LIVING September 2018

Luxury Life & Style SEPTEMBER 2018 | Rs100

PLATED LUXURY

RARE EXPENSIVE DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

PARADISE ISLANDS

HIDDEN JEWELS OF THAILAND

ANANYA BIRLA

FEISTY AND FABULOUS

EDITOR'S

NOTE T

he month of September has so many meanings. It comes from the Latin root septum, which means seven as it was the seventh month in the Roman calendar before January and February were inserted into the current Gregorian calendar we follow. When I was a student in Boston, September was most beautiful – with summer just ending and leaves changing colour as the fall season began. I used to walk my dog in the park and wonder at nature’s amazing colours. How it all fits in perfectly. And predictably too.

Today as a millennial in India, it is finding this balance and harmony which is one of the most important things to reflect on.

What lessons can September teach me? One of the four months with 30 days, it reminds me that even the average month has limited time. So to prioritise and allocate time – juggling multiple roles, of a daughter, sister, wife, friend, and businesswoman.

Once allocated, keep it sacrosanct. Next it alerts me with its changing leaves ready to fall, to limit my interests and spend it on what makes me happy – working out versus eating out, time with my family versus travel are conscious choices.

And when I see the seven in septum – I am reminded to live every day of the week fully, limiting addictive technology and focusing on what really matters – health, family and friends and, of course, my career. Here is the plan. Keep gadgets away from the sleeping room. Spend the first waking hour with myself and people I love. Pick a day in the week to have a cheat day. It’s all possible.

Read about an inspiring young woman, Ananya Birla in this issue of Living.

Rohini Manian

Editor-in-Chief rohini@globaladjustments.com

INBOX

Dear Team,

The fitness themed issue was truly mind-blowing. I loved the Runways and in fact, bought a pair of shoes going by your options. One of your

best issues till date. Is there a way to contribute to your magazine as

is online: www.culturamaliving.com www.issuu.com www.magzter.com

a writer?

Shonali Sistla, Delhi Dear Editor, Your ‘around the world in 5’ articles tempt me to pack my bag and run off to one of these gorgeous marathon locations immediately. Lovely choices and unique topics. I would love to see what more you guys can

To subscribe to this magazine, e-mail

come up with. Being a travel junkie, your Tripster and this are the two articles I always look forward to. The spas chosen are stunning and I have already planned to go to the Spa at Bali with my wife. Keep up the

culturamaliving@globaladjustments.com

good work.

For advertisement Call : 98416 33182

Hi LIVING,

Nikhil Khatkari, Bengaluru I love your diet regime, seems to be simple to follow. However, much like you, I love Yoga and cannot live without my daily dose of Yoga. I see a lot of me in you when it comes to working-out while travelling. I have even tried mobile gyms in London and the USA. They are terrific. I cannot wait to read your webpage ‘Flourish’.

Deepa Rakesh, Coimbatore ROHINI MANIAN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

RADHIKA RAMESH SUB-EDITOR ANUPAMA ARVIND VICE PRESIDENT – BUSINESS STRATEGY SUNDARAM SHWETHA SALES MANAGER PREM KUMAR CREATIVE HEAD DOROTHY MARTIN GRAPHIC DESIGNER P DEVARAJ CIRCULATION CONTRIBUTORS ANTARA KOTHARI |

ISHANI VELLODI REDDY

ANURIMA DAS | KARISHMA KIRPALANI DR. MARSHALL GOLDSMITH |

SURAKSHA ACHARYA

ZAINAB ALI KHAN

CHENNAI (HEADQUARTERS) 5, 3RD MAIN ROAD, R A PURAM, CHENNAI – 600028 TELEFAX +91-44-24617902 E-MAIL CULTURAMALIVING@GLOBALADJUSTMENTS.COM BENGALURU #333/1, 1ST FLOOR, 9TH MAIN, 14TH CROSS, 2ND STAGE, INDIRA NAGAR, BANGALORE - 560038TEL +91-80-41267152, E-MAIL CULTURAMABLR@GLOBALADJUSTMENTS.COM DELHI-NCR LEVEL 4, AUGUSTA POINT, GOLF COURSE ROAD, SECTOR 53, GURGAON 122002, HARYANA MOBILE +91 124 435 4224 E-MAIL DEL@GLOBALADJUSTMENTS.COM PUBLISHED AND OWNED BY ROHINI MANIAN AT #5, 3RD MAIN ROAD, RAJA ANNAMALAI PURAM, CHENNAI – 600028, AND PRINTED BY K SRINIVASAN OF SRIKALS GRAPHICS PVT LTD AT #5, BALAJI NAGAR, 1ST STREET, EKKATTUTHANGAL, CHENNAI – 600032 DISCLAIMER: VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED BY WRITERS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE PUBLISHER’S OR THE MAGAZINE’S.

6

September 2018

MUMBAI #1102, 11TH FLOOR, PENINSULA BUSINESS PARK, TOWER B, SB ROAD, LOWER PAREL, MUMBAI – 400013 TEL +91-22-66879366 E-MAIL MUM@GLOBALADJUSTMENTS.COM HYDERABAD SUITE-18, 3RD FLOOR, RAJAPUSHPA BUSINESS CENTRE, STONE RIDGE CENTRE, OPP. GOOGLE, HITEC CITY – KONDAPUR MAIN ROAD, HYDERABAD – 500 084, PH: +91 40 48687956 E-MAIL HYD@GLOBALADJUSTMENTS.COM

INSIDE

this issue 42

14 PASSION IS KEY

LUXURY ON A PLATE

22

46

IS KETO WORTH IT?

NANNY’S NOT A NO-ONE

26

50

RED CARPET RENDEZVOUS

PARADISE ISLANDS

Ananya Birla’s take on career, success and more

We unlock the secret behind the famous keto diet.

The latest trends of Fall fashion.

34 LESS IS MORE

Minimalistic interiors for the win.

Walk through the most expensive dishes from all over the world.

The importance of a nanny in your child’s life

Exploring the hidden gems of Thailand.

58 THE

COMMENDABLE

ARTIST

Neeta Lulla’s love for designing.

Small Talk

14

September 2018

Successful women are always a delight to talk to, as they have stories that inspire you and teach you to work hard. In conversation with Team LIVING, the founder of three companies, Birla heiress and an international singer Ananya Birla talks about her journey of life.

An ardent fan of Kurt Cobain and Eminem, Ananya grew up loving music, but that was not all. The singer is also a successful entrepreneur of Svatantra, Curocarte and MPower. At the age of 17, Ananya began her journey of success from scratch; and since then, she has been unstoppable. Her story is an inspiration to all young women.

Coming from a famous background, how was your childhood?

At the end of the day, we are a family like any other and, all things considered, I had a pretty normal childhood. Some people make snap judgements and jump to conclusions about me because of my surname, but that’s inevitable; I don’t judge them in return. When you’re in the public eye, people feel like they know you even though they have barely scratched the surface of who you are.

I know how lucky I am to have the support that I have had in life.

But growing up came with the usual challenges and anxieties, particularly as a teenager. I think for every young person, working out who you are and what makes you happy is hard.

September 2018

15

Small Talk

Despite your inheritance, you decided to start from scratch at the age of 17.

What motivated you?

I felt quite old for my age at 17, and perhaps a bit restless. I wanted to channel that into doing something positive, so I set up Svatantra. It is a microfinance business which provides loans to women in rural India to help them expand their businesses and become financially independent. Microfinance appealed to me because, done correctly, it is a business with a heart.

