Life Style Living November Issue

NOV 10 | Rs 75VOL.2 NO.12

the catwalk princess

moving luxe

let there be candlelight

thrill machine gurus

jewel in the sea

season’s best bouquets

AUTOMOBILE

ACCESSORY

AMUSEMENT

HIGHNESS

ESSENCE

ESCAPE

THEATREONEGIN.ONLINE

2 INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

this (&) that (n)carve

Newsevents 6

Fashionistthe cool clotheshorse 12

Architecturebeijing’s knock-out

bird’s nest 16Automobile

moving luxe 20

PUBLISHER/EDITORKEWAL GILLEXECUTIVE EDITORKAMAL GILLVICE PRESIDENTVIVEK MITTALMANAGING EDITORARJUN GILLDEPUTY MANAGING EDITORSIMRAN MISHRA

EDITORIALSENIOR EDITORPRABIR BISWASASSOCIATE EDITORINDIRA LAULASSISTANT EDITORSCHETAN BHATTARAI, ROUBLE RAGHUVANSHIASSISTANT EDITORKANIKA MEHTATRAINEE SUB-EDITORRITIKA SARIN

ARTGROUP ART DIRECTORAMITABHA SENCREATIVE DIRECTORANKUR JAINASSISTANT ART DIRECTORMANDEEP SINGHSENIOR WEB ADMINISTRATORMANOJ VERMA

MARKETING & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENTDELHI OFFICEGENERAL MANAGERAMIT KHURANAASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGERVAGISH MISHRASENIOR MANAGER (DELHI)MUKESH BHATNAGARSENIOR MANAGER (MUMBAI)KIRAN PATILASSISTANT MANAGERS (DELHI)CHETAN MONGA, VIPUL BHATIA

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2

Lifestyle Living is a niche, high-end magazine, exclusivelydedicated to creative, even edgy lifestyle. It showcases thebest that life has to offer, through the perspective of cutting-edge design. It aims to provide a style statement through aninspired rendering of the unusual–be it original designerjewellery, electronic gizmos, futuristic automobile blueprints,a hi-tech airport, an automated, temperature-controlledswimming pool, a celebrity’s personal space, an airline’s servicedesign and ingenious interiors–whether it is a spa, home, hotel oroffice. The magazine includes the realm of hi-fashion and cosmetics,inventive art & craft and world-class paintings.

3November 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

contents

galleri(e)

Accessorylet there be candlelight 60

Amusementthrill machine gurus 66

(n)tertainment

Highnessthe catwalk princess 72

Celebrationtoday’s traveller awards 74

Chatteraticeleb buzz 76

Forecasttarot 78

indul(g)

Luxurypipe dreams 40

Essenceseason’s best bouquets 44

Celeb homehigh fashion in manhattan 50

Opulenceluxury on your wrist 52

Fashionstar-spangled fashion fiesta 54

(s)cape

Getawaymayan splendour goes hip 26

Wellnessunforgettable autumn escapade 30

Escapejewel in the sea 32

Hospitalitymarina bay sands—redefining

entertainment 34


4 INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY4 INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

news 6

the cool clotheshorse 12Manish Malhotra has redefined Bollywood fashionand has managed to achieve a balance betweendesigning for films, as well as haute couture

this (&) that

5April 2009 | www.lifestyleliving.in 5November 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

NEWSEVENTS


RUSSELL BRAND, KATYPERRY WED IN INDIABritish comedian Russell Brandand US pop singer Katy Perrymarried on 23 October 2010, in aclosely guarded traditional Hinduceremony at an exclusive hotelresort in Rajasthan. While thefestivities commenced on thegrounds of the Amaan-i-Khasresort in Ranthambore NationalPark, the world's media strained to catch a glimpse. Reuterreports that over 80 international journalists, including 15British photographers, jostled for space with their telephoto-lenses at the gates of the complex, more than 150 metresaway. Private security guards, black screens and a mobilephone ban ensured a veil of secrecy over the wedding afterexclusive publicity rights were sold to a London magazine.Brand, who was seen with henna patterns on his hands,arrived on a decorated horse for the wedding, flanked bycamels and elephants, the Press Trust of India news agencyreported. Other reports said pop star Rihanna played theMaid of Honor as a priest chanted Hindu hymns around asacred fire. As the sun set through the early evening, theguests, who stayed at two nearby resorts, arrived in carswith blacked-out windows. The couple, who landed inMumbai three days before the event, reportedly chose theresort for their wedding after Brand proposed to Perry at thesame location in December 2009. Perry wore an Indian bridalnose ring as she passed through the airport.

NEWSEVENTS


ORIENT EXPRESS OFFERS BESPOKE LUXURY TRAVELLeading bespoke travel company, Orient-Express, is offering luxury packages to someof South America’s most legendary destinations. These include Lima, Cuzco and theworld-famous Machu Picchu ruins in Peru, and the vibrant Rio de Janeiro and IguassuFalls in Brazil. Located at the world-famous Iguassu Falls, a breathtaking collection of275 waterfalls extending over almost 3 kilometres in an enormous canyon on theIguassu River, the Hotel das Cataratas’ packages include Eco-Adventures from US$760.The Adventure package includes luxurious accommodation at Hotel Monasterio, tworound-trip tickets on the Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu, with a one-dayentrance ticket and private guided tour of the ruins, alongside afternoon tea at MachuPicchu Sanctuary Lodge, priced from US$1,601. Las Casitas del Colca is a delightfulcollection of cottages and spa, set amidst the peace and serenity of the Colca Canyonin Peru. The spa package includes a breathtaking round-trip journey between thehotel and the airport and activities such as cooking classes, trout fishing, feeding babyalpacas, bike rides, trekking and free-style painting. Other incredible packages includethe Miraflores Park Hotel in Lima and the glamorous Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro.Further information on the Orient-Express is available at: http://www.orient-express.com. All packages are valid throughout 2011.

KING BHUMIBOL AND QUEEN SIRIKIT'S 60TH WEDDINGANNIVERSARY CELEBRATEDBangkok-Central Department Store held the Central Anniversary FlowerExtravaganza, under the concept ‘Power of Love…Power of Roses’ to celebrateKing Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit’s 60th wedding anniversary during October28-November 1, 2010.This event is designed to acknowledge the royal couple’sselfless efforts in their projects, especially King Bhumibol, who has stayed

true to the ten virtues of the king and hasbeen working tirelessly with love and carefor his people since his accession to thethrone. The highlight of this event are thephotographs of the queen amidst variousblossoms, which are taken by the king. Thephotographs were displayed at LobbyLounge, 1st f loor, Central Chidlom.Millions of roses from over 100 varietieswere brought to transform CentralChidlom’s entire seven-storey buildingand its Emerald parking lots into a magicalscene. Specifically, all window displayswere given a makeover to look like gardens

full of blossoms. Roses, the eternal symbol of love, were arranged on largetrees in Central Chidlom, implying that the king’s love is like an enormous treesheltering all Thais.

PARESA LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE WELLNESS RETREATSChic new boutique resort, Paresa, introduces the world’s first self-actuated wellnessretreats set amid the relaxing, tranquil and lush natural surroundings of Phuket’smost exclusive resort. “We are excited to be partnering with Experience / Premchit,as it allows us to offer ourguests a unique Thai-based retreat experiencebeyond the normal resortspa experience,” statedParesa General Manager,Scot Toon. Experience/Premchit is the brainchildof Premchit Prateap NaThalang, who has been described as an ‘aromatic alchemist,’ who has inheritedgenerations of family wisdom and secrets for transforming aromatic plants intothe ambrosias and elixirs of life. She traces these aromatherapy secrets back to 1592,when her ancestor, the former King of Phuket, traded natural aromatic plantproducts with the British. Combining this ancient knowledge with her own formaleducation at the International Federation of Aroma therapists in London, Premchithas drawn on her intuitive perfumery skills, to create highly enjoyable and effectivetherapeutic ambrosias, elixirs, scents and treatments as applied during Experience/Premchit Wellness Retreats. The Natural Detox Retreat is available in 3, 7, 10, 14, 21and 28-day programmes according to guests’ preferences and needs. From nowuntil 20 December 2010, Paresa offers a 3-day, 4-night accommodation at thePremchit Retreat for one person, priced at just THB139,500 Additionally, fromDecember 21 to January 5, 2011, Paresa offers a 3-day, 4-night Premchit Retreatfor one person at THB220,000. Package rates include room plus breakfast for twoguests, plus a 3-day Detox Retreat for one person only. A second person can enrollfor the Detox Retreat at normal Retreat rates.

COPENHAGEN’S 8 HOUSE COMPLETECelebrating its third project with the same development team in the maturingneighbourhood of Orestad, the construction of the 61,000-square metre 8 House isnow complete, allowing people to bike all the way from the street up to its tenth levelpenthouses alongside terraced gardens, where the first residents have already movedin. The bow-tie-shaped 61,000-square metre mixed-use building of three differenttypes of residential housing and 10,000 square metres of retail and offices comprisesDenmark’s largest private development ever undertaken. The 8 House is a true exampleof ‘architectural alchemy’, according to Bjarke Ingels, Founding Partner of BIG,Denmark’s company of designers, builders and architects. The company’s designfundamental is that by mixing traditional ingredients, retail, group houses andapartments in untraditional ways, you create added value. “8 House is a perimeterblock that morphs into a knot, twisting and turning to maximise the life quality of itsmany inhabitants,” comments Ingels.

NEWSEVENTS


ITC LAUNCHES MUCH-AWAITED HAND-ROLLED CIGARSITC has launched its long-awaited hand-rolled cigar, Armenteros, in the Indianmarket. Armenteros cigars have been developed to suit the discerning taste of theIndian cigar connoisseur. The perfect balance of flavour, aroma and taste,Armenteros hand-rolled cigars are the perfect option for the cigar connoisseur.Sourced from the Dominican Republic, the largest producer of hand-rolled cigars inthe world, the cigars are being manufactured at La Aurora, which is one of theoldest cigar companies in the world and is run by the reputed Leon Jimenes family.The products and the packaging are custom-made to ITC specifications and stringentquality parameters. Armenteros is a trademark owned by ITC Limited. Available inthe most popular cigar sizes (Churchill, Torpedo, Corona, Petit Corona and Robusto),The Armenteros portfolio consists of 8-pack sizes comprising 3, 5 and 10 cigars.They will be available exclusively at tobacco selling outlets in select hotels, finedining restaurants and exclusive clubs—initially in Delhi and Mumbai, andsubsequently in other metros.

GREATEST PRÊT-A-PORTEA COLLECTION AT THE BERKELEYLondon’s most fashionable afternoon tea celebrates the fifth anniversary of Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley and has surveyed fashion aficionados to vote for the mostmemorable creations from the past five years. Suitably named the ‘Greatest Hits’collection, the votes represent the result of more then 1,700 fashionistas who selectedtheir number one fashion pastry. The sparkly high-heeled Louboutin shoe biscuit camein first place, closely followed by the Alice Temperley apple and panacotta mousse.Philip Treacy’s show-stopping chocolate butterfly hat cake came in third. Commentingon his win, Christian Louboutin said: ‘The surprise of my shoe-biscuit becoming a'winner' is, for me, the cherry on the cake!’ With more than 24per cent of the votes,Louboutin proved to be a clear winner, with his signature red-soled heels, beatingfashion legends such as Paul Smith, Zac Posen and rival Jimmy Choo. Prêt-à-Portea isserved in The Caramel Room at The Berkeley from 1-6pm everyday, and priced at £35.00per person. (£45 including a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne, or alternatively forthe fashion conscious, £52.00 per person, including a glass of couture champagne)To make a reservation for Prêt-à-Portea, call 020 7235 6000.

RAYMOND WEIL IN CHENNAIRaymond Weil, the Geneva-based family-run Swiss watch making company, launched its second exclusive boutique in India at Express Avenue, Chennai, and a specialshop-in-shop corner at the Mantri Square Mall in Bangalore. Inaugurated by Olivier Bernheim, President & CEO, Raymond Weil, both events were graced by a particularlycharming celebrity guest—the leading lady of Tamil cinema, Shriya Sharan— for the Chennai opening; and well-known cine-star Jennifer Kotwal in Bangalore, whereSushil Mantri, Chairman, Mantri Developers, and owner of the mall, also officiated at the opening of the Zimson shop-in-shop. The luxury watch brand has also initiatedits first exclusive boutique in India—in Delhi—along with shop-in-shops in Hyderabad and Pune earlier this year. Inaugurating these new points of sale, Bernheim said,“India has long been part of Raymond Weil’s history; having established a distribution network 30 years ago. The country’s extremely rapid development, along with theemergence of a clientele that is extremely well-informed in watch making matters, make India a priority today among the brand’s international developments. Today,our family, along with our distribution affiliate RW India Distribution Pvt. Ltd, is committed to strengthening this association by enhancing the brand’s presence andmarket visibility while offering refined luxury timepieces at attractive prices that reflect the evolution and creativity of Raymond Weil.”

