LUXURY Holidays & Coprorate Travel Issue 27 Spring/Summer 2015

1 1Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.

N E W Z E A L A N D ’ S O N L Y D E D I C A T E D L U X U R Y T R A V E L M A G A Z I N E

RRP NZ$19.95 / AU$17.95 incl gst

LUXURYHOLIDAYS & CORPORATE TRAVEL

Issue 27 Spring/Summer 2015

A TASTE OF ISTANBUL

Set off into a back-street tour of this dynamic city

TAHITI CRUISING In 3 distinctly different ways

WHITE SAND WHITE WEDDING

Tying the knot in Fiji

KAREN WALKER searches for a new fragrance

and finds La Colombe d'Or

MARRAKESHVibrantly colourful

RetreatsEuropean

Top

alpinealpine

2 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 3Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.

Call us on 0800 729 254 or visit bnz.co.nz/smallbusiness to find out more.

BNZ EdgePayroll1 allows you to process your payroll in one click

Affordable utilisation fee - if you don’t use it, you don’t pay. One off set up fees apply

Secure, cloud-based system which can be integrated with Xero

Suitable for sole traders, partnerships and companies with up to 20 employees

No letter of credit required to make payments each month

Never worry about late payment penalties - EdgePayroll is a PAYE intermediary

Full support available from a New Zealand-based help desk

Improve your cashflow and stop chasing payments with PayClip®

BNZ PayClip2 is a mobile payment solution

that lets you take payments on the spot from

Eftpos, Visa and MasterCard credit and debit

cards with your smartphone.

It’s portable, direct and cashless so you

can get paid where you do the work.

Save time and money with NZ’s Best Small Business Bank*.

* Best Small Business Bank Award independently rated and awarded by Canstar 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.1. EdgePayroll is provided by Datacom Employer Services Limited (Datacom) for BNZ customers. The

use of EdgePayroll will result in a direct relationship with yourself and Datacom. BNZ will receive a commission from Datacom for referring you. Terms apply. BNZ Business transactional account required.

2. Subject to credit criteria, merchant services terms and BNZ transactional account. Data connection needed. Compatible with most Apple and Android devices. Terms and fees apply. iPhone and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.BN

ZS 6

457

6457 EdgePayroll Luxury Mag DPS Ad 4.0.indd 1 12/11/15 1:12 pm


Call us on 0800 729 254 or visit bnz.co.nz/smallbusiness to find out more.

BNZ EdgePayroll1 allows you to process your payroll in one click

Affordable utilisation fee - if you don’t use it, you don’t pay. One off set up fees apply

Secure, cloud-based system which can be integrated with Xero

Suitable for sole traders, partnerships and companies with up to 20 employees

No letter of credit required to make payments each month

Never worry about late payment penalties - EdgePayroll is a PAYE intermediary

Full support available from a New Zealand-based help desk

Improve your cashflow and stop chasing payments with PayClip®

BNZ PayClip2 is a mobile payment solution

that lets you take payments on the spot from

Eftpos, Visa and MasterCard credit and debit

cards with your smartphone.

It’s portable, direct and cashless so you

can get paid where you do the work.

Save time and money with NZ’s Best Small Business Bank*.

* Best Small Business Bank Award independently rated and awarded by Canstar 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.1. EdgePayroll is provided by Datacom Employer Services Limited (Datacom) for BNZ customers. The

use of EdgePayroll will result in a direct relationship with yourself and Datacom. BNZ will receive a commission from Datacom for referring you. Terms apply. BNZ Business transactional account required.

2. Subject to credit criteria, merchant services terms and BNZ transactional account. Data connection needed. Compatible with most Apple and Android devices. Terms and fees apply. iPhone and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.BN

ZS 6

457

6457 EdgePayroll Luxury Mag DPS Ad 4.0.indd 1 12/11/15 1:12 pm


As Summer draws near, many of us are looking

forward to long relaxed days at our favourite beach.

However, if you’re thinking about heading to the

Northern Hemisphere for a white Christmas then

our Top 5 European Ski Hotels will certainly get you

making plans for a luxury winter wonderland holiday.

Still in Europe, internationally renowned fashion

designer, Karen Walker writes about her stay at

La Colombe d’Or in picturesque Saint Paul-de-Vence,

France, while she methodically selected premium

scents for her perfume range.

Next, we visit the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul and immerse ourselves in the

sights and cuisine that this city is famous for. Brimming with choices, we soon

discover that we are only but touching the surface – this is a city that can be

re-visited time and time again.

We explore another colourful city this issue, Marrakesh, seeking out culturally

diverse experiences. Staying at the stunning Riad El Fenn, a welcome retreat after

the vigour and intensity of our days wandering the laneways and souks.

“...cruising the gorgeous archipelagos that make up French Polynesia is truly glorious.”

Everyone loves Tahiti and cruising the gorgeous archipelagos that make up

French Polynesia is truly glorious. We show you three different types of ships,

each with their own unique offering.

If you’re planning a tropical wedding in Fiji then review our story – White Sand

White Wedding. Each with their own point of difference, we highlight some of

the key properties that specialise in making your special day a treasured memory.

With Air New Zealand opening up flights to Houston in December, we showcase

the 4th largest city in the USA and its surrounds including state capital, Austin

and historical San Antonio.

Our last notable experience – an opera dinner set in a restored monastery in

South America’s Cusco, followed by a breathtaking train journey on the splendid

Andean Explorer to the shores of Lake Titicaca. What more can I say?

So, enjoy the read and I invite you to email me about your favourite travel

experiences to [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you.

Keep relishing in what the wonderful world of travel has to offer.


N E W Z E A L A N D ’ S O N L Y D E D I C A T E D L U X U R Y T R A V E L M A G A Z I N E

RRP NZ$19.95 / AU$17.95 incl gst


Issue 27 Spring/Summer 2015

A TASTE OF ISTANBUL

Set off into a back-street tour of this dynamic city

TAHITI CRUISING In 3 distinctly different ways

WHITE SAND, WHITE WEDDING

Tying the knot in Fiji

KAREN WALKER searches for a new fragrance

and finds La Colombe d'Or

MARRAKESHVibrantly colourful

RetreatsEuropean

Top

alpinealpine

Editor’s Letter

LUXURY Holidays & Corporate Travel

Publisher:

Travel Publications Limited

Editorial Director:

Philip Harrison Phone: +64 21 477 514 Email: [email protected]

Editor:

Melanie Hawkins Phone: +64 21 557 579 Email: [email protected]

Features & Advertising Enquiries:

Janice Burmaz Phone: +64 21 630 257 Email: [email protected]

Contributors:

Philip Tetley-Jones Janice Burmaz Stuart Walker Jackie O’Fee Toni Gillan Tim Lamb Karen Walker Fergus Clark Elena Mironova Renee Lamb Creative Director:

James Rangihika

Designer:

Erin Clarke

Contact Details:

PO Box 559, Shortland Street, Auckland 1140, New Zealand Phone: 0800 758 759 Website: www.luxurymagazine.co.nz

ISSN: 1178-2382

Our preferred retail travel partner is United Travel. www.unitedtravel.co.nz

Although we endeavour to provide the highest level of quality in our content, the views and opinions contained within this magazine have been obtained from independent sources, and Travel Publications Limited explicitly disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, content or availability of the information.

Digital version available from www.zinio.co.nz

Melanie Hawkins

Editor, LUXURY Holidays & Corporate Travel

Congratulations to Catherine Aitken, the lucky winner

of a bottle of Prodige des Océans by Thalgo. Enjoy!


www.koreanair.com

[email protected]

6 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 7Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.fiji.travel

In Fiji, luxury is often found where other travellers aren’t, along with world-class accommodation and cuisine, stunning

natural beauty, and unwavering happiness. The only thing that is missing is you. Find out more at www.fiji.travel

If heaven is on the left,

Fiji is on the right.

TFJ0395 Luxury Magazine_215x297_V4.indd 1 25/03/15 5:06 PM


Cover Story

27 Top 5 European Alpine Retreats

Features20 A Taste of Istanbul

35 Mahana – Luxury in the best possible taste

38 Tahiti Cruising

45 Spicers Retreats – From urban sanctuary to luxury gourmet heaven

48 White Sand, White Wedding

54 Vomo Island Resort – The ultimate pampering experience at the Spa

56 Sweetness of La Colombe d'Or

59 New Zealand Fashion Week 2016

72 Opera Dinner at the Monasterio

75 Cusco to Puno on the Andean Explorer

78 Vibrantly Colourful Marrakesh

87 Hot in Houston

In Every Issue8 Review

10 Luxury Preview

84 Style File

92 Travel Accessories

Property Reviews24 W Hotel, Istanbul

43 QT Hotel, Sydney

63 Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

69 Grand Hyatt, Incheon

90 Hotel Vitale, San Francisco

Airline Features60 Singapore Airlines Business Class

66 Korean Air – Bringing the state-of-the-art Boeing 747-800i to Auckland

68

69

35

27

31

43

78


Review: Spring/Summer 2015

White Turf, SwitzerlandThis unique and exclusive event is

where race-horse owners, trainers and

jockeys from all over the world meet

for a dynamic gathering of exhilarating

horse-racing, gourmet cuisine, lively

music and aspirational art exhibitions.

It’s all set on a frozen lake among the

majestically beautiful, snow-capped

mountains of St. Moritz.

7, 14, 21 February 2016

www.whiteturf.ch

New York Fashion Week, New YorkThis high-profile, high-energy event is the epitome for designers, buyers and ‘fashionistas’ alike. One of the ‘Big Four’ when it comes to showcasing fashion, be prepared to be ‘wowed’ with the cutting-edge examples of new season’s trends.

11-18 February 2016 www.nyfw.com

Barcelona Carnival, SpainA time of great joy and high spirits, this carnival is a fiesta of colourful events and spectacles, culminating with the Grand Parade. More than 2,000 people and around 60 wagons participate in the procession as it runs about 2km along the Avinguda del Paral·lel, one of Barcelona’s main streets.

4-10 February 2016 www.barcelona.de/en/barcelona-carnival

Meditation on the Mekong, LaosBringing Buddhism to life, this one-

of-a-kind experience in Laos can be

experienced with Belmond La Résidence

Phou Vao in Luang Prabang. Former

Buddhist Monk Ajanh Souk, from Your

Mind Retreat leads seated meditations

at selected small temples along the

Mekong River. Guests will also engage

in ‘walking meditation’, believed to build

concentration and invigorate the senses.

Year-round

www.belmond.com

Image: swiss-image.ch/Andy Mettler

Check out these great events happening over the next few months. Ranging from photography and fashion to some of the biggest international events of the year, you’re sure to find something here of interest.

Maui Photo Expedition, Hawai’iOpen to photography enthusiasts at all skill levels, join acclaimed photographers, Robert Caplin (New York) and Peter Lockley (Denver) on an amazing photographic adventure. The expedition includes workshops, on-location shoots, demonstrations, group editing, critique sessions and a gallery showing. The Four Seasons Resort Maui hosts the event as part of its Unforgettable Series and is the luxurious home base for accommodation and amenities.

14-19 June 2016 www.mauiworkshop.com

Image: Four Seasons Resort Maui


tahiti

siapremiumeconomy.com


Luxury Preview

LAN ramps up capacity on the Auckland to Santiago route

LAN Airlines has added the newest

Boeing 787-9 aircraft to its schedule

on the trans-Pacific route between

Auckland and Santiago, Chile, the

gateway to South America. The 787-9

model replaces the 787-8, bringing

with it more capacity and services to

transport 27 per cent more passengers

between the two regions.

Furthermore, it can travel longer

distances without stopping while

delivering the same environmental

efficiency as the previous model. The

787 family consumes up to 20% less

fuel than other similar aircraft, reducing

CO2 emissions by 20%.

Travellers will appreciate the visionary

design, which offers the best in

comfort. Other features include

larger windows and bigger overhead

compartments. Premium Business Class

provides fully flat seats that recline 180

degrees and include a lumbar massage

system to further increase passenger

relaxation. Perfect for long-haul flights,

so you arrive in South America ready to

make the most of your holiday.

www.lan.com

Adventure and luxury just 45-minutes from AucklandKauri Bay Boomrock is Auckland’s new premier venue for thrill-seekers and luxury-lovers.

Located 45-minutes by road or 12-minutes by air from central Auckland, this purpose-built

entertainment facility sits within 500-acres of private farmland with spectacular coastal

views across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island and the Coromandel Peninsula.

Stage one of the development, known as The Bunkers, hosts claybird shoots, catering to

expert and amateur enthusiasts for business, international and private groups. Archery,

knife-throwing, extreme golf, 4WD and digger driving, or flying a helicopter can also be

tailored into unique experience packages. The Bunkers setting can host up to 75 guests.

After an adrenaline-filled day, relax at The Lodge. Perfect for corporate events, weddings,

product launches and private parties, The Lodge can host up to 250 guests in a warm

and relaxed setting. The array of activities, plus the attention to detail, will undoubtedly

put Kauri Bay Boomrock at the forefront of entertainment experiences in Auckland.

www.kauribayboomrock.co.nz


Luxury Preview

The St. Regis Macao rolls out the red carpet December 2015 sees the arrival of a very stylish newcomer to the Macau scene. Conveniently

located along the vibrant Cotai Strip, which offers easy access to over 650 retail outlets,

hundreds of dining options and a diverse range of world-class entertainment, the St.

Regis Macao Cotai Central is poised to become the most coveted address in the popular

tourist destination.

There will be 400 exquisitely styled and lavishly appointed guestrooms and suites ranging

from 53sqm to 477sqm. Guests will enjoy the signature St. Regis Butler Service for every

guestroom and suite, a first for any hotel in Macau. This 24-hour anticipatory service will

customise each guest’s stay to his or her specific needs, tastes and preferences.

We particularly like the sound of the Iridium Spa, located on the 38th floor with views

over the Cotai Strip. The expansive outdoor pool with a substantial 2,457sqm of deck

space, will feature private cabanas and an idyllic oasis in the bustling centre of the city.

www.stregis.com/macao

Noma puts Australia on a plate

René Redzepi, one of the world's best-

known and most respected chefs, will

close Noma Copenhagen and bring his

entire team to a temporary home in

Sydney's new harbour-side Barangaroo

development with the support of

Tourism Australia. Noma Australia will

showcase the country's extraordinary

produce as seen through Redzepi's eyes.

The Noma Australia residency will run

for 10 weeks from 26 January until

2 April 2016, serving lunch and dinner

from Tuesday to Saturday. The menu

will cost AUD$485 per person (plus

1.65% CC fee). The beverage offerings

at Noma Australia will include an all-

Australian wine pairing or non-alcoholic

pairing, and short global wine list.

So what culinary delights can diners

look forward to? René and his chefs

have been scouring Australia to find the

best – and most interesting – produce.

From native fruits in South Australia

to seafood in Victoria and seaweed in

Tasmania, the Noma team have put

together a truly inspiring menu.

www.noma.dk/australia

Image: Eamon Gallagher


Sheraton brings world-class luxury to Samoa The iconic Sheraton brand has made its debut in Samoa with the opening of Sheraton

Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort following a comprehensive multi-million dollar conversion.

Owned by the Grey family, the property is the first internationally branded resort to come

to Samoa.

Nestled on the west coast of Upolu, Samoa’s most populous island, the Resort is just a

five-minute drive from Faleolo International Airport. Surrounded by natural beauty, the

beachfront property is situated along a gorgeous white-sand beach. You can snorkel or

dive at one of Upolu’s striking dive spots, charter a boat and spend the day fishing, swim

with turtles or partake in the numerous water sports the hotel offers. Guests can also take

a stroll in one of Samoa’s lush national parks or visit the spectacular waterfalls, blowholes,

caves or lava fields nearby.

The resort boasts 133 luxury guest rooms, all with their own ground-floor patio or first-floor

balcony, allowing stunning vistas of the Pacific. Guests will enjoy delicious flavours from

around the South Pacific and experience the region’s culinary talents at the Resort’s five bars

and restaurants. Cultural entertainers and fire dancers will create the ultimate, unforgettable

Samoan experience. www.sheratonsamoaaggiegreysresort.com

Epic evening at Four Seasons MauiFour Seasons Resort Maui is elevating their already popular 'Ultimate Dinner' to a new level.

Guests can now enjoy a private and customised five-star meal prepared by the resort’s

top chefs, set by the famed Serenity Pool, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and possibly

witnessing majestic humpback whales (December - May).