I was also keen, even at that age, to start to carve my own path and build an identity for myself beyond my surname.

What was the ideology behind the launch of Svatantra Microfin?

I wanted to build something that would address the massive income gap in India, in a sustainable way which encouraged social progress and self-sufficiency. I also wanted to develop a vehicle which would enable women to be self-sustainable and fulfil their potential as businesspeople.

For me, it’s not just about capital, but about sociocultural development as well. Increasingly, women are making their presence felt in India’s economy. We continue to see that when they work not only do their lives improve, so do the lives of their families and communities.

From e-commerce to microfinance, you run three companies today. How does that make you feel?

Busy! But I love it. Each of my ventures was built from a foundation of passion. Whether it is Curocarte, a platform for artisans around the globe to sell their products and keep their craft alive, Svatantra or my mental health initiative MPower. I have always believed that life is too short not to follow the thing which sparks a fire in your soul.

I used to really struggle to balance these things and it meant that I was sacrificing sleep and quality time with friends and family. But now, with the amazing teams which we have built at each organisation, I am much more comfortable occasionally taking a bit of a step back.

How did you fall in love with music?

I have loved music for as long as I can remember. It was a massive part of my childhood. I was inspired by my mom to take up the Santoor when I was nine, then I taught myself the guitar and started singing as a teenager.

Music, and particularly song writing, was always an amazing escape for me. I am quite shy, but when I discovered music I suddenly had a way of expressing myself in a manner that I was comfortable with. That is so important. As a result, music has been this constant companion through all the good and bad times in my life. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to do it as a job.

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September 2018

Small Talk

September 2018

17

Small Talk

How did you react to your international debut album’s release?

I had been performing in really low-key places around London before I came back to India and was signed by Universal. There was something wonderful about working with anonymity, and I think those years where I was grafting away, performing on whatever stage I could, were some of the most valuable of my life.

I was so happy when Universal approached me in Mumbai.

It was a dream come true to work with such a prestigious label. They really helped maximise the reach of the first song. I never expected to jump into the public eye quite so quickly, and it was tough to deal with suddenly being scrutinised by everyone – people would suddenly come up to me randomly and tell me that they loved the track, or in some cases didn’t and why. It was a lot to handle.

My sound has developed quite a bit since my first single, and I think it will continue to change over the coming years. Right now, I am incorporating more of an Indian

vibe into the upcoming tracks, which has been really fun to do. I’m working on the songs in London, so playing with the amazing array of Indian sounds and percussion helps alleviate my homesickness.

What is your motivation behind songs like Hold on, Circles?

My aim with my music is to connect with people, so authenticity is central to every song I release.

All my

songs are personal to me and are generally based on own experiences. Nothing in the world makes me happier than when I get a message from a fan about having related to something in my music.

How do you feel when you’re about to perform on stage?

I do get quite nervous, but once I am up there I feel so comfortable. I’m usually shy, but being on stage brings out

Small Talk this different persona. Live performances are without a doubt the

thrift store in Los Angeles. I love experimenting with

best way to connect with an audience, and that is what music is

new designers from all over the world, from Acne

about. Even if it was just 20 people in the audience, I would gladly

to Topshop.

go out and do my best because, for me, seeing those people enjoying what I am doing is the best feeling in the world.

At the young age of 24 you are succeeding in two different yet huge fields. What are your future plans?

Thank you. More than anything, I want to continue doing what I love and hopefully making a positive difference and spreading love whilst doing it.

What’s your fitness and diet regimen?

I like to exercise at least three times a week. I think that exercise benefits not just your physical health but also your mental health. It helps me slow my mind if I am worrying, and also helps me feel better about myself. I love to play football, do yoga, surf or just hit the gym.

I don’t have any restrictions with my diet. Everything in moderation is my approach.

With my music, I will continue to release tracks, I have a new song soon and an album at the end of the year. I want to play more live music, and eventually tour around the world, and prove that India can produce a successful, global musician.

What do you do for fun?

Whenever I have time off, my first instinct is to go home. Nothing makes me happier than spending

You’ve talked about being your own critic.

Have you ever felt that you are being too hard on yourself to break stereotypes around you?

Life is a journey, and there are moments when you believe in yourself and when you don’t. I am a big believer that people should be kind to themselves, proud of themselves and love themselves.

What does the value of money mean to you?

My life would be different without money, but my principles and

quality time with family and friends. I love to have a chilled dinner, and curl up and watch a movie. When I am on the road, I love to read, watch documentaries or find somewhere I can go and work out.

Any advice to youngsters who are hoping to make it big?

Age should never be a barrier and neither should gender. If other people make assumptions based on either of those things, that’s their problem, not yours.

what I believe in would still be the same. Like everything, money

It was difficult for me to build up the courage to

has a positive and a negative side depending on how you use it.

move in to music, people told me I should follow a

For me, there are things I find far more valuable like friendship, family, and love – things that money can’t buy.

more safe and predictable path. Ironically, people were also quick to caution when I started my first business, saying I was too young and inexperienced.

What’s your style statement?

In both these cases, I am so glad I went ahead in

It totally depends on my mood. My everyday uniform is jeans

working out what you want to do with your life, but

and a tee, usually Re/Done jeans – every pair is vintage – and a

once you find something that sets your soul on fire,

pair of Yeezy or Reebok trainers with an old band t-shirt from a

go for it.

spite of other people doubting me. It’s not easy

September 2018

19

Runway 8

3

CREATIVE CASES

1

Cases these days make a better impression than phones themselves.

Choose from a wide range of phone cases that are stylish and chic.

6

5

4

1

THE GLITTER FALL emoji case (iPhone) - $40

2

K AT E S PA D E Minnie Mouse (iPhone) - $50

3

MARC JACOBS glossy embossed case (iPhone) - $50

4

TED BAKER Shana Chelsea cases (iPhone) - $44

5

GIVENCHY Bambi phone case (iPhone) - $95

6

C A S E - M AT E Petals phone case (iPhone) - $60

7

CASEOLOGY geometric cover (Google Pixel XL) - $17

8

LED VIEW WALLET CASE Samsung Galaxy Note 8 - $39

7

2

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September 2018

Health Wise

IS KETO WORTH IT? What happens when good fat is added to your diet regime?

Ishani Vellodi Reddy shares her experience with the Keto diet, and this will help you decide whether this change is key.

Our daily diet at home is usually pretty straightforward: good, clean food. We eat carbohydrates on a daily basis (including pasta), lots of vegetables and definitely some chocolate and treats here and there.

Nothing is out of bounds, and it has worked pretty well, but there was always one thing missing: fats.

Of course, there was some fat that came along with the nonvegetarian proteins we ate, but certainly not a significant enough amount, which can be a problem. Fats are actually critical for optimum body functioning. Not only do they help repair everything from joints and muscles right down to cell walls but the right kinds of fats can also improve brain function, and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Science has been around for ages, but it looks like there has been a marked uptick in those who have assigned even more importance to fats, and even rebalanced their diets to consume mostly fats. The most common form of this is the Ketogenic diet.

22

September 2018

The Ketogenic diet (or “Keto”), involves consuming fats

Although my primary purpose for trying Keto wasn’t to lose

as roughly 80% of your diet, while limiting your carb

weight, I almost immediately felt a little leaner and, sure

intake to somewhere below 50 grams a day (or for

enough, when I stepped on the scale, my usually stable

the stricter Keto followers, below 20 grams a day; for

weight had dipped a bit. I was mostly shocked at how quickly

reference, a slice of bread clocks in at 19 grams of

I seemed to see a change.

carbohydrates, and an apple is 20!).