QATAR’S EMIR AND WIFE SHEIKHA MOZAH CAPTIVATE BRITAINAs the Emir of Qatar and his stylish wife Sheikha Mozah wrapped up their three-dayvisit to the UK, the couple continued to hold the public's attention. Hosted by theQueen at Windsor Castle and entertained by the royal family, the Qatari coupleexperienced British hospitality at its finest, with magnificent parades, lavishbanquets and a wealth of open arms.

FASHIONISTMANISH MALHOTRA


y his own admission, films and fashion

have always been fashion icon Manish

Malhotra’s ‘daily bread,’ so to speak. At age

sixteen was when this intrepid youngster

started work in his father’s office, but he didn’t

think the business (air conditioners) was cool

enough, so he often snuck out to a nearby theatre

to catch the latest Hindi matinee. That’s where histrionics, clothes

and a niche lifestyle combined to catapult him into a world and

profession that was to bring unlimited success.

Malhotra’s penchant for colours stems from childhood, when

mixing and matching different hues was a passion. Shedding

the shackles of the school uniform once he joined Elphinstone

College was the biggest joy for someone who ‘liked clothes and

loved dressing up.’ At this time, Malhotra developed a love for

English films. Says he, “Films have been my first love and have

given me everything in return, including fashion.”

In a repertoire of work that spans two decades, Malhotra is

nothing if not ‘humble and grounded.’ It’s how he describes

Manish Malhotra has redefined Bollywood fashion and hasmanaged to achieve a balance between designing for films, aswell as haute couture

Rajnikanth, with whom he says he had the privilege of working

with in Robot. Malhotra is crystal-clear when it comes to his

perception about styling clothes for films—“Screen clothes

have to look dramatic, yet be effortless for the wearer. Science

fiction, fantasy or romantic comedy, to me realism is

important when it comes to design. I believe in connecting

with people through my clothes. If the audience can't imagine

themselves in my creations, then I'm automatically distanced

from them. Robot is futuristic, it's sci-fi. But I still wanted the

costumes to have believable elements. So, even the metallic

line I've done is not bizarre. I wanted it to be refreshing when

compared to other films in the genre where costumes are

weird and un-wearable.”

The man who redefined Bollywood fashion with Urmila

Matondkar's sexy outfits in Rangeela, the Kapoor sisters' (Karishma

and Kareena) experimental costumes, Kajol's effortless elegance

and Priyanka Chopra's Dostana-chic, says homework and hard

work have seen him through his retail and film career. “I'm

methodical. You'll seldom catch me spaced out.”

B

I

THE COOL

clotheshorse


LL BUREAU

Clearly, Malhotra has redefined Bollywood fashion. But, the icing came

after years of blood, sweat and tears. His first foray into the film world was when

he designed clothes for Juhi Chawla for the film Swarga. Since then, he has

gained the reputation of transforming the looks of the stars to the characters

they portray on screen—all through his costumes. Over the years, he has

designed clothes for Sri Devi, Urmila Matondkar, Karishma Kapoor, Juhi Chawla,

Kajol, Madhuri Dixit, Shilpa Shetty, Kareena Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Twinkle

Khanna, Aishwarya Rai, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta. He has even attired

male stars like Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan on occasion.

But, the turning point in Malhotra’s career came with Rangeela, when

he designed the costumes for Urmila Matondkar for the film. The film was

a blockbuster and popularised Mantondkar’s image as a sex kitten. From

then on, many of the films Malhotra worked for turned into hits. He was

the first designer who asked for film scripts before designing the dresses

for the stars. In this way, the clothes were conceptualised according to the

characters that were portrayed. For instance, for Kareena Kapoor’s period

costume in Ashoka, Malhotra brought out the essence of the princesse’s

character, which was pure beauty in its simplicity.

From Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, Khamoshi, Hero No.1, Judaai, Kuch

Kuch Hota Hai, Dil To Pagal Hai, Hum Saath Saath Hain to Kaho Na Pyar Hai,

Mast, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Satya, Dhadkan and Mohabbatein, Malhotra

has been associated with nearly all of the decade's most successful films.

In 1998, Malhotra branched into mainstream designing, with his high-

profile couture store Reverie-Manish Malhotra. The store received a

tremendous response and his clientele featured socialites like Tanya Godrej,

Tina Ambani, Haseena Jethmalani, Rhea Pillai, Avanti Birla, as well as

important members of the NRI community. He created several wedding

trousseaus for reputed families, and during this period, he was asked to

design clothes exclusively for Michael Jackson for the Bollywood Awards

held in New York.

Malhotra's first fashion show in November 1999 was a tremendous

success. His clothes were received with great appreciation and almost 70

per cent were sold out within three weeks. Malhotra created a coup of sorts

by having Urmila Matondkar model the showstopper, an act that was

followed by several designers for their shows. A part of his collection was the

embroidered denim wear that became a rage all over the city; and

international model, Naomi Campbell, bought a pair on her visit to the city.

Malhotra’s forte is that he has managed to achieve the delicate balance

between designing for films, as well as haute couture. The future includes

a prêt a porter line for women along with his couture label and also a

couture and prêt line for men.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADESSome of the many awards Malhotra has received are the Indira

Priyadarshini Memorial Award for his contribution to the fashion industry;

the National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi; the Indo American

Society for his contribution to fashion designing; he was named the most

Stylish Designer Of the Year at the Elle Style Awards and won the Zee Cine

Award and the IIFA Award for the year 2000 for the film Mohabbatein.

Malhotra will be crafting a new uniform for the Mumbai police. He is excited about the project but will not disclose any details, saying the project is in its earlystages. “Now it's in a very early stage. We are working on it. It will take some time. Lots of approvals have to be taken. We all are very excited; it's a very prestigiousthing for me. The work is in progress. I can't say anything more about it,” says Malhotra. Asked to give some hint about the design and colour of the uniform, hesaid: 'Nothing has been decided.”




beijing’s knock-out bird’s nest 16The Beijing National Stadium is a stunning landmarkstructure and one of the world’s largest enclosed spaces forsports and other events

moving luxe 20Not only is the Nissan Teana 2010 easy on the eye, it hasthe smoothest, most powerful V6 engine ever built

(n)carve


ARCHITECTUREBIRD’S NEST


Beijing’s Knock-out

BIRD’S NESTn the global arena of

sporting events, stadiums

have become an integral

part of every country. All over

the world, stunning stadiums vye

with one another for their sheer size,

technical virtuosity or beauty. A

design involvement in sports facilities matters

more than one would imagine, because it

impacts the psyche and performance of the

atheletes as well as spectator experience. The

Beijing National Stadium is a case in point.

Definitely intended for the ‘wow’ effect, the

Beijing National Stadium is not just about

aesthetics. It’s seemingly delicate

nomenclature—Bird’s Nest—is misleading,

considering that it’s made up of 40,000 tons of

steel and is capable of housing 90,000 seats.

Located at the southern part of the

Olympic Green in Beijing, the Beijing National

Stadium is a stunning landmark building,

which staged the 2008 Olympic Games from

I 8 to 24 August, 2008. The opening and closing

ceremonies, as well as the athletic track and

field events of the 29th Olympiad, took place

at this stadium. It also hosted the Summer

Paralympics in September 2008 and the Race

of Champions in 2009.

The Beijing National Stadium is said to be

the world's largest enclosed space and also

the world's largest steel structure. Designed

by Switzerland’s Herzog & De Meuron

Architekten, Arup Sport and the China

Architecture Design and Research Group, this

innovative structure has been nicknamed the

‘Bird’s Nest’ because of the web of twisting

steel sections that form the roof.

How did the team design this steel

colossus, yet give it a delicate bird’s nest look?

Arup Sport’s Senior Structural Engineer, Kate

McDougall, suggests that the answer is 3D.

She feels that using 3D software like CATIA is

vital for complex stadium design and further

explains, “Stadia are all unique and they always

17April 2009 | www.lifestyleliving.in

The Beijing National Stadium is a stunning landmarkstructure and one of the world’s largest enclosed

spaces for sports and other events


ARCHITECTUREBIRD’S NEST


INDIRA LAUL


incorporate complex geometry. Coordinating their design, planning

and construction involves making many changes and updates through

the project’s life cycle. ”

McDougall continues,“This process is enhanced and facilitated

through the use of 3D models. The software allows us to save costs by

developing a route to manufacture early in the project and also by

allowing us to make use of standard components to improve quality

and make financial savings. The CATIA 3D-based model methodology

also makes checking efficient, easy and quick, since complex geometry

is modelled in three dimensions.”

The main body of the Beijing National Stadium has a design life of

100 years. It is built to withstand an eight-magnitude earthquake and

its fire resistance capability is purported to be first-rate, as also is the

water-resistance capability of its underground project.

The main elements of the gigantic steel structure support each

other and converge into a grid formation, just like a bird's nest with

interlocking branches and twigs. Being a seven-storey sheer wall system,

the stadium's stand has a concrete framework. The upper part of the

stand and the stadium's steel structure are separated from each other,

but both are based on a joint footing. The roof of the stadium is covered

by a double-layer membrane structure, with a transparent ETFE (a kind

of plastic, designed to have high corrosion resistance and strength over

a wide temperature range) membrane fixed on the upper part of the

roofing structure and a translucent PTFE membrane (a resin with good

resistance to chemicals and heat) fixed on its lower part.

The roof is weatherproof, with the spaces in the structure being

filled with a translucent membrane. Since all the facilities—restaurants,

suites, shops and restrooms—rare self-contained units, there is no

solid, enclosed façade. This allows natural ventilation of the stadium,

which is the most important aspect of the stadium's sustainable design.

The spatial effect of the stadium is unique and radical, yet simple.

Located on a gentle rise in the centre of the Olympic complex, the

structure follows the undulating elevations of the land, giving it a

dramatic, sweeping form.

The plinth area and the stadium merge seamlessly into one element,

so that the pedestrian walkways flow smoothly from the structure of

the stadium itself. The spaces between the walkways have amenities for

the visitor, such as sunken gardens, stone squares, bamboo groves,

mineral hillscapes, and openings into the plinth itself. Gently, and without

your realising it, the ground level rises and forms a plinth for the stadium;

the entrance to the stadium is therefore slightly raised, providing a

bird’s eye-view of the entire Olympic complex.

Conceived as a large receptacle, the structure leaves a distinct

impression when viewed from the outsde. Inside, the bowl-like shape

serves to generate crowd excitement and drive athletes to outstanding

performances. The stands have minimal interruption and the acoustic

ceiling hides the structure in order to focus attention on the spectators

and the events on the field.

A triumph of architectural innovation, the Beijing National Stadium

incorporates symbols of traditional and modern China. The circular

shape of the stadium represents 'heaven', while the adjacent square

form of the National Aquatics Center (Water Cube), also design-

engineered by Arup, is a reflection of the Chinese symbol for Earth.

The bird’s nest structure is inspired by Chinese-style ‘crazed pottery.’

The architectural team faced many challenges but overcame them

brilliantly. The stadium design ensured that every spectator had a

good view; the team was aware of the different uses of the stadium—

for instance, when used as an athletics stadium, the most important

view is at the finish line of the running track but when used for football,

the best views are at the centre line.

Getting everyone close enough in such a big venue was a real

challenge and getting the calculations right was an immense task.

While the surface of the structure was simple, the geometry was

complex—the calculations were so numerous and complicated that

special software was needed to make sure that the web of twisting

steel sections fitted together, as they had to twist and bend to follow

the surface accurately.


The Beijing National Stadium issaid to be the world's largestenclosed space and also the

world's largest steel structure.Designed by Switzerland’s

Herzog & De MeuronArchitekten, Arup Sport and

the China Architecture Designand Research Group


GETAWAYPRIVATE ISLANDS


MOVINGLUXEMOVINGLUXE


AUTOMOBILENISSAN


Not only is the Nissan Teana2010 easy on the eye, it has

the smoothest, most powerfulV6 engine ever built

Not only is the Nissan Teana2010 easy on the eye, it has

the smoothest, most powerfulV6 engine ever built




f you’re looking to buy a luxury sedan in the slightly

crowded D-segment market, you have several options.

There’s the Hyundai Sonata Embera, which is superbly

built and moves as well as it looks and the diesel Skoda

Superb. Then, there are the biggies-the Toyota Camry, the

Honda Accord and the Mazda 6. But, making a quiet and smooth

entry is the Nissan Teana, which wins hands down over the other

candidates. If you’re wondering why, it’s because under the hood of the

Teana is one of the best V6 engines ever built. But, here are several other

reasons why you should opt for the Nissan Teana 2010.

Firstly, the Nissan Teana is strongly inspired by the European executive

sedans like the BMW and Mercedez Benz and it shows in the strong, confident

lines of this car, along with its classy, modern features like the striking

headlamps and window profiles, which make it stand out from its contenders.