After dinner, float weightlessly in one of two elegant saltwater pools, complete with

underwater music. This is that epic evening, the snapshot in time, the indelible moment

that will be ingrained forever in the minds of those who stay. The Serenity Pool is available

from dusk to dawn for a truly enchanted evening where no two experiences will ever be

the same. www.fourseasons.com/maui

Luxury Preview

Welcome back, United!

A famous name in aviation is returning

to New Zealand. In July 2016, United

Airlines will start a new San Francisco

to Auckland service, using its Boeing

787 Dreamliners.

The new service will operate from

the airline’s main West Coast hub.

It will connect with 280 daily flights

between San Francisco and more than

90 destinations in North America, Latin

America, Europe and Asia / Pacific. It

adds a convenient, one-stop service

between Auckland and more than

44 cities in the United States, including

more than 40 cities that do not already

have a single-carrier, one-stop service

to Auckland.

With more New Zealanders flying to the

USA via San Francisco, it’s great to have

more capacity and options on the route.

www.united.com

Air Tahiti Nui orders Dreamliners

French Polynesia’s flag carrier is adding

two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to its

fleet. The new Boeing 787-9 aircraft

are planned for delivery in 2018,

coinciding with the company’s 20th

anniversary celebrations.

With the fuselage stretched by six

metres over the 787-8, the 787-9 will

carry more passengers and more cargo

further with the same exceptional

environmental performance. The 787-9

also includes traveller-friendly features

such as large windows, large overhead

lockers, modern LED lighting, higher

humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner

air and a smoother ride.

www.airtahitinui.com/nz-en

12 13Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.mahana.nz www.mahanavilla.com


Luxury Preview

The Dawn of a new Rolls-Royce

Many automotive brands would like

to claim the mantle of luxury; only

one can truly own it. That brand is,

of course, Rolls-Royce.

A new beginning for Rolls-Royce in

1952, the original Silver Dawn was the

first Rolls-Royce to be offered with

a factory-built body. However, the

drophead Rolls-Royces that carried

the name Silver Dawn continued to be

coach-built for individual customers,

ensuring their uniqueness and rarity.

Rolls-Royce’s new Dawn has taken

inspiration from the original Silver

Dawn, while delivering a world first

in super-luxury motoring. It’s a cool,

contemporary interpretation of what a

super-luxury four-seater convertible car

should be – rare, refined and social.

Much like the 1952 Silver Dawn

drophead, the new Rolls-Royce Dawn

stands apart from its stable mates,

featuring 80% unique body panels.

Even the tyres that connect the new

Rolls-Royce Dawn to the roads it

will glide over have been specially

developed to deliver the pinnacle

‘magic carpet’ ride expected of

every Rolls-Royce.

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

The Langham Hong Kong celebrates Forbes 5-star ratingThe Langham Hong Kong has just been recognised as one of the top 115 hotels in the

world, and one of only eight properties in Hong Kong to earn the prestigious Forbes

5-Star rating.

This news comes in the wake of the extensive US$30 million refurbishment, where the

focus was on luxury detailing within ‘elegant residential experiences’. The renovation

included the guest rooms and suites, as well as public areas like the glamorous cocktail

bar, the Artesian.

Other features include dedicated Guest Experience Managers that have been assigned to

each floor, and signature Service Stylists ensuring a luxury bespoke experience for every

guest. This certainly shows a dedication to luxury on every level.

Closer to home, the Langham Auckland is celebrating a refurbishment of its meeting

rooms. The Crystal Room is a stunning new venue that can accommodate up to 180 guests,

making it an excellent wedding venue and breakout space for exhibitions and conferences.

Four new sparkling crystal chandeliers bring a sense of indulgence to the lighting in the

room, which can be controlled in sections. Crystal’s guests can also enjoy an exclusive

private foyer without needing to leave the venue.

Four new Gallery Rooms have also officially opened their doors on the site of the old

SPE (Some Place Else) bar following an increase in demand for more meeting rooms to

support large events in The Great Room – still the largest pillar-less ballroom of any hotel

in Auckland, seating 900 for dinner or 1,400 for cocktails. www.langhamhotels.com

Unique

The Warm Heart Of Fiji.

For reservations and information visit www.likulikulagoon.com or Telephone +(679) 672 0978 Email: [email protected]

Stay 7 nights and receive free helicopter or private speedboat transfers* . Or between November and March, stay 5 nights and receive a sixth night FREE. Prices from NZ $630pp* per night including all meals.* Conditions apply. Approx rates only – check daily FOREX rates.

AHU

457/

1-LH

Fiji’s unique multi award-winningluxury resort for couples only.


Unique

The Warm Heart Of Fiji.

For reservations and information visit www.likulikulagoon.com or Telephone +(679) 672 0978 Email: [email protected]

Stay 7 nights and receive free helicopter or private speedboat transfers* . Or between November and March, stay 5 nights and receive a sixth night FREE. Prices from NZ $630pp* per night including all meals.* Conditions apply. Approx rates only – check daily FOREX rates.

AHU

457/

1-LH

Fiji’s unique multi award-winningluxury resort for couples only.


Luxury Preview

What delectable secrets will you find in Sofitel’s Cellar?

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour has

unveiled its new venue – a French-

inspired wine cellar, complete with

beautiful antique décor and a unique

gastronomic concept. This intimate

setting provides the perfect stage to

experience ‘Le Rituel du Vin.’ So what

does that involve?

In collaboration with acclaimed

wineries, the Cellar features a

handpicked ‘library’ of top New Zealand

and French wines to suit every palate.

Pair these with charcuterie boards

and cheese platters, and you have

a very special celebration of the good

things in life.

You could be transported through

France’s wine regions on Sofitel’s

signature wine flight, sample the finest

Champagnes or delve into Central

Otago Pinot Noir.

Keep the Cellar in mind for private

dining, interactive team-building or

corporate dinners. Tap Sofitel’s expertise

to pair up wine and cheese, or host

an exclusive Winemaker’s Dinner with

input from a premium winemaker.

Think bespoke menus, matched wines

and an altogether delightful gourmet

experience. Bon Appetit!

www.sofitel-auckland.com

Is this the most luxurious ship ever built? We can’t make a definitive ruling on that – the competition is too tough. But there’s no

doubt the new Seven Seas Explorer will offer a seriously lavish experience.

At 56,000 gross-registered tons and carrying only 750 guests, Seven Seas Explorer will

boast one of the highest space ratios in the cruise industry, plus an exceptionally high

staff-to-guest ratio. This alone should place the new cruise ship in a class of its own, but

the Regent Seven Seas Cruises team have another trick up their sleeves.

Situated on deck 5, the Canyon Ranch SpaClub will offer a range of treatments developed

in partnership with lifestyle and beauty experts Red Flower. The goal is to provide guests

with a luxurious retreat and the finest array of treatments you can imagine.

The reception area is decorated with crisscrossing light-grained wooden bands that evoke

the silk wrappings woven into a chrysalis. Decorative light fixtures cast small twinkling

lights off an abstract Swarovski crystal sculpture, forming dappled reflections on the

marble floor to evoke an aura of woodland twilight.

After a luxurious treatment, guests migrate to a thermal suite where a variety of hot-to-cold

experiences await. A state-of-the-art infrared sauna soothes muscles more deeply than

traditional steam saunas. In the soothing shower room, guests can choose from a menu

of preset shower treatments with various distributions of water flow, chroma-therapeutic

lighting and audio effects that mimic natural sounds such as thunderstorms or waterfalls.

Part of the spa, but located on a private outdoor deck, is an inviting teak-deck terrace filled

with plush, partially covered lounge chairs that surround an infinity-edge plunge pool.

The pool serves as a dramatic focal point as it contours to the stern of the ship. You’ll be

treated to incredible views across the sea to the horizon as you soak in the therapeutic

waters of the pool. Seven Seas Explorer’s 2016 Inaugural Season is now open for bookings.

www.RSSC.com


Luxury Preview

Ultra-premium Aman to open a second Japanese resortAman is preparing to open the doors of its second Japanese property. Appropriately

for the tradition-rich Land of the Rising Sun, the new resort will be Aman’s first hot

spring resort.

Celebrating Japan’s ancient onsen (mineral hot spring) tradition, Amanemu is perched

on the shores of Ago Bay, otherwise known as the ‘Bay of Pearls’. It will present 24 suites

and four two-bedroom villas as well as a lap pool, restaurant and lounge.

Suites of elegant simplicity will flow onto spacious terraces with tranquil views of Ago

Bay, its islands and pearl rafts floating on the calm sea. Each suite will have its own private

onsen facilities, while the Aman Spa will offer two expansive onsen bathing pavilions as

well as a watsu pool, four treatment suites, a gym and yoga studio.

Amanemu, situated at the tip of the Osaki Peninsula, is surrounded by a saw-toothed

coastline, in a region renowned for its cultured pearls and abundant seafood, not to

mention the acclaimed Matsusaka variety of Japanese Waygu. The resort’s restaurant,

serving Japanese cuisine, will celebrate the area’s gourmet heritage, as it was once known

as the breadbasket of the ancient Imperial Court. www.aman.com/resorts/amanemu

A tasteful exploration of the Med with Viking CruisesIf you’ve seen the BBC series, Rick Stein: From Venice to Istanbul, you will know how much

wonderful food can be found in the countries that border the Mediterranean. Rick was

hosted by Viking Cruises on his seaborne, culinary tour – and now you can follow in his wake.

Stopping at destinations from Italy to Turkey, Rick whipped up gastronomic wonders inspired

by the local destinations and created from local produce. In their 10-day Empires of the

Mediterranean cruise, Viking will take guests to eight legendary destinations throughout the

Eastern Mediterranean.

Each day and night has been designed to bring guests the riches of this fabled region, from

destination-focused Mediterranean cuisine to unforgettable excursions to Roman outposts.

Venice, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Athens, Ephesus and Istanbul are all part of the itinerary,

with ample opportunities to experience the local culture – not to mention, the cuisine.

www.vikingcruises.com/oceans

The St. Regis brand makes a regal entrance to India

Starwood’s ultra-luxury brand has

introduced its signature Butler Service

and refined elegance to India’s financial,

commercial and entertainment capital.

Poised to become the best address,

the St. Regis Mumbai is located in

Lower Parel, one of the city’s most

desirable districts. The hotel provides

easy access to the commercial centres

including the Bandra Kurla Complex and

Nariman Point, as well as to the airport.

The hotel’s design captures an urban

aristocratic style, complemented

by warm tones and specially

commissioned artwork that lends an

elegant and stylish touch to the guest

rooms and public spaces. Residing in

India’s tallest hotel tower, the St. Regis

Mumbai offers panoramic views of the

bustling metropolis.

The hotel includes 386 well-appointed

guest rooms including 27 suites and,

for extended stays, the property’s 33

residential suites feature a spacious

living room, fully-equipped kitchen and

the option of one or two bedrooms.

“The introduction of the St. Regis to

India marks a significant milestone for

the brand’s expansion in South Asia,”

says Dilip Puri, Managing Director India

and Regional Vice President South Asia,

Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

www.stregismumbai.com


Luxury Preview

Waikiki apartment sized suites come up trumps One of the newer properties in Hawaii’s most prestigious location is also one of its

most luxurious. The Trump International Hotel & Tower Waikiki Beach Walk (to give its

impressively full name) is located just steps away from the famous white sands of Waikiki

Beach and the new Waikiki Beach Walk that’s packed with exclusive boutiques and

world-class restaurants.

You’d expect a hotel bearing the Trump name to provide a luxury experience at the upper

edge of premium. That’s certainly true – but don’t make the error of thinking this excludes

families. Soaring 38 stories high, the Trump International is a brilliant choice for a family

group that’s looking to enjoy all Waikiki has to offer.

The suites could more accurately be described as apartments. They’re spacious and ideal

for couples and family groups that want to stretch out and enjoy a taste of luxury. The one-

bedroom suites are a generous 104 square metres while the two-bedroom suites come in

at 150 square metres. These are colossal by Waikiki standards, and up to double the size of

suites offered by some famous hotels in the vicinity. If you’re travelling as a family or group

of friends, these multi-room suites can provide seriously good value for the standard of

accommodation on offer.

The location is a winner with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean beyond Fort DeRussy

Park to Diamond Head. You’re also just a short walk from one of our favourite breakfast

spots, Bills. With its sophisticated accommodations, white glove service and the best Mai

tai in the islands, the Trump International is a fantastic option for that Hawaiian getaway

you’ve been promising yourself.

Make sure you book well in advance. The No.1 rating on TripAdvisor means the secret is

well and truly out. This Waikiki luxury property has quickly become one of its most popular.

www.trumphotelcollection.com/waikiki

Classical modernism in Athens

The latest addition to the Athens

hospitality landscape is AthensWas.

The hotel takes mid-century flair and

spins it with ancient Greek forms

and architecture. Designer Stavros

Papayiannis, has created a hotel that

artfully references the city’s rich past

while capturing the zeitgeist of the

modern day capital, all within the

foothills of the iconic Acropolis.

Inspired by the classic modernism

movement that gripped Athens from

the 1950s to 70s, AthensWas emerges

as a fresh celebration of Greek design.

The glossy surfaces of locally sourced

marble and walnut dominate the cool

design tone of the 21-room hotel,

which is defined by light-filled spaces

and the imaginative use of glass walls.

Furniture by modern masters such as Le

Corbusier and Ettore Sottsass is dotted

around guest areas, making the hotel

a design destination in its own right in

a city brimming with cultural hotspots.

Unbeatable views are found at the

rooftop restaurant and bar on the

hotel’s sixth floor. From this vantage

point, drinks and dinner are served

against a backdrop of the Acropolis,

Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus

and the old Olympic stadium, as well

as the larger cityscape.

www.athenswas.gr

Images courtesy of Design Hotels™

to book or for further information: www.yasawa.com | [email protected] | phone 679-672-2266

For the perfect getaway with the one you love, plan your island escape to Fiji.

Yasawa Island Resort offers couples the most idyllic, romantic and serene piece of paradise to spend time enjoying each other’s company in a stunning setting with all inclusive meals, non-alcoholic beverages, all scheduled motorised and non-motorised activities, trips and tours (excluding diving, fishing & spa)

A honeymoon, vow renewal or long overdue getaway at Yasawa is yours to create – and we are here to make it as personal, unique or elaborate as you are!

*Ultimate Spa Bonus package entitles you to a 50-minute treatment for each night of your stay.

For theultimate indulgence

book theUltimate SpaBonus Package*One time price off

$370 NZD(plus tax).

Just you. Just me....and this view!

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Yasawa_LuxuryHolidaysMag.pdf 1 20/10/2015 3:42 pm


to book or for further information: www.yasawa.com | [email protected] | phone 679-672-2266

For the perfect getaway with the one you love, plan your island escape to Fiji.

Yasawa Island Resort offers couples the most idyllic, romantic and serene piece of paradise to spend time enjoying each other’s company in a stunning setting with all inclusive meals, non-alcoholic beverages, all scheduled motorised and non-motorised activities, trips and tours (excluding diving, fishing & spa)

A honeymoon, vow renewal or long overdue getaway at Yasawa is yours to create – and we are here to make it as personal, unique or elaborate as you are!

*Ultimate Spa Bonus package entitles you to a 50-minute treatment for each night of your stay.

For theultimate indulgence

book theUltimate SpaBonus Package*One time price off

$370 NZD(plus tax).

Just you. Just me....and this view!

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Yasawa_LuxuryHolidaysMag.pdf 1 20/10/2015 3:42 pm


Arriving into Istanbul by ship was quite glorious. The city’s

buildings were bathed in a soft pink light as the sun began its

ascent. The early morning sounds and smells wafted across

the Bosphorus. We pinched ourselves – before our eyes was

Istanbul – a name associated with so many things from food

to architecture – we were excitedly poised and ready to be

introduced to some of the city’s best kept secrets.

Istanbul is unique in that it straddles both Europe and Asia across the

body of water called the Bosphorus. Located on the historic Silk Road

and the only route by sea from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean,

the Old City is steeped in trading history from bygone eras.

A city pushed and pulled by its rulers, it has been known by many

names. The most notable include Byzantium by the Greeks, then

Constantinople by the Romans before becoming officially Istanbul by

the Ottomans in the mid 14th century. The influences of the many

empires that once ruled here are still significantly evident even in its

modern state. That’s partly what makes Istanbul so alive and interesting.