There were other changes too though. I was not one of

Without carbs for a prolonged period of time, instead of

those Keto followers who experienced a surge in energy.

using glucose to function, the liver starts using fats and

In fact, on my second day of the diet, I went to the gym

turning them into ketones, which the body can use as

and felt lightheaded after my warm-up and stretches, and I

an energy source. In other words, your body goes into

found myself having to actually take breaks during yoga. My

serious fat burning mode. Moreover, people in a state

usual resting heart rate of around 50, also steadily climbed

of ketosis claim to have increased energy, feel more

by two beats every single day for my first week, which is

focused and experience a dip in cravings.

apparently common as people’s bodies enter ketosis.

After hearing enough people rave about Keto, and

As the days went on, I triedto power through the “transition”

recognising my own limited experience in fat consumption,

phase, hoping I would break through it and then feel all the

I decided to see if Keto really was the key to brilliant

amazing benefits people rave about. I tried to be a little less

body function. The plan was this: my mostly plant-based

ambitious in the gym and just work with whatever my body

diet was being traded in for healthy fats at every chance

was willing to give me; but, in the end, that’s what made me

I got.

realise Keto wasn’t for me.

My breakfast went from scrambled egg whites to two

If the whole point of food is to help you do the things you

full boiled eggs with bacon on the side. Lunch went

love, and the things that are meaningful to you, then not

from a salad to chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese

being able to work out at my full capacity meant that this

and spinach. Dinner went from zucchini noodles with

wasn’t an eating pattern that would work for me. I’ve now

chickpea meatballs to a full piece of salmon with cheese

slowly added back carbs into my life and I feel a million

and broccoli on the side. Everything was, of course,

times better for it, and I’ve also ended my short-lived hot

cooked in butter, ghee, or coconut oil.

and heavy relationship with cheese.

Initially, I just felt confused. Everything I was eating was

What my Keto experience has given me, however, is a keen

different from what I usually eat and, I assumed that was

awareness that carbs are everywhere and in much higher

the right way to eat. As someone who is fundamentally

amounts than you would expect, and that I also probably

anti-dairy, and limits animal protein, there was dairy and

don’t need as much as I thought I did. I also haven’t

meat or fish at almost every meal.

eliminated a lot of the good fats I added into my diet,

Strangely, though, I didn’t feel bloated, sick, or overstuffed as I thought I would. Instead, my meals felt so indulgent

because nothing quite satiates you like they do, and now I understand where I can fit them in.

that I was really satisfied. I left each meal feeling satiated

My final verdict? I firmly believe that there is no good diet,

(not stuffed), and didn’t begin to feel hungry again until

but if you need to experience one to rebalance yourself and

my next meal. My constant snacking stopped.

learn a thing or two along the way, then go for it.

Originally from New York, Ishani now lives in Chennai with her husband and son.

Although she previously had a career in Finance, she is now a wellness coach who loves helping people achieve balance so they can live their fullest lives possible.

In her spare time, Ishani loves spending time with her son (aka her best friend), working out, eating and travelling.

September 2018

23

Runway

4

BELTS FOR HIM

From leather to labels, here are some of the best picks for men.

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5 8

7 8

1

6

3

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September 2018

1

B O T T E G A V E N E TA Nero Intrecciato belt - $632

2

YVES SAINT LAURENT Western style buckled belt - $659

3

BALENCIAGA Classic buckle belt - $355

4

PRADA Black logo buckle leather belt - $550

5

BURBERRY Vintage checks leather belt - $320

6

VALENTINO Camouflage Rock stud belt - $565

7

GUCCI Interlocking buckle belt - $1613

8

S A L V AT O R E F E R R A G A M O Gancini buckle belt - $445

Couture

Red Carpet Rendezvous As the monsoons bid adieu, it’s time to redo your red carpet essentials. The Fall/Winter collection is out; and this season, the red carpet is all about larger-than-life gowns and extravagance. Deepa Kalukuri reviews the best of the season for a glamorous red carpet look!

26 September 2018

Couture Dior, Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton have always led the fashion runways; however, this year many other luxury houses have upped the fashion stakes. From pantsuits to gowns, red carpet collections of the season have dared to be different. Check out these collections and get set to wow the world!

CAROLINA HERRERA No matter which big city you’re in, you just can’t miss the sleek stiletto perfume ads by Carolina Herrera branded all over. Not only has the brand made a successful comeback in the fragrance industry but also the runway! Carolina Herrera’s plain, fluffy and silhouette-enhancing gowns have been the talk of the town. Minimal accessories, messy hairdo, floor-length gowns and skirts are a musthave this season. Keep your makeup minimal and let your striking gown do the talking with these Carolina Herrera pieces on the red carpet.

ALBERTA FERRETTI She’s a true Italian fashionista who has never disappointed her followers. Unlike the simple yet elegant Parisian fashion, Italian style is all about pushing the envelope.

Alberta Ferretti’s red carpet rules are bling, flirty and feisty! If you love the look of short and sexy red carpet dresses, check out Ferretti’s Fall collection. She has also given the accessories department a break and kept the make up to a bare minimum!

September 2018

27

Couture

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO Christian Siriano is not new to the fashion world. He has been making his presence felt for the past decade; however, in recent times, many stars have been spotted in Siriano’s quirky ensembles on the red carpet, bringing him right in the front of the luxury brands. His love for colours and his support for all-body-size outfits have hit the headlines. In view of the recent movements to support women of all shapes and sizes, Siriano designed his red carpet collection to woo the modern woman.

Ashley Graham famously walked in a custom-made Siriano gown for his Fall collection and shattered red carpet clichés!

ASHI STUDIO If you love fashion, you’ve definitely noticed this Lebanese brand giving a tough competition to the masters of Parisian couture. When Deepika Padukone walked the Cannes red carpet in this heavenly pink ruffled gown designed by Ashi Studio, the world took notice of the brand from Beirut. Known for their extravagant cuts and ‘princessy’ ruffles, Ashi Studio has arrived!

In her recent cover shoot with a popular magazine, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wore an angelic off-white gown and strutted the streets of Paris with elegance and élan. If you’re a bride-to-be, Ashi Studio should be on top of your list! For the rest, playing dress-up has never been so magnificent!

28

September 2018

VERSACE Whether it’s the classic LBD or a colourful melange of pop colours, Versace has got it all this Fall season. Donatella’s vision of having it all was clearly witnessed on the ramp.

Versace’s use of spring colours for Fall has also set a new trend of red carpet couture.

If you are a rule breaker, go for the spring pop dress this Fall and leave a rebellious statement on the red carpet.

BALMAIN Olivier

Rousteing’s

young

centennial

trends are all about metallic magic! His Fall collection for the season makes no mistake that it’s not for the weak-hearted.

Some

heavy-duty

Space

suit-inspired

couture gowns have brought back Balmain on top of the Gen Z fashion trends! Go big or go home!

September 2018

29

Couture

UP THE SHOE GAME! Fall/Winter 2018’s shoe trends from across the luxury houses have proved it’s all about comfort this season. Embellished with Swarovski crystals and a dash of metal, these shoe trends are here to stay! From flat ballerinas to high-broad heels, get these pairs for the easiest red carpet look!

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September 2018

Casinos

are

more

than

just

gambling

and

winning, today. These luxury places include fullfledged entertainment such as exclusive dining experiences, stunning shows, exciting nightlife and other major attractions like theme parks, Here are five of the best casinos you must visit.