This is definitely a sophisticated car rather than sporty. Performance-wise,

the Nissan Teana is a powerhouse. Its robust and smooth 2496cc VQ25DE

V6 petrol engine has been lauded as one of the ‘Ten Best Engines’ by Ward’s

Auto World magazine for 15 consecutive years. The engine produces about

185 horsepower at 6000 rpm, and 232 nm torque at 4400 rpm-ensuring a

lightning-speed pick-up on highways and city roads.

Other than that, the Teana’s Xtronic Continuous Variable

Transmission is very impressive too, as it offers a smooth ‘no-shift-shock’

driving experience, allowing for smooth gear change, a sense of

acceleration, and efficient fuel consumption. It also rides on independent

struts of ball-joint type suspension in the front and multi-link type

suspension in the rear which can absorb all kinds of road irregularities.

Safety-such an important requisite in an automobile-isn’t overlooked

as well, as the Teana features a high tensile steel body structure for

optimum driving comfort, safety, and operation stability. The body is

said to have been built using 980 MPA Ultra Steel, with characteristics

similar to a French nuclear submarine.

There’s all this and comfort, too. The Nissan Teana’s shotgun seats are

done Ottoman-style, as in lazy-boy, so you can adjust the leg rest to

match your comfort. There’s extra legroom for back-seaters as well, so

they can stretch and relax during long drives.

Luxury is synonymous with the Teana. Its plush leather upholstery

and eight-way electronically powered front driver's seat will ensure

endless relaxation. The sedan has a turning radius of 5.3 metres that

gives you absolute control over the car. The Teana is longer than most

cars in its segment and it has a wide wheelbase that improves its

interior space and stability. However, it has a lower ground clearance

that may make it difficult to speed over large bumps.

The Teana also has a retractable, stylish glass sunroof with UV

protection, so rear seat passengers can enjoy the sun. The sophisticated

wooden interiors and the stylish dashboard make you feel you’re in a five-

star on wheels. The car’s cockpit is not only visually appealing but also

carefully designed to deliver ultimate convenience and ease of use to the

driver and all passengers concerned. The information console provides

you with complete visual confirmation of air-conditioning settings, outside

temperature, audio system and time, as well as allowing you to monitor

the drive computer. A well-designed visual instrumentation with high-

contrast white illumination assures excellent visibility.

The large speedometer is further enhanced by a silver-coloured

ring that cannot be ignored. A one-of-its-kind rear power sunshade

I

VITAL STATSModel : VQ25DEType : V6 DOHC 24 Valve CVTCEngine Displacement (cc): 2496Bore x Stroke (mm) : 85.0 x 73.3Compression Ratio : 9.8 : 1Power (kW (PS)/rpm) : 134 (182)/6000Torque (Nm (kg-m)/rpm) : 228 (23.2)/4400Transmission : XTRONIC CVTForward Gear Ratios : 2.394-0.394Reverse Gear Ratios : 1750Final Gear Ratios : 6120



keeps the sunlight and glare away from rear passengers without blocking

the driver's rear vision while also maintaining the temperature you set

within the cabin of the car. There is a LED bulb on the centre console,

front passenger and rear door grips that shines softly to create a more

welcoming interior ambience.

The revised Nissan Teana's exterior is a combination of beauty and

elegance. It has wheel arches that fit perfectly over the wheels and add

to the car’s pizzazz. It has high-projector headlamps, on either side of a

stylish chrome grill, which not only add oomph to the car, but are

designed to light up the road. Its high-mounted LED rear stop lamps

and LED rear lamps will make sure that you catch everyone's eye when

you press on the brakes.

The Nissan Teana is designed to absorb impact. It features crushable

zones and a safety restraint zone that function together with multiple

Supplemental Restraint System airbags to avoid or reduce injuries, in case

of an accident. In the event of an accident, active head restraints instantly

move forward to support the head and reduce impact on the neck. Standard

features include dual-zone automatic climate control, drive computer,

twin exhaust, 8-way electrically powered driver's seat, 4-way electrically

powered front passenger's seat, powered rear sun shade, active head

rests, and 6 CD changer with 6 audio speakers.LL BUREAU

The Teana’s Xtronic ContinuousVariable Transmission is veryimpressive too, as it offers a

smooth ‘no-shift-shock’ drivingexperience, allowing for

smooth gear change, a senseof acceleration, and efficient

fuel consumption.


GETAWAYHACIENDA PETAC


or all classic workaholics, it’s that time

of the year to unwind and getaway.

When the blistering summer heat gives

way to the mellow shades of fall and the

lazy, hazy days of winter beckon from the wings,

it’s time to refurbish jangled nerves and soothe frayed

edges. It’s vacation time, and what better way to

smooth the groove than to check in at the magnificently

restored hacienda in the Yucatan region of Mexico, known

simply as Hacienda Petac.

Your journey begins via rental car to the tiny village

splendour goes hipThe Hacienda Petac is a magnificent resort that offers aprivate villa experience, combining old-world elegancewith stylish mod cons

MAYAN

of Petac, about 30 minutes outside the city of Merida, in

Mexico. Petac is a one-horse town and exists because of

the Hacienda. Two streets, a soccer field, a basketball

court, two churches, a corn grinding factory, and three

corner stores are about the sum total of what makes up

this entire village, which has 170-odd residents. Owners

of the Hacienda, Dev and Chuck Stern, are a Texas couple

with tremendous foresight, who bought the heritage

property in 2000 and restored it to its present grandeur.

The couple fondly allude to Petac and the surrounding

villages as ‘the Mayan countryside’.

F



And, indeed, as you drive in, you might feel you’ve stepped back in

time. Hacienda Petac (which means ‘House of the Turtle Catcher’) nestles

on 200 acres in the lush Mayan countryside. This 17th century, former

sisal plantation and farmhouse, built atop Mayan ruins, has been

transformed into a stylish five-bedroom hotel providing exclusive care

to a maximum of twelve guests. All five suites boast 30-foot ceilings,

period furnishings and hand-painted floor tiles.

A hacienda is typically a large homestead in a ranch or estate. The

Moorish influence can be seen in the graceful, dramatic arches of the

Hacienda Petac. The building was largely constructed from old stones

collected from broken down Mayan structures that had originally sat

directly on the grounds. The stunning wall colours are created from

natural pigments and mixed in a traditional way, using lime in the

base and allowing the colours to breathe, with incredible results.

The main building houses the dining room, living room, bar, kitchen,

library and a room for worship, which is adorned in the most brilliant

shade of periwinkle, as well as a plethora of outdoor spaces for outdoor

dining and living. The pool area and water features are rustic and

enchanting as well as impermeable, as they were built using a traditional

Mayan mixture known as chukum, a cement-like mixture made from

eggs, honey, limestone dust and the bark of the Chukum tree.

As you drive through the gates and past a small, charming old

church, you will be greeted warmly by the staff of the estate, who will

greet you with a welcome drink and authentic Yucatan snacks. Relax on

the posh Mexican verandah, with magnificent views of the lush, jungle

terrain. Feast on homemade tortillas and guacamole (avocado sauce),

accompanied with refreshing cocktails made from freshly-picked limes.

As you pass through the inner spaces of the Hacienda, you will

notice that the furniture and details are an elegant mixture of antiques,

native stone, hand embroidery and custom-designed accents, all put

together with a designer's finesse.

The guest rooms are elegantly appointed, with soaring ceilings.

The bathrooms, which have used stone, are dramatic and architecturally

interesting. What strikes a visitor is the sense of freshness and

naturalness, presented with style and elan.

The Na'a Maya Spa at the Hacienda is to be seen to be believed.

Also crafted from chukum, with a set of thatched roofs, the spa rivals



any luxury boutique hotel. The entire gym is enclosed in a chukum and

glass circular room, and offers state-of-the-art equipment and cardio

machines, including the elliptical. The second spa building has a private

massage area with frosted glass, along with a pedicure-cum-manicure

station like no other. The professional gym equipment, imported from

the US, sits on a floor of Macedonia tile, quarried and cut in a village

that’s an hour away. The traditional and the modern meet again in the

eco-friendly technology that uses air- conditioning in a thatched house,

while simultaneously heating a swimming pool.

The outdoor covered walkway leads to a giant open-air tub for

treatments such as a therapeutic flower bath; on the opposite side

there is an open-air shower and massage area. Around the bend is a

gorgeous open-air lounge with a thatched roof for just relaxing, taking

in the surroundings, watching the more than 400 species of birds, or

simply dozing off to sleep.

The new Spa compound blends seamlessly with the colonial

architecture and warmth of the Hacienda Petac. It has been designed

solely for the personal enjoyment of guests who love a resort lifestyle,

but prefer a private pool—the real benefits of a villa vacation.

Says General Manager Colleen Leonard, "We are committed to

bringing our guests the options that are normally found in grand

class resorts, but missing in a villa rental. Our attention to detail

rivals any premium hotel. The difference is that our services are

devoted to 12, not 1,200."

At the Hacienda Petac, meals are customised and ever changing, be

it the menus, the locations, or the experience. One evening it could be

an elegant long table in the dining room dressed with candles,

magnificently arranged flower petals and unique napkin settings,

followed by a delicious array of Yucatan specials. The next meal could be

in the jungle, amidst the flora, under a moonlit sky and countless candles.

The staff at the Hacienda have truly mastered the art of romance, and the

art of fine, freshly prepared traditional cuisine, as well as the art of

SPECIAL WINTER ESCAPE PACKAGEHacienda Petac is offering a special winter escape package for up to 10 guests. The four-nights offer combines an all-inclusive private spa weekend with aluxurious stay in the extraordinary 17th century hacienda. The package, which must be booked by December 15th, is designed to be affordably shared withfriends. It includes spa treatments, meals and alcohol, and provides a special place to catch up and recharge. Begin the day with the songs of Yucatan’s 442species of birds, and end it with sunset cocktails accompanied by the strumming of a Yucatan guitar trio.

pampering and relaxation without any apparent sweat.

The Hacienda is an eco-friendly resort, for sure. The town benefits

from the business generated by the hacienda. The owners have partnered

with the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas, to begin a micro-

credit programme, which currently funds a local woman who sews

and does embroidery work. It has also supported the birth of a local

honey operation and the development of an irrigation system for

organic farming, which hopes to employ many of the local villagers.

Dev and Chuck Stern also sponsor a monthly Bingo game that offers

cash prizes to women who participate in a local gardening club,

encouraging integrity to the village. Additionally, they have provided

educational opportunities to several of their employees, right from

primary school to college.

All in all, the Hacienda Petac is a a luxurious private villa experience

that seamlessly combines impeccable pampering and five-star service

with that home-away-from-home feeling. It’s the good life coupled

with elegance, culture, and integrity in every facet.

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WELLNESSTHE CLARIDGES SURAJKUND


here’s a perceptible

nip in the air, it’s

time to unwind and stimulate

tired limbs and jangled nerves.

Time to embark upon a spa

journey at the exclusive Claridges

Spa at The Claridges Surajkund, where

mind, body and soul are renewed

through a combination of luxury facilities,

exclusive treatments, healthy spa cuisine and

service par excellence, to deliver the ultimate

spa experience.

Located 22 kilometres from the Indira Gandhi

International Airport, New Delhi, The Claridges

Surajkund is close to South Delhi’s posh colonies

and nestles amidst sylvan surroundings,

overlooking the 10th century heritage Surajkund

Lake Complex. It’s the perfect place for repose.

Sprawling over 15,500 square feet, The Claridges

Spa embodies the essence of its neighbourhood,

and the spa itself takes its cue from the ancient

autumn escapadeThe Claridges Surajkund invites you to revitalise and rejuvenate at itsspa, amidst the highest standards of luxury, unique sophistication,

pastoral surroundings and innovative facilities

UNFORGETTABLE

step well, which embodies the two vital energies

of life, namely, the sun (suraj) and water (kund).

The Claridges Spa spans two floors and

consists of ten treatment rooms, a luxury spa

suite, beauty stations, wet facilities and fitness.

Guests make their way to the spa on the upper

floor through a stunning, modern baoli

(ancient Indian reservoir) room and into the

spacious and open reception area, which

houses a juice bar and boutique. This level

also has the treatment rooms, inclusive of two

dedicated Thai massage rooms and Ayurvedic

treatments, a beauty area and hair salon.

The raised pool area is accessible from the

spa floor and features a spacious terrace with

al fresco food and beverage service and airy,

comfortable cabanas. Also accessible from the

upper level, the luxury spa suite has an

ergonomically-shaped, heated water bath, a

private steam room and a Thai massage

component.

On the lower level, guests will find a high-

energy fitness facility along with changing

and wet areas for ladies and gentlemen. Fitness

guests can get into exercise mode with a full

suite of the state-of-the-art Technogym®

equipment. The gender-specific changing

areas feature premium, digital-access lockers,

dedicated steam and sauna rooms, along with

an energising ice fountain.