Even before we arrived, we knew that we wanted to get a real sense

of the food. Our research lead us to discover a company called Culinary

Backstreets, offering intimate walking tours in different parts of the

city. The name piqued our interest further and we booked ourselves on

a “Culinary Secrets of the Old City” tour. The experience with Adam,

our guide that day was superb. The first stop on our tour was down

an alleyway outside a shop that serves steaming Turkish tea, on order,

to neighbouring shopkeepers. Laid out for us was the most delicious

Turkish breakfast. We dipped into pastane simit (a ring shaped savoury

bread covered in sesame seeds– crispy on the outside but so soft on

the inside), a variety of cheeses (including kaymak, which can only be

described as ‘dreamy’ – a delicious milk cheese similar to clotted cream

and scented with honey), plump olives, marinated Rosemary and a spicy

tomato-based paste. A fantastic way to set the scene for what we were

about to experience, but leaving us worried as to whether we had over

indulged, it was that good.

I tanbula ta te ofs

s


Photography: James Rangihika



We wandered through a Spice Market –

a visual and aromatic feast – noticing the

quality, quantity and uniqueness of many

of the ingredients on offer. We passed

a coffee roasting shop, where a line of

young men worked in unison prepping

and bagging the beans for sale; through

an area where all the cooking utensils

imaginable were on display for purchase,

then stopping at a pide stall. The owner

made the process of making this narrow

style of pizza with fillings like lamb mince

and freshly cracked egg, encased by a

thick crust look so easy – the result was

nothing short of flavoursome.

We carried on, taking in all the sights,

smells and sounds as street vendors

cooked their specialties and store owners

sold their wares.

There were many more tastings – to name

just a few – mercimek çorbasi (a hearty

yet smooth, traditional red lentil soup),

a selection of baklava (the melt-in-your-

mouth kind that can only be found in

Istanbul), boza from Vefa Bozacisi (a

fermented millet drink that tastes a bit

like apple pudding laced with cinnamon),

a variety of kebap with the most unusual

being kokoreç (made from goat or

sheep innards, chopped tomatoes, green

capsicums and lots of spices) and perde

pilav (rice, currants, almonds and

chicken cooked and enclosed within

a pastry dough).

Search on the Internet for top ten

things to do in Istanbul and there is

no shortage. The old city is amass with

historical relevance like Hagia Sophia

(a former Church then a Mosque and

now a museum), Sultan Ahmed Mosque

(identified by its six minarets and also

known as the Blue Mosque due to the

predominance of blue tiles adorning

its interior walls), Topkapi Palace (the

residence of the Ottoman Sultans for

almost 400 years and which also includes

an extensive harem) and of course the

Grand Bazaar. These are all a must to

visit, however if you have time to spare

then Istanbul has so much more just

waiting to be found. Wander the streets

in the Sultanamet district and you’ll

discover trinket shops, less touristy yet

still as beautiful mosques and smaller

bazaars (always next to a mosque). If you

have a sweet tooth then it will be hard to

walk past the numerous delectable sweet

shops seducing you inside.

Less known about and close to the

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia is the

Basilica Cistern. Lying beneath the city,

this ancient underground water-holding

chamber is tranquil and quite beautiful

with giant repurposed Medusa heads at

the base of two columns in the northwest

corner – some mystery still surrounds

their origin.

Then for a real local experience, visit

one of the hamams (Turkish baths).

We ventured to Çemberlita Hamami.

Built in 1584, they open at 6am until

midnight every day. Designed by the

royal architect Sian, the building is

steeped in history and exudes an

atmosphere of another time. There

are separate male and female bathing

areas and friendly non-English speaking

attendants who usher you around. The

process is a little daunting at first but

once you relax and let the attendants

do their thing, you’ll be pleasantly

surprised at what a unique and cleansing

experience it is – no wonder the art of

bathing like this has been practiced for

hundreds of years.

Our days in Istanbul were none other

than intensely enjoyable and our minds

enriched forever. We certainly want

to return again as we felt we only but

touched the surface of what this bustling

and animated city has to offer.


The W Istanbul is situated in Besiktas, on

the European shore of the Bosphorus and

within the beautifully restored Akaretler

Row Houses. The buildings, originally built

nearly 140 years ago were to serve as

additional housing for Dolmabahçe Palace

staff. They were meticulously refurbished

in 2008 and have now become home

to galleries, design stores, jewellers,

classy bars and restaurants. The area has

become known as the ‘Soho’ district of

Istanbul. However, you don’t have to

venture too far before you find yourself

amidst a myriad of local shops – from

bakeries to clothing stores – if that is

what you’re after. The main access for

ferry and boat trips along the Bosphorus

is also very close.

With only 140 suites and guestrooms

ranging from a 30 square metre

Wonderful Room to the 170 square metre

Extreme Wow Suite, this hotel has a room

type for everyone. Our Marvelous Room

had the luxury of a large and comfortable

outdoor cabana. Just the spot to relax

and chill with a wine or two at the end

of the day before heading out for the

evening. Or perhaps to spend an entire

day of leisure, just reading and lazing the

hours away.

Ottoman inspired design features, plush

soft furnishings, W signature king-sized

bed and all the tech you need, including

your own Smart Phone to use during your

day. It’s even re-loaded with info on local

places to see, top shopping spots and

dining options, as well as offering free

local calls and unlimited 3G data.

The bathroom configuration is interesting

in that it is a series of separate rooms

to the left and right as you enter the

guestroom. This means there isn’t really

any private space for changing if that

is something you’re used to. Although,

this style is “Ottoman”, so fitting for

the destination.

The gleaming gold W on the pavement signifies our arrival at the

W Istanbul. An angular mirrored corridor leads to the reception,

and lobby lounge beyond. Already we are seeing and feeling things

that are signatures of Starwood’s W brand – the hip vibe, the bright

energy, the design features. We’re excited to be here.

IstanbulW Hotel


W Istanbul at a glance

Category: Boutique City Hotel.

Room Reviewed: Marvelous Room.

What’s great? The complimentary Smart

Phone – a real asset for navigating and

getting info when out sightseeing.

What’s not so great: There is no pool, which

would be welcome in the searing Turkish

heat, however the bartenders are eager to

make cool and refreshing cocktails.

Editor’s tip: The Marvelous Rooms on the

2nd floor each have their own private

outdoor cabana.

Rate: From NZ$495 per room per night for

a Marvelous Room.

Website: www.wistanbul.com.tr

Other features of this hotel include the

“Whatever Whenever®” service. We’ve

used this before – just press the button

on your phone and request or ask about

absolutely anything. The obliging staff

will just make it happen.

At the W Istanbul, you’re welcome to

bring your pet along for your stay – they

get special treatment and even a set of

personal amenities.

The W Lounge is a multi functional area

to be enjoyed both during the day and

in the evening. For breakfast, they serve

an interesting selection of both Western

and Turkish style. My preference was the

Turkish – traditional simit (like a chewy

sesame bagel), plump olives, a variety

of cheeses, rich red coloured tomatoes,

egg, cucumber and capsicum slices, fresh

mint and basil were the key elements –

accompanied by other fresh produce and

a daily changing sweet Turkish platter.

Eating like that was heavenly.

Later in the day and into the evening, DJ’s

fill the Lounge space with funky tunes,

creating an upbeat mood that continues

into the night. Perfect when arriving

back from dinner to have a drink before

venturing back to your guestroom.

The friendly staff, the vibe and the

location combine to make the W Istanbul

a fabulous base for exploring a part of

Istanbul that first-time visitors to the city

might not venture to.

This image: W Lounge Below: Leading Tunnel

Marvelous Room

Location

Room size

Room interior

Overall service level

Food & beverage

Business needs

Value for money

New-style chic in a vibrant city.

26 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 27Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. Gstaad Palace


5Our Top 5European Alpine Retreats

People have been taking Alpine holidays for hundreds of

years, and Alpine hotels have been catering to their needs

for almost as long. Unsurprisingly, there’s no shortage of

mountainside accommodation for those who value the

après-ski experience as much the skiing itself. But which hotel

should you book if you want a truly outstanding holiday?

Here are our top European picks.


Gstaad Palace Gstaad, SwitzerlandOne of Switzerland’s most prestigious

skiing destinations with more than

250-kilometres of slopes, Gstaad has long

been attracting royalty and celebrities.

There’s no shortage of luxury properties,

but Gstaad Palace is iconic. With its

fabulous turreted structure that rises from

the chalet-strewn landscape, this hotel

will give you the sensation of living in a

fairytale. The grandeur of the setting is

matched by the opulence of the facilities,

with no fewer than six restaurants

plus a nightclub. For a super-premium

experience, book one of the two Tower

Suites nestled in the hotel’s turrets, with

views to die for.

www.palace.ch

Aman Le Mélézin Courchevel, FranceOn the French side of the Alps you’ll

discover a different take on luxury.

Francophiles will love the sophisticated

décor and understated style of Aman

Le Mélézin’s chambers and suites. Cedar

panelled ceilings and walls create a cosy

ambience while large picture windows

frame some of the world’s most breath-

taking landscapes. The scenery is even

viewable from the bathtub in many suites

– a lovely, luxurious touch. Hardcore

ski fanatics will be pleased to learn that

Aman Le Mélézin is ideally positioned to

access 600 kilometres of groomed pistes

in the Trois Vallées.

www.aman.com


Aurelio Lech Lech am Arlberg, AustriaThe people behind Aurelio Lech in the

Austrian Alps have worked hard to create

an opulent package without losing the

charm of a boutique resort. There’s a spa

with aroma salt steam rooms and herbal

baths, a gourmet restaurant serving

seasonal delicacies such as lake trout

and fennel, and a 24-hour concierge on

call. All the guestrooms and suites are

individually designed and feature natural

fabrics and stylish wooden furniture. We

especially like the sound of their Alpine

Chalet with accommodation for up to 16

people. It could be the ultimate base for

your family or group holiday.

www.aureliolech.com

Clockwise from top left: Gstaad Palace; Gstaad Palace Tower Suite; Aurelio Lech;

Aurelio's Treasures; Aurelio's Licca Lounge; Aman Le Mélézin


The Alpina Gstaad Gstaad, SwitzerlandA jewel of the Swiss hotel industry, the Alpina Gstaad has been attracting outstanding

reviews since it opened in 2012. Complete with a Six Senses Spa, three innovative

restaurants, specialised detox programme, option to “Silent Stay” and private art

collection, there is more than just the expected. The 56 guestrooms and suites are

decorated with classically carved ceilings, Swiss farmhouse chests and decorative

accessories such as the traditional leather straps used to hold cowbells. The ultimate

suite experience has to be the 400 square metre duplex Panorama Suite, with its elegant

staircase leading to the suite’s top floor where you’ll discover a private spa, Jacuzzi, fitness

and massage area, plus a stunning vista of the snow-capped mountain peaks.

www.thealpinagstaad.ch

30 31Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. This image and bottom right: The Alpina Panorama Suite


This image: Wiesergut RestaurantBelow: Wiesergut's stunning mountain view


Wiesergut Hinterglemm, AustriaThis boutique property features

17 manor suites and seven garden

suites with direct access to the

skiing and hiking area of the

Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

Architecturally designed, glass

encased buildings are built around

a family-owned manor house

that dates back to 1350. The

result is an alpine sanctuary that

exudes warmth while integrating

seamlessly with the natural

surroundings. The textures of

untreated wood and weathered

leather evoke the a sense of

heritage while the clean lines

and light-filled design leave you

in doubt that this is 21st century

luxury at its finest. Not to mention

the views – they’re amazing.

www.wiesergut.com

Wiesergut Garden SuiteImages courtesy of Design Hotels™



mahanaLuxury in the best possible tasteNelson offers world-class produce and wines, plus

a marvellous natural setting in which to enjoy them.

In the last issue we introduced a luxury venue that

brings all these good things together and serves them

up amidst an internationally renowned art collection.


At Mahana in the Moutere Hills you’ll find

this nexus of good taste. Built around

a luxury lodge – Mahana Villa – the

property is part of the Small Luxury Hotels

group, which places it in very exclusive

company. There’s a well-established

vineyard on site, producing some of

New Zealand’s finest pinot noir,

sauvignon blanc, pinot gris and riesling

under the control of master winemaker

Michael Glover. The package is rounded

out with fine dining from the kitchen of

Executive Chef Jason Innes.

Michael Glover returned to Nelson

earlier this year after 20 years building

a reputation as one of Australia’s

top winemakers with such names

as Rothbury, Oakvale, Moorilla and

Bannockburn. He also spent time in

Europe, learning how the classic vintages

of Burgundy and Italy attain their special

character. According to Michael, it’s all

about the terroir.

This issue, we asked Michael and

Jason about the thinking behind this

sophisticated blend of hospitality.

“Styles can be copied and techniques

can be learned but the one thing that

can’t be copied is the parcel of fruit

that comes from a particular spot of

the vineyard,” Michael says.

The key to making wines in this unique

corner of the world is the Moutere clay

soils that enable vines to be dry-grown.

With no irrigation systems pampering

the grapes, what emerges is a pure

expression of the land. In addition, the

slopes and contours of the Moutere Hills

landscape lend themselves to a boutique

style of winemaking that’s closer to the

family-owned plots of Burgundy than

industrial-scale wine production.

This sustainable approach to winemaking

continues after harvesting, with all grapes

processed in Mahana’s winery that’s built

over four levels. The systems are gravity-

fed, enabling wines to be made without

electrically powered processes. Michael is

also a champion of the indigenous yeasts

that ferment in their own sweet time and

impart a unique character to the wine.

Michael Glover’s approach to winemaking

– which might be summarised as

sophisticated but organic – is similar to

the philosophy Jason Innes brings to

Mahana’s cuisine. As Executive Chef, Jason

caters for occasions ranging from intimate

dinners at the Villa to 200-seater events

in the Cellars. Whatever the setting, each

meal benefits from his determination to

showcase the local produce.

Jason is passionate about making the

most of Nelson’s bounty from the sea

and land. Fresh produce from Mahana’s

own gardens makes an appearance on

every menu, supplemented with seafood,

meat and artisan produce from the local

growers. It’s all about working with

the seasons and making the most of

what’s available, from plump Nelson

scallops to the freshest strawberries

you can imagine.

Drawing on 20 years’ professional

experience in some of New Zealand’s

top winery restaurants, Jason puts

together menus every day to tempt the

tastebuds of guests. Needless to say,

each dish is perfectly matched with

wines from the Mahana winery.

The final component of the Mahana

experience is art. The owner and Art

Curator, Glenn Schaeffer, has sprinkled

the grounds and buildings with priceless

pieces from some very big names.

Shane Cotton, Gordon Walters and

Milan Mrkusich will be familiar to fans

of New Zealand art, while artists such

as Jenny Holzer, Richard Long and

Yayoi Kusuma add a striking

international influence.

Feeding the soul – not to mention the

stomach and senses – is all part of the

service at one of New Zealand’s most

sophisticated luxury resorts.


Arrive by helicopter

With its own helipad, Mahana caters for airborne arrivals. It’s

a great way to see the locale for the first time, whether you’re

popping over from Wellington or touring the country in style.

Stage an amazing wedding or conference

More than just a boutique lodge, Mahana can cater for up to 200

guests at a wedding or business retreat. Many corporate clients

find the matchless beauty of the setting inspires fresh thinking.

Sample some very special wines

If you’re tired of generic wines, Michael Glover and his team

will introduce you to their intriguing versions of pinot noir and

sauvignon blanc, made organically and aged to perfection.

Create your own bespoke tour

The team at Mahana will arrange outings and experiences

that match your interests. Fly-fishing, heli-touring and

gourmet food tasting are just a few of the possibilities.

Eat and sleep in an art gallery

With iconic art works dotting the grounds and adorning

the walls, your stay will be artistic as well as hedonistic.

www.mahana.nz

5 unforgettable experiences at Mahana


The thing is, cruising the gorgeous archipelagos that make

up French Polynesia needn’t be a pastime restricted to

tycoons and lottery winners. These beautiful islands are

very accessible from New Zealand, and there are a growing

number of cruise lines offering very attractive packages. If

you long to see the sun set over Bora Bora or splash about

in crystal-clear lagoons, you may be surprised at how many

options there are.