Around the world in

BEST CASINOS TO VISIT

CASINO LISBOA PORTUGAL Located near the Tagus River in the Park of the Nations

THE VENETIAN MACAO

in the city of Lisbon, Portugal’s Casino Lisboa was

Owned by the American company Las Vegas Sands, The

600. In the casino, progressive jackpots and surprise prizes

Venetian is a 10,500,000 sq.ft. 39-storey luxury 5-star hotel and casino resort located on the Cotai Strip in Macao. The resort boasts of 3,000 suites and 5,50,000 sq. ft. of casino space with 6,000 slot machines and 800 gambling tables.

The casino is further divided into four themed gaming areas known as the Golden Fish, Red Dragon, Phoenix and Imperial House. It is the largest casino in the world and the largest single-structured hotel building in Asia. If measuredby the floor area, it is the seventh largest building in the world. The Venetian also houses the Paiza Club that caters to premium guests. The Paiza Club is divided into private gaming spaces named after various Asian cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Yunnan, Hong Kong and Guangzhou. The resort was officially opened to the public on August 28, 2007.

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September 2018

inaugurated on April 19, 2006. The casino is spread over 1,65,000 sq.ft. and has 700 slot machines, 22 gaming tables, 3 restaurants, 4 bars and a theatre with a seating capacity of add further to the fun and excitement. The table games include roulette, blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, French bank and baccarat..

THE BELLAGIO LAS VEGAS The Bellagio is a luxury hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. It was opened to the public on October 15, 1998, in an extravagant ceremony that cost a whopping $88 million. Fronted by an 8-acre lake that houses the famous Fountains of Bellagio, it is a hotel and casino par excellence known for its elegance and opulence. Seen in films like the Ocean’s Eleven, it is one of the most famous casinos in the world. With over 2,000 slot machines and 40 poker tables, the casino’s major attraction is Bobby’s Room, which pays tribute to Bobby Baldwin, the 1978 World Series of Poker champion.

Open round the clock, Bobby’s Room is an exclusive two-table enclave that hosts the highest limit poker action in the world with a minimum of $20,000 buy-in. Further adding to the beauty of the gaming space, the walls carry artwork that depict past Bellagio tournaments, World Poker Tours and the famous LeRoy Neiman painting of high-stakes poker greats. At the time of opening, this was the most expensive hotel ever built.

CAESARS PALACE

CASINO DE MONTE CARLO

LAS VEGAS

MONACO

Located on the west side of the Las Vegas Strip, Caesars

Located in Monaco, which is also known as a millionaires’

Palace is a luxury hotel and casino. As the name suggests, Jay Sarno established this Roman-themed hotel in 1966 and wanted the guests to experience the luxuries of the Roman Empire lifestyle. The hotel has over 3,900 rooms and a convention facility of over 3,00,000 sq.ft. A 20-feet statue of Augustus Caesar welcomes the guests into this Roman grandeur. Caesars Palace houses 1,50,000 sq. ft. of casino haven with classic table games, slot machines and poker, making it one of the finest gambling venues in the world.

It has appeared in various movies such as The Only Game in Town, Rocky III, Ocean’s Eleven, Iron Man and Hangover, to name a few.

playground, Casino de Monte Carlo is ownedandoperatedby a public company in which the Monaco Government and the ruling family have a majority interest – the casino supported the country and the ruling government during bankruptcy.

The initial idea to open a casino in Monaco was mooted by Princess Caroline. Founded in the 19th century, this casino has a rich history of royalty and luxury and its architecture spells class. The lavish setting of this casino had featured in a number of TV shows and films including the ever-famous Bond movies – Never Say Never, Golden Eye and Casino Royale. It also served as a filming location for the movie Ocean’s Twelve in 2004.

September 2018

33

Inside Out

LESS IS

MORE

Refurbishing a home not only elevates the look of it but also, completely refreshes the atmosphere. This Japanese-inspired contemporary makeover given to a flood-affected home is minimalism at its best.

Suraksha Acharya emphasises the importance of minimalistic spaces, keeping the Malladi residence as an example.

One of the more popular trends in recent times has

interior imitates the simplicity and sensibility of classic

been the adaptive reuse of structures, which has

Japanese cost-effective design. Crafted with care, every

seen several disaster-struck homes being given a

element in the home reflects serenity, simplicity and

refreshing makeover. Although Kerala’s top priority

inherent care for the globally loved Japanese way of life.

at the moment is rescuing and keeping its citizens safe, others are wondering what it will take to repair

The Malladi residence balances modern elements with

the homes damaged by the devastating floods.

the refined, simple and minimal style, making sure that

Once the waters recede and the clean-up efforts

the space is decorated with things that are absolutely

are over, buildings can be put back together and

needed. A serene sanctuary, the essence of the Japanese

given a fresh and contemporary makeover.

concept of ‘MA’ (pronounced as “maah”) – referring to the

One such home that was remodelled in the aftermath of the Chennai floods in 2015 was the Malladi residence, a 4000 sq.ft. bungalow in Ekkaduthangal, the industrial estate of Chennai.

34

pure and void between things has been respected in this design. An open-plan living-dining-pantry that promotes interaction between family members, with expansive glass wood sliding doors that shape the east – facing

This home renovation by Chennai-based Midori

Zen-Verdé wall create a unique indoor–outdoor interplay.

Architects totally transformed the existing aura of

The tranquillity can be translated in the large glass walls

the structure and showcased it in an entirely new

and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that completely bring

light, rather than a subtle overhaul. The modern

the outdoors inside.

September 2018

Inside Out BEFORE

AFTER

Large glass sliding doors that connect the interior with the landscape outside.

The smart pantry area becomes a conversation nook with a breakfast counter sitting space leading to the dining room, which is separated from the kitchen using a serving hatch that can double up as extra worktop, without requiring any sacrifice of floor space. It also makes for a sociable cooking element, as the chef can chat with the family while preparing food at home. While the main kitchen is not as spacious as the pantry, its clever design and concealed cabinets ensure that functionality precedes form here.

September 2018

35

Inside Out

Daylighting levels improved by use of light coloured finishes and strategic lighting.

Contemporary homes are all about incorporating every little detail to suit the taste of those who live in them. This refurbishment repurposes its Burma teak window frames, articulating its striations with a chosen dark mahogany stain. The customisation is focused around minimal forms, with the defining aspect being the Japanese WengĂŠ veneer furniture, which follows the rule of thirds to blend into this effortless contemporary living space.

There’s no substitute for simple design when creating

a

streamlined,

modern

look.

This

understated updated staircase fits seamlessly into the home, matching the warm wood tones of the floors and door trim. Black metal stringers and balustrades broken by steel horizontal bars reinforce the vertical flow of space. The repurposed undamaged teak wooden handrails and cantilevered treads add an earthy charm to this contemporary home.

BEFORE

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September 2018

AFTER

Inside Out

Multipurpose Media Room that is simple by design

AFTER

BEFORE

If you ever dreamed of having a home that hosts every big sports event or movie marathon, this family room is the combination of leisure and play that will make it happen. We have showcased Japanese-inspired media rooms, with cedar wood floors, that multitask with ease and will allow you to use the same room as a charming ‘social zone’ and interactive hangout. The bespoke bookshelf is a great complement to this cozy room for you to kick your shoes off and enjoy a good book. Inspired by the bellows of the accordion that are articulated in the origami-esque style, this folding form allows one to stack books in diametrically opposing views – celebrating the home libraries that are as beautiful as every other room. Similar to the living room, the expansive use of sliding doors that open on to adjacent spaces prevents the room from feeling too closed in.