The spa’s incredible design, its sumptuous

treatments and exceptional, luxury service

promotes an ambience of replenishment and

resurgence in mind, body and soul. The spa

menu features a selection of bespoke

treatments, based on internationally-

recognised product lines, created to evoke a

sense of peace and calm.

Visitors can avail of specific day

programmes, wellness weeks and ongoing

activities such as yoga and nutrition workshops

in order to spend quality time rooted in

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conscious awareness of health and well-being,

together with luxurious pampering.

The Claridges Spa is managed by Spatality,

a Bangkok-based hotel and spa management

firm that is dedicated to delivering smart

business solutions and the most cutting-edge

wellness and guest experiences to urban

resorts and spas around the globe.

TREATMENT RITUALSThe Claridges Spa uses top-of-the-line

international product ranges. A selection of

exclusive body rituals and luxurious

treatment offerings take the spa to a

completely new and unsurpassed level of spa

experience. Beauty and hair services from

exclusive product ranges are also available.

In addition to welcoming hotel guests and

members, the spa also welcomes non-

residential guests.

Guests are also encouraged to arrive 45

minutes before the treatment starts as this

allows optimum time for total enjoyment of

the spa facilities.

TREATMENT OFFERINGSThe Surajkund Ritual- signaturetreatmentThe spa’s signature ritual is designed to

balance the primary life forces of fire and water,

recognised universally as vital elements in

one’s well-being. Guests can surrender

themselves to a one-of-a-kind bespoke

treatment that combines a cleansing body

scrub, advanced synchronised massage and

the healing properties of hot stones.

This treatment has the energising,

stimulating and invigorating qualities of fire and

the cleansing and rejuvenating effects of water.

Well-being Body RitualsThis exclusive range of two-hour body rituals

designed especially by Aromatherapy

Associates for The Claridges Spa ensures an

optimal experience. Each treatment begins

with a welcome foot ritual followed by a body

scrub and specialised massage, finishing with

gentle face and scalp work.

PRODUCT OFFERINGSThe spa's luxurious treatment offerings and

bespoke rituals are based on several top-of-the-

line international product brands.

Aromatherapy AssociatesWith thirty years to their credit, Aromatherapy

Associates are passionately committed to

producing natural, essential oil-based products,

without compromising on quality, safety and

efficacy. They use their collective wisdom to

develop the purest products, which allow the

essential oils within them to work effectively for

immediate and far reaching results.

Leighton Denny Expert NailsThis treatment aims to provide aroma-

therapeutic and prescriptive care for the hands

and nails. Leighton has a host of celebrity

clients clamouring for appointments and his

nails have been hailed as the ultimate

accessory in top glossy magazines—taking

nail grooming to new heights.

Philip KingsleyWith over 45 years of trichological experience at

his London and New York clinics, Philip Kingsley

is a world-renowned expert on scalp health and

hair condition, behaviour and strength.

Sahyadri (Ayurvedic Products)A unit of Peermade Development Society, a

social service organisation founded by the

present Bishop Mar Mathew Arackal of Kerala,

the Sahyadri Ayurveda Division is actively

engaged in promoting Ayurveda in its authentic

form. The society was first established to

rehabilitate the tribal people, and empowered

them economically to cultivate herbs for

Ayurvedic medicines. Energy-giving and

restorative, these purest of products translate

into exceptional Ayurvedic treatments.

ESCAPEJW MARRIOTT PHUKET


his is not just any Marriott

resort. The sprawling, lush

gardens of the JW Marriott Phuket

resort could make a poet out of anyone.

It sits next to Sirinath National Park on

Phuket’s northwest coast, along the

endless stretch of sand and roaring surf that

makes up the unspoilt Mai Khao Beach. The

resort is a stylish masterpiece, as visitors who

arrive by night will tell you as they go up the

flaming torch-lined driveway.

Says the resort’s General Manager, Robert

Lohrmann, explaining his surroundings at the

resort and the character of the location of Mai

Khao Beach: “When we first opened the resort in

2001, the intention was for it to be a flagship

Marriott resort, the first of its kind in the area at

the time. It is exclusive in its natural environment

and there isn’t much commercial development

here in the northern part of the island, compared

to other areas of Phuket. The beaches are natural

and the resort sits on a protected leatherback-

turtle-nesting beach and is adjacent to the

Sirinath Marine National Park.”

jewel in the sea

Totally self-contained,exemplary design and fine

dining, stunning publicspaces, and humungousrecreational activities for

adults and kids, JWMarriott Phuket Resort

and Spa is worthy of themost discerning traveller

For those who don’t want to venture out,

the resort is completely self-sufficient; for those

who do, the sky’s the limit as far as seeing and

doing is concerned. There are islands to be

explored, elephant trekking and safaris, a rich

local culture to imbibe, and much more besides.

Set in 27 acres of tropical gardens with

swimming pools, freshwater ponds and natural,

preserved, coastal wetlands, the eco-friendly JW

Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa overlooks the

sparkling Andaman Sea and enjoys ten miles of

natural beachfront adjacent to the Sirinath

Marine National Park and protected sea turtle

nesting area.

Experience the best of Thai hospitality at the

JW Marriott Phuket resort. The design of the resort

reflects this in the art, the batik fabrics in their

vibrant colours, wood carvings, luxurious,

polished wood floors, and balconies, which

feature throughout the guest rooms. Woven

baskets, lamp and lighting designs and water

displays also add a unique flavour to areas such

as the lobby, restaurants and dining rooms.

Lohrmann’s description of the ethnic chic interior

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ESCAPEJW MARRIOTT PHUKET


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as being ‘sophisticated and family-friendly’ is

more than apt.

Apart from this, the resort features all the

comforts and conveniences associated with the

high-quality JW Marriott brand, such as

information technology communications, high-

tech sound systems and excellent safety features.

In all, the resort comprises 265 well-

appointed rooms, including 13 suites, all facing

the Andaman Sea. Every room has a balcony

and a unique sala—a Thai-style, raised relaxation

area. Also included are 12 spacious Ocean View

One Bedroom suites with large terraces and 1

Royal Suite. The rooms are decorated with

beautiful, Jim Thompson Thai silks, and have

highly polished wooden floors.

Experience the new Marriott ‘Revive Bed,’ with

its 300-thread count sheets, and feel the

difference it can make to your sleep. There are

down comforters tucked inside custom-sheeted

‘Fit for You’ healthy menu is available in almost

all the restaurants.

But it’s as a family resort that the JW Marriott

Phuket wins hands down. There are a mind-

boggling number of recreational facilities for

adults and children. Kids, especially, are treated

like royalty—a special section is designed for

them, with fanciful murals, toys, even computers,

and their very own pool complex. Family-

focussed amenities include KidzSole, Flying

Trapeze classes and programmes that teach

young guests about the surrounding natural

environment and about the other residents they

share the resort with—the turtles. Some of the

other activities include dancing, language,

introduction to Thai Buddhism, arts and crafts,

Thai boxing, batik, origami, fruit carving, etc.

There are three swimming pools with

different concepts (Tranquil, Family and Sport).

The pools have bubble beds and Jacuzzi points.

duvet covers, fresh for your arrival. And, thick

mattresses with plush toppers, along with super-

fluffy pillows to absorb fatigue.

Service at the JW Marriott Phuket is

impeccable and the dining exemplary. Facilities

include eleven restaurants and bars, a Thai

cooking school, three magnificent pools, a

Mandara Spa, a shopping arcade, extensive

conference facilities, and an activities-packed kids

club. The fitness centre includes two tennis courts,

with golf available nearby.

Fine dining incorporates six restaurants,

which include the Marriott Café, Cucina, the Italian

restaurant voted by Conde Nast Traveler as the

best in Asia, the brand new Kabuki, Andaman

Grill, Ginja, Siam Deli; five Bars, including Sala

Sawasdee, Rim Nam, Beside the Sea, Out of the

Blue Splash and Out of the Blue Drink. The Ginja

Cooking school starts with a trip to the local

market—there is also a Kids’ cooking school. A

Also on the cards is the traditional Thai sunset

fire-lighting ceremony and dance held in the

Reflection pond, adjacent to the main lobby, every

evening during sunset.

A 24-hour fitness centre and the award-

winning Mandara Spa features 16 private double

treatment suites with romantic outdoor showers,

a herbal steam room and access to a private

tropical garden. A host of facilities include the

signature 90-minute, 4-hand massage, using five

different techniques. The Mandara Spa offers a

complete range of traditional and Western

luxurious spa treatments, with particular

emphasis on Thai massage and beauty.

It’s no wonder, then, that the family-friendly

JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa was recently listed

in Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2010 for the ‘Best

Place to stay in the World,’ which was selected by

the readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

HOSPITALITYMARINA BAY SANDS


marina bay sands

From the thrilling experience of the casino andshopping at the Shoppes to the awe-inspiring

SkyPark and the Art Path, Marina Bay Sands is amilestone in the form of an entertainment paradise

REDEFININGENTERTAINMENT


arina Bay Sands—an integrated resort fronting Marina

Bay in Singapore—is a place that is vibrant and

dynamic; a place that transforms from hour to hour,

from day to night, and where the imaginings of a global

city become a reality. Featuring three 55-storey hotel towers

which consist of over 2500 rooms and suites, a state-of-

the-art convention and exhibition facilities, theatres, a

world-class casino and the best dining and shopping region crowned by the Sands

SkyPark, Marina Bay Sands is Asia’s most spectacular entertainment hub.

A PARK IN THE SKYThe unique structural masterpiece—the Sands SkyPark— designed by visionary architect

Moshe Safdie, floats atop the three soaring Marina Bay Sands hotel towers, 200 metres in

the sky. Stretching longer than the Eiffel tower laid horizontal or four-and-a-half A380

Jumbo Jets, with an impressive 12,400 square metres of space, the Sands SkyPark can host

up to 3,900 people. The gravity-defying cantilever, one of the largest of its kind in the

world, offers spectacular views of Singapore. It also has a 150-metre infinity swimming

pool—the world’s largest swimming pool at that height—which could glide you straight

over the edge of Singapore, if not the world.

SHOPPING SPREETake a stroll through the eye-catching, modern shopping mecca and treat yourself to

one of the most premium, luxury experiences in the world. With its contemporary, open

design and breathtaking views of Singapore’s city skyline, the Shoppes at Marina Bay

Sands offers the very finest in the luxury fashion and emerging labels, from the four

M

HOSPITALITYMARINA BAY SANDS


corners of the world. Boasting over 8, 00,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, it is

Singapore’s first large-scale luxury shopping destination.

A sampan ride at the Shoppes will take you on a unique and luxurious trip. Where else

in the world could you take a break from an indulgent day of shopping and surrender to

the whimsical pleasure of a relaxing, unhurried cruise down the canal in the beautifully-

crafted sampans?

CASINOAnother entertainment milestone in the Marine Bay Sands is the casino, where the action

never stops. From the simplicity and excitement of Money Wheel to the exhilarating and

fast paced action of Roulette, the casino offers a choice of table games to suit all players.

All table games are played using casino gaming chips, which may be purchased either at

the tables, or at the cage. With more than six varieties of games on four levels of gaming,

one of which is a non- smoking level, you can surely find what you are looking for in the

type of environment that you desire.

In addition to the basic games like Baccarat, Sic-Bo, Singapore Stud Poker and Money

Wheel, more than two hundred additional games are available in the hotel’s High Limit,

Ruby and Paiza areas. Featuring the world’s largest crystal chandelier, the 24/7 casino is

sure to give you a thrilling world-class gaming action around the clock.

TERRIFIC THEATREMarina Bay Sands is home to two world-class theatres—The Sand Theater and The Grand

Theater—located adjacent to each other, and will instantly transport you to a world of

glitz and glamour. Both theatres boast magnificent interior design, with high ceilings,

extravagant layout and plush furnishing, aiming to create a night of pure elegance. The

two theatres are traditional proscenium-style venues, equipped with large orchestra pits,


RITIKA SARIN

seat wagons and set rooms, which will surely dazzle everyone.

The Sands Theater will be home to award-winning Broadway Musical ‘The Lion King’,

whereas The Grand Theater will stage a wide range of headlining acts, performing acts

and gala events.

MAGNIFICENT MUSEUMThe Museum in Marina Sands Bay is an awe-inspiring creation, which hosts blockbusters

from all over the world. Designed as a symbolic gesture of welcome to guests from across

the globe, the lotus-shaped museum in the hotel is a premier destination for major

international touring exhibitions from the most renowned collections in the world.

Located at the Marina Bay waterfront, the iconic architecture of the building, the

world-class exhibits hosted within, and the museum’s innovative roof, which channels

rainwater through the central atrium of the building as a waterfall, are worth appreciating.

The roof can also be closed at night, to serve as an amphitheatre for spectacular light and

laser shows, with fireworks against the glittering Singapore skyline.

