Jetsetter Spring 2017

EXOTIC PLACES

INTERESTING PEOPLE

INTELLIGENT TRAVEL

SAN SEBASTIAN

THE STAR OF SPAIN

SOUTH AFRICA THE LAND OF CONTRASTS

2017 TRAVEL BUCKET LIST HELSINKI

TORONTO

SIEM REAP

SOLOMON ISLANDS

W

8

EDITOR'S NOTE elcome to another exciting issue of

JETSETTER,

Asia’s

leading

experiential travel magazine. We

PUBLISHER Denis Fahy denis@channel1hk.com

always love working on the first

issue of a new year; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the wanderlust of travel, to explore all the emerging

MANAGING EDITOR Nick Walton nickwalton@artemiscomms.com

destinations and unique encounters on offer for the year ahead, and to set the scene for the trends that will define travel for our readers. We kick off with our annual Bucket List, a showcase of our favourite travel adventures, some new, some established but undervalued. I head to South Africa to visit two very different game lodges, and then travel to Toronto, a city that’s constantly reinventing itself. Then there’s time to explore Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital; check into Siem Reap’s coolest boutique hideaways; and follow our taste buds through the cooking clubs and Michelin-starred restaurants of San Sebastian. In our regular Lifestyle section, we slip behind the wheel of the new Volvo S90; chat with acclaimed chef Laurent Tourondel; travel the world seeking saffron-infused travel experiences; and sip mezcal, one of the hottest spirits for the year ahead. We’re sure that with an issue packed with inspiration and imagination, there’s something for every avid traveller.

Safe Travels.

Nick Walton Managing Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Isabelle Lui editorial@artemiscomms.com CHIEF SUB EDITOR Philippa Walton ART DIRECTOR Don Pierre Riosa don@channel1hk.com BEIJING SALES MANAGER Louis Chu louis@channel1hk.com SALES MANAGER Fatima Cameira fatima@channel1hk.com CHIEF REPRESENTATIVE EUROPE Laurence James laurence.james@jetsetter.hk

JETSETTER is registered as a newspaper & periodical.

JETSETTER is published by Channel One Communications JETSETTER is printed by Channel One Communications Suite 402-3, Hong Kong Trade Centre 161-167 Des Voeux Rd Central Hong Kong

Matt Flemming is a

Canadian freelance writer specialising in travel, food and sports. His favourite assignments have seen him follow the Silk Road in Uzbekistan, play with lemurs in Madagascar and journey into the rainforests of Panama’s Darien Province. In this issue, Matt explores how San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque Country became an international culinary destination.

www.jetsetter.hk

Having spent the based travel writer who best part of a decade living in Asia's largest specialises in luxury cities, travel, food and and lifestyle. He has lifestyle writer Natasha visited 60 countries, Dragun now splits her stayed in more than time between Sydney 100 high end hotels, and the airport. In and eaten at some of this issue, she explores the best restaurants Finland’s captivating in the world. For this capital. issue, he delves into the world of Mexican mescal.

Joe Mortimer is a UK-

As CEO of Platinum Wines and one of the leading experts in the fine wine and spirits industry in Asia, Rickesh Kishnani serves over 3,000 private clients in Hong Kong, Singapore, Mainland China, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Australia. In this issue he talks about the growth of bold Italian red wine in Asia.

616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-5706 Valley Cottage, NY 10989 USA Tel Number (+852) 28557885 www.jetsetter.hk All rights Reserved: Copyright and distribution rights are reserved exclusively for Channel One Communications, their partners, associates and affiliates. All materials published remain the property of the publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission. All information contained in this publication is from a reliable source. Channel One does not make any guarantees to the accuracy of the information contained.

CONTENTS SPRING 2017

18

Room with a View

Naka Island

32

Boutique & Beautiful

Phnom Penh

34

24 HOURS

Helsinki

42

The Ultimate Bucket List

Travel Adventures in 2017

58

The Guide

Toronto

80

San Sebastian

The Star of Spain

CONTENTS SPRING 2017

90

fOOd adVentUReS

SAffRon

92

cHef PROfile

LAUREnT ToURondEL

100

SPiRitS

mIGHTY mEZCAL

102 wine

THE REd oBSESSIon

116

tHe Bite

SYdnEY

118

aUtO

VoLVo’S nEW S90

14

www.jetsetter.hk

Ocean Villa

Dusit Thani Maldives

Couple’s Getaway

Infinity Pool

16

www.jetsetter.hk

18

ROOM WITH A VIEW

W

ake up to the beauty of the Caribbean, as many celebrities have, at Necker Island, the private island enclave of airline and music billionaire Sir Richard Branson. The 29-hectare island, which has welcomed everyone from Princess Diana and Mariah Carey to Oprah Winfrey, Kate Winslet and Rod Stewart, caters to just a handful of guests across 17 spacious, casually-elegant guest rooms, either located in the