Bookcase inspired by the bellows of an accordion

A complete modern home that is perfect in every sense can include a library and smart media and game rooms. One of the more recent trends highlighting the peak of domestic luxury are home bars. What better addition could the owners ask for in an entertainment space other than this stunning built-in bar space? Coming complete with sink, glasses and a huge tinted mirror shelving to ensure that the space doesn’t feel cluttered, guests will be clamouring for this luxury on every get-together night.

September 2018

37

Inside Out Some homes come with bar spaces already in place, while others require a bit of remodelling. But whatever the case may be, there are many ways in which to style a home bar. What was initially an outdoor unused landscaped terrace of the home was turned by Midori Architects into a stylish bar, with an all-black, white and grey palette accented by warm metallic fixtures and lighting. The interior uses a simple, neutral colour palette with bright accents and brilliant wall art adding personality to the space. The showstopping element of the design are the criss-crossing light wood vinyl faux wood pergolas. The ceiling is the most prominent feature of this bar. Allowing natural light and ventilation to make its way through the top pyramidal skylight.

Exquisite use of ambient light and color to bring this home bar to life.

By night, the home bar transforms into a refined atmosphere with stellar lighting that evokes a cosmic ambience. Even simple design features can have a big visual impact. In place of traditional horizontal shelving, this home bar favours hexagonal shelves that offers a refreshing change without affecting the storage capacity of the unit, as it holds exotic bottles that make an interesting backdrop for this state-of-the-art bar with plenty of room to spare.

Suraksha Acharya has a master’s degree in sustainable design from the Architectural Association (UK) and is a cognitive member of the sustainable architecture field in India, championing the need to build better and more environment friendly structures. She is the founding principal of Midori Architects – a multi-awardwinning firm based in Chennai offering architecture, interior, landscape and master-planning services.

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September 2018

Brand Me

BEHAVIOUR MATTERS No matter how you are in your success ladder, staying grounded and in your right senses is significant.

Dr. Marshall Goldsmith talks about the importance of behavioural stability as you succeed.

40 September 2018

T

here’s a reason I devote so much energy to addressing interpersonal challenges in successful businesspeople: The higher up they go, the more their problems are behavioural.

At the top levels of an organisation, all of the players are technically skilled. They’re all very smart, and they are up to date on the key concepts and issues involved with the enterprise

and their roles in it.

For example, you don’t get to be, say, a chief financial officer without knowing how to read a balance sheet, digest the various figures and assess the firm’s fiscal situation. That’s a big part of the reason why behavioural matters become so much more critical as you climb up the upper rungs of the corporate ladder. All other things being equal, your people skills (or lack thereof) become more pronounced the higher up you go. In fact, even when things are not equal, your people skills often make the difference in determining how high you go.

Let’s consider a hypothetical choice: Would you rather have a CFO who is a pretty good accountant and a very skilled manager or a brilliant bean counter who alienates almost everyone under him? It’s not a tough choice, really – the candidate with superb people skills will win out every time, mostly because of the fact that he’ll be able to hire people who are smarter with money than he is, and he’ll be able to lead them. The odds of the virtuoso accountant being able to do that aren’t very good.

Think about the successful people you know. When you consider how they got to be that way, do you attribute it to their sheer technical expertise? Probably not. Oh sure, you likely can attest to their knowledge of what they do. Again, they would have to be smart to succeed at that level, but that’s almost certainly not the only factor. It’s probably more precise to say they’re smart and something else.

And that “something else” is what really sets them apart because, at some point, we give them the benefit of the doubt on skill issues and look at other characteristics. For instance, we assume our doctors know medicine, so we judge them on bedside manner – how they tolerate questions, deliver bad news and apologise for keeping us in the waiting room too long. This stuff isn’t taught in medical school.

We all have certain professional credentials that land us our first few jobs – these are the kinds of accomplishments that go on our resume. But as we become more successful, those fade into the background, and other characteristics come to the fore.

For an example of behaviour trumping technical skills and knowledge, look no further than Bill Gates.

The Microsoft founder hasn’t actually developed software in decades. Indeed, he has made his company what it is today through shrewd business moves that had little to do with his technical prowess.

On the flip side, coping with Gates’ idiosyncrasies has been one of Microsoft’s challenges.

His sometimes confrontational, brook-no-opposition style has put off more than its share of employees.

(Of course, one could say nearly all the same things about Apple’s Steve Jobs.)

When people ask me if the leaders I coach really can change their behaviour, my answer is this: As we advance in our careers, changes in behaviour are often the only significant changes we can make.

Dr. Marshall Goldsmith is the million-selling author of the New York Times best-sellers MOJO and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There – the Harold Longman Award winner for Business Book of the Year. Article courtesy: http://www.marshallgoldsmith.com

September 2018

41

The Big Picture

LUXURY ON A PLATE 42 September 2018

food isn’t just a necessity but

THE FORTRESS STILT FISHERMAN INDULGENCE

a luxury – luxury in the literal

SRI LANKA |

Today, we live in a world where

sense.

$14,500

It’s simply astonishing

to see how far humans can go to treat their taste buds. In the diverse world that we live in, there are a zillion food varieties to indulge in. Zainab Ali Khan gets some of the most luxurious, expensive dishes on your plate.

The variety of food options is increasing by the day,

Prepared and served at the Fortress Resort & Spa in Sri

and their price is often sky-high. Chefs over the world

Lanka, the Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence costs a

are busy whipping up dishes that are priced beyond

whopping $14,500 USD. A blend of unique culinary creation

imagination, with the rarest and most expensive

with the perfect mix of rich flavours, this ultimate dessert

ingredients. What’s even more fascinating is that

gets its inspiration from a traditional fishing practice that

people are willing to pay the outrageous amounts these

dates back to centuries. Made of Italian Cassata-flavoured

dishes are priced at. Welcome to the world of extremely

Irish cream served with a pomegranate and mango

expensive dishes!

compote, the crowning glory of this exclusive dessert is the champagne sabayon and the 80-carat aquamarine stone that is placed beneath the handcrafted chocolate stilt fisherman. The blue colour of the aquamarine stone is not just the reflection of the oceans but also the life-giving essence of water. This good luck charm is also known for its special features such as bestowing its owner with courage and happiness and also the ability to heal, calm and soothe.

A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is needed before it can be prepared and relished.

September 2018

43

The Big Picture

FLEUR BURGER LAS VEGAS |

$5,000

Made in Las Vegas’ Fleur Restaurant inside the MGM Mandalay Bay Resort, the Fleur Burger that costs a massive $5,000 is Chef Hubert Keller’s creation. The maestro himself says that the burger is special because he combines the finest ingredients – the finest Wagyu beef that costs about $100 per pound, along with a $25 foie gras patty and $300 truffle sauce and shaved black truffles. It is served on a brioche truffle bun, accompanied by fries garnished with thyme, rosemary, garlic and black lava salt. The highlight of the burger is the wine that is served along with it – vintage 1995 Château Pétrus that costs $2,500 per bottle. Burger and wine make a perfect pair, and this definitely makes it worth the indulgence.