ART IS THE WAY TO GOMarina Bay Sands Art Path comprises a collection of spectacular art installations that are

commissioned to integrate with Moshe Safdie’s extraordinary architecture. These large

scale pieces create shapes, moods and interior spaces and will also provide you with a

unique opportunity to visually and physically experience such large scale artwork.

The site, where the works are positioned to create an inspiring and breathtaking path,

is one of the largest art commissions ever completed as part of an architectural process,

all with internationally-renowned artists, including Antony Gormley and Ned Kahn.



indul(g)

pipe dreams 40Pipes can be collector’s items, but whether they deliver a good smokeor not is dependent on many factors

season's best bouquets 44Gift someone special any one of these stunning and exclusive scents,created by some of the world’s major fragrance companies

high Fashion in manhattan 50Tommy Hilfiger’s flair for fashion and décor is written all over hisgrandiose apartment at the Plaza in New York

luxury on your wrist 52For the festive season, Lifestyle Living showcases some eleganttimepieces for you and your loved ones

star-spangled fashion fiesta 54The third HDIL India Couture Week 2010 proved that when thefashion fraternity and Bollywood come together, it can be nothingshort of a blast


LUXURYPIPES


Pipes can be collectors’items, but whether theydeliver a good smoke ornot is dependent onmany factorsPIPE dr

eam

s



here’s something about pipes that puts them

in a class apart from cigarettes and cigars. The latter

emits smoke that could be acrid and offensive. On the

other hand, the smell of pipe tobacco is pleasant—a whiff

of a nice clove or cherry wood blend conjures up images of

rugged men in tweed jackets or kind, old men in an armchair

next to a cozy fire, with a dog curled up nearby.

Pipe smokers will tell you that a good pipe is a work of art. However,

there are a few essential characteristics of a good pipe. The wood must

be of good quality. It must be well cured, that is, made dry and relatively

free of tannins, resins, saps, and the other nasty stuff that makes a pipe

made from ‘green’ briar taste odious. The grain may actually matter

very little, apart from the fact that it adds aesthetic value to the finished

pipe. It’s a matter of opinion—some say that straight grains smoke

better, others that cross grains are superior, and so on.

Once you avail of a block of good quality, well-seasoned briar, all

that's left is to craft a good pipe out of it. The basics of a pipe are a

chamber, or bowl, in which tobacco or other substance to be smoked

is placed, a stem of some sort and a mouthpiece through which the

smoke is sucked or inhaled. But, a good pipe goes beyond the basics.

How well a pipe smokes impinges on how well it is designed internally.

T Pipe makers who have made significant inroads into these aspects of

pipe craft have culled their skills from a master, but each maker has

developed his own individual ideas and standards.

Clearly, a pipe is not just a chunk of wood with two holes in it.

Airway diameter, taper, the effects of expansion, turbulent versus

laminar flow, and other thermo-dynamic factors play a significant role

in the way a pipe will smoke. What, in effect, makes one pipe smoke

better than another?

According to connoisseurs, a good smoking pipe is one that smokes

easily to the bottom, free from excessive gurgling and undue

condensation. The flavour of the tobacco should come through clearly,

without invasive colouration. The tobacco should smoulder freely, and

not require excessive re-lighting. The draw must be fairly open and

without obstruction.

There are many types of smoking pipes, which are categorised

according to their material and shape, which, in turn, influence the

quality of a smoke.

BRIAR PIPESThe most common type of pipe, the Briar is either machine or hand-

made. It is exceptionally good wood since it is fire-resistant and capable


LUXURYPIPES



SOME PIPE MYTHS BUSTEDMyth: Pipes are fashion accessories.Reality: Pipes are pipes. They are fashioned tosmoke tobacco in, not to be an accompanimentto your jacket or tie. You should buy pipesbecause you like them, not because they mightmatch your outfit.Myth: The shape of your face should determinethe type/size of pipe you buy.Reality: You should buy pipes that you enjoylooking at, holding and smoking. Don’t limityour pipe horizons for such a shallow reason.Myth: Meerschaum pipes are for experiencedsmokers.Reality: No such thing. Meerschaum pipes aremore fragile than briar pipes and have differentphysical properties, but that is no reason not tobuy one for your first pipe if that is what youdesire.

of absorbing moisture efficiently. Briar is procured from the root burl

(wood from trees subjected to damage and used to make furniture,

sculpture, etc) of the briar tree found in Mediterranean regions. Pipes

are fashioned from two types of blocks that are cut from the centre

and outer part of the root burl, called ebauchon and plateau.

MEERSCHAUM PIPES‘Meerschaum,’ meaning ‘sea foam’ in German, is a very rare mineral, a

kind of hard white clay, found only in central Turkey. The light and

porous structure of the pipe keeps the smoke cool and soft. The pipe

itself is a natural filter which absorbs the nicotine, because of which,

meerschaum pipes slowly change their colours to different tones of

gold and dark brown, which adds to the enjoyment of smoking. Today,

many old and rare meerschaums have found a permanent place in

museums and private collections.

CLAY PIPESPipes made of fine white clay are of good quality, though

making clay pipes is a labour-intensive process. All the air

has to be beaten out of the clay and then, each pipe is hand-

rolled before moulding. They are then pierced with a fine wire

before careful firing. They tend to become hot while using and are

therefore not very popular.

CALABASH PIPESAssociated with the legendary Sherlock Holmes, Calabash pipes are

made from Calabash gourds, sometimes from mahogany wood,

and have their own classic shape. Those made from gourds are

expensive and usually have meerschaum or porcelain bowls set inside

LL BUREAU

them. An air chamber below gives the coolest, driest smoke.

METAL PIPESAluminum, brass and steel are the metals generally used to make

metal tobacco pipes. The popular one is a pipe with a stem and shank

of aluminum, serving as a heat sink. Mouthpieces are made from

vulcanite or lucite. Other metal tobacco pipes are the Japanese kiseru

and the Arabian midwakh. Hookahs also have metal stems, but they

are categorised as water pipes.

HOOKAHSTypically middle eastern water pipes, they cool the smoke by filtering

it through a liquid chamber. The tobacco used in the hookah is usually

dried whole leaf, soaked and crumbled, or canned, mixed with various

herbs and flavours, sometimes with ice, lemon juice or

even milk. The moist tobacco is heaped into

the bowl and covered with a small charcoal

fire. Some even have multiple mouth pieces

so that more than one person may enjoy

smoking simultaneously.

The thumb rule for buying a pipe is that you must

buy the very best that you can afford. Be governed by

quality and you can’t go wrong. Know that pipes are not

cheap or expensive, they are either good smokers or bad

smokers, and without careful consideration of the aesthetics

and mechanics, a cheap pipe and an expensive pipe are

equally likely to be a good smoker, or a bad one.


ESSENCEPERFUMES


Gift someone special any one ofthese stunning and exclusive scents,

created by some of the world’s majorfragrance companies

season’s bestbouquets

LALIQUELalique perfumes are among the most popular and well patronised by thecontemporary generation. The designer perfumes were started andinstitutionalised by glass and jewellery designer Rene Jules Lalique, who wasrenowned for his stunning creations of perfume bottles, vases, jewellery,chandeliers and clocks. Lalique perfumes stand out because of their veryappealing and unique perfume bottle designs. If other designer perfumes havestood up because of brand reputation and designer transfer-appeal, Lalique wasnoted for having the best, most artistic and most innovative perfumebottle designs. What sets Lalique perfumes apart is not the scent,though they are as exquisite and fragrant as other perfumes, but thebottle designs. Collectors acknowledge the fact that consumerspurchase Lalique perfumes for their specially-designedbottles. In 2007, singer Mariah Carey is said to have invested$13,200 in just a few minutes, to buy 12 bottles of Butterflyscent Lalique perfumes. Lalique Limited Edition Perfumes areamong the most expensive in the world.www.cristallalique.fr

ESSENCEPERFUMES



AMOUAGEAmouage is a luxury perfume house established by his Highness Sayyid Hamad

bin Hamoud al bu Sai, the Sultan of Oman. Amouage uses the traditional MiddleEast perfume ingredients such as agar wood, incense, musk, rose and spices, but

the scents are developed by perfumers from the major fragrance and flavourcompanies and are geared towards an international clientele. Founded 25 years

ago, Amouage uses the rarest of ingredients, such as the Silver Frankincense, andis only meant for the discerning customer. Amouage's first fragrance was created

as ‘the most valuable perfume in the world’. To achieve this aim, Amouagecommissioned the renowned French perfumer, Monsieur Guy Robert, master of

Chanel, Dior and Hermes, and briefed him that ‘no expense was to be spared’. Forthe creation of Amouage, the ingredients were chosen from the richest and

finest products. It took over one hundred natural oils and essences to composethis unique perfume. Amouage will continue to be a niche, sophisticated

fragrance...not meant for just anyone.www.amouage.com

CLIVE CHRISTIAN NO. 1With names like ‘X’ and ‘No. 1,’ along withcredentials that put Clive Christian as theMost Expensive perfume in the world, it isno wonder why his fragrances are so elusiveand intriguing. With its serene andsophisticated attributes, No. 1 is a sweetbouquet of precious Indian Jasmine,Mandarin and Sandalwood. The bottle isequally divine, with a 24-karat gold-platedsterling silver neck, set with a brilliant-cutdiamond solitaire, and a stopper fashionedafter Queen Victoria's crown.www.clive.com

BOND NO 9Creating a scent for every New York neighbourhood isthe sole mission of Bond No 9. With their flamboyant

bottles and clever names, every scent from Bond istruly fun and exciting. However, it is ‘Chinatown,’

with it's Swarovski-studded limited edition bottle,which is truly wild. This sensual feminine scent is a

mélange of peach, peony, and gardenia and isdedicated to Chinatown.

www.bondno9.com


ESSENCEPERFUMES


PUREDISTANCE IPuredistance I can be described as stunning and beautiful, luxurious and rich. Thefragrance was created by master perfumer Annie Buzantian at the fragrancehouse Firmenich. Puredistance brings together two opposite elements: coolnessand warmth. The perfume opens with a top note of fresh, ozone-tangerineblossom blended with a hint of cassis. The natural scent is complemented withneroli bigarade, or orange flower oil, and crisp watery nuances. The heart of thefragrance warms to a sophisticated, modern blend of magnolia, rose wardia andjasmine; parmenthia and natural mimosa, before finally settling softly into therich classical notes of sweet amber, vetiver and white musk.www.puredistance.com

CREEDCreed is the world's only privately held luxury fragrance dynasty, and is one of the 100oldest family businesses in the world. Based in Paris, Creed, today, is led by thelegendary Olivier Creed, sixth generation master perfumer and company chief. Workingalongside is his son, Erwin, 29, rising seventh generation and future head of the House.Creed adheres to unrelenting high standards in fragrance creation and client service,and uses methods of hand production, including maceration and filtration, institutedat the company's founding. Creed has a loyal clientele that includes royalty, Hollywoodstars, political leaders, legends in business, sports, music and the fine arts, as well asdiscerning members of the public who value beauty and quality in scent. SilverMountain Water is inspired by the exhilarating crispness of mountain air, with CitrusNotes, Tea, Black Currant, Musk, and Ambergris. This scent is perfect for man or woman.www.creedperfumes.us

KILIANKilian Hennessy, perfumer and heir to a long line of cognac makers, haslaunched his first collaborative effort for his opulent line of fragrances.

Joining forces with painter Sophie Matisse, the duo have released 50hand-painted bottles and boxes, to carry whichever Kilian scent you

choose. Each bottle design is completely different from the other, and isnumbered and stamped with the artist’s engraving. Packaged in Kilian's

signature silk-lined black lacquer boxes, this little bottle of luxury notonly smells luscious but stands out amongst the others.

www.bykilian.com


HIGHNESSPRINCESS LETIZA


For the festive season, Lifestyle Livingshowcases some elegant timepieces

for you and your loved ones

your wrist

ORIS ARTIX COMPLICATIONEasy on the eyes, and available with a six-linksteel metal bracelet or leather strap, the Oris

Artix Complication is a graceful creation. TheArtix steel case and 3D dial construction ensure

that this watch stands out—even before yousee what it can do. The dial captures the time

with visually stunning hour and minutes nickelhands, treated with Superluminova

compound, which ensures exceptional night-time visibility. Joined by a nickel second hand

with an ‘O’ counterbalance, they travel overelegant applied indices. With a moon-phase,

day and date display and Oris’ famous pointercalendar, it’s not just a pretty face.

OPULENCETIMEPIECES


Luxury on

TAG HEUER MONACO VINTAGE CHRONOGRAPHREISSUEFirst produced back in 1969 in honour of the Monaco Grand Prix and famouslyworn by Steve McQueen 'back in the day', the Monaco is back once more, thistime as the Tag Heuer Monaco Vintage Chronograph. Apparently, this latestversion is based on one of the original Monaco designs, one with the originalTag-free Heuer logo, grey dial, a charcoal grey stainless steel case and, of course,the micro rotor for automatic rewinding.