Great House, or in a series of Balinese-inspired villas or ‘temples’. There’s spacious lounges, furnishings inspired by Branson’s travels, an expansive infinity pool, and a hilltop hot tub, complete with its own zipline for speedy returns to the Great House. Blissfully laid back and inviting, the island becomes your temporary home-away-from-home, with a host of activities on offer, from nature walks to sailing and diving, a dedicated staff on hand to ensure every guest feels like a superstar. www.virginlimitededition.com

www.jetsetter.hk

ROOM WITH A VIEW 19

www.jetsetter.hk

20

INSPIRE

INSPIRATION AT SEA

The Silver Muse, the new flagship of Silversea Cruises, departs on its inaugural sailing this month. Built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the new 40,000-ton ultraluxury cruise ship caters to 596 guests in lavish, contemporary all-suite staterooms, including four beautifully-appointed two-bedroom apartment-style Owner’s Suites, measuring 1,389sqft, and four 1,475sqft Grand Suites. Silversea will continue its emphasis on world-class dining on the Silver Muse, with eight restaurants, including three with al fresco dining; La Dame will continue the line’s long-term partnership with Relais & Chateaux, and will focus on locally-sourced ingredients; while Kabuki, a signature Japanese restaurant, will offer a touch of theatre with its teppanyaki griddles, and Indochine will offer Asian fusion fare. Silver Muse is also home to Silver Note, an elegant jazz club serving tapas-style dishes, as well as a comprehensive fitness centre and wellness retreat, a show lounge for Broadway-style productions, and a cigar club. The ship will cruise the Mediterranean in 2017 on 11 and 12-day itineraries. www.silversea.com

www.jetsetter.hk

22

INSPIRE

YOUR NEW MALDIVIAN HIDEAWAY

Opening next month, Dhigali is the newest island retreat from Universal Resorts and matches contemporary luxury with the pure natural beauty of the Maldives.

Located in the Raa Atoll, Dhigali is just a 45-minute journey by seaplane from Malé Airport. Boasting 20 Beach Bungalows and 33 Deluxe Beach Bungalows to the south, and 63 Beach Villas which line the north and south western beaches, each of Dhigali’s villas feature spacious living areas, private sun decks and touches of the Indian Ocean archipelago. During your stay leave time for a private picnic on the resort’ own sandbank; dive with lion fish, eagle rays, turtles and manta in Unesco-listed Hanifaru Bay; or indulge at the Dhigali Spa, home to 12 treatment rooms, making it one of the largest in the country. www.universalresorts.com

NEW VILLAS OPEN AT FOUR SEASONS BALI

Ideal for romantic escapes to the Island of the Gods, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay has unveiled its new-look Imperial and Royal Villas, based on individual designs by the late Jaya Ibrahim.

The 1,300sqm three-bedroom Imperial Villa is the most coveted of sanctuaries. Located just metres from the waves lapping on the seashore, the villa boasts air-conditioned or outdoor living spaces, a thatch-roof shaded verandah, a geometrically-beautiful rooftop garden and lawn, a fully-equipped open kitchen, and a contoured infinity pool facing the ocean. The 750sqm two-bedroom Royal Villa offers contemporary tropical living with a separate children’s room fitted with trundle beds, ample living and dining spaces both indoors and outdoors, and a romantic ocean-front ‘Romeo and Juliet’ balcony adjacent to the infinity pool. www.fourseasons.com

A RARE OPPORTUNITY

Tap into your inner intrepid traveller with a unique journey to Mozambique with Brown & Hudson to see behind-the-scene the works the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is carrying out both on land and at sea. Studies have shown that Mozambique has lost 80 percent of its original natural habitat area and the WWF is working with local communities to conserve the region’s natural heritage and ensure a sustainable future for all. During the September 1623, 2017 adventure, guests will have a unique insight into the conservation programme helping to heal and reshape Mozambique. At Ibo Island and Quilálea Island, they’ll be able to assist experts in their work to save endangered species and restore the environment; dive beneath the ruins of a lighthouse with experts striving to protect the grey reef shark; visit a recently discovered marine turtle cemetery; sail to Matemo Island to explore coves; or head into villages to learn about their culture and struggles. There will also be opportunities to learn how subjects like health and hygiene are taught in schools; venture to a coffee association, where they can discuss the merits of coffee as an alternative source of income; and experience Mozambique’s unique culinary culture. www.brownandhudson.com www.jetsetter.hk

24

INSPIRE

SAILING THE SPICE ISLANDS Make like a pirate of centuries past with an exciting new sailing experience through the remote islands of the Indonesian archipelago. Alexa Private Cruises' Old Spice Merchants Routes, a new luxury sailing package in Indonesia, captures the traditions of the archipelago’s phinisi schooners. The 10-night sole occupancy itinerary commences in east Flores and sails to the Banda Islands, the original spice islands, and Ambon, taking in along the route Kumba Island’s active volcano, the traditional hunting village of Lamalerap on Lembata Island, and the postcard perfect isles of Manuk. In Alor you’ll enjoy a sunrise scuba dive and spend the afternoon on one of the island’s pristine, deserted beaches, while in the ancient trading village of Banda Neira you’ll learn about the region’s rich spice history, with time to hike the island’s lush rainforests.

You’ll discover Indonesia on the luxurious Alexa, which caters to just 10 guests, complete with a private chef, dive master, and Oazia-certified massage therapist. From GBP42,500 (US$52,749). www.alexaprivatecruises.com

www.jetsetter.hk

26

INSPIRE

JOURNEY TO THE WEST

Golden Eagle Luxury Trains has introduced a unique Silk Road adventure for 2017. Connecting west and east, Europe and Asia, this new, one-off 23-day journey-of-a-lifetime takes intrepid passengers from Moscow on board the luxurious Golden Eagle along the Silk Road to the Tibetan city of Lhasa. The highlights along the route are almost too innumerable to count, with each successive time zone offering travel treasures; from the expanse of the Kara Kum desert in Kazakhstan and Khiva's majestic mosques and minarets, to Uzbekistan's city of Samarkand, whose very name conjures up romantic images of the Silk Road. Once in China, guests will