As with other cruising holidays, practicality goes hand in

hand with luxury. You board the ship, unpack your gear

Cruising in Tahiti. Three words that promise a holiday like no other. Drop them into

the conversation, and wait for the envious remarks and heartfelt congratulations.

and make yourself at home in your cabin. For the next

week or so you’ll be taken to a succession of stunning

destinations, with no taxis or hotel check-in counters to

navigate. Your water-borne hotel has everything you need,

including fine dining and nightly entertainment. Every day

is different but nothing’s an effort.

We’ve surveyed the latest offerings from the cruise

companies that specialise in Tahiti. Here’s the pick of the

tropical bunch.


Paul Gauguin CruisesThe fine art of cruisingPaul Gauguin the artist found inspiration (and ended his days) in

French Polynesia. Paul Gauguin the cruise line is equally at home

in these parts. Their latest ship was specifically designed to sail

the shallow seas of Tahiti and other parts of Polynesia, visiting the

small ports that other ships can’t reach and providing a relaxing

home for its guests. With five-star service and a selection of

spacious suites and staterooms, this is a very engaging way to

discover the beauties of Tahiti and the surrounding islands.

While Paul Gauguin is built on more compact lines than some of

the gargantuan cruise ships that traverse the oceans, you won’t

be lacking in luxuries. This ship is equipped with an extensive

spa, onboard watersports marina and no fewer than three dining

facilities. With cruises ranging from seven to 14 days, you’ll be

surprised at how time flies. www.pgcruises.com

Getting there

The capital of French Polynesia, Papeete, is only

a short plane trip away so you can be cruising

the picturesque waters of the South Pacific in

no time. Most cruise lines depart from the main

island, soon after setting sail for the breathtakingly

beautiful Tuamotu atolls, the far-flung Marquesas

and the famed Society Island of Bora Bora.

As the international airline of Tahiti, Air Tahiti Nui

prides itself on sharing the beautiful and unique

attributes of the island nation’s culture, lifestyle

and people with each and every guest, seamlessly

blending the natural beauty of French Polynesia

with the warmth of the Tahitian people to offer

a memorable flight across the Pacific. Air Tahiti Nui

offers excellent connections between Auckland

and Tahiti, with three weekly flights year-round.

You’ll also be able to take advantage of their

excellent connections onward to Los Angeles

and France. But let’s not get too far ahead of

ourselves. Tahiti and the rest of French Polynesia is

waiting for you. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure

of cruising amongst these impossibly beautiful

tropical islands, you’ll find there’s a lot to keep

you there. Chances are, you won’t want to leave.


Windstar CruisesPowered by the trade windsPerhaps the most romantic way to discover French

Polynesia is aboard Windstar’s graceful sailing yacht.

A vessel like Wind Spirit is the ideal way to approach

Tahiti’s deserted motus and shallow lagoons, with its

billowing white sails and wide teak decks. The trade

winds fill your ship’s sails as you visit one legendary

island after another. Dive into warm lagoons, meander

through lush rainforests and encounter one of the

surviving heartlands of Polynesian culture.

The ships of the Windstar fleet are famous for their

atmosphere. There are hidden nooks for quiet

moments, so you can luxuriate on your own and

watch the island peaks rise above the horizon. All

staterooms come with ocean views, queen beds, flat-

screen TV and a Bose Sound Dock for your iPod. Other

onboard features include a spa, casino, lounge, library,

watersports platform, pool and hot tub.

www.windstarcruises.com

Aranui 5Cargo meets cruisingNostalgics pine for the glory days of sea travel when ships on a

regular circuit supplied isolated isles. Booking a cabin on one of these

workhorses offered a different type of cruise experience – one

where the rhythms of a cargo ship mingled with the happy chitchat

of holidaymakers.

Those days can be re-visited on the Aranui 5 – a cruise ship that also

serves as a cargo freighter linking the islands of French Polynesia.

With capacity for 254 passengers, the modern 126-metre long

Aranui 5 offers a range of stylish accommodation options, from single

staterooms to premium and deluxe categories. The ship dispenses a

lifeline of food, fuel and other staples to remote island ports while

passengers disembark and explore a range of complimentary excursions

including hikes, 4WD sightseeing tours to main archaeological sites

with lecturers, a visit to the Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel museum,

and a picnic on a secluded beach in Bora Bora. www.aranui.com

www.tahitinow.com

Phot

o: G

rego

ire

Le B

acon

Worlds away from what’s expected


www.tahitinow.com

Phot

o: G

rego

ire

Le B

acon

Worlds away from what’s expected


QT Sydney Lobby Furniture Wall


Located in the historic Gowings Department and State Theatre buildings, the

QT Sydney hotel street entrance is not particularly prominent except for the

presence of the friendly “Chaos Girls” who were waiting to greet us. Dressed in

striking costumes fit for a burlesque show, they guided us the short distance to

the elevators.

The ambience in the lobby immediately gives a feeling that you are stepping into

a world of indulgence. A world sitting adjacent to reality, where the symbolism

all around could materialise into actuality – if you dare let it. This is not your

ordinary hotel.

QT hotels have a way of doing this through their quirky themes that step outside

the routine of everyday life. Where you are transported to another place, perhaps

a little outside your comfort zone. Where you can just relax, open your mind and

let yourself be part of the theme during your stay.

Head on up to your floor and along the darkened hallway to your guestroom

and you’ll find more indulgence – various notes strategically placed invite you to

partake in little luxuries like making an Espresso Martini (all ingredients supplied).

Many of the items that adorn the room, from the cocktail shaker to the candle

votives are all available to be purchased. In the mini bar you might find the

QT HotelSydney


QT Sydney

at a glance

Category: Boutique City Hotel.

Room Reviewed: Executive King.

What’s great? A great stay for a party or

shopping weekend in the city. This hotel

has the vibe and ambience for a chic and

stylish stay.

What’s not so great: Our mini bar didn’t

get replenished during our stay.

Editor’s tip: Be sure to make reservations at

Gowings prior to your weekend stay as it is

pretty popular.

Rate: From AU$570 per room per night for

an Executive King Room.

Website: www.qtsydney.com.au

Location

Room size

Room interior


Food & beverage

Business needs

Spa facilities

Value for money

Eccentric and theatrical in the city.

usual items and so many more that are idiosyncratic of the establishment – an

Emergency Bowtie and a pack of Pick-up Sticks, to name a few.

Resplendent and rich with colour, the furnishings ooze gorgeousness. The plushy

bed floats on top of a thick hexagonal rug, adorned with velvety cushions and

shaggy sheepskin rug in a deep burgundy shade. The mood lighting bathes

everything in a soft amber glow. With house music beats to set the scene against

the soft clinking of Champagne glasses, you’ll soon be ready for a big night out.

The circular bath sits centre stage in the uber stylish bathroom, which has

glass sliders that open out to the bedroom. The amenities are a selection from

botanical based Malin + Goetz range.

Be sure to allow time for a trip to SpaQ. Try a K-Lift therapy treatment by Kerstin

Florian for a high-tech high-performance anti-aging boost. You’re encouraged to

let your therapist guide and select a custom-made experience for you to fit your

mood and well-being at the time of your appointment. For the gentlemen, The

Barber is a sure way to feel the nostalgia of the surroundings while enjoying the

precise tradition of male grooming.

Gowings Bar & Grill has a great atmosphere in an on-trend, contemporary

setting. With an extensive and interesting menu, there’s a lot of choice for

breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Throughout the hotel there are still elements of the celebrated historic buildings

in which the hotel has made its home. For example, the signs in the stairwell

advising the type of merchandise that was for sale in a bygone time. The

public spaces cleverly merge the old and the new giving an eclectic result that

really works. There is a strong emphasis on art with many significant pieces

throughout the hotel. Continually looking for ways to support local and

emerging talent, QT recently celebrated Sydney’s Sculpture by the Sea outdoor

exhibition, offering guests a special package to stay and take in the exhibits.

All of this combined is what makes this hotel interesting and a very enjoyable

place to stay.

SpaQ Treatment Room

QT Sydney Executive King


Story: Janice Burmaz

As new age explorers and retreat seekers, we are all looking for the ultimate experience. Whether it be a suburban

sanctuary with all the creature comforts or wide open spaces where we are in harmony with nature, while indulging in

lashings of luxury. These places do exist and where you’d least expect.

As first time visitors to this area, arriving on a late evening flight

into Brisbane, we head directly to Spicers Balfour Hotel. Located

in New Farm, an inner city suburb within close proximity to the

CBD, Spicers Balfour on Balfour Street is very chic and boutique.

A charming old nine bedroom Queenslander villa has been

converted and the character of the building makes this a very

unique stay and exudes a warmth and friendliness, which feels

like a home away from home.

Recently the neighbouring art deco building called Simla has

been added to the portfolio. Linked to Balfour, it houses eight

suites and conference facilities.

The Balfour Kitchen is a neighbourhood restaurant and has

become an extremely popular place to dine amongst local

Brisbanite’s, with a reputation for high quality cuisine. The hotel

has received many awards for its hospitality and great food.

The emphasis here is on relaxation, the staff to guest ratio is

high – almost as if you have your own personalised butler. Plus,

to make yourself feel right at home, you are welcome to help

yourself to a drink from the honesty bar.

The clever use of redesigned spaces means that guests can enjoy

a quaint courtyard room or terrace suite and enjoy the bright

lights of the Story Bridge and cityscape along with Champagne

and canapés at the roof top bar. Having never stayed at a

Spicer’s property before, this is an enlightening introduction

to their portfolio and I can only describe my overnight stay at

Balfour as being ‘Spicer-tised’.

Spicers Balfour Library

From urban sanctuary to luxury gourmet haven


After a hearty Balfour breakfast, the GPS is locked in as we head

for the hills. Driving west from Brisbane in just under 2-hours

we are amongst The Great Dividing Range of inland Australia.

We are high above the coastal plains, as far as the GPS will

guide us, where we leave the main highway and follow signs

to Spicers Peak Lodge. Driving through native bush, taking our

time, we wind our way up the road catching glimpses of startled

kangaroos hopping on and off the road in the dappled sunlight.

Aboriginal people once hunted these ranges and Spicers Peak

was known as ‘Barguggan’. In this area there are bandicoots,

walaroos, koala, abundant birdlife and six different kangaroo

species (a couple of which make it onto the endangered list).

After 12-kilometres we emerge from our bushy hill climb into

a clearing on the top of the western spine of Spicers Peak,

1,100 metres above sea level and part of the 8,000 acres

of working farmland. We feel like we are a world away.

In the middle of the expansive grassy plateau stands Spicers

Peak Lodge. Where the sun rises and sets with unobstructed

360º views across The Great Divide.

The building is quite grand, with large exterior support beams

and high stone chimneys. Inside it is spacious with a distinctly

alpine look and feel with an exceptionally high stud and large

stone open fireplace. The fire is blazing, taking the chill off the

autumn air. We are greeted and shown to our room where we

can retreat and relax with all the home comforts, as well as the

luxurious extras.

We are here for a special food experience to test out a new

degustation menu from the Spicers Kitchen designed by head

Chef, Doug Innes. Before dinner, we have time to venture

out for a stroll around the Lodge Plateau Track to watch the

kangaroo families bounce about enjoying the last few rays of

sunshine as the sun sets in the distance. There are a number

of other tracks to walk, jog or ride depending on time and

fitness level.

In preparation for our gastronomic experience, we return to

our rooms to freshen up and enjoy a glass of Champagne or

two in front of our open fireplace. Sharing a long table in the

main dining room with fellow retreaters, we introduce ourselves

and find that we are all here under different circumstances but

all for the same reason – to relax and escape our daily grind.

Chef Innes has designed a selection of experimental dishes

using fresh local ingredients in a way that neither he nor we

are likely to have experienced before. For every dish there is a

wine match and he explains the connection to the ingredients

throughout the dinner service, inviting us to give feedback

between each course. This is real test for our taste buds

leaving us surprised and bemused by his wonderful yet

bizarre combinations.

We tasted: Fraser Spanner Crab combined with buttermilk,

whitlof and mandarin (Claire Valley Riesling), butter poached

freshwater crayfish with turnips, sprouts and chèvre, (Cape

Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon), a confit of Kipfler,

artichoke, sprout and chèvre (Journey Wines Chardonnay),

This page and opposite: Spicers Peak Lodge


pork with pine mushroom, bone marrow and celeriac

(Stonehorse Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre), corned beef,

velouté, green olives and fungi (Gnarly Dudes Shiraz), ending

with the most unusual version of rocky road made from

cacao, parsnip and malt (Hollick Dessert Wine – The Nectar).

An extraordinary culinary experience. A real stretch for the

imagination and a once-in-a-lifetime signature taste experience,

as no two ‘test’ menus are the same.

Time to retire and take a spot in front of the fire in the main

lounge or for those all talked-out, to the confines of their room,

while a few head upstairs to the pool room. This is truly an

escape from the norm along with lashings of luxury and leaving

us with a taste for more. Spicers have a number of luxury

retreats scattered throughout South East Queensland and

New South Wales, with new developments on the horizon.

www.spicersretreats.com


White SandWhite Wedding

When you’re planning your special day it’s natural to start thinking about a very

special location in which to stage the ceremony. Fiji fits the bill in so many ways.

Just a few hours from home, it’s a sun-splashed paradise with countless islands and

almost as many resorts. And of course, Fiji provides the opportunity for a wonderful

post-wedding holiday for everyone who attends. We’ve surveyed the options and

shone the spotlight on a few of our favourites. Each resort offers something unique,

but all have the potential to make your wedding an unforgettable occasion.


Royal DavuiBarefoot and fancy-free

Some couples hanker for a big, ornate wedding with 250 of

their closest friends. Others just want to elope somewhere

very special, discreet and beautiful. If you’re in this second

group, we recommend Royal Davui. An exclusive, adults-

only sanctuary in the spectacular Beqa Lagoon, this private

island offers a degree of elegance and luxury you won’t find

in many larger resorts.

Whether you’re arriving as a couple or part of a larger

wedding party, Royal Davui is ideal for your romantic

getaway. With only 16 villas on the island, you could

book the entire property and enjoy a truly personalised

experience. When it’s time to exchange vows you can

opt for a simple, barefoot beachside ceremony or create

something more elaborate.

Whatever wedding style you choose, this idyllic island with

its white sand beaches and amazing setting will provide the

most unforgettable setting for your special day. Matrimonial

memories are made of this. www.royaldavuifiji.com

This page: Royal DavuiImages by: Kama Catch Me


Likuliku Lagoon ResortAwaken to the sound of lapping waves

A tropical wedding plus accommodation in an overwater

bungalow – this must be one of the most romantic combinations

imaginable. At Likuliku in Fiji’s gorgeous Mamanuca archipelago,

you can enjoy this matrimonial double with their Marau and

Dodomo packages. Exchange vows on the beach at sunset,

around the magnificent horizon edge pool or on the deck at one

of Fiji’s only overwater bures. Celebrant and document fees are

included, and the higher priced packages also come with extras

such as Fijian Choir and Warrior Escort, not to mention a luxurious

treatment for the bride and groom at the Tatadra Spa.

What of the resort itself? Likuliku means ‘calm waters,’ which

gives a sense of the subtle luxury on offer. Designed along

the lines of a traditional Fijian village, Likuliku Lagoon blends

sophistication with tradition. And to cap it all, there’s the

undeniable romance of waking up on your wedding morning in

an overwater bure, with a day of celebrations to look forward to.

It doesn’t get much better than that. www.likulikulagoon.com

This image and top right: Savasi IslandImages by: Marina Savenkov


Savasi IslandBoutique luxury for an intimate occasion

With just seven stunning bures, this is a fantastic resort to book out for your intimate

group of family and friends. You could have the whole place to yourself with pristine

coral reefs, stunning sea views, giant banyan trees and secluded jungle paths to

explore. Savasi Island is a tiny hideaway on Fiji’s second main island of Vanua Levu,

connected to the mainland by a causeway and easily reached via Savusavu or

Labasa airports. It has the feel of an escape from the modern world – relaxed,

private and tranquil.