RITIKA SARIN


BREITLING CHRONOMAT 01LIMITED EDITION

With exclusive finishing and stylishtransparent caseback, Breitling Chronomat

01 offers both elegance and top-flightperformance. The leading model in theBreitling collection, this instrument is

distinguished by the powerful character ofits case, its bezel engraved with original

numerals, and its distinctive blend ofstrength and sophistication. The BreitlingChronomat 01 Limited Edition provides a

fascinating view of this watch’s high-performance motor, boasting a column-wheel, an entirely original architectural

design, and assembled according to arevolutionary industrial process. The strong

and unique design of the case, bezel andbracelet is highlighted by subtle, contrasted

finishing—satin-brushed on the top andpolished on the sides.


CHOPARD CLASSIC RACINGSUPERFAST CHRONO WATCHAs its name suggests, the Chopard ClassicRacing Superfast Chrono watch provides thechronograph function, operated by thepush-buttons, located at 2:00 and 4:00clock. They serve to control a central secondhand, a 12-hour counter at 6:00 clock and a30-minute counter at 9:00 clock. The last-mentioned sub-dials are joined by a smallseconds counter, positioned at 3:00 clock,and the date indication is arranged in anintegrated exhibition window at 6:00 clock.Finally, a tachometric scale engraved on thescrew-down bezel further contributes tomaking this model the indispensableinstrument for all those with a love of highspeed and finely-tuned mechanisms.

CHANEL J12 WHITE CERAMICH0970 WATCH

The Chanel J12 White Ceramic Watch is a veryclassy watch, designed for women who

embrace an active lifestyle. The watchcaptures a sporty feel while remaining true to

the Chanel’s classic and sophisticated style.With its unidirectional, rotating timingbezel, 200 metres water-resistance, and

luminous hands and hour markers, theChanel J12 White Ceramic Ladies Watch is an

extremely durable and reliable dive watch,sure to make a big splash in the swimmingpool, at the beach, or offshore, at the reef.

Constructed with top-quality stainless steeland hi-tech, high-gloss finished white

ceramic, this watch is super corrosion-resistant and scratch-resistant, keeping it

looking stylish and new for a very long time.

RAYMOND WEIL FREELANCERAUTUMN TIME

A vibrant tribute to beauty and femininity,Raymond Weil’s Freelancer Autumn Time watch

attracts the eye with its charismatic design, and is acontrast between pure stringency and

sophisticated charm, absolutely in tune with thetimes. A magnificent response to today’s

expectations, Freelancer Autumn Time is singledout by its mechanical movement, with automaticwinding and visible balance-wheel, sure to set a

woman’s heart aflutter. The 38-mm polished steelcase and bezel are entirely inset with full-cutdiamonds of the utmost purity. For the strap,

saddle-stitched full-skin alligator lends itsconsummate sensual nobility to this timepiece, thestuff of dreams and definitively out of the ordinary.

FASHIONHDIL FASHION WEEK


The third HDIL India Couture Week 2010proved that when the fashion fraternityand Bollywood come together, it can be

nothing short of a blast

star-spangled

FASHIONFIESTA


DIL India has established itself as

a coveted platform for showcasing

the works of premier designers,

proving yet again that India has a

pivotal place in the global fashion market.

Fashion councils and fashion weeks have

come a long way and are doing every bit to

promote the Indian fashion fraternity. And now, the Indian

fashion fraternity has upped its index even further to include a whole

couture week.

The third edition of the HDIL India Couture Week 2010 was a five-

day glittering event in Mumbai’s Hotel Grand Hyatt. The show, which

kickstarted on 6th October, began with top designer Manish Malhotra’s

show. He showcased an animated, larger-than-life bridal couture

H

FASHIONHDIL FASHION WEEK


collection, with 55 models sashaying down the

ramp and the stunning Aishwarya Rai as the

showstopper. Looking ravishing in a white

flowing lehenga, Rai walked with consummate

ease, in spite of her long absence from the ramp.

Lending glamour to the occasion were Sonam

Kapoor, Rani Mukherjee, Deepika Padukone,

Urmila Matondkar and Riya Sen, among several

others. Also present were Shah Rukh Khan and

wife Gauri Khan, and Akshay Kumar with wife

Twinkle Khanna.

Monisha Jaising ended the day with a

dramatic show replete with impressive light

projections and designs, choreographed and

produced by Mehr Rampal.

Day two was a dazzling affair, as jewellery

designers Queenie, Raj Mahtani and Maheep

Kapoor added a sparkle with their shows. Actress

Ayesha Takia and Dabangg girl, Sonakshi Sinha,

walked the ramp for Maheep Kapoor’s stone cuts.

Also on this day was a show from the

fabulous men’s wear designer Varun Bahl and

filmmaker-designer Karan Johar. Bollywood

biggies Amitabh Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan

walked the platform as showstoppers for them.

However, it was King Khan who stole the show

with a non-scripted jig on the runway, with the

other two stars.

Day three saw a non-resident Indian

designer, Dubai-based, Ayesha Depala,

showcase a collection at this platform with her

novel collection of 30 exquisite gowns. Rohit

Bal closed the show on that day with some truly

awe-inspiring presentation of couture garments.

The choice of music was impeccable—‘Tears in

Heaven’—and added soul to the atmosphere.

For the final act, four models in cream-

coloured Anarkali kurtas entered a pool of water

and rose petals in the centre of the ramp, their

garments billowing out to resemble lotus flowers.

Day four at HDIL Couture Week saw former

model-turned-actor Anushka Sharma walking

the ramp for designer Rina Dhaka, with

Bollywood hunk Salman Khan’s show being

scheduled straight after. Khan roped in

Bollywood beauties, who were wearing coveted

diamond jewellery for his ‘Being Human’ show

for a noble cause.

The greater cause, however, was education

and health care for the underprivileged. Kareena

Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Sushmita

Sen, Preity Zinta, Rani Mukherjee, Bipasha Basu

and Karishma Kapoor walked the ramp with

loads of oomph. Manish Malhotra endorsed the

cause with his designs and Mona Mehta did it

with her jewellery.

On the last day, fashion designer Shahab

Durazi, who was also the grand finale designer,

showcased exquisitely-styled outfits with

detailing that looked like fine prints. The

reticent designer let his creations speak for

themselves.

Arjun Khanna rocked the audience with his

menswear collection and took his bow in a

unique way—atop a vintage Ariel mobike. A

long line of male models showcased both

western and Indian attire bearing his insignia

on their jackets, skinny trousers and stylish

accessories.

Though the star quotient at the HDIL- India

Couture Week was heavy, industry experts

were not unhappy since film stars are premium

consumers of high-end fashion and the event

is an ideal platform for designers to reach out

to a wider audience.

Says designer Shahab Durazi, “Fashion week

coverage is much better than the coverage a

designer gets through any other medium. So,

it is a bigger platform any day.It is a misnomer

that couture doesn't bring business to a

designer. To be very frank, the real couturiers

earn more from their couture line and get

better returns," he added.

Organised by apex fashion body Fashion

Design Council of India (FDCI), Sunil Sethi, its

president, feels that fashion and Bollywood go

hand-in-hand, especially when it is a couture

show. Says Sethi,"Couture means high-end

garments and the presence of Bollywood stars

can't be ruled out because they form a major

chunk of couture buyers. All these garments

are custom made and a lot of them place their

orders after watching a show. So, you can't

rule out the presence of Bollywood stars".

The designers showcased all men’s wear,

like designer jackets with asymmetrical button

patterns, slim-fit trousers, waistcoats, military

jackets and long overcoats as well.While

Manish stuck to his favourite chiffons and nets

and presented a contemporary line of lehengas

and anarkalis, Rohit Bal showcased a detailed

line of Persian-inspired magical collection,

Khakastri, that had well-cut long jackets.

Shahab and Monisha Jaising showcased a

smart and chic line of women's evening wear,

while Karan Johar, with Varun Bahl and Arjun

Khanna, presented a stylish men’s collection.

TT BUREAU




let there be candlelight 60Candles have a universal and almost spiritual appeal andcut across all boundaries of religions, creeds andnationalities

thrill machine gurus 66Roller coasters let you have your thrills without the spills,because the men behind them are experienced with curves

galleri(e)


ACCESSORYCANDLES


Candles have a universal andalmost spiritual appeal and cut

across all boundaries of religions,creeds and nationalities


“There is not enough darkness in all the world to put out thelight of even one small candle”

—Robert Alden

ACCESSORYCANDLES


here is something so incredibly soothing and soulful

about a candle. Although it doesn’t have such a major

role to play in our lives today ever since the advent of the

electric bulb, the candle has always held a distinctive place

in society and represents a link with our past. It is also

synonymous with and generates feelings of romance, passion,

security, warmth, hope, spirituality and wellness.

Today, candles are relegated to the realm of the aesthetic–

they are valued for their fragrance and to set a soft, warm or

romantic ambience, and in aromatherapy. But, above all, they

are universal in their symbolic reference in almost all religious

and spiritual practices, creeds and nationalities. Candles

are most definitely an intrinsic part of our identities

and are still a significant part of our collective and

individual consciousness.

Candles make simple traditions come alive and

make the holiday season magical and comforting.

They generally take centre stage where holiday

decorating and entertaining plans are concerned.

Design trends for Christmas candles are the

timeless reds and greens of the festive palette;

deep crimsons and dark greens are often paired

with rich golds and creamy whites in traditional

homes. Ruby reds and peridot greens coupled

with silvers and bright white are perfect for a more

casual and modern feel.

let there be

CANDLELIGHTT

November 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

ACCESSORYCANDLES


But, whatever your style preference is—be it traditional or

contemporary—you are likely to find swirls, patterns and texture

adding a fillip to your candle décor this season. However, scented

candles remain the most popular with candle aficionados. Favoured

fragrances are the traditional yuletide scents—berry, cinnamon and

evergreen, along with sophisticated notes of pear, apple, ginger, currant,

mocha and vanilla.

Before you set out to buy candles to enhance your home décor, here are

some pointers about the popular candle types available.

Taper: This is a slender candle—typically 6 to 18 inches high and

sometimes called a dinner candle—designed to be held securely

upright by a candle holder.

Pillar: A free-standing candle, usually with a diameter of 3 inches or

more, and one or more wicks. Despite the name, pillars or column

candles, can be round, square, hexagonal, etc. Although they stand on

their own, they must be burned on a heat-resistant candle holder.

Container, Jar or Filled Candle: A candle that is poured, when

manufactured, into a glass, metal or ceramic container, specifically

designed to hold the wax and withstand the heat of the burning candle.

Votive: A small cylindrical candle, usually about 1½ inches in

diameter and 2 or 2½ inches high, designed to be

placed in a ‘cup’ or votive holder, to hold the

liquefied wax that results from

burning. Votives were

originally produced

as white,

u n s c e n t e d

candles for religious

ceremonies; they are now

available in many colours and scents.

Votive Gel Candle: A transparent-type

candle made primarily from gelled mineral oils

or gelled synthetic hydrocarbons. Soft or semi-

rigid gels are poured into a container to maintain

the candle’s shape. ‘Hard’ gel candles have a

consistency suitable for free-standing

candles. Decorative wax items are

frequently suspended within a gel candle

to produce a special visual effect.

Tealight: A small, cylindrical, filled candle—

usually about 1 inch in diameter and 1½ inches

high—often poured into a metal holder.

Luminaria: An outdoor candle made by placing a 15-hour

votive in a light-diffusing container filled with sand.

Specialty Candle: An unusually shaped or sculpted free-

standing candle, often depicting a three-dimensional object or

63November 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in 63November 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

ACCESSORYCANDLES


designed to be viewed primarily as decorative artwork, and

sometimes called a novelty candle.

Everything seems so much lovelier by candlelight, because

candles add warmth, style and ambience to any living space in

the home. Whether they’re grouped together to provide some

drama in the living room, or paired in candlesticks on the dining

table, or nestled in coloured glass votives on the mantlepiece,

candles add elegance and style to homes around the world.

Here are some popular trends for decorating with candles.

You could create a festive appearance at the entrance or foyer

with a large white or red pillar candle with holly leaves or

ornaments nestled around its base. For your mantelpiece in the

drawing room, have groupings of tapers or pillars in metallic

candlesticks of varying heights, surrounded by some evergreen

boughs. Use red or white candles along with some ornaments

to lend colour and sparkle.

For the dinner table, keep it simple—you don’t want

extravagantly-scented candles to interfere with the aroma of

your food. For formal dinners, there’s nothing more dramatic or

pleasing than a simple but elegant centerpiece, with an oblong

glass bowl of ornaments. Dim the lights, light the candles and

allow the ambience of the candlelight to take over.