NORMA’S ZILLIONDOLLAR LOBSTER FRITTATA NEW YORK | $2,000 Norma’s Restaurant in New York’s Le Parker Meridien Hotel invented the most expensive omelet – the Zillion-Dollar Lobster Frittata in 2004. Steven Pipes, President, Le Parker Meridien, and Emile Castillo, Norma’s Executive Chef, were the masterminds behind the making of this omelet that has been featured in CNBC’s “Secret Lives of the Super Rich” and “Guinness Book of World Records” as the most expensive omelet in the world. An entire lobster with 10 ounces of Sevruga caviar, six eggs, chives, lobster sauce and fresh cream over a bed of Yukon gold potatoes go into the making of the Zillion-Dollar Lobster Frittata, where the lobster amounts to $350 and the caviar is worth $650. To reflect the cost and quality of the caviar, the restaurant doubled the price of the dish from $1000 to $2000 in 2016. Norma’s sells just 12 Zillion-Dollar Lobster Frittatas per year.

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September 2018

The Big Picture

THE LINDETH HOWE CHOCOLATE PUDDING ENGLAND – $35,000 Marc Guibert of Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel in the Lake District of England created a chocolate pudding combining four different, fine Belgium chocolates moulded in the shape of a Faberge egg, layered with champagne jelly and topped with an edible gold leaf. The pudding, in peach, orange and whiskey flavours, is served along with a bottle of top-shelf champagne and rare caviar. That’s not all – the most attractive item on the pudding is a two-carat diamond that comes with it. The Lindeth Howe Chocolate Pudding, priced at $35,000, has to be ordered at least two weeks in advance.

SERENDIPITY 3 GOLDEN OPULENCE SUNDAE NEW YORK |

$1,000 Listed in the Guinness World Records as the most expensive sundae in the world in 2007, a restaurant named Serendipity 3 in New York City churned out the Golden Opulence Sundae at a price of $1000 USD to celebrate its 50th golden anniversary in 2005. This ‘golden’ dessert is made up of three scoops of Tahitian vanilla ice cream covered in a 23-carat gold leaf along with almonds, caviar and a sugared orchid that take about 6 to 8 hours to prepare. It is then topped with candied fruit and is served in a $350 Baccarat crystal goblet with an 18-carat gold spoon on the side. Owner Stephen Bruce requests for a 48-hour heads-up to prepare the Golden Opulence Sundae because every ingredient is of the highest quality and specially flown in from various parts of the world. The chocolates are from Tuscany, the vanilla beans from Madagascar and the candied fruit from Paris.

September 2018

45

Parenting

Nanny’s

not a no-one.

As a parent, you can always use some help, and nannies are

the ones who fit the role. However, finding the apt one is key as they play a major role in the upbringing of your munchkin.

Antara Kothari talks about her experience with nannies, and this will definitely help you choose the right one.

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September 2018

E

very person is an influence in a child’s life. Apart

ensuring they impart educational information, nannies

from parents, other caregivers like grandparents,

aid in safe and smooth functioning routines. Rarely do

aunts, uncles and cousins create an important

parents hire nannies to only bathe, feed and put children

impact in a child’s life. These are people who

to bed. The roles of nannies go beyond what traditional

play a critical role in shaping personality and behaviour because children watch them closely to learn the difference between good and bad, right and wrong. Questions are asked because of the tremendous curiosity that defines children, and actions are imitated. As parents, we try and expose our children to only those who, we think, can nurture them along the right path to a happy life. We are extremely vigilant when choosing those few individuals whom we trust implicitly with our children. In most households, one of those individuals is the child’s nanny.

The level of trust that a parent should place on the child’s nanny is debatable. Lunch and dinner parties are often governed by nanny trouble stories. A mother’s woes are, most of the time, nanny related; and especially the woes of a working mother. It is common for a household to see nannies come and go in a short time span for various reasons. However, from my experience, you can’t live with them, you can’t live without them. But if I had to choose, and I think most mothers would agree, we can’t live without them. If a mother desires some semblance of normal life, which consists of work, brunches with friends, gym time and movies, nannies play an important role in aiding that life along. Family support is of course a part of this too, but so are nannies.

We have been lucky enough to have nannies who have been like family. There is a certain bond and attachment that is formed with them when they have been around long enough to know that they are good people and will keep your children safe. We hear horror stories from all over the world about nannies mistreating children while the parents work or travel. But if were to take those stories and apply them to ourselves, think that everything that happens to others may happen to us too, then life itself would be difficult. Exercising extreme caution in every aspect of our lives, especially those involving our children, is crucial.

Measures like CCTV cameras are installed in many houses so that nothing goes unnoticed.

To me, my boys’ nannies are an extension of my husband and me. As we both work and are not home for extended periods at times during the day, we trust them with the functions that we perform as parents. From bathing and ensuring that they eat on time to playing with them and

mindsets dictate.

Our 4-year-old son is fluent in Tamil, and we owe this essentially to his nanny. We encourage her to sing and talk to him only in Tamil. While she does certain activities with him, she explains instructions and other information to him only in Tamil. It has also always been important to me that my children associate with others from various walks of life. There is so much to learn from people around us, and there are so many positive influences other than just our immediate family and friends. I have always believed that it is not necessary for someone to be highly educated to be able to impart wisdom and teach what you need to know to be able to survive.

Cultivating independence in our children from the time they start walking is high on the list of priorities of most parents. For some parents, children who can play on their own and entertain themselves is a sign of independence. Being able to eat on their own is another such sign. To me, independence also means children being able to remove themselves with ease from their parents’ side and interact with others, without furtively searching for their parents. This includes nannies, who play a big role in nurturing their independence. They are the ones with whom children spend a large amount of time when parents have other commitments and help them detach themselves from their parents. I am sure we can all agree that this is a big responsibility.

A safe, caring, nurturing and stimulating environment in which our children can thrive and develop is crucial. This, of course, begins at home. A large part of nannies being able to provide this environment for our children depends on our treatment of them as well. I truly believe in doing our best to treat staff at home as we would want to be treated. Families that respect nannies and treat them as part of the family end up getting the good part of the bargain. While this is something I whole-heartedly believe in and practice, a line also needs to be drawn between what you will and will not do for them. An important point is that parents and nannies need to work together as a team and communication is absolutely key.

Happy mommies and happy nannies make for happy children.

Antara is a mother of two and is the founder of a parenting blog, The Bubbly Blogcast. She writes about everyday challenges moms face and uses her blog as a platform for a global discussion on parenting.

September 2018

47

Table for Two

EAT YOUR WAY

to glory

Wish to enjoy a quiet evening with friends or family?

The Bark promises to provide a delightful ambience, delectable food and, more than that, it allows you to enjoy all of this with your pets – three in one? Who wouldn’t want that?

Spacious is the word that pops up when one enters the

are barbequed cottage cheese skewers with vegetables,

restaurant. Located on a quaint little street in Alwarpet,

they were a treat as the cottage cheese was crispy on

The Bark promises to offer a lot in terms foodandambience.

the outside and super soft

The best selling point of The Bark is the fact that it is a

perfection to give you a smoky taste; these delectable bites

pet-friendly café. This factor comes as good news to the

went well with a sweet-chilli sauce.

animal lovers in town.

inside. They were grilled to

Their menu also offers cold pressed juices, which is the rage

The interior is done with subtlety, with the pleasant lighting

now as they have no sugar and water. Their tangy orange

giving an elegant vibe to the place. Their menu boasts a

juice was refreshing in the hot sultry weather of Chennai.

variety of continental cuisine.

The Classic 12 oz was part of the main course, which

The Crème De Volatile, an extremely creamy soup with

had a well-done beef steak with gravy, mashed potatoes

chunks of chicken in it paired with a slice of toasted bread,

and vegetables. A signature dish of the chef, it was

was a delight. The Shaslik cheese we had for starters,

absolutely scrumptious and definitely fills the tummy.

