; www.conranshop.co.uk

Piano lacquered High Powered Sound System, from £1,499, Aria Shop 020 7704 6222; www.ariashop.co.uk

Cotton & linen Taylor cushion cover in black with white shirt detail, £95, Yves Delorme 01296 394 980; www.yvesdelorme.com

Gold plated Bedside Gun light, by Philippe Stark, £878, Aria Shop 020 7704 6222; www.ariashop.co.uk

Carbon fi bre Ascent Ti phone in black, limited edition, £10,400, Vertu 020 3205 1123; www.vertu.com

Linen mounted, framed and glazed original poster Monaco Grand Prix 1930 by Robert Falcucci (1900-1989:), POA, Pullman Gallery 020 7930 9595; www.pullmangallery.com

Porcelain Vase of Phases in black, by Dror Benshetrit, from £80, Vessel Gallery 020 7727 8001; www.vesselgallery.com

Lacquered polycarbonate Rock suspension light in black, by Successful Living from Diesel, £318, Foscarini 0800 37 62 518; www.foscarini.com

Mohair velvet Wingback chair in black, by George Smith, £3,848, Tom Dixon 020 7400 0500; www.tomdixon.net

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1 BlanchardIn the window balancing on its side was a psychedelic Artifort sofa dating back to the 1960’s, thus poised to give the onlooker a bird’s eye view of its impressive circular construction.

Inside, two chairs of regal proportions that seem to be spun out of fine metal threads sit symmetrically in the entrance. Old fairground tin plaques in the form of oversized butterflies hang from the walls delicately painted in a multitude of once brilliant tones. This antique house is world renowned for its curious mix of furniture individually sourced by its owners. Housing a charming mix of rare finds and unconventional pieces, you’re sure to find the perfect addition to any space at Blanchard.

2 daylesford organicAfter speeding past the lunchtime queues I walk into the cool marble sanctuary that is Daylesford Organic. There is a valid reason why this place has developed such a cult following: it’s gorgeous, three floors of understated luxury. Choose from fresh vegetables and fruit picked that morning from the kitchen garden, handmade cheeses and

organic meats, not to mention the artisan crafted home ware that can be found upstairs. We’re talking everything from willow basket weaving to dry stone walling, ancient crafts that have been rekindled to produce beautiful of pieces for the home. There is a distinct sense of traditional community here, a feeling one becomes unaccustomed to living in the heart of London. The store offers a variety of clubs catering for all ages from Children’s Club to Wine Club, there really is something for everyone.

3 linleyLINLEY is well established on the Pimlico Road route as one of the leading retailers of British design. Clear experts of its craft, LINLEY prides itself on the mix of traditional and modern techniques applied to all wood, metal work, glass and

leather designs in its interiors catalogue. The pieces that stand out for me are the exquisite accessories on show. Choose from bespoke leather backgammon sets, crystal decanters and Shagreen desk accessories. The list is endless and the craftsmanship exceptional. LINLEY also offers a complete interior deign service for residential and commercial clients.

4 Plus one galleryOn entering the gallery I was greeted by the owner and her lovely little wirehaired dachshund, Jack. A hugely impressive space,

the Plus One Gallery is home to some of the most extraordinary artists on the contemporary British and International scenes. Specialising in hyperrealist or photorealist art, the gallery represents over 60 principal painters and sculptors that specialise in this genre. Drawing inspiration from what would be used in traditional art genres such as still lifes, landscapes and portraits, the works in the gallery readdress these subjects with a precise vigour. For fans of the photorealist genre, this gallery is a must see, housing pieces from original photorealists such as Robert Cottingham, Robert Bechtle and John Baeder.

5 rose uniackeProminently situated on a corner plot, Rose

Uniacke’s shop fits in with what we have come to expect as standard on the Pimlico Road, the home of some of London’s most established designers and antique dealers. A clean white space inside and out plays home to chosen pieces of antique and 20th Century furniture, mirrors and lighting that can be found on the ground floor. Down a beautiful curved wooden staircase is the spacious atelier where I found the softest of knitted cashmere blankets and goat skin rugs designed by Rose herself. The shop promotes a love of design, history and education, selling pieces by some of the 20th century’s most admired designers as well as contemporary furniture based on pieces from Rose’s own private collection.

6 soaneThe scent of a lit candle fills the entrance with deep notes of musk and myrrh suitably fitting for the walk through weighty fabrics held back in a Bedouin tent style set up. Through to a variety of large room sets including a conservatory filled with light and giant palms, silk clad tables and large stone pots sit on primitive style rugs that seem to have been picked straight out of Africa. Old hunting rifles decorate the walls with oversized lanterns hanging from above. Upstairs boasts a fabulous roof terrace filled with bold pieces of garden furniture and more beautiful palms transporting you to exotic lands from your Pimlico Road departure downstairs. The company, founded by Lulu Lytle and Christopher Hodsoll was established to address the demand for architecturally inspired bespoke English furniture, lighting and artefacts. With quality and longevity at the heart of their philosophy, the pieces prove every bit the quintessential British master works intended.