A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

experience not only the Shangri-La Express Private Train but also join a high altitude train that will take them on a 14-hour

Trujillo Villas Espana has launched a new gastronomic tour, introducing guests to the fresh, simple, authentic cuisine the Extremadura region of western Spain is famous for. Led by Marco Mangut, Trujillo Villa Espana's gastro guru, gourmands visit shops and restaurants to learn about local specialties, including Torta del Casar, a cheese made from sheep milk, and Jamon Iberico de Bellota, the local dry cured ham from free range

daylight journey along the 'Roof of the World' line to a summit finish in Lhasa, cresting the 5,072m Tangula Pass - the world's highest. Departing September 22, 2017 and priced from GBP16,995 (US$21,180) including eight nights in hotels, 10 nights aboard Golden Eagle and 4 nights on the Shangri-La Express. www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com

acorn fed Iberian pigs. Trujillo, a medieval walled hilltop town overlooking the plains of Extremadura, three hours from Madrid, is known for its fabulous rustic cuisine. The town was home to several of the 16th century Conquistadors who discovered the Americas and still remains relatively untouched by modernity and tourism. The foodie feast begins with a visit to Cáceres, a beautiful walled city that was Spain's capital of gastronomy for 2015. Guests will sample olives in Cáceres, including the Manzanilla Cacereña, a native black olive; enjoy a cooking demonstration with Chef Francisco Refolio, using local ingredients such as pimenton, chorizo and figs; and visit two of Marco’s favourite restaurants in Trujillo where they can try seasonal tapas. From GBP170 (US$212) per person based on four travellers and including all travel and food, as well as local wine served with lunch and dinner. www.trujillovillasespana.com

FIND INNER PEACE

Reconnect the mind, body and spirit through Tibetan traditions and the spectacular landscape of Ladakh with the new Head in the Clouds Tibetan Inner Journey from Shakti Himalaya. Shakti’s new journey will see guests embark on an ‘inner discovery’, visiting local medicine men – Amchis – and ancient monasteries amidst some of the Himalaya’s most striking landscapes.

During the eight-day experience, guests will meet with two renowned local amchis, both of whom are said to have healing powers and will help to realign energies and diagnose ailments; experience early morning Buddhist prayers and meditations sessions with monks; and depart on a sustained programme of meditation lessons from instructors trained at the Mahabodhi Centre of Meditation in Leh. A private yoga guru will also be arranged to travel with guests, building in silent walks and daily hatha yoga practice in nature. A trip to the 11th century Hemis Monastery is a must on this journey of discovery, where guests can explore monastic life, and take a 3km walk to caves where some of the older monks and revered elders – rimpoche – live and meditate. www.jetsetter.hk

From GBP5,892 (US$7,344). www.shaktihimalaya.com

TEE OFF

Exclusive weekend rates from

$3,868

per room per player

$6,518

per room per 2 players

Make the most of your weekend. Your place to unwind and recharge, whether for a practice session or a gathering of friends.

Recap the day over drinks at Panorama Lounge with it’s outdoor terrace and ambient scenic views.

FOR ENQUIRIES OR RESERVATION VISIT WWW.GRANDCOLOANE.COM CALL 853 2887 1111 OR 852 2803 2015 OR EMAIL RESERVATIONS@GRANDCOLOANE.COM

Package Includes: One night’s accommodation in a Superior Garden View Room with Private Terrace Complimentary access to The Club (Fitness Studio, sauna / steam rooms, jacuzzi and indoor/outdoor swimming pools) Complimentary round trip scheduled shuttle bus service between the hotel and Macau Ferry Terminal Extensions of stay without golf will be quoted “Best Available Rate(s)” of the day Room upgrade options available, supplement applies Terms and Conditions: Above prices are in MOP and subject to 10% service charge and 5% tourism tax Offer is valid until December 30 , 2017 and for Friday, Saturday, Hong Kong and Macau public holidays and public holidays eves only th

Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply Offer is subject to advance reservation and room availability Offer is not applicable for group bookings Caddy and golf cart is compulsory with extra charge and advance booking is necessary Macau Golf and Country Club has a speed of play policy of 4 hours and 10 minutes for 18 holes

1918 Estrada de Hac Sa, Coloane, Macau 澳門路環黑沙馬路 1918 號 +853 2887 1111 | grandcoloane.com

28

INTRODUCING

If you’re looking for luxury at the heart of the South Pacific, you can’t go past the new Kokomo Island resort, Fiji’s newest private island hideaway. Located in the celestial Kadavu Island Group, and developed

by Australian Lang Walker, Kokomo is spread across 56-hectares of South Seas paradise, with lush rainforests wreathing white sand beaches and vibrant coral gardens, including The Great Astrolabe Reef, home to an abundance of exotic coral species and sea life, just waiting to be explored. With a barefoot luxury ambiance, the island features 27 spacious villas, including five Hilltop Luxury Residences and one palatial Owners’ Beachfront Residence. Each villa features a private pool and walled garden, ensuring luxury and privacy in equal measure. When you’re not whiling away the afternoon in your villa or dining at one of the resort’s many innovative kitchens, order an intimate in-villa barbeque, or take to the seas on guided snorkeling itineraries of the Great Astrolabe Reef, the fourth largest in the world. www.kokomoislandfiji.com www.jetsetter.hk