48

September 2018

CLASSIC 12 OZ BEEF STEAK

The Bark’s delicious Enchilada Cottage Cheese Steak, as the name suggests, is well-cooked cottage cheese paired with gravy and vegetables. It was one of the best dishes on the menu and a must try!

The ice creams are handcrafted and homemade from a brand called ‘ Shmoozies’. They are 100% natural and does not contain any artificial flavors or colors Good food, good ambience and the pets guarantee for a wonderful evening at The Bark.

BUNNY CHOW

SHASLIK CHEESE

CRÈME DE VOLATILE

To book a table call: +9144 4855 3191 40, Maharaja Surya Rao Rd, Dutch Village, Venus Colony, Alwarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018

September 2018

49

Tripster

PARADISE ISLANDS OF

THAILAND 50 September 2018

CATHERINE’S PALACE

“Sawadeeka”. This means welcome to Thailand. A home to over a thousand islands, gentle people, swaying palm trees, hypnotic teal blue waves, relaxing families, love– struck honey-mooners and plenty of travellers. Karishma Kirpalani walks you through some of the most captivating islands that portray. Thailand’s beauty more than just the regular big city Bangkok.

September 2018

51

Tripster

Each of the islands on Thailand’s coastline is distinct from the other. It does intimidate while selecting which one to go to. A trip to Bangkok is a two- to three-hour flight, and then it’s another flight or a boat ride to paradise.

Most of the islands have the prefix Koh, as Koh means island in Thai. For a lot of Indian travellers, these Thai islands are extended weekend getaways. They can be segregated into two categories: touristy and castaway.

PHUKET Visiting Thailand for the first time? The typical tourist has Bangkok and Phuket as a must-do on the itinerary. A perfect spot for a family vacation, there is something for every age group. Phuket has everything, from glitzy glamour to 7-star resorts, and even celebrity chef restaurants.

A really fun and happening place, I call it the Beverly Hills of the East. Patong Beach is the most popular part, but be aware that one can expect a bit of sleaziness on Bangla Road. One can spend at least 3 to 5 days in Phuket, as there is that much to do. Enjoy the beaches, water sports and night markets. Here are some of the must-see attractions.

PRO TIP

Visit the Como Hotel and Shambhala Spa as it is an iconic location. It is also where the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun was shot.

must - see attraction

s:

FantaSea Sh ow Elephant Sa nctuary Day trip to Phi Phi Isl ands Day trip to Similan Isl a nds Simon Caba ret Show Old Phuket Town Big Buddha Wat Chalong and Phuket Te mples Fly from Bangkok to Phuket airport, or catch a bus from Bangkok to Phuket bus terminal.

GETTING THERE

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September 2018

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Tripster

KOH SAMUI This island was one of the first to draw backpackers and tourists. It has now developed into a smart and snazzy destination. It’s touristy, yet has a classy and understated luxury to it. Whether you want to soak in the sun, chill on a hammock, get some yoga done, or relax in a spa, Koh Samui is the place to be. It has some of the best worldclass luxury resorts and upscale beach clubs. When you are there, be sure to book a table and have a drink at the Pod in W Hotel, whilst watching the sunset. If you are in the mood for photography and want a dinner with a view, visit the Jungle Beach Café. The grandma-grandpa rocks found there stand testimony to love in the waters of Samui. Chaweng Beach is a happening spot and this stretch has a couple of ice bars which offer a chilled (literally) experience. It is also a great place to try Thai fine dining and learn local cooking. For all yoga lovers, this is considered the most popular spot in the world.

PRO TIP

GETTING THERE There are flights from Bangkok to the Samui Airport. Most resorts should offer a private car to pick you up from the airport. To keep costs low, you can also take a bus from Bangkok to Suratthani and then a boat ride to Koh Samui.

Arrive on a Friday morning, so that you can visit the Friday market. You won’t regret the experience. There is food, shopping and great takeaways for back home.

KOH PHANGAN GETTING THERE Is your idea of a perfect vacation to party all night long?

Then the full moon parties hosted in Koh Phangan are perfect for you. These parties go on for three full days, and during this time you can expect the island to be flocked by wild party animals. If you can’t make it for the full moon party, there is also a half moon party and a no moon party.

In short, there is a party every single night! The parties here go on at Haad Rin`s Sunrise Beach. By the way, the concept of beach bucket drinks was invented here, and they are now sold in many Thai markets. For those of you who don’t know and, as surprising as it may seem, Bottle Beach on this island is one of the most secluded and quietest beaches in the world. The stay is mostly in simple budget properties, and most parties happen nearby. Don’t miss out on the spas you find on this secluded beach.

PRO TIP 54

The morning after the partying, lie on the white sands and enjoy a relaxing massage by many masseurs there.

September 2018

Take a bus from Bangkok to Suratthani, and then a ferry ride to Thong Sala Pier.

Tripster

KRABI PRO TIP

Railay Beach is a serene spot and one of the most Instagrammed places in Krabi.

GETTING THERE There are direct flights from Bangkok to Krabi.

Want to visit a beach straight out of a movie set?

Krabi is the place to be. It has stunning scenery both inland and at sea, with tall limestone rocks rising out of the turquoise waters. With cliffs, waterfalls and exotic wildlife, Krabi is a great spot for the family. The natural beauty is stunning. You can also try activities like jungle trekking, snorkelling, rock climbing and kayaking in your leisure time. The most happening area to be is Ao Nang; all the luxury resorts are at Klong Muang.

GETTING THERE There are flights from Bangkok to Trat Airport, which is just a short minibus or ferry ride away.

KOH CHANG This is one of the best islands to explore in Eastern Thailand, as it is a miniature version of Thailand. Most of it is a national park and has great trekking trails and waterfalls. The most popular activity is an elephant trek. You will find more budget accommodation, with huts, hostels and very few fancy resorts. To best explore this island, grab a scooter or use your feet and do the jungle trek. Some of the beaches include White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach, Kae Bae Beach and Lonely Beach.

PRO TIP

From this island, you can actually hop over to Siem Reap. Many tourists use this en route to Cambodia.

Tripster

KOH TAO The name means “Turtle Island” and rightly so as this is the number one diving spot in Thailand and one of the best in the world. The sea is home to vibrant coral, colourful sea creatures and pretty fish and, of course, a lot of turtles. This island recently gained popularity. You will find budget guesthouses, beach bungalows and a few luxury resorts. Of course, the main activity is scuba, and you can apply for a diver’s certification too. Other activities include hiking, mini golf, rock climbing, sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and much more.

After a day at sea, do head over to Sairee Beach.

That’s where all the action is, with good nightlife and dining places.

PRO TIP

GETTING THERE There are a lot of ferries from Chumphon, Suratthani, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

Many tourists from India just do a day trip from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.

KOH PHI PHI LEH

KOH KRADAN

This Island is uninhabited. The water here appears green because of the colourful corals. Most of this island is rocky, with stunning vertical cliffs and green foliage; thus, the sandy beach stretches are small and very narrow. In the movie, Beach, this was the secret beach that had been discovered. The only way to move around is through the boat tours that are arranged. You can also try a customised trip with a long tail boat

The name means surfboard, because of its elongated shape.

It mostly lies within the Hat Chao Mai National Park, making you feel like Robinson Crusoe. Stay on the main beach, enjoy the white sands and watch limestone outcrops that emerge from the sea and look like the spine of a dragon. In the evening, head to Ao Chong Lom to watch the sunset, or get onto a boat and head to Koh Muk to see the Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot).