7 Wild at heartWalking up the steps past the pots and troughs overflowing into the street, I could smell the crisp notes of freshly cut flowers and sweet rose. A dark grey canvas made up of slate floors and lacquered walls is brought to life by a multitude of colours, textures and scents that hit your senses with immediate impact. Delicate raspberry ripple roses and fluffy cherry plumes sit amongst an impressive assortment of flowers on a table in the centre of the room. Fine embroidered cushions, scented candles and unusual ceramics follow you through the shop to the end where industrial lights hang over a sunken floor and flowers and foliage spill out of old Victorian bath tubs. The shop combines both floristry and interiors in an unconventional style offering a new take on traditional and modern fashions. If you’re looking to fill your house with truly beautiful accessories and flowers, make sure you pay them a visit. n

The ADDReSS BOOKSim Smith meets London’s finest antiques dealers on the Pimlico Road SW1...

interiors 109

Sara Uzel meets Daniel Sanders from Modus Design and finds out why no home is complete without a fireplace centrepiece M

odus Design has been at the cutting edge of fireplace design since 1986; bringing innovative design to the concept of the

‘traditional hearth fireplace’ Modus creates inspirational and contemporary functional objects of art that incorporate glass, stone and moulded metal.

Focusing on visual impact, their creations embody both form and function in equal measure. Making a bold design statement in any living space, Modus has developed a truly distinctive collection that includes dramatic suspended fireplaces, transparent two-sided glass-to-ceiling fireplaces, corner features, sculptured on-the-wall fireplaces and outdoor table fires. All the fireplaces in the collections can be tweaked and tailored to the individual, thus creating a truly bespoke and personalised product; project managed by professional design consultants, on a case-by-case basis, each order considers the space, taste and lifestyle of clients.

From the ultra-modern, urban living space to traditional or period homes, Modus Design has worked on the some of the UK’s most prestigious properties, including the homes of premiership footballers, A-list celebrities and world famous architects.

We asked designer Daniel Sanders to tell us a little more about why Modus stands out from the crowd...

THE ULTIMATE WINTER warmer

Model 997

interiors 111

TOP 3 DESIGNS

THE LINEFIRE

A feature fi replace of traditional shape with a contemporary twist, this design has a bold elegance. The design pictured incorporates an impressive 2.6 metre fl ame.

THE 186-01

This beautiful cylindrical free hanging fi replace with glass canopy allows all round vision of the fi re. The curved glass and

silver refl ections, combined with the fi re, creates a unique and visually impressive design. There are a number of materials and colours to choose from.

THE 984

This design has a highly unique form that mixes different metals and fi nishes to create a truly stunning focal piece. The main body is made from corten steel which provides a rusted look alongside the fl ue and fi re bowl made from stainless steel. The body can be used as seating or as ornamental display.

Prices, for design conception to installation, start at £4,500.

Modus Design020 8906 9988www.modusfi replaces.com

What does Modus Design provide that other fireplace companies do not?

First and foremost our fireplace collection is unique. The concept that underlies all of our designs, and that separates us from other fireplace companies, is that our fireplaces are intended to be unique designer pieces of furniture, as well as fully functioning fireplaces. A fireplace isn’t lit for most of the year so why have a hole in the wall when you can have a beautiful, sculptured focal feature for 365 days?

Secondly, all designs are completely bespoke and can be 100% customised to suit individual taste, situation and lifestyle – from dimensions to colour schemes, materials to finishes. Essentially, no two fireplaces that we make and design are the same. We aim to provide a product that is exceptionally high in design and manufacture to suit individuals who have a discerning taste for luxury.

How do you ensure each fireplace is ‘bespoke and personalised’?

The way to achieve the best results and satisfy the needs of the individual is to try and understand as much about them and their lifestyle. Therefore, our design consultants work directly with clients, their interior designers and/or architects in situ – this is the best way to fully appreciate the space in question and to propose the best design solution. Once a design consultant has met on site, he or she will be able to put together 3D design imagery to allow clients to visualise how different designs will look.

What initially attracted you to contemporary fireplace design?

I had worked for some prestigious brands in different industry sectors prior to joining Modus Design. I was excited by the opportunity to work in a real niche industry and for a company that had been successful in taking ‘the fireplace’ – what is traditionally seen as an unsexy product – and turn it into a real object of desire with true design aesthetics. Working at the luxury end of the market also has its attractions, not least the opportunity to work in some exclusive properties but also the design freedom that luxury affords.

How successful has Modus Design been since it was established?

I guess it depends on how you judge success. I look at it in two different ways. The first is being successful in terms of industry recognition. There is no greater accolade than working alongside the likes of world renowned interior designers or architects such as Candy & Candy, Kelly Hoppen and Foster & Partners. Secondly, I value success in terms of client satisfaction – we’ve yet to leave one customer unsatisfied, so we must be doing something right!

Which clients and properties are you most proud of working for?

We were asked to design and supply two fireplaces for the private penthouse of one of the greatest architects of modern times - the individuality of the designs and the demands of the job itself was certainly something for us to be proud of.

What type of materials do you use and how do you source them?

Our fireplaces incorporate a whole host of materials and we are always looking to incorporate new materials into our designs. The basic elements are metal, glass and stone but we also work with some unusual materials that you wouldn’t normally associate with a fireplace, such as leather. We have a suspended fireplace in our collection that has a leather base which serves almost as piece of furniture. Materials are sourced from all over the world, including Japan for unique fire resistant glass, Italy for stone and marble, and Germany for high quality metal.