LIFE'S

INTRODUCING 29

A BEACH Opening this month, and commanding views

over 300-metres of pristine beachfront in up-andcoming Cam Ranh, Vietnam, The Anam combines colonial design lines with the best of contemporary hospitality. The resort features 96 luxurious suites and 117 stunning villas – we love the palatial Ocean View Pool Villas – dressed in Vietnamese hardwood, Irish linens, and antique tiling, as well as the Sri Mara Spa, a sublime wellness enclave, with 10 treatment rooms and a menu paying tribute to the area’s Cham history. When you’re not whiling away days on the beach, lounging in one of the resort’s three swimming pools, or taking to the seas with one of the activities at the water sports centre, check out the chic Beach Club, home to seasonal cocktails; the signature Satay Bar; or the Indochine Café, where contemporary Asian and European cuisine is prepared in live show kitchens. www.theanam.com

www.jetsetter.hk

30

INTRODUCING

agaINST TH E GRAIN

Towering above Cape Town’s picturesque Victoria & Albert waterfront, The Silo, the city's newest boutique hotel, has emerged from a converted grain elevator.

Once the tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa, and reimagined by London’s Heatherwick Studio, The Silo boasts just 28 individually-designed and decorated guest rooms, including a spectacular penthouse with ocean views. The hotel’s three fabulous restaurants and bars are set to become some of Cape Town’s hottest hangouts and include The Willaston Bar and Granary Café on the 6th floor, vibrant spaces with magnificent views of Table Mountain, as well as a rooftop bar and swimming pool. Opening below the hotel will be the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), a modern art museum set to rival the likes of the Tate Modern in London and MoMA in New York. www.theroyalportfolio.com

www.jetsetter.hk

32

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL

SIEM REAP

IN STYLE GAYATRI BHAUMIK FINDS

THE GATEWAY TO ANGKOR WAT IS ALSO HOME TO CAMBODIA’S COOLEST BOUTIQUE HIDEAWAYS.

Anantara Angkor Resort

A quiet hotel 10 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, the recently-revamped Anantara Angkor Resort is a cosy retreat inspired by Cambodian heritage – think plenty of wood and colonial-era touches. The heart of the hotel is a central courtyard dominated by a saltwater pool; clustered around it are three interconnected buildings which house the property’s 33 guest rooms and six suites. Deluxe rooms are decked out with rich wood floors and furniture, and locally-inspired handcrafted lamps and woven headboards as well as outdoor rain showers, private balconies, Anantara Spa amenities, and 37inch flatscreens. Cambodian traditions can also be seen throughout the rest of the property in features like the locally-inspired rituals of the Anantara Spa, elegant Khmer cuisine at The Sothea restaurant, and fresh coconuts from the poolside stand. Be sure to explore the local culture with Anantara’s exclusive offerings, which include Khmer cooking classes, picnics at Angkor Thom, temple bike tours, tuk-tuk city transfers, and market tours with an Anantara’s ‘Streetwise Guru’. www.anantara.com www.jetsetter.hk

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL 33

Heritage Suites Hotel

Tucked down a small street just 15 minutes from Angkor Wat, Heritage Suites Hotel is a chic, colonial-inspired throwback to French influence in Cambodia. Boasting just 26 recently-renovated rooms and suites, this chic, intimate property blends modern Cambodian design with bursts of Art Deco touches and a fleet of well-maintained vintage Mercedes-Benz cars to ferry guests around. The expansive yet minimalist rooms are dressed in soothing whites, creams, blues and greens, and feature plush furnishings, decorative lamps, and gold-toned headboards. Check into one of the Bungalow Suites for the ensured privacy that comes with a separate sitting area and private garden, an open-concept bedroomshower-bathtub

combo,

a

walk-in

wardrobe

and dressing room. You’ll also find an espresso machine, premium teas, and your own steam room – but no TVs. Spend your free time here lounging by the outdoor pool, being pampered at

Shinta Mani An

upscale

two-for-one

the lavish Heritage Spa by Bodia, or perfecting your conversation over western-influenced Khmer boutique

offering

created by American designer and architect

cuisine at the elegant Heritage Restaurant. www. heritagesuiteshotel.com

Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani is actually two designsavvy properties set in the heart of Siem Reap’s French Quarter. Both properties are sophisticated boltholes marrying clean, modern aesthetics with local Khmer accents, but Shinta Mani Club is a private-club like oasis of just 39 rooms, while Shinta Mani resort is – as the name suggests – a resort-style property with 62 suites centered around a tropical garden and swimming pool, with each room featuring DVD/TV setups, iPod docking, local artwork and espresso machines.

Book a Poolside Garden Room at the Resort to enjoy direct access to the pool along with vintagefeel furniture, dark wood accents, mirrored feature walls, Bluetooth technology, and artwork created

by Bangkok’s Bensley Design Studios set against a brooding colour palette of black and deep grey enlivened with bright bursts of orange. Guests have access to four F&B options across both the Club and Resort, but the unrivalled highlight is Kroya, where you can enjoy Khmer tasting menus while ensconced on swing seats. Rounding out this unique property’s offerings are a stylish spa, and activities including temple adventures, Vespa tours, and visits to Phare: The Cambodian Circus. www.shintamani.com www.jetsetter.hk

34

24 HOURS

ALL HAIL

HELSINKI

WITH FINLAND CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE IN 2017, THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO EXPLORE THE COUNTRY’S LARGEST CITY. AT ONCE DESIGN DRIVEN AND FOOD FOCUSED, HELSINKI MAY WELL BE SCANDINAVIA’S CAPITAL OF COOL, DISCOVERS NATASHA DRAGUN. www.jetsetter.hk

24 HOURS 35

4pm Finnair, the national carrier of Finland, offers flights between Hong Kong and Helsinki via Bangkok using the airline’s state-of-the-art Boeing A350 aircraft. The plane’s business class cabin, designed to offer a glimpse of what you can expect at your destination, features Zodiac Cirrus III wide and lieflat business class seats, complimentary wifi, and a unique light show that includes “clouds” which drift across a blue sky projected onto the ceiling; followed by an Aurora Borealis-inspired display.