Their all-inclusive wedding package covers the essentials (celebrant, marriage licence,

wedding cake) and some charming extra touches (bespoke floral archway, wedding

coordinator, candlelit dinner for two on the beach). Book out the entire island for a

party of 24 and you’ll enjoy a fully inclusive package with all meals, welcome cocktails,

celebratory dinner for the entire party on the beach, and more. There’s a minimum

three-night stay but we’re picking your group will want to settle in for longer.

www.savasiisland.com

This image and bottom left: Likuliku Lagoon


If you love the idea of getting away from it all – but enjoying the

best of everything – Yasawa Island Resort & Spa should be near

the top of your list. Imagine bringing your wedding party to an

island with 11 amazing beaches where you can enjoy private

picnics with seafood and Champagne. You’ll be staying in an

area of outstanding natural beauty, with no other commercial

development closer than an hour’s boat ride. The spacious bures

all enjoy beachfront locations, and each one is equipped with

a romantic private outdoor shower. The ambience is intimate,

welcoming and very luxurious.

Yasawa Island Resort & SpaSplendid isolation with some opulent extras

When it comes to exchanging or renewing your vows, the

Resort will go out of its way to ensure you enjoy the ceremony

of your dreams. Weddings are usually held on the beach

towards sunset, with traditional decorations and tropical flowers

adding to the occasion. You can invite the choir from nearby

Bukama village to add their harmonious voices to the mix.

The resort also offers a dedicated honeymoon bure, so every

day of your stay will feel extra-special.

www.yasawa.com

This image: Namale

This image and right: Yasawa Island Resort & Spa


While it may be traditional for the bride to make her appearance

at the last possible minute, no one wants a wedding where the

whole party arrives at the resort late, tired and flustered. That’s

why it makes sense to book the services of Fiji’s premium air

transport service.

Island Hoppers specialises in smooth, timely helicopter and fixed

wing aeroplane transfers. The airline boasts a modern fleet of

seven helicopters (catering for two to 14 passengers) plus three

turbine-powered aircraft with seating for nine passengers each.

The helicopters are ideal for nearby island groups such as the

Mamanucas and Yasawas, while the fixed wing aircraft primarily

serve more remote destinations such as Savusavu and Taveuni.

There are services operating all year round, from sunrise to sunset,

and serving all the main tourist destinations.

The Island Hoppers Resort Express service meets and greets all

passengers at Nadi International airport. You’ll be escorted to their

private reception lounge near the main terminal, where you can

relax in air-conditioned comfort before boarding for your flight.

There’s no doubt that arriving in a helicopter adds to the sense of

occasion as you prepare for your special day. But Island Hoppers’

service isn’t just about chauffeuring you to and from your

destination. They also offer panoramic helicopter flights over the

beautiful islands, resorts and reefs of the Mamanucas.

Feeling more adventurous? Another scenic excursion can take you

into the highlands of the Mt Evans Ranges, viewing rainforests

and waterfalls. Island Day Packages are available for those who

fancy a change of scene from the mainland. Heli golf and other

heli adventures are also available. It makes the traditional bridal

car look a little well, ordinary. www.helicopters.com.fj

Get me to the isle on time!

Namale Resort & SpaLush, lavish and romantic

Beaches and ocean views are wonderful, but there’s

another, less obvious side to Fiji’s natural beauty.

Namale is situated in a secluded corner of the country

where the rainforest meets the ocean, sprawling

across several hundred hectares of a former coconut

plantation. There are cool forest pathways and beautiful

waterfalls as well as white-sand beaches to explore. As

such, it provides an intriguingly different venue for your

tropical wedding.

Namale specialises in creating romantic moments for

newlywed guests. You could enjoy an idyllic breakfast

beside a waterfall, take an afternoon ride on horseback

along the beach and relax over a candlelit dinner in a

cool, mysterious grotto. This blend of natural beauty

with unforgettable experiences has lured many celebrity

guests over the years, from Donna Karan and Russell

Crowe to Meg Ryan and Quincy Jones. They obviously

have a taste for the finer things in life – and there’s no

reason you can’t join them in it. www.namalefiji.com


Then, because a five-star resort on a private island needs

something extra, the owners of Vomo added something

extra: an ultra-luxurious spa.

Volcanic rocks were gathered from Vomo Island and the

nearby deserted sister island, Vomo Lai Lai, to form a central

wall within the spa interior, giving an organic feel and

immediate sense of place. Tucked into the corner of a natural

palm tree grove, the spa’s unique ritual experience begins with

a refreshing ruby red hibiscus drink made from the extracts of

the beautiful tropical flower, paired with a traditional Thai

foot pampering.

The team of talented and experienced Thai therapists apply

a wide range of luxurious treatments including the signature

hour-long Sodashi Calm Facial, which uses soothing methods

to nourish over-stimulated skin. Cooling mists and aromatic

gels nurture the skin, while Sodashi’s unique plant essence

and herbal extracts strengthen capillaries and desensitize the

skin. Another signature treatment is the Sodashi Detoxifying

Marine Body Wrap that naturally combines the richness of sea

plants, algae, marine minerals and plant essences for a deep

body detox at all levels.

Catering to both men and women, the extensive range of

Sodashi luxurious products – which are used in all new and

existing facial and body therapies at Vomo Island Resort

Spa – are formulated using a unique natural combination

of biochemistry, aromatherapy and Ayurvedic principles.

In Sanskrit, Sodashi translates to ‘wholeness, purity and

radiance,’ words that aptly describe Sodashi products and

unique spa treatments. Produced in Australia, Sodashi’s skin

and body care products and spa therapies use only natural

sources from the earth and sea, including extracts and

essential oils of the purest and highest grade.

Not a single synthetic chemical, preservative or fragrance is

used in their manufacturing process. Products are never tested

on animals and Sodashi packaging is recyclable and printed

with natural vegetable dyes.

While the products are an important point of difference, it’s

the whole package that makes the difference. And this is

where the team at Vomo have excelled. Couples can enjoy a

relaxing, romantic ritual, or perhaps you’d rather book yourself

in for some one-on-one pampering? If you’ve brought the

whole family on holiday, you can even book your little ones a

treatment from the unique ‘KidZpa’ menu at Kids’ Village, the

resort’s comprehensive kids’ programme centre.

The Vomo Island Resort Spa is the crowning glory of a very

special resort. Making the most of its unique location, it adds

an opulent extra touch to a Fijian holiday. Keep that in mind

when planning your next tropical getaway.

Vomo is a luxurious island escape, just a short, scenic flight from Fiji’s Nadi airport. It truly is one-of-a-kind, with no other hotels

or resorts on the island. With just 30 villa accommodations, soft sand beaches and crystalline waters, the carefully crafted Vomo

experience matches the description of ‘boutique island hideaway.’ Guests enjoy the best of everything – from five-star cuisine at

the resort’s signature Reef restaurant to a PADI Dive Centre, boutique Kid’s Club and gourmet picnics on a deserted beach.

The ultimate pampering experience at the Spa

www.vomofiji.com

54 55Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.vomofiji.com


There are worse places in the world to visit for work than the South of France and that’s where I found myself one

recent Northern spring to develop our fragrances in Grasse. Grasse is, of course, synonymous with fragrance – the

world’s capital of perfume, the place where it all started in the early 17th century. Grasse is home to the greatest

fragrances, fragrance houses and noses in the world. All this means that Grasse was the only place we were ever

going to work when it came to creating our own juices.

Sweetne sLa Colombe d'Or

ofs

Laneway in Grasse

Story: Karen Walker


The town itself is old-industrial with many

18th and 19th century factories dotting

its steep streets. While these factories

are no longer used for production, they

remain an important part of the town and

its look and feel while the surrounding

farms are beautiful when in bloom with

violet, jasmine and lavender.

A half hour drive from Grasse is the even

more stunning Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

It’s one of the oldest and prettiest

medieval villages on the French Riviera,

with a population of just 3,500 and its

fortified medieval village still fully intact.

Sitting on the threshold of the village is

La Colombe d’Or (“The Golden Dove”)

– a hotel with an atmosphere and a

story like no other I’ve experienced.

The hotel opened as a Provençal inn in

1931. The founder, Paul Roux, had a

strong interest in art, and La Colombe

soon became a gathering place for

artists including Braque, Léger, Miró and

Chagall. Matisse became close friends

with Paul and many of the artists who

visited exchanged paintings for a few

meals or a room. Soon, the walls of the

inn were covered with art.

La Colombe quickly became the most

fashionable hotel in Provence – an

antidote to the Riviera’s luxury hotels.

Dukes, countesses, millionaires, fortune

hunters and famous artists were thrown

together here. The Duke of Windsor

became a frequent visitor.

In 1940 uneasiness, or a sense of duty,

sent most of La Colombe d’Or’s leading

figures running for home and when

the south became the “free zone”,

La Colombe d’Or became a meeting place

for the many artists who made the Cote

d’Azur their refuge. It was around this

time that Picasso first visited the hotel

and he became a faithful and attentive

friend of Paul’s.

At the end of the war the international

crowd descended upon the region and

they too fell for La Colombe d’Or.

It was here that American cinema came

together with the elite of European

cinema, literature and painting. By this

time a new generation of the family,

Francis Roux, had begun to take over the

running of the hotel and he continued

his father’s tradition of making the hotel

a home-away-from-home for many of

the mid 20th century’s greatest artists,

Calder and César amongst them.

As a result, La Colombe d’Or is all about

the art. No matter where you look there’s

a great work by a master of the 20th

century: Picasso, Miró, Renoir, Matisse,

Chagall, Braque, Calder, Léger, César

and many others casually cover the walls

or extend out onto the terraces. The

highlight of the stay for me was dining

fireside in the lovely dining room while

candlelight played off the Miro, the

Picasso, the Léger, and the Braque

next to my table.

The hotel is small with just 25 rooms.

The views from the rooms are lovely

– the incredibly pretty town and its

surrounds with the Alps in the distance.

The buildings are a typical French village

style – stone and wood, whitewashed

walls and tiled floors. It has a particularly

romantic terrace – perfect at any

time of day but sensational for a petit

déjeuner of croissant and café au lait

while the morning sun cuts through the

surrounding cypresses and the large

Léger ceramic peeps through the slightly

overgrown ivy. On the other side of the

Ceramic mural at La Colombe d'Or by Fernand Léger


inn, beside the blue-green pool, a Calder mobile

hangs over the deep end and it’s not hard to picture

Alain Delon lounging by the giant cypresses.

Ghosts of past guests are everywhere at this hotel.

So iconic are past visitors and so much a part of the

hotel’s identity that it’s impossible not to imagine the

terrace being enjoyed by Brigitte Bardot, David Niven,

Orson Wells, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Roger Moore, Tony

Curtis, Sophia Loren, Simone de Beauvoir or Cocteau.

The hotel is certainly not polished or even particularly

hip. It’s something much better. It’s charming,

familial, and with a look and an atmosphere unlike

any other place. It’s nostalgic and reeks of its story

and yet it’s completely at ease in the present. As

César once said of it: “For me, it’s a place that’s as

full of promise as of magnificent memories.”

Unfortunately I only had a few nights at La Colombe

d’Or and they were experienced entirely through

a haze of jet lag and general fatigue from huge

workdays. However, it’s at the top of my list for a

return visit, this time as a holidaymaker to fully enjoy

the languorous sweetness of Provençal life. Colette

wrote in the visitors’ book: “Wait for me, Colombe,

I’m coming back!” Moi aussi La Colombe!

Karen Walker is a fashion designer.

She lives in New Zealand and travels the world.


Hailwood

Photography: Fergus Clark

Willa & Mae

Zambesi

Trelise Cooper

Andrea Moore

Kate Sylvester

New Zealand Fashion Week was again an inspiring

combination of iconic and emerging designs from the

country’s immense pool of talent. Writer and blogger,

Elena Mironova reviews the 2015 season for us. With

a continuing passion for fashion and all things beautiful,

she combines her European heritage with New Zealand

tastes to inspire and influence in the fashion space.

FASHION WEEK 2016NEW ZEALAND

Andrea Moore has the

unique ability to turn

any garment into a piece

of fashion art. So how

does she achieve this?

With her strong creative

direction and passion for

fun hues and bold prints.

A highly acclaimed

collection featuring

beautifully tailored and

versatile trench coats in

relaxed shapes that are

sure to come in handy

and class-up any holiday.

Trelise Cooper always fills the room with

an amazing explosion of colours, fabrics,

textures and shapes. Vibrant and juicy

shades like citrus, fuchsia and sky blue in

nonchalant feminine flirty designs seem

to encourage you not to take yourself too

seriously and just have fun! Ideal for any

adventurous European summer.

One of the most anticipated shows,

Hailwood featured signature metallics

and bursts of electric blue colour. Gowns

over pants, sheer fabrics and superb

tailoring displayed the designer’s vision

of a modern woman.

Despite being a fashion week veteran,

Zambesi’s show was still one of the

stand-outs… again! Highly texturised

fabrics made for a bold statement on the

runway, combined with reserved hues

of burgundy, grey, cream, terracotta and

khaki. Expertly tailored suits and coats

were the highlights of this incredible

show. A sophisticated fit for

that tailored business trip.

Fluid and feminine shapes designed to

make you feel like a goddess. Ranging

from basics to classics with a twist,

Kate Sylvester’s collection showcased

must-have pieces in both vibrant and

earthy hues to delight any woman.

From morning to night, you’ll be the

best dressed on any continent.

This luxurious sleepwear

brand brings the art of living

to a whole new level with

sensually understated silk

and cotton garments. Pastel

shades complemented by

the elegant shapes create

a boudoir-like ambiance

on the runway. A perfectly

mischievous treat to pack for

a romantic getaway.


Business Class ReviewSingapore Airlines

Story: Phil Harrison

Singapore Airlines is one of the world’s true 5-star airlines – the sort of operator that has always

set the benchmark for long-haul Business Class travel. A few years ago LUXURY travelled on their

Business product and spoke highly of the experience. I had been given the enviable task of

road-testing it again to see if it still stands up to the reputation for which they are renowned.

On boarding, the first thing I noticed – apart from the

ambience of calm professionalism – was the layout of the cabin.

The Business Class section on my Auckland-Singapore flight

consisted of 42 seats split into two cabins directly behind

First Class at the front of the aircraft. The seat configuration

of 1-2-1 allows for direct aisle access, which is becoming

a must-have in Business.

I was warmly welcomed, shown to my seat and made to feel at

home. Take-off procedures went smoothly, and before I

knew it, the flight was underway. With a glass of Taittinger

champagne in hand, I scanned the menu and looked forward

to the flight ahead.

For me, one of the most compelling reasons for paying the

extra to fly Business Class, especially long haul, is the significant

additional legroom. That, and a fully flat, 180-degree horizontal

seat. The quality of seat, and thus one’s ability to stretch out

and sleep, can vary markedly between different carriers. And

of course, the seat must also be comfortable in daytime

reclining mode.

In both cases, Singapore Airlines have succeeded. Upholstered

in high-grade leather and at 30-inches wide, their Business Class

seat is around 50% wider than the Business Class seats on many

other airlines – more akin to a First Class seat.

This extra width, combined with the seat’s ultra-comfy

cushioning, is hard to beat for a long haul flight. The seats are


private and nicely cocooned, which is a particular bonus if you

are travelling solo and choose a window option. The overall

design is very clever with multiple storage spaces and

an oversized tray for dining or work. This working surface

includes an all-in-one business panel with in-seat power supply

and USB ports.

With a seat pitch of 51-inches, there’s plenty of space to stretch

out, work or simply sit back and watch a movie or two. Kris

World, Singapore Airlines’ entertainment system, spoils you

for choice, with an awe-inspiring selection of newly released

blockbusters, TV, audio and games – all viewed on your 15.4-

inch wide LCD screen.

Quite often, when it comes to airline food, the menu reads a

lot better than it tastes. Fortunately, I have travelled enough to

know that this is an area where Singapore Airlines have always

stood out from the rest. The cuisine on offer has been created

by an international culinary panel of celebrated chefs from

around the globe.

For my three-course lunch I settled on some exceptional

Singapore-style chicken and beef satays with onion, cucumber

and spicy peanut sauce followed by a Matt Moran-style seared

beef fillet in a mushroom Madeira sauce with roasted shallots,

green beans, garlic confit and boiled potatoes. Dessert seemed

an indulgent luxury too far, but I was tempted to order an

irresistible looking opera cake with zebra chocolate cigar. To

accompany lunch I settled on a very refined 2011 Chateau

Tour Haut-Caussan Cru Bourgeois from Medoc, Bordeaux.

Then the lights were dimmed and it was time to turn in.

The ability to get a good night’s sleep is perhaps the ultimate

test for a Business Class seat, and I’m pleased to say Singapore

Airlines excelled in this respect – I found the fully reclined seat to

be one of the most comfortable I’ve reviewed. The seat folds back

onto itself to transform into a spacious, fully flat surface rather

than simply reclining to a 180-degree position. This is preferable,

as instead of having the indentations of the seat cushions playing

havoc with your spine, you have one flat surface.