How do you ensure Modus Design continually has a unique fireplace collection?

Innovation is the name of the game. We are constantly looking to create distinctive installations and push the boundaries of what’s possible in fireplace design. We work closely with our counterparts in Holland who are responsible for manufacture and who are experts at taking our concepts and turning them into reality. Keeping up to date with trends in interior design and architecture, as well as the more general fashion trends that influence our taste and lifestyle helps ensure our designs are ‘on-trend’. We’re about to launch the world’s first waterfall fire, so watch this space...

THE ULTIMATE WINTER warmer

xx cityliferecommends

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ATP CanaryWharf half 27.10.09:Layout 1 27/10/2009 14:56 Page 1

citylife recommendscityliferecommends 113

MANCHESTER UNITEDThere’s no better place to impress clients, colleagues or business partners than Old Trafford. It’s where amazing things happen on and off the pitch – injury-time winners, goal-line clearances and firm hand shakes. Their hospitality packages bring quality chefs and waiting staff to ensure world renowned hospitality, bringing a high level of drama and luxury.

For more information, call 0161 868 8000, email [email protected] or visit www.manutd.com

BMA HOUSEBMA House is a Grade II listed building, which after a recent refurbishment, now provides five impressive new event spaces, in addition to a further 21 purpose built meeting rooms. Capacities range from 10 to 300 and benefit from an array of state-of-the-art Audio Visual equipment and an on-site caterer.

Tavistock SquareLondon, WC1H 9JPFor more information, call 020 7874 7020, email [email protected] or visit www.bmahouse.org.uk

GAY MEN’S CHORUSTake a twist on the traditional Cinderella with Singderella, an eclectic mix of traditional carols and Broadway classics designed to help escape everyday life and uplift your spirits. Musical director, Simon Sharp ensures many surprises are in store.Tickets are priced from £15-£35Cadogan Hall5 Sloane TerraceLondon, SW1X 9DQwww.lgmc.org.uk

CHALET DE LA CLOCHENestled in the heart of the Val d’Isere/Tignes is the beautiful Chalet de la Cloche, where you can enjoy your own chef and butler; gourmet food; extensive wine cellar and open bar; private spa; Sky TV; Wi-Fi; spacious en-suite bedrooms; and some of the best skiing in the world.

For more information, call 020 8853 0636, email [email protected] or visit www.ski-base.com

YOUNG ARTGraffiti artists from around Europe present their contemporary art installations, sculpture and multimedia productions on 24 November. Original famous pieces such as Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss have been incorporated, alongside wonderfully chaotic graffiti. Guaranteed to make your eyes dance.

Maverik Showroom68-72 Redchurch Street Shoreditchwww.maverikshowroom.com

IN THEIR SHOES BALLJoin Macmillan Cancer for champagne and dinner with the opportunity to bid for some fabulous prizes including signed shoes from A-list stars such as Kylie Minogue and Andrew Strauss, whose shoes were worn on the day England won the Ashes. It gives guests the opportunity to walk in the shoes of those affected with cancer and how donations can truly make a difference.

www.macmillanball2009.co.uk

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ORCHID LIVING Hand carved in Thailand, these pieces will bright up any living or work space. The stools are carved from a single piece of wood and can be used to either sit on or as a small side or lamp table. Wall hangings come in several different colours to suit your mood and tastes and all are protected and finished in a natural soft brown wax.

www.orchidlivingltd.com

LOOK BACK IN TIMEThis book offers interesting views of London from 1850-1930. Stunning views of historical landmarks such as London Bridge and Buckingham Palace come to life in 3-dimensions through a classic stereoscopic lens. Not just a picture book, each Landmark comes with an in depth history.£12.99Available from all good bookshops

NATOORA HAMPERSNatoora urge you to fall in love with food again with hampers crammed with high quality foods from France, Italy and Britain. Supplying top quality chefs, Natoora offers you high quality produce at your own convenience. Their ‘Christmas Delight’ hamper caters to your every need with products ranging from rosemary crackers to 20-year-old port, and can be purchased for £270.

www.natoora.co.uk

ANDREX SHEA BUTTER KNICKERSDesigned by Ayten Gasson, these silk knickers are enriched with Shea Butter to make them extra luxurious to the touch. Each pair comes beautifully wrapped in a co-ordinating silk pouch and half of all profits will go directly to Womens Cancer charity “Look Good… Feel Better” which combats the visible side effects of those undergoing cancer treatment.

www.andrexsheabutter.co.uk

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTGive the gift of Art this Christmas with the Federation of British Artists’ (FBA) Fine Art Commissions Service. An art commission is a truly unique gift experience and the perfect way to capture a precious moment for a loved one to enjoy for many generations to come. Many of our artists are able to work from photographs if you’re looking for a surprise gift.

www.mallgalleries.org.uk

CHEF COLLIN BROWNChef Collin Brown has received several prestigious awards for his sensational Caribbean cuisine and his newly established restaurant in the trendy east end of London is considered the finest restaurant for Caribbean food in the UK. Combining unparalleled food with a fantastic atmosphere, this is an unforgettable dining experience.