There is plenty more colour thanks to eye-popping Marimekko prints on duvets, slippers and amenity kits. The food also nods to the Nords, with warm smoked Arctic char and wild reindeer on the menu.

Hong Kong-Helsinki in business class from HK$28,500 (US$3,669). www.finnair.com

6pm Drop your bags off at Hotel Indigo, a playful introduction to the city’s Design District. The boutique hotel’s lobby showcases creations by local designers, while the rooms are decorated with whimsical art and artefacts complemented by spa-style bathrooms. www.helsinki-boulevard.hotelindigo.com

8pm The menu at intimate restaurant Kuurna, with space for just 20 diners, changes every other week. Regardless of when you visit, you’re guaranteed modern Finnish food that celebrates local ingredients. The menu lists just three entrees, mains and desserts: think, roasted eggplant with hazelnut and emmer wheat tabouleh, or cold smoked pike atop malt bread with an egg yolk crème. It’s steps from Helsinki’s waterfront where the beautiful 1868 Uspenski Cathedral shines brightly at night. www.kuurna.fi

11pm If you don’t find Trillby & Chadwick Detective Agency right away, you’re not alone. The speakeasy has no sign, just big doors on Katariinankatu Street that open to a telephone booth. Place a call and bartenders will let you in to the dimly lit space, where you can sink into velvet sofas and listen to jazz. The drinks menu is not for the faint hearted, with each cocktail garnering a full-page description detailing its history and prominent flavours – try the gimlet made using Old English gin. www.trillbychadwick.fi

www.jetsetter.hk

36

24 HOURS an impressive archive of Finnish designers.

Don’t miss Utopia Now – The Story of Finnish Design (until December 2020). www.designmuseum.fi

4pm Located in Helsinki’s busy Narinkka Square, Kamppi Chapel of Silence offers welcome – and unexpected – respite from the noise of the city that surrounds. With its curved wood façade and warm interior made from thick oiled alder planks, the ecumenical chapel welcomes everyone, irrespective of religion, philosophy or background. Soft lighting filters in during the day, making it a calming place to

10am

contemplate your journey.

Kick your day off close to your hotel with a local institution, Karl

6pm

Fazer Café. Founded in 1891, the café’s striking art-deco façade

The waterside Old Market Hall has served

gives way to a cavernous dining room where you can fortify

customers since 1889, but thanks to a recent

yourself with freshly baked breads, pastries and chocolates – yes,

makeover it’s as fresh as ever. Stalls here sell

for breakfast! www.fazer.fi

everything from cheese and smoked meats

11am

to fish, vegetables, cakes and spices. There are a number of cafes and bars throughout

Helsinki holds its own among the heavy hitters of Scandinavia’s

so you can pause between delis and sample

Nordic design belt thanks, in part, to a 2005 initiative that saw

Kaalikääryleet cabbage rolls; Leipäjuusto

the country’s top creatives join forces to promote their mutual

cow's milk cheese; and Lohikeitto salmon

talents. The resulting Design District is a stunning showcase of

soup.

Finnish finesse, encompassing a network of 25 streets and 220 designers. Among the highlights are Lokal, a concept store that

8pm

is part homewares haven and part art gallery; the Minna Parikka

Overlooking the Gulf of Finland, Löyly offers

shoe boutique, replete with her signature glittered “rabbit’s ear”

traditional sauna experiences in a dramatic

sneakers; and Marimekko, known for its bold patterns emblazoned

modern complex resembling rice terraces

on everything from handbags to umbrellas. www.designdistrict.fi

but crafted from pine. Inside, three wood-

1pm

heated saunas are carved from black concrete, Scandinavian birch and blackened

Three of Helsinki’s most experienced, not to mention passionate,

steel, set beside a spa where you can cool

restaurateurs are behind Vinkkeli. All dark wood and starched

off between sweat sessions. Or, follow the

linen, the space is dedicated to food that is local and based on the

lead of locals and jump directly into the sea.

seasons, which might mean an entrée of marinated Baltic herring

www.loylyhelsinki.fi

with tartar sauce, followed by a main of poached perch with egg and spinach. The wine list is excellent, with rare and boutique bottles proving the perfect accompaniment to the flavourful fare. www.ravintolavinkkeli.fi

3pm Originally established in 1873 by the Finnish Society of Crafts and Design – and housed in a stunning space by architect Gustaf Nyström – today’s Design Museum showcases a dizzying collection of more than 75,000 objects, 45,000 drawings and 125,000 photographs. With a remit that sees it responsible for research and documentation in its field, the space also holds

www.jetsetter.hk

38

WELLNESS

Calming Cures

Nestled amidst the soaring peaks of central China, the newly opened Banyan Tree Spa Jiuzhaigou features 12 treatment rooms and a personalised menu of inspired therapies that tap into China’s rich wellness heritage. Treatments at the luxurious new resort capitalise on the ancient healing properties of Chinese herbs and pure essential oils, and are conducted by therapists trained at the acclaimed Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand. Try the Jewels of Jiuzhai, which employs locally-foraged ingredients such as sweet cherry, Chun Bei and Tian Ma to enhance blood flow and qi circulation; or The Rainforest, a complete hydrothermal experience combining the best European spa hydrothermal therapy with the essence of Asian wellness philosophy to create a haven of serenity and comfort. www.banyantreespa.com