New Premium EconomyOn 26 October 2015, Singapore Airlines’ new Premium Economy cabin was launched in New Zealand.

A two-year development program and

significant investment has created a

notably improved product for the Airline.

When asked about how passengers might

respond to the new features, Executive

Vice President Commercial, Mr Mak

Swee Wah said, “we are confident that

what we are delivering will exceed their

expectations.” This could be partly due

to the incorporation of several of their

customers’ suggestions into the

new product.

Each seat has full leather finishing and a

width ranging between 18.5-19.5 inches

(47-49.5cm) and offers an 8-inch (20.3cm)

recline for more ease and comfort. A

calf-rest and foot-bar accompanies every

seat, plus individual in-seat power supply,

two USB ports, personal in-seat reading

light, cocktail table, as well as additional

stowage space for personal items such as

a water bottle, mobile phone and laptop.

Complementing all of this is a sleek 13.3

inch (33.7cm) full HD monitor, the largest

in its class.

To enhance the individuality of the new

class, seat amenities such as the headrest

cover, cushion and blanket come in

specially selected and matching colours.

Champagne will be flowing, in addition

to a selection of curated wines, to

accompany a more extensive range of

dining options. “Book-the-Cook” is a

feature available on select routes,which

give passengers the opportunity to

book their meals up to 24-hours

before they fly.

On top of that is the generous baggage

allowance of 35kg and KrisFlyer members

will receive 10% more miles when they

fly in Premium Economy Class.

So does the Business Class package still rate well? More than just having a great product,

to truly excel an airline needs a service level to match. Singapore Airlines has long

been recognised as one of the world’s finest, having won multiple awards for in-flight

excellence. I found all the attendants to be discreet yet attentive, and the service was

always delivered with grace and a winning smile.

I feel that Singapore Airlines’ Business Class still remains one of the finest in the sky.

Coupled with their vast network of destinations, it also allows for a seamless journey

to Asia, Europe and beyond. Singapore Airlines, you’re still a great way to fly.

Again – it really was like a dream!

Singapore AirlinesBusiness Class

The Facts

Plane: 777-300ER.

Cabin: Business Class, configuration

1 + 2 + 1.

Seat: 20D. 180º Flat Bed Seat: 51-inch

(129.5cm) pitch, 30-inch (76.2cm) width.

Entertainment: Fantastic selection of movies,

music and TV series.

Baggage allowance: Business Class

allowance is 2x items of checked luggage

(up to 40kg each) plus a carry on bag.

Service: Full service onboard dining

created by international culinary panel of

celebrated chefs. Inflight crew discrete

and very attentive.

Route: Auckland to Singapore.

Flight time: Approx. 10 hours, daily service.

Price: Approx. NZ$5487 return plus taxes.

Highlight: The width and comfort of the

seat. The excellent quality of service also

deserves a mention.

Lowlight: Departed a little late, but made up

the time and actually arrived early.

Tip: Business Class is separated into two

cabins. Try and book a seat in the front cabin

located directly behind First Class, as it’s

smaller and more intimate.

Website: www.singaporeair.com


Mandarin OrientalSingapore

It’s easy to underestimate Singapore. Ideally situated for stopovers on the way to and from Europe, many travellers simply take advantage of the superb transit facilities at Changi Airport before hopping on board their next long-haul flight.

However, those in the know have long recognised the potential

of Singapore for a two or three-day break, or something even

longer. With its tropical climate, amazing shopping and year-

round tourist attractions, the Lion City offers you the chance to

enjoy a sumptuous holiday, Asia-style.

To make the most of the experience, it helps to book yourself

a room or suite at one of the very best of the city state’s 5-star

hotels. The Mandarin Oriental certainly fits that description. And

so we found ourselves looking forward to a couple of idle days

in the lap of Oriental luxury.

Designed in the shape of a fan – which also happens to be

the hotel group’s logo – the Mandarin Oriental has long been

recognised as one of the finest 5-star options in Singapore. Like

all Mandarin Oriental properties, it has a distinctive identity,

which is refreshing. One thing that all the Group’s hotels have

in common is an unwavering commitment to refined customer

service, as well as exquisite Asian design touches, giving a nod to

their Oriental pedigree.

The experience begins the moment you walk into the lobby.

Mood lighting and lightly scented, cool air greet you as you enter

the dark marble lobby from another humid and sticky Singapore

day. I get the feeling I've had at previous Mandarin Oriental

properties – the reassuring sense that everything will be perfect.

And so it is.

Our home for the next few days will be Room 2101, one of the

hotel’s exclusive Club Marina Bay Suites. The clue to the view is

evident with the suite’s name, and upon entering; it immediately

becomes apparent that this is one of the most remarkable views

in the city. Full-length glass running the entire width of the suite

conveys uninterrupted views of the Marina with the imposing

Singapore skyline as the backdrop. Our picture window also

bathes the space in natural light.

Our suite is located on the top floor and, at 62 square metres, it

is suitably spacious. A hallway leads to the formal lounge with

double doors showcasing the luxurious master suite. Plush,

patterned carpets add vibrancy to a contemporary styled décor


with pale wood accents and an otherwise

neutral palette. Subtle Asian influences

throughout reflect the brand’s personality.

All furnishings are of the quality expected

and, all in all, it is a very inviting space

that would be more than comfortable

for a prolonged stay. The king-sized bed

is a signature touch, promising a perfect

night's sleep. Add to this, the suite’s

quadruple glazing, and you have the

ultimate in peace and quiet even though

you are right in the centre of all the hustle

and bustle. It’s a great location, minutes

from the central business district and the

mega malls of Orchard Road.

The obligatory marble bathroom comes

with separate bath, shower and bidet.

We liked the extra guest powder room

off the lounge, too. Another nice touch

is a small balcony that lets in the sounds

and ambience of Singapore, if that’s

what you desire.

Having unpacked and made ourselves

at home, it was time to explore the rest

of the hotel and first stop was The

Oriental Club.

Executive lounges are pretty commonplace

in top-class hotels, offering exclusivity and

additional benefits such as complementary

food and beverages akin to an airline’s

business class lounge. The quality of these

can vary greatly, with some being seriously

underwhelming and not worth the extra

cost. That’s not the case here.

In the sumptuous, 19th-floor surroundings

of The Oriental Club you’ll find an

exceptional quality of food presented with

a different theme each day. It’s a club that

provides excellent value and is well-worth

the additional cost. There’s a full list of

premium spirits, with cocktails, wine and

Champagne on offer every evening. If you

fancy more than a drink, there are enticing

hors d'oeuvres and daily breakfast in a luxe

setting, again with sensational views.

The pool is another big selling point for

the Mandarin Oriental. After a day of

shopping in Singapore’s amazing malls and

markets, a great pool is a must-have. At

25-metres long, the infinity edged pool is

resort-sized and unusually large for a city

hotel, especially with the space restraints

of the CBD. Chic cabanas are available

free of charge on a first-come, first-served

basis. They’re outfitted with a ceiling fan

and Bose speakers to plug in your iPod,

as well as poolside service at the touch

of a button.

Another way to escape the buzz of

Singapore’s street life, even if only for

an afternoon, is by booking a session in

the hotel’s superb spa. A true haven of

serenity, the Mandarin Oriental Spa offers

a menu of bespoke treatments including

custom-blended oils and expert massages.

There’s something inherently indulgent

about starting your two-hour session with

a personalised consultation followed by a

soothing footbath and all-over body scrub.

With two therapists working on your

head and feet simultaneously, this is a spa

treatment that will leave you more relaxed

than you ever thought possible.

Singapore is a gourmet destination, so

any hotel restaurant has to be on the top

of its game. With this in mind, we set out

to experience the quality of the Mandarin

Oriental’s seven dining destinations.

Starting at the informal end of the

spectrum, Melt - The World Café is an

innovative restaurant offering a wide array

of Asian and Western cuisine complete

with live cooking stations. It’s also the

location for your breakfast each morning,

with a wide selection and choices outside

the norm.

Axis Bar and Lounge or Bay@5 poolside

are ideal spots to enjoy a cocktail and

take in the city views. Dolce Vita, again


by the pool, offers traditional Italian

cuisine with a contemporary touch – a

great choice for lunch. Cherry Garden

offers authentic Cantonese and is a local

favourite, with some of the best dim sum

in town. And if you fancy a taste of the

West in the heart of the East, America's

premier steakhouse, Morton’s, opened

its first location outside of USA, at you

guessed it – the Mandarin Oriental.

Completing the line-up of standout

dining options is Teppan-Ya, offering

the best of contemporary Japanese

cuisine. A knowledgeable friend had

suggested trying it for dinner, and I was

not disappointed.

Category: Luxury City Hotel.

Suite Reviewed: Club Marina Bay Suite.

What’s great? The phenomenal Mandarin

Oriental service tops the list. Great to have

so many quality restaurants in-house and

the family will appreciate the superb resort

style pool area. Location also appeals to

guests in Singapore for business or pleasure.

What’s not so great: The bath a bit of a

token gesture, on the small side.

Editor’s tip: Book a room or suite with a

view of the Marina Bay and pay the extra

for the Oriental Club as it is well-worth the

extra cost.

Rate: From NZ$610 to NZ$1590 for a Club

Marina Bay Suite per night.

Website:

www.mandarinoriental.com/singapore

Club Marina Bay Suite

Location

Suite size

Suite interior


Food & beverage

Business needs

Recreational facilities

Spa facilities

Pool

Value for money

Timeless elegance – in East meets West style.

Mandarin Oriental Singapore

at a glance

At Teppan-Ya you’ll enjoy a sophisticated

and elegant setting, with friendly service

that instantly puts you at ease. I love

Japanese food and found the menu

really interesting, offering an eclectic

choice of traditional Japanese cuisine

including bespoke teppan yaki meats,

sea-fresh sashimi, made-to-order sushi and

outstanding tempura. The teppan yaki in

particular was a step above anything I've

experienced. Chef David Goh has spent

years perfecting his craft.

Our picks started with the signature dish,

a crab, avocado and white fish mix that’s

baked in a secret sauce, followed by grade

A5 Wagyu beef cooked to perfection,

and jumbo prawns, butterflied and grilled

on the teppan hotplate. All dishes were

simply prepared with minimal garnish

or seasoning, so the true flavours of the

ingredients shone through. From the

extensive wine list I chose a delicate chilled

sake to complement a memorable dinner.

I recommend a visit, but be warned that

bookings are essential. Teppan-Ya is quite

an intimate space and the skyline backdrop

is worth the price of admission alone.

Like many of the 5-star options in

Singapore, the Mandarin Oriental is not a

new property, but she has aged superbly

and has all the key considerations covered.

Great location and impeccable service –

check. Luxurious rooms, plenty of quality

food options, a renowned spa, awesome

pool and gym – check to all of the above.

Beautifully maintained and full of charm

and style, staffed by a passionate team of

people that really make all the difference

– the Mandarin Oriental meets all the

relevant criteria. The hotel’s extremely

high proportion of repeat clientele says

it all. The level of service at the Mandarin

Oriental Singapore may spoil you forever

but it’s a risk that’s well-worth taking.

The Club Lounge


Korean Air, the flagship carrier of South Korea recently took delivery of its first

Boeing 747-800 Intercontinental in Seattle. This luxurious, high-tech member

of the Boeing family will soon be a regular sight in Auckland.

Korean AirBringing the state-of-the-art Boeing 747-800i to Auckland

The new additions to Korean Air’s fleet will be operating three

flights per week in January 2016, increasing to daily flights next

February. Flying direct from Auckland to Seoul offers travellers a

great opportunity to stop over in Korea on their way to Europe

or other destinations in North Asia. Business travellers and

holidaymakers will also appreciate the regular connections to

fascinating, booming South Korea.

Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to when you

step onboard the new Boeings. Korean Air’s new 747-800

Intercontinental is configured with 368 seats in a three-class

configuration: six First Class, 48 Prestige Class (26 seats on the

upper deck and 22 seats on the main deck) and 314 Economy Class.

The aircraft also features Korean Air’s brand new First Class Kosmo

Suites 2.0, designed with a sliding door and higher partitions to

provide added privacy for passengers. These sliding doors are

cleverly designed so that you can see through them from the

comfort of your suite, but outsiders can’t see in. The Kosmo suites

are also equipped with updated in-flight entertainment systems,

with large 24-inch high-definition monitors and new handheld

touch remotes.

The airline’s Prestige Class Suites feature staggered seating and

privacy panels, along with 18-inch high definition touch screens.

The seat converts into a 180-degree full flat seat, and you’ll

www.koreanair.com


experience maximum comfort and privacy in your area with the

direct aisle access. The aircraft also features an all-new, 787

Dreamliner-inspired interior that includes new curved, upswept

architecture, giving passengers the priceless feeling of more

space and comfort.

The new Boeings aren’t just innovative inside the cabin.

Aviation buffs will be interested in the way Korean Air has been

able to take advantage of the latest developments Boeing has

introduced to aircraft technology, boosting performance and

improving its environmental credentials.

About 70% of the aircraft (by structural weight) incorporates

advanced aluminium alloys and carbon composites to reduce

the weight drastically. This delivers a 16% improvement in

fuel consumption and emissions over its predecessor, the

747-400, while generating 30% less noise. The benefits will

also be noticeable in journey time reductions. With a range

of 14,815km, the new 747-800 will be the fastest wide body

passenger jet in the world with a normal cruising speed

of Mach 0.86.

If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of flying with Korean Air,

2016 may be the ideal time to book a ticket, with its modern

aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees, Korean Air

offers travellers a high degree of convenience and comfort.

Their award-winning Korean and Western meals combined

with their state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system

provide passengers with a memorable in-flight experience.

You’ll be travelling with one of the world's Top 20 airlines,

which carried more than 23 million passengers in 2014.

Frequent flyers will be interested to learn that Korean Air is a

founding member of the 20-strong Sky Team alliance, which

offers its 612 million passengers a worldwide system of more

than 16,320 flights every day, covering 1,050-plus destinations

in 177 countries.

On a more personal note, the LUXURY team have enjoyed

the service and professionalism of Korean Air on flights to

Seoul and beyond in recent years. The introduction of the new

Boeing 747-800 Intercontinental, with its superb cabin fit-out,

promises to make the journey even more luxurious.



The stunning Grand Hyatt Incheon is conveniently located a

short 3-minute courtesy shuttle drive from the international

airport. Korean Air hosts passengers in either the East Tower or

recently finished West Tower of the hotel when an overnight

transit is required. With its sweeping foyer, proficient and

friendly service, we were grateful to our hosts to be breaking

our long journey to Europe here.

Incheon, SeoulGrand Hyatt


There are two main restaurants –

Restaurant 8 (in the East Tower) features

eight mini restaurants in the one space,

each with its own cuisine type. While

the Grand Café in the West Tower is an

extravagant buffet-style with live kitchens

catering to both Western and Eastern

tastes. The standard of the food was

excellent and the dishes a bit different

to what you might expect. For example,

next to the sweet treats was a delicious

cinnamon drink that was an exquisite

way to end the meal. A Karaoke bar,

lounge Bar and al fresco poolside dining

complete the dining selection.

First impressions of the guestrooms

would have to be ‘precise comfort’.

A subtle colour scheme blends well

with the modern furniture and a real

meticulousness about the positioning of

everything. The Grand Deluxe Executive

Suite was very large at 95 square metres,

with a full-sized lounge and dining area,

plus separate guest bathroom and some

kitchen facilities. The luxurious bed linen

was immaculately ironed with no crease

in sight. The bathroom was generous,

with shower and bath combined

in a ‘wet’ area and June

Jacobs Spa Collection

amenities to

enjoy.

Reception and Lobby

One of the highlights was the airport

view. If you’re an aviation fanatic you’ll

be in your element. But if you’re not,

it’s still quite mesmerising to watch the

airport activity and comings and goings of

aircraft throughout the day and night.

There are a total of three swimming pools

in the complex, one being a dedicated

children’s pool. The pools are all covered

and the one in the West Tower complex

sits adjacent to the Pool House eatery. A

well-equipped gym, running track, sauna

and steam room all assist with recovery

after a long flight. You could also make

an appointment at the small spa for a

relaxing massage or facial treatment.