2 Yabsley Street, E14 9RG 020 7515 8177www.chefcollinbrown.com

xx cityliferecommends

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TIME FOR YOURSELFThe stunning Little Lange 1 Moon Phase is a stunning new watch which maintains high accuracy through its synchronisation with the moon’s orbit – a complication which would be highly appealing to most women, particularly those with an interest in astrology and horoscopes.

Little Lange I Moon Phase, £30,200

FESTIVE FIZZThe fine and delicate Laurent-Perrier Brut Non Vintage is a classic champagne ideal for Christmas celebrations. The perfect aperitif, it will be available for Christmas in a special gift sleeve making it a lovely gift for relatives, bosses or friends.

Laurent-Perrier Brut Non Vintage is stocked in Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Wine Rack, Oddbins, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and Jeroboams, £31.99

CHRISTMAS CASHMERE As the evenings get cooler, Jupi’s Pure Cashmere scarves and pashminas provide the perfect cover-up. Available in a wide range of colours and spectacularly embellished with Swarovski crystals, the beautiful Cashmere stands alone in its softness and elegance, and personifies luxury, making them a fabulous gift idea.

www.jupi.biz

TRAVEL ACCESSORYLast month the saw the launch of the ‘Johnnie Walker Blue Label by Bill Amberg Studio’ – check out this season’s must-have limited-edition bag, the ‘Weekender’ which is bold and masculine in design, capturing the contemporary desire for discreet style and practicality.

The Weekender, £1,200All bags are available from Harrods

BATHTIME INDULGENCEThe couture gift set from Molton Brown will go down well with any wife, girlfriend, mother or sister. Exclusive but affordable, it offers the chance to create a bespoke gift – choose from two striking gift boxes (‘Mediterranean voyage’ or ‘South pacific sailing’) before filling the box of your six favourite products.

The Couture gift set is exclusive to Molton Brown Emporia: £35www.moltonbrown.co.uk

QUINTESSENTIALLY DRIVENQuintessentially Driven is an exclusive new chauffeur service with first class transport available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For reliable, professional and luxurious service, QD are ideal for business and private travel. Special offer: £40 per hour on a 1 hour minimum booking charge.

For more offers, visit the QD website,www.quintessentiallydriven.com

Assessment withFitnessLab helps you togauge and develop your

fitness scientifically.

The Fitness Lab provides assessment for:

Novice exercisers looking for a baseline measure of fitness

& initial exercise guidance

Recreational level athletes toaccurately assess fitness levels

& understand the science behindeffective training

Individuals returning to sport after a period of inactivity

Personalising heart rate training zones

Accurately tracking your response to training over time

To make a booking call:

020 7467 5470 or visit the website to learn more:

www.thefitnesslab.co.uk

Don’t just train, Train SMART!!!

2477CPX_FitnessLab_halfVert_100x288.qxd 9/10/09 13:27 Page 1

Watches of Switzerland, 16 New Bond Street 020 7493 5916

...at Canary Riverside’s latest restaurant.A four course gourmet dinner for 10 peoplein our private dining room including achampagne reception and a specialselection of wines during the meal.

To enter, please email your name and telephonenumber to [email protected] date 31.12.09

For your closest salon and information on training courseswww.biosculpture.co.uk • call 0845 331 2347

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Green RETAIL Ad Quarter.indd 1 10/7/09 9:21:14 PM

SPACIOUS FLAT FOR SALE IN HIP WEST HAMPSTEAD

• Spacious 800sq.ft. 2-bed, 2-bath• Excellent transport links for Canary Wharf and London airports• Contemporary Moben kitchen with granite worktops• ‘Acanthus Leaf’ marble surround gas fire• 10ft. High ceilings throughout• Double bed-1 with En-suite Jacuzzi bath and w/c• Double bed-2 with lots of storage• Separate ‘kinky wet room’ with hydro-massage shower and w/c • ‘Bisque’ radiators throughout• Resident House Porter

See www.KingsGardens.co.uk for indepth detailsViewing By Appointment Only – 0776-837-4677

No Agents - Thank You

£465,495 Open to Offers(Share of Freehold)

xxxxxxx xx

www.theloungehairsalon.co.uk

200 Jamaica Rd SE16

020 7237 2624

Cut & Style Package £40• Cut & style• Intensive conditioning treatment (including scalp massage)

• Consultation & advice

Colour, Cut & Style £70• Half head of highlights • Cut & style• Intensive conditioning treatment (including scalp massage)

• Consultation & advice

• Valid until 30th November 2009 • Promotions valid Monday to Friday only• Dedicated customer car park available• 2 mins from Bermondsey station (Jubilee line)• Please mention Canary Wharf magazine upon booking

AUTUMN HAir PACkAgeS

A pAir of tickets to see

There was a warning and its name was Enron

one of the most infamous scandals in financial history becomes a unique theatrical event in “Rupert Goold’s brilliant production” (The Guardian). Mixing classical tragedy with savage comedy, it reviews the tumultuous

1990s and casts new light on the current financial situation. In what promises to be “an outstanding evening” (The Evening Standard), Enron is “the exhilarating answer to a $60bn question” (The Times).

“Are you kidding me? Did we take advantage? Yes, we took advantage. And the only difference between me and the people judging me is they weren’t smart enough to do what we did.”