www.jetsetter.hk

PAMPER 39

JOuRNEy OF REJuvENATION Enjoy wellness and indulgences board the Belmond Royal Scotsman luxury train with a new collaboration with Bamford Haybarn Spa, which will host a spa carriage on the acclaimed train on its overnight rail journeys throughout Scotland and Great Britain. The new spa carriage, which features two single treatment rooms with picture windows capturing the sweeping views of the Scottish Highlands, offers several wellness rituals, including the signature Bamford Bespoke Facial, a 55-minute treatment featuring facial reflexology, lymphatic drainage, stimulating lifting and ancient yogic breathing, and a Shiatsu pressure point-focused massage with hot stones that releases tension and promotes deep deep relaxation. www.belmond.com

FuLL-BODy REvITALISATION Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel and Spa in Cheshire, England has introduced the luxury spa and skincare brand ESPA to its Vital Spa guests, with the new bespoke ESPA Back, Face and Scalp Recharge massage. Designed to ease tension and boost the skin’s vitality while relaxing the mind and the body, this luxury full-body pamper experience is tailor-made to suit individual skincare concerns and muscle needs, complementing the hotel’s range of luxury treatments and relaxing therapies, such as Age Defying Facial and Hot Stones massage, all of which promise to leave both male and female guests revitalised, relaxed and recharged. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

PAMPER By THE SEA Indulge in a ‘Wellness in the Wilderness’ treatment at South Africa’s Gondwana Game Reserve, which has opened a new bush spa offering a traditional safari experience combined with therapeutic African spa treatments. Surrounded by the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges, this tranquil haven includes individual and couple treatment rooms, with mountain views and open-shaded decks. From the Happy Hippo mud wrap and Sundowner anti-ageing facial, to the marula-shell scrub and hot-river-stone massage, the spa offers a unique African wellness experience using Africology products and indigenous plants such as marula, rooibos, and aloe ferox. www.gondwanagr.co.za

SAFARI SPA Recharge and rejuvenate after a long day at Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Huraa, with The Night Spa’s Secrets of the Sea treatment, which focuses on the vagus nerve, the body’s master of memory retention and relaxation. Available every evening to just one individual or couple, the intimate indulgence begins with a gentle skin brushing, and a warming wrap of bach flower essence and vagus nerve oil, followed by a Gigartina Beauty Bath that relaxes and soothes the body. To combat soreness, the Kuda Huraa Healing Waters Massage and Vagus Face Treatment are designed to aid muscle tension. www.fourseasons.com www.jetsetter.hk

40

THE LIST

INTO THE DEEP BLUE Whether you’re a seasoned scuba fan or are following up on a New Year’s resolution, explore the world below the waves at Asia's best dive spots Situated in the heart of the Coral Triangle, home to the

in the Philippines, El Nido boasts an abundance of

greatest diversity of marine life on earth, the Indonesian

captivating dive sites. Home to over 440 coral species

archipelago of Raja Ampat, also known as The Four Kings,

as well as a myriad of fish species, dive here for turtles,

should top your scuba diving bucket list. Consisting of four

seasonal eagle rays, devil rays, and even black or white

major islands, Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo, Raja

tip sharks.

Ampat boasts over 500 coral species, 700 mollusk species and 1,500 types of fish. It also offers regular sightings of bizarre-looking bottom-dwelling wobbegong sharks.

Explore by liveaboard to get the best dive experience.

Famed for its pristine beaches and rich marine ecosystems, the Maldives comprises a double chain of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean. Featuring swim-throughs, caves, and large

Sabah, in Malaysian Borneo, is the perfect spot from which to start a breathtaking scuba diving journey. Located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Sipadan Island boasts more than 3,000 species of fish, including barracuda, big-eye trevally, and bumphead parrotfish, while Layang Layang Island, 300km north, is famed for its scalloped hammerhead shark encounters.

overhangs, the Fotteyo Kandu channel of the Vaavu Atoll is an acclaimed site for experienced divers looking to spot

Listed as one of the seven natural wonders, Australia's

schools of titan triggerfish, tuna, barracuda and grey reef

Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, with over 2,900 individual reefs wreathing 900 islands. Head to Cod Hole on Ribbon Reef number ten, where you will be enthralled by dozens of potato cod, or dive the wreck of the SS Yongala, which sank during a 1911 cyclone.

sharks. For red bass, bigeye trevally, white-tip sharks and eagle rays, check out Kandooma Thila in the South Male Atoll.

A protected marine preserve off the north coast of Palawan www.jetsetter.hk

42

BUCKET LIST

THE ULTIMATE BUCKET LIST FOR 2017 From the world's most captivating landscapes to a myriad of new and indulgent adventures, we’ve curated our ultimate to-do list for 2017. By Nick Walton There’s no show quite like the Northern Lights, a cosmic symphony that should be on every bucket list, especially if you’re keen on a spot of photography. Escape the crowds with an Aurora Photo Tour at the Yukon’s Northern Lights Resort & Spa, home to some of the most spectacular Aurora Borealis displays on the globe. Located on a private 64-hectare estate 20 minutes south of Whitehorse, Canada, this Douglas Fur-clad alpine inn offers all-inclusive fivenight, six-day tours that venture deep into the stunning Yukon winter landscape. You’ll enjoy

one-on-one

aurora

photography

tutelage, tour Kluane National Park and the Yukon Wildlife Preserve in search of Arctic foxes, elk, caribous, mule deer and lynx; try your hand at dog sledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing; soak away the cold at the Takhini Hot Springs or in the resort’s Finnish sauna; and of course, shoot the Northern Lights each night with experienced guides on hand. The resort even offers professional camera equipment hire if you don’t want to lug your gear around the world and back.