As well as being a more than suitable

spot for a transit stopover, The Grand

Hyatt Incheon is also fully set up to cater

for large events and conferences

of up to 1,250 people. Plus,

as we discovered, it is

also a popular

holiday

choice for young families during the

school holidays. The hotel caters well for

its younger guests during these times and

the location is also within easy distance

to the West Sea, where a number of

swimming beaches and offshore islands

can be found. One of them, Wolmi Island,

at only 1 kilometre from the shore is even

connected by a causeway.

So as far as airport hotels go, the Grand

Hyatt Incheon offers a lot more

than most. Its pleasant and calming

ambience was just what we

needed to recharge before

our next long-haul

flight.


Category: Airport Hotel.

Suite Reviewed: West Tower Grand Deluxe Executive Suite.

What’s great? The restaurants, the generously sized guestrooms and overall ambience of the hotel.

What’s not so great: During busy season the indoor pools can get quite noisy. Although great for all weather and keeping out of the sun, it would be nice to have a shaded outdoor pool option as well.

Editor’s tip: Make an advance reservation at Restaurant 8 as it gets booked out quickly. Korean Air has a check-in counter in the East Tower and offer a free service to transfer your luggage to the airport where you can complete final formalities.

Rate: From NZ$1028 per room per night for a Grand Deluxe Executive Suite (West Tower). From NZ$382 per room per night for a Grand Deluxe King (West Tower).

Note: If travelling as part of the Korean Air Transit Program, your allocated guestroom will be complimentary.

Website: www.incheon.grand.hyatt.com

Grand Delux Executive Suite

Location

Suite size

Suite interior


Food & beverage

Business needs


Spa facilities

Pool

Value for money

A quiet transit retreat.

Grand Hyatt Incheon

at a glance


Located beside the central square is the

beautiful Belmond Hotel Monasterio.

What is now a charming luxury hotel

and fine restaurant known as El Tupay,

was once the home to Spanish Monks.

Steeped in history, its baroque style and

ornate art collection is now a national

historic landmark. The sound of the

Monastery bells and Monks shuffling

about the large halls has since been

replaced with waiters in starched white

jackets adorned with gleaming gold

buttons moving between tables smartly

dressed with white linen and large

floral arrangements.

Back-up to around the early 1600s –

I was imagining a Monk sitting in this

exact same spot as our table for two.

The Monk dressed in his hooded cape,

kneeling before the pulpit, we too are

dressed for a very special occasion.

Our Opera Diva appears as if out of

nowhere and gracefully circles the

candlelit room, gently filling the large

Monastery hall with her beautiful

soprano voice. Her sound resonates under

the wooden arches emotionally stirring us

to the point of goose bumps as she hits

the ‘money note’ – her highest falsetto.

On cue, our waiter strides out from

behind the kitchen door with our starter –

a warm gazpacho. With precision delivery

each dish is presented to us from under

a silver service dome delicately plated on

fine china framed with olive leaf detail

and oh so perfectly timed between arias.

As we inhale the aromas, we discover the

taste of internationally inspired Peruvian-

If I told you that we had just experienced the most romantic Opera dinner in a centuries

old converted Monastery you most likely would assume that we were somewhere in Italy,

France or maybe even Venice. Actually, it was South America and the city was Cusco, Peru.

Opera dinner Mona terio at the s


style cuisine matched with new and old

world wines. The evening progresses to

the serenading sounds of the flautist,

Tenor and pianist all performing from

the pulpit. Our Diva makes several

appearances throughout the dinner

service then performs her final song ‘Ave

Maria’ as a duet across the room with

the Tenor. A chef at the rear of the hall

is busy creating our dessert from an

open kitchen and just as we are about

to indulge in silver service tea and

petits fours, our Diva takes a bow and

floats from the room. A memorable

dinner service, exquisite food and a

very moving Opera performance, we

finish almost breathless and on a high.

Mucho Gusto!

Belmond Hotel Monasterio Opera dinners are available four nights a week.

Best to book in advance. www.belmond.com/hotel-monasterio-cusco

Story: Janice Burmaz



Mention Peru and the Andes to most seasoned and aspirational

travellers and they more often than not will talk about Machu Picchu,

Cusco and the Sacred Valley Inca sites that abound this area. Having

just visited Machu Picchu and its historic Inca treasures along with an

enchanting evening of opera arias at Hotel Monasterio in Cusco, we

were about to discover more hidden gems on our way south to Lake

Titicaca and across the border to Bolivia.

on the Andean Explorer

Rather than the traditional fly-in and fly-out of Cusco, we had planned

our journey by rail to Puno, a city on the shores of Lake Titicaca. With

the lovely sound of the Opera Diva’s voice still playing in our heads,

our intrepid train journey is aboard the Andean Explorer and spans some

331-kilometres following the Urubamba River to its mountain source,

climbing to a height of 4,321-metres up to the Andean altiplano and

then descending to Puno on the north western shores of the Lake.

Our morning departure was scheduled for 8am, with a journey time of

around 10 ½ hours. Being somewhat of a self-confessed train buff, we

had an early morning tour arranged especially for us by our rail touring

company of the Peru Rail carriage works adjacent to the Cusco train

station. This was a wonderful insight into the detailed craftsmanship

that goes into the building and maintaining of these luxury trains and

now we were going to ride on one.

We departed from the station exactly on time to the powerful purr of

the diesel electric locomotive, easily pulling seven carriages. With the

sun shining and all the expectation of yet another fantastic adventure,

we were on our way. What the ‘slow food’ movement has done to fine

cuisine you could argue the Andean Explorer has done to train travel.

We gently climb our way alongside the Urubamba River at a leisurely

pace suited for taking in the scenery as we pass through numerous small

villages and towns, after all, it’s just as much about the journey as it is

the destination.

Cu coPunotos

Story: Stuart Walker


Settling back into the comfort of our

carriage, we are treated to the best

in Pullman tradition with soft plush

furnishings, fine wood finishing and

spacious leg room. Old fashioned sash-

style windows are soon opened as we

embrace the local atmosphere – no need

for closeted air conditioning. Morning

coffee and tea accompanied by a selection

of fine pastries arrive, served by a

regimented team of smiling young waiters

and waitresses resplendent in their neatly

pressed Peru Rail uniforms. The scenery

stretches out in all directions surrounded

by snow capped mountain peaks nudging

6-7,000-metres.

Time to stretch our legs, we head

for the rear of the train to capture

some photographic memories of this

breathtaking landscape. The rear facing

observation bar car is the perfect photo

platform with unobstructed panoramic

views and bracing alpine air. This is a

great vantage point to exchange

enthusiastic waves with local villagers

and the occasional territorial dog

determinedly chasing the train, a short

lived but spirited attempt.

With another morning coffee in hand,

enjoying the spaciousness of the

observation car, which soon doubles as

a fashion catwalk accompanied by lively

Latin dance tunes has everybody readily

clapping along.

As we approach midday, we pull into a

scheduled stop at La Raya at the highest

point of our journey. We are greeted by

a waiting throng of local traders eager

to sell us their Peruvian souvenirs and

delicacies – the beautifully crafted

Alpaca scarves look exquisite and ideal

as a light-weight souvenir. However, we

decided to pass (in respect of a childhood

pet) on the local delicacy of barbecued

skewers of cuy (guinea pig).

Back to our carriage for a refreshing beer

before a lunch from a locally inspired

menu – fresh mountain raised trout

and El Pollo accompanied by a medley

of coloured and flavoursome Peruvian

potatoes. Given the number of carriages

on the train, lunch service was a highly

choreographed parade of efficiency but

with all the sincerity of true Peruvian

warmth and hospitality.

With the afternoon sunshine flooding the

carriages and the soporific combination

of good food and wine, there was more

than a few passengers nodding off for an

afternoon siesta. As the train descends

over endless grassy plains punctuated by

various small towns, those of us awake

enjoy an afternoon tea service.

At 281-kilometres we reach Juliaca, a

large commercial town of some 150,000

people and a major railway junction. As

we branch south to Puno, our train passes

directly through the centre of the market

areas, which peel back to let us pass

through and then re-enveloping the train

almost instantaneously with blankets

and tarpaulins of vegetables, textiles

and craftworks.

As daylight fades, our journey is drawing

to a close as we skirt the northern

shoreline of Lake Titicaca, at a height

of 3,855-metres, this is the largest and

highest navigable lake in the world. We

reach our final destination of Puno.

We disembark from the train and thank

our smiling and gracious hosts who had

worked tirelessly throughout the day to

make this a journey to remember and one

that I highly recommend to any ‘would be’

Peruvian adventurer. Then off to our hotel

to rest and savour the day’s adventure

and to pause before our next day of

discovery. Tomorrow we board a hydrofoil

for an exhilarating ride over Lake Titicaca,

crossing the border to Bolivia and visiting

the Island of Copacabana – now that’s

another story.

76 77Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.lan.com

78 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 79Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. Story: Toni Gillan

V

Marrakesh Express is a famous 1969 song popularised by folk rock singers

Crosby Stills and Nash. It’s about a four-hour train journey from Casablanca

to Marrakesh. Like the words in their song, “Coloured cottons hang in the air,

charming cobras in the square….”, we are on that train shadowing their ride and

like them, anticipating the colours and experiences Marrakesh has to offer.

Located to the north of the Atlas

Mountains in Western Morocco,

Marrakesh is often referred to as the

"Red City” or “Rose City". In the past,

varying in its customs and traditions,

it was conquered and ruled by so

many peoples – Arabic, Moorish,

Berber and Andalucian – resulting in a

diverse, culturally rich, artistic city. With

contrasting old and new architecture in

the old city and new town, mosques,

shrines and palm-framed palaces, today

it is significant for economic and religious

reasons, as well as being a fascinating

tourist destination.

On arrival, we're transferred by car to our

riad accommodation (a riad is a traditional

and often extensively refurbished

historic house arranged around enclosed

courtyard gardens). Part way there,

unexpectedly we stop. Our bags are

placed into a dogcart pulled by a young

Moroccan boy. Our driver directs us to

follow it on into the medina; the old

town and we do; down narrow, noisy,

dusty backstreets, past donkeys and little

workshops until we halt outside a small

door. With tight entrance-ways, riad

doors are often half sized, as is the 19th

century door to Riad El Fenn where we

are staying. The contrast overwhelms.

We’re now into cool interiors where walls

blast with colour and art. We progress

into a bougainvillea-hung, arched

courtyard complete with lemon trees,

fountain and places to sit. Afternoon

mint tea, lemon cake and meringues are



El Fenn Colonnade Room



just being served so we happily chill out

delighting in watching resident tortoises

track through the leafy undergrowth.

This is how it’s going to be for us now,

slow and so spoilt we tell ourselves.

Moving on up to the expansive rooftop

later, we curl up on a bhou (Moroccan

lounger), agreeably positioned to view

the vibrant sun setting behind the snow-

capped Atlas Mountains.

Our room is spacious with some lavish

detail. We’re just as impressed by the

thought of ‘bed’ tea or coffee that’s

placed outside our room when we wake,

long after the Muezzin’s 4am call to

prayer had echoed across the medina.

With beauty treatments, massages and

a private hammam, plunge pools, sun

positions, resting and eating places all

over, a library and superb in-house art

collections, El Fenn is a luxury boutique

riad retreat in the real sense. Just minutes

from the mayhem of Djemaa el-Fna

square and a labyrinth of souks, it’s a

calming world within another world.

El Fenn is part owned by Vanessa Branson,

Richard Branson's sister. She opened her

first art gallery in London in 1989, hence

the incredible art and photographic

collections here. She also helped create,

in 2005, the first Marrakesh Biennale.

The Biennale is now internationally

recognised as a thriving visual art and

literature programme showcasing venues

in both the walled old city and the

new town, the Ville Nouvelle. The next

Biennale is 28 February-8 May 2016.

Keen to take an orientation tour of the

old city, the hotel arranges Mustafa to

guide us through the medina, which is

comprised of a maze of communities; of

souks and restricted lanes all radiating out

from a World Heritage UNESCO site, the

famous Djemaa el-Fna Square. This should

mean, Mustafa tells us, that it’s impossible

to get lost. Mustafa explains how the

idea of the World Heritage UNESCO

project Masterpieces of the Oral and

Intangible Heritage of Humanity came

from local residents concerned about

protecting the traditions and future of

Djama el-Fna’s cultural space. They saved

it from economic redevelopment by

seeking the support of this international

body so people could experience this

amazing place as it was and is now.

We walk and he talks, explaining the

old metalworking quarter and the

ancient leather market. He points out

fundugs (old stables) turned into artisan

workshops. We pass by spice markets,

lantern, carpet, slipper and food sellers.

In the heart of the medina, Mustafa

points out Le Jardin, a lively riad café

and hub of the emerging arts scene,

which we later establish as our resting

base. Then, as a perfect example of all

that is “beautiful and understated in Arab

design”, we arrive at the Ben Youssef

Medersa, a former Islamic college dating

back to the 15th century, its walls covered

in delicate carvings from the Qur'an.

A young man sits under an umbrella

in the courtyard and in fine calligraphy

writes Arabic names in perfumed ink

made to his own recipe. We found

our way back next day and had all our

family’s names so inscribed.

“A visit to Marrakesh taught me colours.”

These words by world-famous French

couturier and designer, Yves Saint Laurent

capture it beautifully. He loved Moroccan

colour and hues – purple, violet, gold,

orange, greens, pinks, reds, turquoise

and live blues. Revered by the locals, he

and his partner bought an electric blue

villa and re-established its shady botanical

gardens. On his death, he gifted his

celebrated Jardin Majorelle to the

people of Marrakesh. Today, Marjorelle's

art décor studio houses a Berber Art

Museum, boutique and café, and is

one of the most admired tourist sites

in Morocco.

Wandering the souk one day, we initially

ignored the calls of a charming young

man inviting us to enter his shop called

Herboriste des Amis. “Jamie Oliver came

to my shop,” he said. “I have the photo

– come and see.” True he did and, even

if it was photoshopped, we immediately

relaxed in this amazing herbarium. As a

young woman massaged my shoulders

with arnica creams, we bought the 35

spices tagine mix (that Jamie bought),

orange blossom perfume, almond hand

cream, a eucalyptus crystal remedy

(for colds) and a stick of kohl (for

dramatic eyes).

Ultimately it seems, all lanes lead to

Djemaa el-Fna, which is surrounded by

restaurants, stands and public buildings;

underneath we are told, is the prison.

It really is a unique cultural space and

meeting point, providing dramatic live

action entertainment both day and night.

Scrambling to avoid a bolting horse

drawn carriage, we arrived early evening

ready for anything exciting. We decide

first to go up to a rooftop restaurant to

sit on a terrace and take in the Terrasse

Panaramique – the panoramic views of

the square below. With the sun sinking

low, turning the walls a pink-orange

hue, belly dancers wafted past. Smoke

began to drift up heralding the arrival of

hundreds of chefs and the setting up of

their food stalls below. We’d heard about

how they fire up a feast here, serving

superior street food from grills. Dishes

like aubergine and chicken tagine with

caramelised pumpkin. But I was on the

hunt to try one dish – pastilla – pigeon

cooked in flaky pastry with pistachios

and almonds, topped with cinnamon

and powdered sugar. But not today, we

had to content ourselves with chicken in

pastry, spiced similarly and served by a

Drag Queen. It was an amazing meal.

As the evening progressed, with so

many food sellers and fresh orange

booths everywhere to refresh us, all

around the noise level rose. We watched

and wandered as Berber musicians,

street dancers, acrobats, snake

charmers and monkeys on boys’

shoulders did their thing, while avoiding,

on local advice, dodgy gropers and

opportunist pickpockets.

With its fabulous restaurants and

contemporary art galleries, Marrakesh,

was of great interest to us especially for

investigating the new generations of

craftsmen and artists. It was fascinating,

alluring and alive in colour and soul.

In coming to Marrakesh, I wanted to

honour the vivacious spirit of a recently

departed Moroccan girlfriend whose love

of colour was legendary. Always present,

her presence made our visit personally

relevant and very meaningful. Live.