Inspired by real-life events and using music, dance and video, Enron is directed by Headlong Theatre’s Artistic Director Rupert Goold whose recent credits include the award-winning Macbeth, Six Characters in Search of an Author, King Lear, No Man’s Land and Oliver! n

Enron will run from 16 JanuaryEarly booking strongly advised

Nöel Coward TheatreSt Martins Lane, WC2N 4AU

For more information, call the box office on 0844 482 5140 or visit www.enrontheplay.com

ddddd Guardian, Sunday Telegraph, City AM, Time Out, Evening Standard, Daily Telegraph, The Times

win

We’re offering one lucky reader a pair of tickets to Enron. To be in with a chance of winning, email your name and telephone number to competitions with ‘Enron CW’ in the subject bar.

Closing date for the competition is 30 November and the Editor’s decision is final.

Terms and Conditions:

Winning tickets valid Monday to Thursday performance from 1-25 February 2010 (subject to availability). Winning tickets held at the box office for collection. By entering this competition you are agreeing that your details can be used by both Runwild Media Group and Jerusalem for marketing purposes. Your details will not be disclosed to third parties.

win!

PROPERTYLONDON HOmes&

Hot ProPertiesc h e c k o u t t h i s m o n t h ’ s

h o t t e s t h o m e s

CitY CoolLUXURY LETTINGS

Covering The CiTy, Canary Wharf, DoCklanDs & souTh easT

ProPertY CHAiNTHE LATEST pRopERTY NEwS

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£1,550,000

Times Square, E1A modern 1 bedroom apartment in this Berkeley Homes development ideally located on the edge of the City.

£410,000City Tower, E14A two bedroom apartment within the City Tower Development, the property benefits from 2 bedrooms, 1 ensuite, 1 bathroom, porter, balcony, terrace, car parking

Belgrave Court, E14 £2,500,000Ivory House, E1WA beautifully presented 3 bedroom, 3 ensuite bathrooms riverside apartment in the prestigious Canary Riverside development.

An immaculately designed 3 bedroom warehouse conversion in the heart of St. Katharine Docks.

Canary [email protected] 7531 2500

Keepier Wharf, E14 £1,400,000Berkeley Tower, E14Refurbished to a very high standard, this exceptional 2 double bedroom contemporary styled riverside apartment offers both spacious and practical living space.

An immaculate 3 bedroom, 3 en-suite bathroom south west facing apartment. Situated in the sought after development of Canary Riverside, with panoramic views of the Thames and the City

£1,250,000

[email protected] 7456 6800

[email protected] 7456 6800


£350,000



Paper Rocket is a Buyer’s Agent based in Canary Wharf. Director Anna-Marie Foynes and Associate Zerin Safa have a combined total of 24 years experience in both commercial and residential property. They specialise in sourcing properties throughout London and the South-East.

INSIGHTProperty Prices – Moving Up or Down?

Confused by the abundance of confl icting reports in the press?Using our four factors you can make your own price predictions and determine what will be yesterday’s news.

1.House Price Index - an offi cial measure of monthly price trends published on-linewww.landregistry.gov.uk

2.Mortgage Approvals - offi cial monthly market commentary available on-linewww.cml.org.uk

3. Buyer-to-seller per agent ratio - national fi gures available quarterly online www.cbre.co.uk

4.Localised trends - national fi gures may not mirror what’s happening right under your nose. Keep up to date with local press and agents.

If you would like to raise an issue please contact Anna or Zerin: [email protected] www.paperrocket.net

5

BEHIND THE FACADE

Estate Agent Larissa Ashworth talks to us about spending £5 million and moving her offi ce

Q. Where do you live? A. E16 - it’s close to work.

Q. Favourite development or area? A. I have a soft spot for Ontario Tower, E14. It’s an attractive development by the river and tastefully completed inside. However, completely out of my price range!!

Q. How would you spend £5 million on property? A. I would buy several fl ats and houses that need work, refurbish them and sell them on. I can then hopefully retire!

Q. Change one thing about your job... A. I’d move the offi ce to a warmer climate!

Q. Forecast the remainder of the year in property A. There is a strong demand for properties at the moment but a shortage of stock. With the Mortgage rates being so good right now why wouldn’t you buy?

Larissa Ashworth of Canary Wharf’s FJ Lord020 7987 6776

Work, rest & playThe winter season is upon us, and so the search for the best snow on which to place your skis begins. Next comes the quest of fi nding temporary alpine luxury, but ever thought of owning a place of your own?

Traditionally France, Austria and Switzerland have been the key destinations for short haul chalet investment, but we present the areas to watch out for in 2010. Whilst the perfect snow may not settle, the investments could prove to be wise buys in the long term.

Croatia – Cheaper than most of Europe’s resorts. New three bedroom apartment in Zagreb (close to where the Croatian Olympic ski team train), starts at £110,000 sterling.

Slovakia – A hidden gem! Three bedroom fl at in Tatranska Strba, a shuttle railway ride from Strbske Pleso ski resort, prices from £98,000 sterling.

Romania – good enough for Prince Charles to own two houses in the Breb region, with fair snow in the Maramures area during the fi rst days of April. New build one bedroom apartments in the Brasov ski region begin at £66,000 sterling.