CAD$2,690 (US$2,008) per person, twin share. www.northernlightsyukon.com

www.jetsetter.hk

BUCKET LIST 43

www.jetsetter.hk

44

BUCKETLIST

They say there’s nothing quite like watching a space rocket launch. The noise, the light, the power – it’s truly an experience of a lifetime. While the US has stopped its iconic Space Shuttle launches, Russia’s Soyuz rocket programme, which is based at a leased cosmodrome in the heart of Kazakhstan’s sprawling steppes, continues, and Virginia-based Space Adventures can give you coveted access to this unique encounter. In addition to astronaut training, zero-gravity flights, and even circumlunar flights and spacewalks, the space tourism company offers Launch Tours to the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Fly in on a Space Adventures chartered jet; witness the final ceremonies before a manned or cargo launch; escort the rocket as it’s prepared for departure; and finally, watch it take to the heavens from a VIP viewing stand less than a mile away. You’ll also have a chance to tour the Cold War-era city of Baikonur, home to a fascinating museum on the history of Soviet space travel. www.spaceadventures.com

www.jetsetter.hk

46

BUCKET LIST Head to Botswana’s stunning 16,000sqkm Unesco-listed Okavango Delta for a chance to soak in this unique landscape from the saddle, with a new horseback safari at the recently-reopened Belmond Eagle Island Lodge. Capture the Delta’s magnificent wildlife on half or full day guided horse safaris, during which you’ll keep pace with African wild dog packs on the hunt; ride with herds of Cape buffalo through the Delta’s complex network of waterways; and track rarer sightings, from warthogs and leopard to honey badgers and African wildcats. After each exhilarating ride return to the camp, one of the most luxurious safari retreats in Africa, and home to just 12 new Deluxe Tented Rooms, each boasting king-sized beds, handmade copper headboards, fully-stocked minibars, sun decks and private plunge pools. If riding isn’t your thing, the camp also offers thrilling new helicopter safaris, which soar above grazing herds and mesmerising landscapes. www.belmondsafaris.com

Rarely is any other region subjected to the forces of Mother Nature as the northern coast of Ireland. Ruggedly beautiful, and engulfed by the surges of the Atlantic swell, this remote coastline remains blissfully untouched and begging to be explored. Sail and cycle Northern Ireland with an exciting new itinerary from UTrack Holidays, part of World Expeditions. You’ll cruise the dramatic coastline of the Emerald Isle aboard the Thalassa, a three-masted tall ship that features just 15 double cabins, each configured with bunk beds and private showers. Ideal for adventure seekers, the crew will be only too happy for you to lend a hand when it comes to hoisting the ship’s 800sqm sails. At each new port, you’ll set out on the ship’s fleet of mountain bikes on guided tours, visiting the likes of Rathlin Island, the Giants Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede-Bridge, while the chef shops for local ingredients at nearby markets and farms. Back on board, sample local whiskies with your ship mates, or man the decks in search of dolphins, whales and sea birds.

Departing from Belfast. From US$2,950 per person, twin share. www.worldexpeditions.com

On 14th April 1912, RMS Titanic collided with an iceberg four days into her maiden voyage from Southampton, England to New York City. Just over two hours later, she laid to rest deep at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Now almost 105 years later, you can be among the few intrepid adventurers to dive on the wreck of this most famous of ships. Bespoke travel company Blue Marble Private now offers the chance to dive on the Titanic; available from May 2018, you’ll venture to the depths of the Atlantic during an eight-day journey with submersible development firm OceanGate. Limited to just nine adventurers and departing from the coast of Newfoundland in Canada, you’ll reach depths of up to 4,000 metres in a specially-designed titanium and carbon fibre submersible, guided by a crew of experts as you soar above the ship’s deck and famous grand staircase, capturing a view that very few have seen, or ever will. Priced from US$105,129 per person, equivalent to a first-class ticket on the Titanic’s maiden voyage. www.bluemarbleprivate.com www.jetsetter.hk

BUCKET LIST 47

Capture the colour and timeless pageantry of Papua New Guinea this August with a unique nine-day Signature Departures itinerary from experiential travel specialists Country Holidays that delves into one of the most ancient cultural hotspots of the South Pacific. With visits to the remote floodplains of the Karawari; a chance to explore the villages of the Sepik River, where time stands still; and an opportunity to witness a traditional courting ceremony, your trip will coincide with the Mt Hagen Show, a captivating cultural event that draws more than 800 tribes from across Papua New Guinea to the town of Mt Hagen for a traditional Sing-Sing, a cultural encounter filled with colour, music and singing. After watching the tribes tell ancient folklore through timeless song and dance, you’ll visit a more contemporary side to PNG with a visit to a local coffee plantation, famed for the bold flavour profile of its rich, black coffee. There will also be time to spy exquisite Ribbontail birds in the depths of the Southern Highlands during a guided nature walk, and to brave the skull caves of the Huli people. Departing August 14, 2017; priced from US$8,600 per person. www.countryholidays.com.hk www.jetsetter.hk

48

BUCKET LIST

Travel to Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, and one of the hottest destinations for the year ahead, on a small group