Buffet tables and casual family meals call for simpler

centerpieces. Place a series of elegant pillars on a flat ceramic or

metal tray flanked by small vases of red carnations or poinsettias

for an appealing seasonal tableau.

Add an Oriental flavour by placing one or more pillar candles

on a pillar plate and surrounding the candle base with flat, gray

or black stones. This looks best with neutral-coloured or deep-

hued candles and pillar plates made of metal or heavy pottery.

Think metallics and textures. Square and round pillars with

intriguing textures and patterns, and uniquely-shaped candles

with soft-toned patterned metallic surfaces, are rapidly gaining

favour with interior designers seeking to merge the traditional

appeal of candles with artistic flair.

You can even transform the look of your garden or patio

with candles. Bring a shimmer of candlelight to your patio dining

with groupings of white or cream candles protected by votive

holders. Consider sconces or brackets for an outside or garden

wall, and luminaria to light the garden walkway.INDIRA LAUL



“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of thecandle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”

—Gautam Buddha




AMUSEMENTROLLER COASTER

Thrill machine gurus


Roller coasters let you have your thrills without the spills,because the men behind them are experienced with curves



ver wondered what it feels like to be blasted

from 0 to 120 miles per hour in 4 seconds? Or,

what it's like to descend a 400-foot vertical spiral?

Top Thrill Dragster, one of the world's tallest and fastest

roller coasters, does just that. Fun? As the adrenaline-

pumping device rolls over twisted tracks and loops,

the riders may perhaps fleetingly wonder if the person who

designed this mean machine knew what he was doing.

Even though roller coaster rides may appear to defy all laws of

physics and are designed to raise screams, their creators will assure you

that they are safer than crossing the street. What controls the ride is a

simple matter of physics—a roller coaster gains potential energy as it

ascends the top of a hill, which changes to kinetic energy as it descends

downhill. Once the coaster is speeding away, gravity, velocity, friction

and acceleration are some of the principles that control the ride.

WERNER STENGELRoller coaster designers create these dynamic rides, simulating a genuine

air of danger. A roller coaster designer requires a combination of childish

enthusiasm for thrills, along with a sound knowledge of structural

engineering. German engineer Werner Stengel is such a man, responsible

to some extent for over 70 per cent of the world’s greatest roller coasters.

Founder of Ingenieur Buero Stengel GmbH, Werner Stengel is a notable

German roller coaster designer and engineer. A native of Bochum, Germany,

Stengel first worked on amusement park rides in collaboration with

Anton Schwarzkopf in 1963, and established his own company two years

later. Thereafter, for more than forty years, Stengel Engineering has been

involved in amusement rides of all kinds. Till date, Stengel’s engineering

company has created more than 500 roller coasters—almost two-thirds

of the world’s big roller coasters are Stengel’s brain child.

Through the years Stengel’s company has proven its reliability, its

precision and loyalty to all its clients; and the company has the awesome

reputation of having worked on more than 500 roller coasters and more

than 600 other moving structures. Stengel is known as the undisputed

guru of roller coasters—he is the first reference, worldwide, for theme

park owners when they are planning to have a new roller coaster ride in

their parks. From his unobtrusive office in Munich-Forstenried, Stendel

constructs dreams of steel and wood.

Stengel’s story began in 1959, when he studied construction

engineering at Kassel University in Hesse, Germany, after which he

graduated as an engineer from the Technische Universität in Munich.

Five years later, Stengel worked with the amusement company called

Schwarzkopf and was making out static calculations for the first German

roller coaster made of steel.

Until then, roller coasters were made with circular loops and their

security was not full-proof. The challenge for Stengel was to turn the

loop into a fun experience without it being hazardous to life. With the

Klotoid-Loop, Stendel made vertical loops in roller coasters totally free

of risks by allowing gentler changeovers at the starting and ending of a

looping. Stengel was also the first engineer who calculated roller coaster

rides using the principle of ‘Raumkurve’ and ‘Heartline’. This means, an

up-shift from the rail’s centre pivot point towards the passenger’s

approximate cardiac region, ensuring that safer, yet more thrilling and

eccentric rides become possible.

Some of the roller coasters developed by Stendel and his team are

Desert Race, Colossos (Holiday Park), Winja’s Fear & Winja Force

(Phantasialand), Expedition Ge-Force (Holiday Park), Stealth und Nemesis

Inferno (Thorpe Park), Rita: Queen of Speed (Alton Towers), Typhoon

(Bobbejaanland), Goliath (Walibi World). Another ride designed by him

is Top Thrill Dragster in Cedar Point (It was the world’s highest and

fastest roller coaster, from 2003 to 2005), as well as its successor, Kingda

Ka; and the three biggest wooden roller coasters of the world— Son of

Beast, El Toro, and Colossos.

Stengel’s revolutionary innovations, along with with the

breathtaking configurations in his rides, were responsible for the

enormous success of theme parks. He won numerous awards for his

achievements and is a member of the International Association of

Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), and has received the status

as honorary doctor at Gothenburg University in June 2005. Stengel

received official recognition for his work at an exhibition in 2001/2002 in

Munich. But, perhaps the title he was awarded with by his fans is more

valued by him than any official decoration: ‘Werner Stengel–The Guru of

roller coasters.’

When asked what he feels when astride one of his machines, Stendel

has this to say—“Most likely, I do feel the same on top of a roller coaster

as every other passenger, as well: Joyous expectation, the flowing of

E



Till date, Stengel’s engineeringcompany has created more than

500 roller coasters–almost two-thirds of the world’s big roller

coasters are Stengel’s brain childadrenaline, a slight feeling of insecurity and fear, together with the

certainty to reach the station safe. The difference lies in my continuing

check-backs: Is the transverse gradient all right? Are the parallel-shoulder

whams not too intense? Are the positive and negative accelerations

well-spread over the length of the ride? And, finally, is the excitement of

it good enough?”

THE GRAVITY GROUPBased in Cincinnati, Ohio, The Gravity Group is an American-based

roller coaster design firm, which was established in 2002 out of the

engineering team of the famed but now defunct Custom Coasters

International. The design and engineering team has more expertise

and experience than any other wooden roller coaster manufacturer,

and the company’s core group of designers and engineers have

backgrounds in civil, structural and mechanical engineering.

The company’s experience stems from having worked on over 40

different wooden roller coasters around the world. The first coaster

designed by them is called Hades and opened at Mount Olympus

Theme Park in 2005. This was followed by The Voyage at Holiday World

in Santa Claus, Indiana, which opened in May 2006. Both accomplishments

were received with great success by the industry and coaster enthusiasts

alike. The company has been producing top notch wooden coasters

even though it is just a few years old.

When the West Chester–based international wooden roller coaster

firm known as Custom Coasters International (CCI), descended into

bankruptcy in 2002, four of its engineers —Chad Miller, Mike Graham,

Korey Kiepert, and Larry Bill—rose Phoenix-like from the wreckage and

formed The Gravity Group, where they specialised in the design of

wooden thrill machines.

From their innocuous office premises the Group designs world-

class scream machines for amusement parks all over the world. For

instance, in Shanghai’s Happy Valley amusement park is China’s first

wooden roller coaster, Fireball, a Gravity Group–designed 3,821-footer

with a 106-foot drop and a top speed of nearly 60 mph.

But, you don’t have to travel to the other end of the world to enjoy

one of The Gravity Group’s creations. On their home turf are some

notable samples of their work, namely, The Voyage coaster at Holiday

World and Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, the largest in The

Gravity Group portfolio. The Voyage, a two-minute-45-second screamer

that reaches nearly 70 mph, comprises 1.2 miles of track supported by

Southern yellow pine.

The blueprint for a new Gravity Group roller coaster begins on a

blank sheet of paper—the first step is assessing its final length, which is

often determined by the park’s budget. Says Chad Miller, “If you know

how big it needs to be length-wise, then you know how big it needs to

be height-wise, because they’re directly related.” Everything else is

governed by the imagination of four grown men who are boyishly

enthusiastic about their product.

The entire creative process generally takes about twelve months.

The Group’s newest coaster is to open in spring 2011 at Quassy

Amusement Park in Middlebury, Connecticut. It’s being designed and

built at the same time. Most of The Gravity Group’s coasters are built in

phases. While this may seem like an unusual way to complete a sizeable

project, there is method to the madness. The track work is done on site,

and therefore, there is leeway to change something right till the last

minute. Moreover, the work involves computer programmes to articulate

the design, the need to study the site’s topography, as well as the the

structures around it.

LL BUREAU



(n)tertainmentthe catwalk princess 72The stunning Princess Letizia of Spain dons the mantle ofroyalty and fashion icon with effortless ease and grace

today's traveller award nite 74Kumari Selja, Minister of Housing and Urban PovertyAlleviation, and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India,stressed the significant contribution made by thehospitality, trade and tourism industries towards promotingthe Incredible India campaign

celeb buzz 76

tarot 78


HIGHNESSPRINCESS LETIZIA


he closest that most of us have come to

knowing a princess is from the pages of a

fairytale book. Or, at best, from fleeting television glimpses

as they move from public engagements to ribbon-cutting

ceremonies to United Nations commitments. But, have you

ever wondered what it means to be a young royal in the twenty-

first century? It’s not all tiaras and the Tatler. These are all young

men and women with normal fears, passions and aspirations,

many of whom have serious agendas or who have had flourishing careers

in the past. Like Princess Letizia of Spain.

Letizia Ortiz has evolved into being one of Europe's most

theThe stunning Princess Letizia of

Spain dons the mantle ofroyalty and fashion icon with

effortless ease and grace

hostile environments. During the invasion of Iraq, she flew out to the

country and communicated live from the frontlines. Also in her

repertoire were such complex and delicate stories as the US presidential

elections and the September 11 attacks.

It was in November 2002, when she was sent to northern Spain to

cover the sinking of the oil tanker Prestige and the subsequent

ecological disaster, that she met and fell in love with the Prince of

Asturias. Felipe had journeyed to the coast to offer his support to the

beleaguered communities who were worst affected by the spill. They

started dating immediately afterwards, but the relationship remained

a closely-guarded secret for many months.

When the moment finally arrived to formally announce their

engagement in November 2003, it quickly became clear that the people

of Spain were delighted with their future princess. Even the fact that

she was a commoner became a cause for celebration, as politicians

and headline-writers declared her ‘a queen for the 21st century’.

Letizia's father was also a prominent journalist, while her mother, a

nurse, was a union representative at one of Madrid's main hospitals.

Little did they realise what the future would hold for their daughter,

who was born on 15 September, 1972, in the northern city of Oviedo.

Though Letizia evinced a fondness for ballet and literature at school,

she finally chose to follow in her father’s footsteps and chose the media

as her career choice.

TCATWALK

princess

sartorially-savvy princesses. She was nothing if not discreet, keeping

her relationship with the Crown Prince Felipe of Spain in wraps, while

she worked as a TV newsreader for a prominent Spanish channel. It is

this very independence and the achievements in her chosen career

which are partly why she was so warmly embraced by the Spanish

people when the announcement finally came. Just six months after

becoming engaged to Crown Prince Felipe of Spain, the TV newsreader

made a stunning formal debut in royal circles, standing out even among

the most dazzling of guests.

But, before her meeting up with her Prince Charming, Letizia proved

her mettle professionally by reporting from some of the world's most

I


LL BUREAU

She moved to Madrid, where she

graduated with a master ’s degree in

journalism, before starting out as a

professional reporter. The aspiring journo then

joined the Asturian daily La Nueva España,

before going on to complete a stint with the

Mexican newspaper Siglo 21. But, there was

little doubt that television was her first love.

After being hired by Bloomberg T V's

Spanish division, she moved to CNN Plus and

then the national channel Television Española,

where she became the anchor of its flagship

show. With an outstanding CV to her credit,

and at such a young age, it came as no surprise

when Letizia was awarded winner of the

Madrid Press Association's Larra Award for

Most Accomplished Journalist under 30.

For the first time, since as far back as 1879,

Spain would have a Spanish queen. The current

monarch's wife, Queen Sofia, originally hails

from Greece, while her predecessors, Maria

Christina and Victoria Eugenia, were Austrian

and English, respectively. And, the line of

succession was likewise guaranteed when, in

the early hours of October 31 2005, the prince

and princess welcomed their first child,

Leonor. The couple's second child, Sofia, was

born on 29 April, 2007.

Letizia Ortiz's transformation into one of

Europe's most stylish princesses was a

whirlwind one. The cool-headed journalist has

stepped effortlessly into her new role as national

fashion icon, unfazed by the scrutinising eyes

of the world. Right from the black Armand Basi

bubble dress with the yellow flower brooch to

the cunning orange sheath with the pleated

waist that she wore to receive the heir to the

Japanese throne or the one-shouldered white

cocktail number that she paired this summer

in Mallorca with the chunky necklace, Letizia

has come into her own.