For something closer to home Aviemore, Scotland could be your answer. Three bed semi-detached house in the heart of the village at a price tag of £146,000 sterling.

Paper Rocket is a Buyer’s Agent based in Canary Wharf. Director Anna-Marie Foynes and

press and agents.£146,000 sterling.

RAISE AN ISSUE

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The Leasehold Reform Housing and Urban

Development Act 1993 allows leaseholders

to buy a lease extension for an additional

90 years. The owner must have owned the

leasehold for at least the last two years,

however does not need to be resident for

that period.

When purchasing a short lease property it is

possible for the owner to serve and register

the Initial Notice and then transfer this right

to the purchaser. (Assuming the vendor meets

the requirements of the Act).

The lease extension cost is worked out on a

case to case basis. The contributing factors

are: the remaining lease length, the current

value of the property, the marriage value

and compensation to the landlord for the loss

arising from the grant of the new lease. A

Valuer is required to give fi nal calculations.

The advantage of a short lease property is it

enables you to purchase an asset, which you

can add value to. However it is not for the

faint hearted.

We recommend you deal with a specialist

lender or good mortgage broker and take

advice from a property lawyer, (both of these

we can put you in touch with).

PROPERTY CHAINAnna-Marie Foynes and Zerin Tara Safa of Paper Rocket guide you through this month’s property news

fi rst days of April. New build

Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14A substantial four bedroom duplex penthouse which has been refurbished to an exceptional standard. Situated on the top two floors of a sought after portered development, the apartment benefits from a wealth of outside space.

£1,650,000Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales020 7512 9955 [email protected]

Meridian Place, Canary Wharf, E14Spacious two bedroom apartment extending to a 95sq m (1022 sq ft) and situated on the top floor of a purpose built development located close to the Canary Wharf estate. The flat benefits from a spacious terrace with views to Greenwich.

£590,000Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales020 7512 9955 [email protected]

KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

Johnson House, Ebury Square, London SW1WRefurbished Two and Three Bedroom Apartments in WestminsterWe are delighted to offer a selection of two and three bedroom apartments located on the edge of Belgravia. Victoria underground and mainline stations are approximately 10 minutes walk away to the north east, served by the Victoria, District and Circle lines, together with mainline connections to Surrey, Kent and the wider south east. Sloane Square underground station is located approximately five minutes walk to the west, and is also served by the District and Circle lines. The apartments have recently been refurbished and are offered either furnished or unfurnished.

From £490 per week

Knight Frank Canary [email protected] 7512 9955

KnightFrank.co.uk/Sales

Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14A substantial four bedroom duplex penthouse which has been refurbished to an exceptional standard. Situated on the top two floors of a sought after portered development, the apartment benefits from a wealth of outside space.


Keepier Wharf, Narrow Street, E14On the first floor of a converted building with outstanding river views, a large two bedroom flat in excellent order having been recently refurbished. Stunning reception room, kitchen, bath and shower room, parking, resident porter.


Meridian Place, Canary Wharf, E14Spacious two bedroom apartment extending to a 95sq m (1022 sq ft) and situated on the top floor of a purpose built development located close to the Canary Wharf estate. The flat benefits from a spacious terrace with views to Greenwich.


City Tower, Limeharbour, E14A well proportioned two bedroom apartment with two East facing balconies in a private purpose built block in the heart of the Isle of Dogs.


Knight Frank Canary [email protected] 7512 9955

LSLondon Stone

Properties

[email protected] 8855 2155 - 07747 865 383

9 Gunnery Terrace, Cornwallis Road, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SW

www.LondonStoneProperties.com

Top Floor River view Penthouse- 3 BedsThis fl at is looking for people accustomed to living in style. Wow factor living room with 20 ft ceilings, fl oor to ceiling windows leading to a private roof terrace, river views, designer kitchen and 3 bedrooms. What an amazing fl at.

SE18 Furn: £388pw

2 Bed Duplex Warehouse ConversionIf exposed brickwork, big rooms, arched windows and cast iron beams are more you style, perhaps these fl ats will suit: 2 beds, 2 baths, modern kitchens, and great living space.

SE18 Furn/Unfurn : £250-350pw

Lovely Modern 1 Bed FlatSuper modern fl at with park views. The fl at has bright sunny rooms, modern kitchen and bathroom and good furniture.

SE18 Furn: £190pw

Space, Space, Glorious Space1,250 sq ft of space. This is a 2 bed 2 bath loft full of great features: high ceilings, exposed beams, sash windows, exposed brickwork… It is a great space with huge rooms and packed full of character throughout.

SE18 Unfurn: £323pw

Great Value Duplex Overlooking the ParkDo you fancy a great quality, great value 2 bed, 2 bath, modern fl at for under £1,000pcm? Then come and see this one.

SE18 Furn: £227pw

2 Bed plus Study Loft set over 2 FloorsIf you want to look outside the normal, boring square box, then this could be it. This gorgeous loft has high ceilings, a large study area, lovely separate kitchen, 2 beds, 2 baths and heaps of character. Come and see it.

SE18 Furn: £311pw

Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18A beautiful, gated development nestling along the River Thames the Royal Arsenal is composed of gorgeous old warehouses and ultra chic modern buildings, many with splendid river views.