PRO TIP

PRO TIP

This Island is great for rock climbing and cliff diving.

There is an open-air spa at the Seven Seas Resort.

Make your way there for a relaxing massage.

GETTING THERE

GETTING THERE

It’s a ferry or speedboat ride away from Phuket or Krabi.

Fly from Bangkok to Trang and take a minibus to Pak Meng Pier or Ban Chao Mai Pier.

Whether you are single, a couple, backpacker, hippie, family, dreamer, explorer, bachelor, adrenaline junkie, diver, budget traveller, foodie or high maintenance, the beaches in Thailand have something for everyone. Once you visit this tropical paradise, it will keep calling you back. It’s time to soak up the sun on the islands of Thailand!

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September 2018

Digital abilities are more important than ever, and at AISC students get to experiment and learn with the best and newest devices. The Virtual Reality gear at AISC is specifially designed for extending the skills of those who want to learn more about Virtual Reality game design.

w w w. a i s c h e n n a i . o r g #AcademicExcellence

The Last Word

THE

COMMENDABLE

ARTIST

It is every bride’s dream to rope in one of the best wedding designers for her Big Day, and Neeta Lulla always makes it to their list. This National Award winning designer bares her heart about everything design in conversation with Anurima Das.

58 September 2018

September 2018

59

The Last Word

With a prolific career that spans more than 30 years, Neeta Lulla has built her dynasty one stitch at a time. She fires up a canvas, creating waves across runways and the silver screen worldwide. But all this didn’t happen in a day, and she has worked diligently to earn the goodwill of being one of the top 5 bridal couturiers in India. Here are excerpts from the conversation.

Take us back to when you felt designing was your vocation.

I chose designing because I wanted to make new

You rose to fame with the prominent yesteryear actresses flaunting your designs on screen. Share with us a memory from those days.

clothes and wear new clothes. I got married at the young age of 16 and, my in-laws were highly educated,

I started working with Sridevi around the time of

they were doctors and they wanted me to learn

Chandni. Before Chandni I worked with her for a photo

something like tailoring or cooking. Cooking was never

shoot, and from then on it never stopped. The same goes

up my alley, so I chose designing. I didn’t want to study,

for Juhi Chawla too; from Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke I went

and I bunked college until the college authorities said

on to work with her for 15 to 16 years. At that point of

they would complain to my in-laws. So I finally started

time, we used to style with fabric, and create looks almost

going to college and soon developed a liking for learning

instantaneously. Back in 1997–1998, I was one of the first

new things.

people to shop from Paris or London. That gave me an edge over other designers, and I also worked with drape fabric.

How will you define the changing shades of your collection over the years?

As a designer your sensibilities never change, so that has remained constant. I started with Indo-Western

I used to come up with different concepts of styling using different forms of materials; today, this is an everyday thing. But back then it was challenging as we had little way of connecting to the world owing to the absence of Internet, of course.

fusion wear back when I graduated – that sensibility is still alive in my collection. Back in college, I was interested in the colours and silhouettes of the Edwardian or the Romantic era. Off-shoulder, laces, romantic silhouettes and vintage colours dominated that era. And from there the Renaissance era, which was the complete opposite with bold colours and structures, made its way

How do you maintain a league of your own among your contemporaries?

I ventured into the fashion space at a time when there was no industry because there was no social media. You

to fashion. I amalgamated this with the Indian fabric;

could only know what was happening when you got hold of

or if I was doing Indian cuts, I did it with fabric inspired

photos. And you had to work very fast and hard because

from the Renaissance era. So that sensibility has

you were handling everything yourself. We didn’t think of

remained, but the themes of my collection, the silhouettes

it as competition then because we were so busy trying to

change with the prints that are in fashion. The only

finish our work and competing with ourselves. I don’t look

difference from back then and now is with the coming of

at things around me as competition, because there is so

the Internet – through which trends have become more

much to do and reinvent about yourself that it keeps you

in sync with the times.

on your toes all the time.

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September 2018

RAPID FIRE Clothes for you? Comfort Who or what inspires you the most?

Frida Kahlo

From thought to the final attire, what goes in making every piece from the ‘House of Neeta Lulla’ unique in its own way?

Colours that rule the ramp.

Gold, silver, nudes and black.

Clothes that rule every day.

Blue jeans and a white shirt or black Most well-dressed actor or actress?

Sonam Kapoor and Ranveer Singh When you are not designing, you are?

Designing

I think the process remains the same for everybody; from finding inspiration to the final product, it’s something that you learn, but the technique used to transform the inspiration into action differs from person to person. And I think that is what is different for me; I’m always working on two simultaneous collections. One is the mainstream collection and the other is for the film that I work on. My hobby is sketching and designing. I’ll work for 18 hours a day and still be fresh, my work gives me a high and I’m very involved in it.

You do the wardrobe of many celebrities, but who among them do you want to work with more?

I’m very inspired by Meryl Streep; she has a great sense of style. And I’ve worked with almost all the artistes in our industry, so I share a good rapport with all of them. But today your sense of style is what your stylist gives you, so you cannot define whose sense of style is good or bad.

September 2018

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The Last Word TRIVIA Designed for over 300 films, including Manikarnika

She has contributed to some of the most discerning

(upcoming), Jodha Akbar, Devdas, Mohenjo Daro,

weddings in the region, such as the wedlock of Aishwarya

Lamhe, Taal, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Hum Aapke

Rai-Abhishek Bachchan, Esha Deol-Bharat Takhiani, Isha

Hai Kaun, Darr, Khal Nayak, Chandni and Roop Ki Rani

Kopikkar-Timmy Narang, Brahmani Janardhan Reddy-Rajiv

Choron Ka Raja.

Reddy, Adel Sajan-Sana Khan, Sameera Reddy-Akshai Varde, Ahana Deol-Vaibhav Vora, Ritiesh Deshmukh-

Has an impressive list of clientele, comprising the

Genelia Fernandez, Nishka Lulla-Dhruv Mehra.

movers and shakers of the glamour world. Kangana Ranaut, Hema Malini, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sridevi,

She was commissioned to design all the costumes for

Kapoor,

Hollywood films like One Night with the King, Mistress of

Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif, Shilpa Shetty, Bipasha

Spices, Bride & Prejudice and Provoked. Celebrities like

Basu, Kalki Koechlin, Kareena Kapoor, Juhi Chawla,

Akon, Wiz Khalifa, Sean Paul, Martin Garrix, Jason Derulo,

Rani Mukherji, Soha Ali Khan and Tabu patronise her

The Chainsmokers, KSHMR, Steven Seagal and Tyra

designs. Actors such as Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan,

Banks have endorsed her designs. She was the exclusive

Hrithik Roshan, Ritiesh Deshmukh and Rajinikanth have

designer for Shilpa Shetty’s stint in UK’s Big Brother as well

also sworn by Lulla’s proficiency.

as for her visit to the Royal Palace to meet with Her Royal

Sushmita

Sen,

Priyanka

Chopra,

Sonam

Highness the Queen of England.

Give us a sneak peek for the next season?

My upcoming collection is calledthe ‘Fantastical Bride’, who is someone that pushes the boundary of her style. She’s not quirky but elegant, and she loves fantasies, larger-than-life looks. There are a lot of anarkalis, lehengas, jackets, gowns, saris for cocktail wear and churidar kurtas in this collection. It is inspired by the Palace of Versailles, so magnanimity and a lot of scroll motifs dominate the entire collection.

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September 2018