Suites range from NZ$350 to NZ$1050

per night and include early morning

tea/coffee, afternoon tea and WiFi.

www.el-fenn.com

82 83Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. El Fenn Colonnade

84 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 85Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. For more information visit www.signaturestyle.co.nz

The Kowtow Volute dress is the ideal convertible travel dress. Not only is the organic cotton durable, breathable and good for the environment, the Japanese inspired twisted style is both flattering and fun. Team this with heels or take it back with a pair of trainers for hours of sightseeing. RRP NZ$189

The Company of Strangers jewellery range will add the finishing edge you need. Not too cool, not too twee but simply stylish. Cluster Necklace in Sterling Silver RRP NZ$575

Leading Personal Stylist Jackie O’Fee from personal style consultancy,

Signature Style brings us her extensive fashion knowledge and expertise.

Style file

Heading to warmer climes? Be sure to take a pair of Chaos and Harmony Linea sandals. Perfect whether you’re lounging in a bikini or hitting the shops. RRP NZ$279

The gorgeous cerulean blue of Karen Walker’s Hollywood Creeper Sunglasses, coupled with their origami-inspired design makes these the perfect accessory to add a pop of real style to the simplest of ensembles. RRP NZ$349

Save space in your cosmetics travel kit with

the gorgeous new L.A. Lights Blush and Lip

Colour in a range of delicious shades from

Smashbox Cosmetics. RRP NZ$51

The perfect mix of kimono wrapped top and fun shorts, the Ruby Vanda Wrap playsuit will take you from daytime to evening in style. RRP NZ$229

85Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.

Add a pair of Julian Danger Sophia Sneakers to your travel wardrobe and experience the comfort. These stylish sneakers will take you from sightseeing to shopping, all without sacrificing style. Available in a range of colours (Pictured: Blue Baby) RRP NZ$250


Style file

85Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.

Post completed form to: LUXURY, PO Box 559, Shortland Street, Auckland 1140, New Zealand

Competition only open to New Zealand subscribers. Competition closes 30 March 2016. The winner will be notified by email on 2 April 2016. Prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash.

Subscribe and WIN 1 of 3 distinct bottles of Beau Joie ChampagneBeau Joie (pronounced bô-jwah) premium French Champagne is produced in Epernay in the heart of France’s Champagne region. Created by the globally recognised, Charles Ellner Estate, this regal Champagne is superior in taste and particularly distinct with its handmade armour encasement. In true keeping of the Champagne region’s royal connections, the bottles wear a striking copper suit of armour inspired by medieval Knights and the copper roofs of Paris.

Available as a Brut, Rosé and Demi-Sec to suit the finest palates and the most lavish of celebrations, Beau Joie is a superior and memorable Champagne for those that enjoy a unique experience. Brut & Demi-Sec NZ$109, Rosé NZ$129 Available at all good liquor stores.


Title: Name:

Company:

Postal Address:

City: Country: New Zealand Only

Postcode: Phone:

Email:

Please charge my Credit Card for NZ$30.60:

Visa Mastercard

Card number:

3-Digit security code:

Expiry date:

Card holder:

Signature:

My cheque is enclosed for $30.60, payable to: Travel Publications Limited.

I do not wish to receive related information and special offers from LUXURY in the future.

For more information on subscriptions to LUXURY, call: 0800 444 556.

Gift Subscription Details (if applicable)

Title: Name:

Address:

Phone:

#

NZ

Digital subscriptions available from: www.zinio.co.nz

Australian subscriptions purchased online at: www.isubscribe.co.nz. 1 year (2 issues) NZ$42.60. Includes P&P.

New Zealand subscriptions can be purchased online at: www.isubscribe.co.nz or by filling in the form below.

Me Gift 1 year (2 issues) New Zealand NZ$30.60 (save NZ$9.30) Free P&P.

Subscribe and Save 25%

86 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 87Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. Salt Lick BBQ Grill


Story: Tim Lamb Images: Renée Lamb

There’s no sign on the building exterior of wine bar 13 Celsius.

It is located in midtown Houston, Texas, and its modest outside and

charming Mediterranean interior characteristics don’t seem to fit the

state’s extroverted stereotype that everything is bigger. But these

days, if there is ever a city not to be judged by its cover it’s Houston.

HOT HOUSTON


Some of Houston’s most interesting locations won’t be obvious, especially the hottest places to wine and dine. (The city even has a complex tunnel system under the downtown high-rises full of eateries for workers).

European-style wine bar 13 Celsius is both an example of a treasure you can discover in Houston and the perfect place to remedy your jet lag after the 14.5 hour direct flight from Auckland. Inside the bar is an expansive range of global wines served as flights, tastings or by the bottle and partnered with a charcuterie and cheese menu.

Houston is the fourth largest city in the U.S. and there is possibly little known about the city other than its links to the country's space program or its oil market. But, that's Houston's advantage; the surprise factor.

Even from the time your plane descends on George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the city is surprisingly green despite having one of the most complex and widest freeway systems in the U.S.

Much like Los Angeles, Houston is a car, or in many cases truck, city. With petrol about the same price in Houston for one gallon (3.74 litres) as it is for a single litre in New Zealand (hovering around $2-per-gallon in the second half of 2015), renting a car at the airport is the most efficient way to explore.

Driving will also be the best way to navigate between the glitzy Galleria shopping mall and the city’s eclectic dining scene on Westheimer Road.

First timers to Houston shouldn’t miss trying one of the city’s many Mexican restaurants. There’s no shortage of options for "Tex-Mex”, but head to Hugo’s to sample upscale Mexican.

Frequently named one of Houston’s best restaurants, the interior is rustic and servers are sophisticated. However, the diners’ dress options, ranging from urban casual to button-up tie, reflect that this city is no longer the stuffy oil and gas destination many may associate it to be.

Hugo’s has a detailed Mezcal and Tequila menu, and margaritas poured table-side. However, the best cocktails may be the seafood and ceviche starters, in particular Vuelve a la Vida (Return to Life). Chef Hugo Ortega’s comprehensive seafood and meat main courses start-off traditional before being contemporised with a twist.

In addition to uncovering city secrets, Houston can also be your excuse to try experiences that are uniquely Texan or simply not an option in New Zealand. Drive 45-minutes southwest of downtown and walk the trails at Brazos Bend State Park; a reservation area that includes hundreds of easily-spotted alligators living in the ecosystem.

Stay at the nearly 185 square metre, Warwick Apartment Suite at Hotel Zaza, fitted with vintage wingback leather chairs and a 3.5-metre long table for dinner parties, to be in walking distance of Houston’s world-class museums. Or secure tickets to one of city’s national sporting league teams – the Astros (baseball), Rockets (basketball) or Texans (football).

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Houston. Locals joke there are two seasons, hot and hotter. So visiting in the U.S. spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) can often be the best time to visit to avoid the intense humidity.

Another reason to travel in March is to attend the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Show. Just buy tickets early as the best seats tend to sell-out fast.

The best way to experience the three-week event is by purchasing a HESS Chute seat, which comes with a front-row view of the rodeo, VIP access to ‘the dirt’ for the evening concert and entry to the giant carnival. Even if fast-paced rides or festival treats liked chocolate-dipped bacon and deep-fried “cookies” are not your preference, the carnival also includes high-end shopping for western boots, hats and jewellery.

Hear something new in Austin

Even in the state capital (2.5-hours drive west), you’ll want to choose your time to visit. Austin hosts the only U.S. stop on the Formula One circuit, but is more synonymous with being the country’s live music capital. In October, the city hosts Austin City Limits (ACL), a music festival that became so popular that it now spans over two weekends.

The festival now has a unique relationship with New Zealand after organisers announced the inaugural Auckland City Limits, a one-day spin-off of the festival that draws international superstars and breeds local musicians.


Don’t be fooled into thinking ACL is marketed only towards a younger crowd. VIP tickets give access to an exclusive area featuring a mini-spa, gourmet happy hours and live feeds into the main stages. A dedicated child-friendly area, “Austin Kiddie Limits”, and eating options that promote locally-harvested food are a good representation of the inclusive spirit you’ll find in the city.

Its slogan may be “Keep Austin Weird” and the best place to embrace this is in South Austin.

Hidden on South Congress Ave among a collection of funky retail stores with retro exteriors and trendy eateries housed in trailers, food trucks and containers, is the boutique South Congress Hotel.

The Hotel is a representation of the area's rebuild of the sophisticated, but casual approach that Austin appears to define. It has the comforts of a relaxing urban retreat with an alluring rooftop pool and spa-like guest rooms. Plus it’s in a location that makes it a short Uber ride to explore one of the city’s 250 live music venues or walk to one of the area’s independent coffee shops.

Explore the Hill Country

It can be the small towns in between Austin and San Antonio that will give you the authentic Texas experience.

Walk the main street in Fredericksburg to explore German-influenced dining or drive the 290 highway road to sample the emerging Texas wine culture.

In Gruene (pronounced green), you can visit the state’s oldest dancehall or shop the boutique stores next to the Guadalupe River.

Meanwhile in Bandera, hill country resorts known as Dude Ranches allow guests to experience cowboy culture and horseback trail rides on working ranches.

On the 2-hour drive from Austin to San Antonio, don’t miss taking a detour to Driftwood and visit the Salt Lick restaurant to taste how Texans define barbecue. At Salt Lick, beef brisket is slow cooked – a 17 to 21-hour process, which still incorporates a traditional open fire grill.

“The way we cook was based on how my relatives cooked when they were on the wagon trains,” says Salt Lick owner Scott Roberts. What has evolved at Salt Lick is the move to embrace the region’s growing wine presence. The land that the restaurant occupies also includes 50-acres of wine-growing grapes, which are bottled and available for tastings and sales in the Salt Lick Cellars.

Discover History in San Antonio

Texas history combined with the addition of several theme parks makes San Antonio a lure for travellers. If travelling with family, there are a number of spacious resorts like the Hyatt Hill Country, which offers easy access to Six Flags Fiesta Texas Roller Coaster Park and SeaWorld.

Staying downtown offers a great way to indulge in Texas history. Whether, that is at the landmark of the state’s independence, the Alamo, or at the re-opened St. Anthony Hotel, the first fully-functioning air-conditioned hotel in the world.

The St. Anthony’s renovation has managed to preserve the hotel’s historical charm, while modernising its pristine lobby, dazzling rooftop pool and grand guest rooms.

The hotel is the prime location to explore the city’s downtown attractions like the River Walk, a network of walkways below street level. Venture out before breakfast for almost exclusive access to the River Walk, but take one of the 30-minute river cruises on a Saturday night to see the waterfront restaurants buzzing.

There’s always plenty to do beyond the River Walk. The emerging Pearl District is only five minutes drive from downtown and a hip shopping spot for Latin kitchenware and clothing.

The district’s Boiler House Texas Grill and Wine Bar may just be the perfect way to end any Texas tour. The menu combines what you may know this state is renowned for, its cowboy-sized steaks, with the flair of originality and surprise that only those who venture to Texas will now know exist.

From December 2015 Air New Zealand will fly between Auckland and Houston up

to five times a week. This new route will become the fastest way for New Zealanders

to travel to popular East Coast destinations, including New York and Chicago. It also

allows for easy access to Nashville, Tennessee; the jazz capital of New Orleans and

sunny Miami in Florida. Houston is also a key gateway for destinations in Mexico,

Central America and the Caribbean.


These days the Bay Area is equally famous for its cutting-edge

dining and vibrant arts scene, not to mention the tech money

that flows from Silicon Valley in a ceaseless stream. No wonder

travellers have been have been making their way to North

California in ever-growing numbers.

As one of the USA’s main Pacific gateways, San Francisco has

more than its share of large hotels. However, we were determined

to seek out a boutique luxury alternative. Our choice: Hotel Vitale.

The first thing to note here is the location. Yes, Hotel Vitale really

does live up to the adage that a property’s physical setting is all-

important. It’s right on the Embarcadero, close to the Bay Bridge,

with fantastic views of the Bay and its glorious suspension bridge.

The city’s historic trolley car has a stop right in front of the hotel,

so you can easily explore all the city’s prime attractions. The hotel

is away from the main CBD of San Francisco, so you enjoy all the

urban amenities but enjoy a more spectacular natural backdrop.

Some of San Francisco’s best restaurants are very close by. We

enjoyed meals at Waterbar (fresh, sustainable seafood) and

Slanted Door (delicious modern Vietnamese). And just over the

road from the hotel you’ll find the famous Ferry Building, which is

packed with restaurants and amazing markets. If gourmet dining

is on your to-do list, Hotel Vitale will provide the perfect base.

The hotel itself is definitely in the boutique category, furnished

in an unpretentious style with acres of natural wood and stone.

Its four stories provide a range of rooms and suites, many

with stunning views across the Bay. To make the most of the

experience, consider booking the Panoramic Circular Suite with

its corner location providing 180-degree views of the waterfront.

Room features include a spa-style limestone bathroom with

soaking tub for two, wet bar and living area.

San Francisco has always had a certain charisma. Its supreme

setting on one of the world’s great natural harbours, its

vertiginous hills and stunning views – all these factors have

been drawing visitors since the Gold Rush era.

San FranciscoHotel Vitale

Once you’ve unpacked and freshened up, we suggest you

head to the rooftop terrace. As the name implies, this is a

prime spot for taking in the sweeping views. Relax in the

comfortable chairs, enjoy some refreshments, and watch

the world go by.

Americano, the hotel’s main restaurant and bar, is much

more than a hotel bar. It’s an attraction in its own right,

with a nightly crowd of locals enjoying a glass or two of

California’s finest wines and enjoying the rustic Italian cuisine.

Like the rest of Hotel Vitale, it captures all that’s good about

San Francisco – the good taste and sophistication of the old

world, combined with the zesty energy of America.

If you’re ready to dip your toes in the San Francisco waters,

Hotel Vitale provides the perfect entry point.


Category: Boutique city hotel.

Room Reviewed: Tranquil Interior King.

What’s great? The amazing view – like looking out at your own personal postcard. The waterfront location on the Embarcadero is a gateway to some of San Francisco’s best restaurants.

What’s not so great: While it’s understated luxury, maybe a little too understated.

Editor’s tip: Definitely book a room with a water facing view – you won’t be disappointed.

Rate: From NZ$540 per room per night for a Tranquil Interior King.

Website: www.jdvhotels.com

Tranquil Interior King

Location

Room size

Room interior


Food & beverage

Business needs


Spa facilities

Value for money

Boutique style in The Bay.

Hotel Vitale San Francisco

at a glance

Chef Josh Perez

This image: Americano Bar Above: Rooftop Terrace


KAURI BAY

AUCKLAND’S ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE VENUE

Tailored Events | Weddings | Corporate [email protected]

TRAVEL ACCESSORIESFOR THE LUXURY TRAVELLER

Tag Heuer Connected Watch

What is it? A smartwatch to rival the Apple Watch.

What makes it so special? It doesn’t look like a

smartwatch but a traditional Tag Heuer timepiece

with all the benefits of a smartwatch. What’s more,

when it becomes obsolete, you can pay an additional

US$1,500 to get it swapped out for a mechanical

watch. Tag Heuer is the first Swiss brand to

co-develop a smartwatch with Google.

Where can you get it? Now launching in

the USA and select cities in Europe. Will no

doubt get to New Zealand and Australia soon.

www.tagheuer.com

Price: US$1,500

MOR Paris Fold-out Traveller

What is it? From the Destination Luxe

collection, a fold-out cosmetic purse made

from seriously soft faux ostrich leather.

What makes it so special? Designed

to hang for easy access, it contains four

compartments to selectively organise your

beauty essentials.

Where can you get it? See online at

www.morboutique.com for stockists.

Price: NZ$69.95

Karen Walker Captain’s Daughter Dress

What is it? A striking and

versatile dress from the

‘Love Boat” Resort Collection.

What makes it so special? Made

from a light neoprene fabric with

ruffle detail, this dress will travel

superbly and can be worn for day

or evening.

Where can you get it? At Karen

Walker stores, selected stockists

or online at www.karenwalker.com

Price: From NZ$380

Bose QuietComfort® 25 Headphones

What is it? Comfortable and streamlined noise-cancelling headphones.

What makes it so special? The advanced acoustic technology delivers

detailed low notes, giving less distortion and exaggeration of vocals or

instruments. A single AAA battery is required for up to 35-hours

of use, however if the battery dies, the music continues to play on.

Where can you get it? See online at www.bose.co.nz for stockists.

Price: From NZ$479


KAURI BAY

AUCKLAND’S ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE VENUE

Tailored Events | Weddings | Corporate [email protected]

95Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 95Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.morboutique.com

95Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 95Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. www.morboutique.com


singaporeair.com

Documents

LUXURY Holidays & Coprorate Travel Issue 27 Spring/Summer 2015