• Onsite gym and 24 hr concierge• Onsite delicatessen and café• Tranquil r iverside setting• Gated buildings• Onsite dry cleaners• Neighbours that become friends

Thames Clipper

23 minsto Canary Wharf by DLR20 mins by River Boat

LS

[email protected] 8855 2155 - 07747 865 383

9 Gunnery Terrace, Cornwallis Road, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SW

www.LondonStoneProperties.com

Smart, Modern, Bright 1 BedGood sized, clean and modern 1 bed, overlooking a courtyard with large rooms throughout and heaps of storage.FurnishedSE18 £196pw

Top Floor Flat with Floor to Ceiling WindowsGreat 2 bed flat with a large balcony running the length of the property overlooking the internal lagoon and fountains. Furnished

SE18 £242pw

Beautiful Furnished Loft Style Apartment Fantastic 2 bed flat with a huge living room with double height ceilings throughout and a great modern kitchen. FurnishedSE18 £273pw

Fabulous Loft with Amazing Roof Skylights A truly unique 2 bed flat in the Royal Arsenal, with a huge living area that has a vaulted ceiling and loads of roof skylights. FurnishedSE18 £335pw

Fantastic 3 bed Penthouse on two FloorsA really great penthouse offering 3 genuine double bedrooms, 2 smart bathrooms and an ultra modern kitchen. FurnishedSE18 £358pw

Gorgeous Warehouse ConversionA beautiful flat set over two levels with 2 double bedrooms, two smart bathrooms and a large study area.Furnished/UnfurnishedSE18 £345pw

Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18

•

•

•

•••

23 mins to Canary Wharf by DLR20 mins by River Boat

www.liferesidential.co.ukSales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management

Docklands020 7476 0125

West London020 8896 9990

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

West Carriage House, Royal Arsenal SE18

• Three Bedroom/Two Bathroom Apartment• Fully Furnished

• 4th Floor• Balcony• Parking

• 24hr Concierge Service£275 PW

Constable House, Canary Central E14

• Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom Apartment• Fully Furnished

• Balcony• On-Site Leisure Facilities• 24hr Concierge Service

• Nr. South Quay DLR£360 PW

Seacon Tower, Hutchings Street E14

• Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom Apartment• Fully Furnished

• 13th Floor• Balcony

• Allocated Parking• Nr. Canary Wharf St.

£360 PW

Marmara Apartments, Western Gateway E16

• Three Bedroom/Two Bathroom Apartment• Fully Furnished

• Balcony• On-site Gymnasium

• 24hr Concierge Service• Nr Royal Victoria DLR

£395 PW

Marina Heights, Basin Approach E14

• Sub Penthouse Apartment• Furnishings Optional

• Large South Facing Balcony• Stunning Marina Views

• Secure Allocated Parking• 24hr Concierge Service

£450 PW

London's Finest Properties

Central London020 7582 7989

1 West India Quay, Canary Wharf, E14

• Spectacular 1 Bed/2 Bathrooom Apartment• 18th Floor

• Exceptional Specification Throughout• Unparalleled Views to the Towers of

Canada Square• Enviable Location Next to DLR and

Shopping Malls£565,000

Asquith House, New Palace Place, Westminster, SW1

• Extremely Spacious 2 Bed/3 Bath Apartment• Over 1,000sqft of Living Space with Balcony

• Excellent Location in the Heart of Westminster

• Superior specification throughout• Secure Underground Parking and 24hr Porter• Moments from River and Houses of Parliament

£799,950

Marina Heights, Limehouse Basin, E14

• 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom• 3rd Floor

• Fully Furnished• Fine Decorative Order Throughout

• Great Location Mins from South Quay DLR• Fantastic Leisure Facilities and 24hr

Porter£260,000

LANDLORDSSubject to an exceptional third quarter of trading we urgently

require more 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments for awaiting, company

and professional tenants. For all new managed instructions we will take our fees on a monthly basis.

Alaska Building, Deals Gateway SE13• One Bedroom Apartment

• Fully Furnished• 6th Floor• Balcony

• On-Site Leisure Facilities• Nr. Deptford Bridge DLR

£220 PW

Ontario Tower, Canary Wharf E14

• Riverside Studio Suite• 4th Floor

• Outstanding Design• Exceptional Specification

• 24hr Concierge, Room Service and Leisure Facilities

• Moments from Blackwall DLR£249,000

NEW Development Search

Looking for an apartment in a particular development and tired of searching

through pages of results on the portals? Maybe you just want to keep an eye

on what's available in your development?

Now you can with Movello.

The new development search on our website allows you to type the name of a

development and view only the properties in that development.

You can also save your search and be kept informed when

new apartments come available.

NEW Short Let Search

Just looking for an apartment for a few weeks? Now you

can search the Movello website for properties available

for Short Let. Prices start from £400 per week and can

include cleaning and linen changes.

Short let apartments come fully furnished including TVs,

linen and kitchen utensils.

More cost effective than a hotel and

more spacious than a hotel room.

NEW Chat Facility

Ever searched for property online but

reluctant to give agents your number

because you can't talk at work? Now you

can chat online to a Movello Property

consultant without giving out your number.