Says Jesus Maria Montes-Fernandez, a

prominent fashion journalist in Spain, "Letizia

always had personality, even when she was

just a journalist.” The scrutiny of her fashion

sense began with the announcement of her

engagement in November 2003, when she

wore a white Armani suit for the occasion,

which reportedly sold out of Spanish stores

within days.

From then on, Letizia was the cynosure of

all eyes, at every event. She appeared at a 2008

state dinner for Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah

in a raspberry-coloured silk blouse and

matching organza skirt. She took to pairing

well-cut trousers with bright, ethnic print

blouses in summer; and she recently trounced

the famously well-dressed French first lady,

Carla Bruni, as a fashion icon, when she

received the French first lady in a plum Felipe

Varela bandage-dress.

"She's much more sure of herself now," says

Montes-Fernandez. "Her clothing is still

elegant, but it's more contemporary, even

semi-daring for a princess. She's feels more

comfortable with herself in the role, and her

clothing reflects that."

However, there’s one thing that is a

constant in Letizia’s wardrobe, and that’s

her signature high heel. Seldom

photographed in anything

lower than three inches, she

is famous for her devotion

to peep toes and

platforms.

She is the perfect

blend of confident

Spanish style with a

generous twist of high

fashion, especially

when it comes to

accessorising. She

can confidently team

a demure high-neck

shift dress with hip

skyscraper heels. She

embraces colour and

shops local, opting for the

Spanish high-street brands

Zara, Mango and

Massimo Dutti to wear

with her designer pieces.

She borrows diamonds

from her mother-in-law and

makes no bones about recycling her outfits

—the tiered Felipe Varela shift worn for

Frockgate was debuted in America in March.

Spaniards revel in their princess' new status

as fashion icon. "She has done more for

Spanish fashion in the past five years than

decades of catwalks and advertisements,"

writes Maria Jose Iglesias, a journalist, whose

columns appear in regional papers

throughout Spain. The local edition of Elle

magazine agrees; in May 2009, it ran a special

issue on Letizia, declaring her ‘the best

ambassador of Spanish fashion.’


CELEBRATIONTODAY’S TRAVELLER AWARDS


today's traveller

CELEBRATIONTODAY’S TRAVELLER AWARDS


Kumari Selja, Minister of Housing andUrban Poverty Alleviation, and

Ministry of Tourism, Government ofIndia, stressed the significant

contribution made by the hospitality,trade and tourism industries towards

promoting the Incredible Indiacampaign

AWARDS NITE


CHATTERATICELEB BUZZ


HRITHIK TO STAR OPPOSITE KRISTEN STEWARTAmerican actor Kristen Stewart is reportedly stepping into Bollywooddomain. And, if reports are to be believed, the Twilight lass will be romancingnone other than heartthrob Hrithik Roshan in the upcoming Shekhar Kapurfilm Paani. So, after his much talked-about chemistry with Spanish actressBarbara Mori, Hrithik will next set the screen on fire with American starKristen Stewart. According to sources associated with the film, Paani isinspired from the Romeo and Juliet-theme of Shakespeare. The Shekhar Kapurfilm tells the story about a poor boy, portrayed by Hrithik, who lives in theslum areas of Mumbai. A rebel at heart, the boy comes across a rich girl,played by Kristen Stewart, and the two fall in love. Paani has been in theproduction stage for some time now and while Hrithik had already beenfinalised for the male lead, Shekhar Kapur was on the lookoutfor somebody to play the part of the contemporary Juliet. Thegrapevine has it that Shekhar Kapur approachedKristen Stewart directly for being a partof his upcoming venture, and she issaid to have agreed withoutgiving it a second thought.

CHATTERATICELEB BUZZ



ELTON JOHN & LADY GAGA DUET FOR DISNEYElton John and Lady Gaga have already united on stage, but now word is out thatthe two have recorded a song together—for the mouse house. EntertainmentWeekly’s Dave Karger reported that Gaga and the piano prince recorded the track‘Hello, Hello,’ which is set to be a part of Gnomeo & Juliet, an animated film fromDisney, which is due out on February 11, 2010. The song, described as a ‘charmingpop track,’ by Karger, reportedly plays when the two lead characters in the film—garden gnomes Gnomeo and Juliet—meet. Gnomeo is voiced by Scotsman JamesMcAvoy, while Juliet is given a voice by English actress Emily Blunt. The story followsthe two smitten garden gnomes, whose romance is put to the test as they becomecaught up in a fracas between neighbours.

HEALTHY HOLLY WOOD: DO PILATES AND BE HEALTHY LIKESANDRA BULLOCKSandra Bullock and Jennifer Aniston both know Pilates tightensthe abs and gives the body a long and lean look. But, did you knowit could also boost your health? “I believe in the power of Pilatesexercise to lower the risk of not only cancer but other illnessesas well, like heart disease,” states Pilates guru Mari Winsor,who’s worked with Bullock and Madonna. “It is widelythought that cancer cells like fat cells. Pilatesexercise, when performed correctly, isdesigned to help you lose weight, especiallywhen you combine your exercise with a well-balanced diet,” adds Winsor.

WHO WILL BE APPROPRIAWHO WILL BE APPROPRIAWHO WILL BE APPROPRIAWHO WILL BE APPROPRIAWHO WILL BE APPROPRIATE FOR TE FOR TE FOR TE FOR TE FOR 2 ST2 ST2 ST2 ST2 STAAAAATESTESTESTESTES? Filmmaker Siddharth Anand has announced that he will be making a film on ChetanBhagat’s bestseller 2 States, as he has bought the movie rights of the novel. It was

reported that the film will go on the floors with Saif AliKhan in the lead role of the Punjabi guy. However, acontroversy has risen regarding the female lead. A buzzis doing the rounds that producer Sajid Nadiadwalaand director Siddharth are already in a fallout regardingthe leading lady. They are willing to cast DeepikaPadukone in the lead role as they feel that she can justifythe character of a South Indian girl better than PriyankaChopra. Moreover, Deepika and Saif have been loved bythe audience as an onscreen couple in the movie LoveAaj Kal, in which Saif played a Punjabi man for the first

time. However, the makers are not ready to disclose the cast officially at this momentbecause everything is at the initial stages.

AVATAR TO OFFICIALLY BECOME A TRILOGYJames Cameron has agreed to make Avatar 2 & 3 as his next films, Access Hollywoodhas learned. The award-winning director will begin working on the sequels’ scriptsearly next year, with a goal of beginning production towards the end of 2011.Though Cameron first spoke of possible sequels to the LA Times in April (saying thata planned follow-up to the blockbuster film would head for the fictional planet’soceans), the news is now official. “It is a rare and remarkable opportunity when afilmmaker gets to build a fantasy world, and watch it grow, with the resources andpartnership of a global media company,” Cameron said, in a statement to AccessHollywood. Avatar was conceived as an epic work of fantasy—a world that

audiences could visit across all mediaplatforms, and this moment marks thelaunch of the next phase of that world.‘With two new films on the drawingboards, my company and I are embarkingon an epic journey with our partners atTwentieth Century Fox. Our goal is tomeet and exceed the global audience’sexpectations for the richness of Avatar’svisual world and the power of thestorytelling.” Cameron has yet to decideif he will shoot the films back-to-back after the scripts are completed, but releaseof the second and third films are tentatively scheduled for December 2014 andDecember 2015, respectively, and will be produced by James Cameron and JonLandau for James’ Lightstorm Entertainment. Avatar is the highest grossing film ofall time, taking in nearly $2.8 billion in worldwide box office. It is also the top-selling Blu-ray disc of all time. The film won Golden Globe awards for Best MotionPicture and Best Director; and was nominated for nine Academy Awards, includingBest Picture and Best Director, and won Oscars for art direction, visual effects andcinematography.

DAVID & VICTORIA BECKHAM ARGUE ON ELLENDavid Beckham opened up about some of his home habits in an interview that wastaped for The Ellen DeGeneres Show onTuesday, but his story raised his wife,Victoria’s, eyebrows. The soccer hunk stoppedby Ellen’s daytime talk show, and while hiswife watched from the audience, he saidsomething to her, which Posh considered afib. “What do you do that drives her crazy?”Ellen asked. “I’m very tidy and she’s not,” Davidreplied. After hearing her husband’s answer, Victoria couldn’t help herself andchimed in from the audience with her version of events.”He always says that he istidy, but you’re not actually that tidy, are you David?” Victoria asked. The Galaxysoccer star wasn’t prepared, however, to let his wife’s version of their innerhousehold workings stand. “We’re going to have our first argument in 11 years,” helaughed, referring to how long the couple has been married.

SHAH RUKH KHAN TAKES 300-FEET PLUNGE FOR DON 2Shah Rukh Khan takes a 300-feet plunge for Don 2. Post Ra.One, it seems like

Bollywood Superstar Shah Rukh Khan is yetto come out of his superhero persona. Afterdoing some death-defying stunts for sci-fithriller Ra.One, the actor took the challengeagain, with a 300-feet plunge while shootingfor Farhan Akhtar’s Don 2 in Berlin.Shah Rukhrecently tweeted about this incident as, “Justdid an over 300-feet base jump for Don…because you all make me believe I can fly. Time

to tell kids about the birds and the bees… ha ha. My jump was the last shot of theday. Want to thank my duplicate and action team, to do it before me for wide shotsand make me feel confident about it,” he added.


SCORPIOforecast

Scorpions will find the coming monthsexcellent for both initiative andconfidence. Career offers may presentthemselves in November and this willopen new vistas and opportunities. Youwill experience energy and enthusiasmand an increase in income. However,when you receive the Hermit card youmust slow down yourrhythm for reasons ofhealth and yourmental well-being.It would be ideal ifyou take a weekoff at thebeginning of theyear to energiseand rejuvenateyourself.

FORECASTTAROT


The new year started with Judgement as your personalcard, now conjoining with Temperance, suggesting botha crisis and a breakthrough in your career. With Pluto inthe career area of your solar chart, you can expect anumber of changes. Expect a career transformation,which will bring you more power and control,eventually giving you a sense of harmony and peace.

CAPRICORN22December ~ 19January

Use your mind and strong organisational powersto help make some necessary changes in yourcareer. As you align yourself to your innerknowledge and sharp business sense, yourefforts will pay rich dividends. Socially, this is anexcellent time to meet new and exciting people.

AQUARIUS20 January ~ 18 February

The Star helps you to be highly energised.This is no time to be laidback. Expressyourself and move forward with yourvisionary ideas. As you forge ahead, youdiscover new possibilities that help youconnect with your highest star.

PISCES19 February ~ 20 March

The Judgment card usually turns up when you areat the crossroads and it is time to begin a new phase

in your life. It comes at a pivotal time, when youought to be honest with yourself, judge what action

is best to face up to the challenges of life.Judgement signifies the start of a new journey,

guided by lessons learned in the past.

ARIES21March ~ 19 April

The Ace of Wands brings new opportunities.Seize these with an attitude of fun and

excitement. Travelling helps youunderstand other belief systems in the

world, as well as inspiring you to expandyour business ventures

TAURUS20 April ~ 20 May

The Magician indicates that if you want to achieve yourhighest possible destiny, become a magus of sorts to

yourself. You have the intelligence, knowledge,strength and organisational skills to make your dreams

come true You are revitalised and remain unchallenged.

CANCER21 June ~ 22 July

The Lovers indicate a harmony of opposites, at all levelsof being and self, a balance of the archetypal union ofmale and female. A union with someone is indicated;

perhaps a choice needs to be made. If you do not have apartner, the card is symbolic of your own inner struggles,

so use your intuition to realise your needs.

LEO23 July ~ 22 August

Great opportunities arise as you explore yourpotential, and create the necessary

environment that best serves your endeavors.The Ace Of Swords helps you align with your

higher purpose, and your inner drive will leadto great success.

VIRGO23 August ~ 22 September

The Ten of Pentacles indicates financial stability andpossibly a good amount of wealth and prosperity. It is

an excellent card for business endeavours and landtransactions. With regard to family and relationships

this card indicates strong family ties, a family reunion orjust the pleasures of a family outing.

GEMINI21 May ~ 20 June

The Wheel of Fortune indicates a sense of greatcompleteness and harmony. You experiencecompleteness and the future holds much promise.Fate spins off in new directions and presents newopportunities for those are resourceful. This is apromising time, since efforts and work done in the lasttwo years will all bear fruition this year.

LIBRA23 September ~ 22 October

The Moon casts experiences in a differentlight, making things appear differently fromwhat they actually are. Not only does the cardindicate duality, it also shows an indulgencein fantasies, losing direction and havingunrealistic ideas.

SCORPIO23 October ~ 21 November

This is the card of a person in possession of logic,power and authority. The Emperor brings you thecapacity to accomplish what you want and allows youto relax and enjoy these accomplishments. You will beable to successfully wield your own power, attractingprosperity, balance and security.

SAGITTARIUS22 November ~ 21 December


Documents

Life Style Living November Issue