Ask all the questions you need and even

arrange viewings. Much faster than email and

totally discreet at work.

Movello FP A4 with bleed 14/10/09 22:19 Page 1

Completions available nowSite is now occupied

*

subject to planning by site completion*

View from roof terrace Luxury bathroom specification Eco-friendly design

This could be your amazing 2 bedroom apartment

Call now to join us for a night of celebration and fireworks on 8 November 5 ‘til 8

th

90% of 1 Phase

Now Soldst

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SPG_Canary Wharf_Ad1_v2_aw.pdf 28/10/09 15:53:54

Canary Wharf Offi ce - 020 7715 [email protected] www.kingsturge.co.uk

With London offi ces in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath and Greenwich

LETTINGS










Lettings

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 9700 [email protected] www.kingsturge.co.uk

With London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath, Brockley and Greenwich






Berglen Court E14 £350 pwThis extremely spacious apartment is furnished to a contemporary standard and has stunning Marina and Canary Wharf views from lovely balcony. Moments from Limehouse DLR, short walk to Canary Wharf. Available with parking, 27th November 2009.

Ability Place E14 £350 pwA selection of one and two bedroom apartments within this brand new development. High specifi cation fi xtures and fi ttings, leisure facilities and concierge all benefi ts of living in this development. Ideal location close to South Quay DLR station

Boatyard Apartments E14 £395 pwA selection of two bedroom river view apartments in Canary Wharf’s fi nest brand new riverside address. High specifi cation with spacious balconies, ideally situated close to Island Gardens DLR and Greenwich foot tunnel. A must see, available immediately.

Canary Riverside E14 £425 pwA selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available to rent in prestigious Canary Riverside. This sought after development boasts communal season gardens, secure parking, concierge service and is ideally situated to Canary Wharf.

Channel House, E14 £425 pw Landmark E14 from £750 pwComprising two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, reception and open plan kitchen. Solid wood fl ooring, granite work tops and under fl oor heating. This gated development benefi ts from lift, concierge and is 300m from Canada Water tube station. Available 30th November with secure parking.

A selection of one and two bedroom off-plan apartments within this eagerly awaited stunning new development promising luxury and convenience in a prime position just minutes from Canary Wharf. Facilities include gym, 24hr concierge and video entry. Available from November 09.

LETTINGS










Sales

Canary Wharf Office - 020 7715 9700

[email protected] www.kingsturge.co.ukWith London offices in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath, Brockley and Greenwich

FULL PAGE COMPOSITE ADVERT FOR SALE (SINGLE OFFICE& DETAILS) X 12EA-RES-ADV-COMP-DK-3-SALE







Canary Wharf Offi ce - 020 7715 [email protected] www.kingsturge.co.uk

With London offi ces in Knightsbridge, Canary Wharf, Blackheath and Greenwich

Ares Court E14 £219,950 LeaseholdHighly desirable one bedroom apartment in this sought after gated riverside development offering on-site facilities including pool, gym, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and 24 hour concierge. Close to Mudchute DLR.

Michigan Building E14 £259,950 LeaseholdSpacious one bedroom apartment located in a peaceful riverside setting in the highly desirable New Providence Wharf. Just a short walk to Canary Wharf’s bars, restaurants and fi nest shops boasting two balconies, state of the art gym and waterside pool.

Pan Peninsula E14 £335,000 LeaseholdA large 14th fl oor one bedroom apartment in this exclusive development. Finished to the highest standards including a marble tiled bathroom, solid wood fl oors and air conditioning. Located next to South Quay DLR station and close to the extensive amenities of Canary Wharf.

City Tower E14 £350,000 LeaseholdA large two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the prestigious City Tower development. Presented in good condition and located near to Canary Wharf/Transport. Benefi ts from concierge and parking.

Boatyard Apartments E14 £410,000 Leasehold Belgrave Court E14 £650,000 LeaseholdA luxury two bedroom, third fl oor fl at in Canary Wharf’s fi nest new riverside address. Its offers impressive Thames / Canary Wharf views and a high specifi cation including wood fl ooring & stone worktops. Close to Island Gardens DLR giving great access to Greenwich and Canary Wharf.

A luxury two bedroom, two bathroom 5th fl oor apartment in Canary Riverside presented in excellent condition offering views of the River Thames. The development benefi ts from security, concierge and one secure parking space. Short walk from Canary Wharf.

Business events with the ultimate break-out area.When it comes to business, Ireland is the business. From state of the art conference centres to luxurious five-star castles,

whatever you’re looking for you’ll find it here, all served up with our famous Irish hospitality. With breathtaking

scenery and recreational activities like golf, sailing or a soak in the spa, who says you can’t mix business with pleasure?

For more information on hosting a business event in Ireland email [email protected] or call 020 7518 3355.

www.irelandinspires.co.uk

MA4816_TI_A4_ad.indd 1 26/10/2009 09:44

THE

CITY

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TERIORS • FA

SHIO

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ISSUE

25

NOVEMBER 2009 issuE 25

THE MAVERICKHenri Leconte puts on a

good sHow

WORKING IN THE WEST BANK

Life from a new perspective

REGENERATION GAMEtHe new face of King’s cross

HOT PROPERTIESuK & internationaL

Documents

CW NOV 09