Madagascar Expedition in search of the island’s most iconic resident, the lemur. A destination typically only explored by the most intrepid, Madagascar’s isolation from coastal Africa has ensured its unique ecosystem remains little changed over millennia. During the 13-day New Paths Expeditions itinerary (departing September and October 2017) you’ll explore this eclectic and captivating landscape in depth with acclaimed travel author Patricia Schultz, traversing the island from the Indian Ocean to the ancient rainforests on a guided excursion that visits the Berenty Private Reserve in search of ringed-tail and Verreaux’s Sifakas lemurs; the Nahampoena Private Reserve in the south, home to bamboo lemur communities; and the tented bush haven of Camp Amourex, where you might spy pygmy mouse lemur, the smallest primates in the world. The Kirindy forest is home to the reclusive Fossa, the island’s largest predator, as well as beautiful Baobao Avenue, while Andasibe National Park, a three-hour drive from the capital, is the favourite ecosystem of the Indri Indri, the largest lemur of them all, as well as rare bird and reptile species.

From US$6,950 per person, inclusive of meals, accommodation and excursions. www.npexpeditions.com

Well-heeled gourmands can travel to the world’s greatest culinary capitals with a new gastronomic private jet itinerary from Four Seasons. The three-week Culinary Discoveries itinerary, a firstof-its-kind journey developed in partnership with one of the world’s best restaurants, Copenhagen-based Noma, and its acclaimed head chef René Redzepi, is an epic foodie foray conducted with Four Seasons’ own private jet. Travellers will dine at some of the world’s best restaurants and private kitchens; join local chefs and producers as they travel to markets and farms to taste the best of what is in season; listen to hosted talks about food innovation and heritage; and visit each location’s historical and cultural landmarks, many of which have influenced cuisine well beyond their borders. Highlights include a private dinner at the Seoul home of chef Jong Kuk Lee; a food foraging excursion with Tokyo’s chef Namae Shinobu concluding with dinner at his Michelin-starred restaurant L'Effervescence; a street food foray in Mumbai; a tour of the medieval wine estates of Florence; and an insider’s peek at Lisbon’s historic Mercado da Ribeira. Departing May 27, 2017; priced from US$135,000 per person. www.fourseasons.com

If you’ve always fancied yourself as a bit like Bond, the new Golden Eye Experience from Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo just might be for you. Reserved exclusively for the guests of the hotel’s beautifully-appointed Suite Carré d’Or penthouse, with its breathtaking 180-degree views of Monte-Carlo and the Mediterranean Sea from its expansive outdoor terrace, this unique encounter for two lets you and someone special live the life of the ultimate secret agent.

Enjoy a private tour of the famed Monte-Carlo Casino, the backdrop of many Bond films, before being whisked away in an Aston Martin for a helicopter tour of the principality. Back at the hotel you’ll enjoy lunch at Yoshi, Joël Robuchon’s only Japanese restaurant, before departing again, this time for a scenic driving tour of the French Riviera – there will even be a chance for you to slip behind the wheel of the Aston and drive the iconic mountain approach to Monte-Carlo. That evening, after being pampered with an in-room couple’s massage, sip vodka martinis at the lobby bar (a tuxedo and ball gown will be provided) before an exclusive candlelit dinner is served on your private terrace. Finish your Bond moment with cigars and a whirl at the tables (casino chips provided) before returning to your rose petal-adorned penthouse suite to cap off the day with a glass of champagne. www.metropole.com www.jetsetter.hk

50

BUCKET LIST

For the ultimate polar thrill, a new sail and ski expedition from Chimu Adventures allows intrepid travellers the chance to ski Antarctica. Exploring virgin summits and skiing untouched slopes, the new tour offers skilled skiers ultimate bragging rights, as they encounter the White Continent’s dazzling landscapes and unique wildlife on skis, in kayaks and from the deck of the expedition yacht, Icebird. The 28-day adventure departs from Ushuaia in Argentina on November 19, 2017; lead by a highly-experienced skipper and expedition team, the journey tackles the Drake Passage, before offering experienced skiers a chance to plough virgin powder on slopes rarely visited, let along skied. There’s also chances to visit penguin colonies, spy seals and whales from deck, and even visit a British research station.

Priced at AU$35,205 (US$26,700), including training, safety gear, use of satellite phones and email, accommodation in Ushuaia, skis, kayaks, sleds, mountaineering equipment and meals. www.chimuadventures.com www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

THE BATTLES

OF PARADISE The Battle of Guadalcanal, in the Solomon Islands, marked a turning point in WWII. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of that decisive combat. Planning is well underway for special commemorations, involving representatives of all participating countries, discovers

Kathy Ombler

R

eefs, lagoons and jungle; blues and greens and aquas - the beauty of the Solomon Islands today belies its bloody WWII past, when six months of battle turned the tide of the Pacific Campaign. The Battle of Guadalcanal stopped the Japanese advance. It also left tens of thousands dead; Solomon Islanders, Japanese, Americans, Australians, New Zealanders and British, a good many of them from malaria and starvation as well as from warfare.

The significance of this battle was huge, and remains so in the Solomon Islands. War history and wreck-diving have become major tourism drawcards. August 7, the day the battle began, has become an important day of commemoration, not just for veterans, their descendants, and the leaders of the governments who fought, but also for all Solomon Islanders.

This year’s event, the 75th Anniversary, is expected to be huge and spearheading the commemoration planning is Sir Bruce Saunders, chairman of the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers Trust Board.

He is working in liaison with the United States Embassy and Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau. A dawn service, on August 7 at the United States War Memorial in Honiara, is expected to be attended by governor generals and government leaders from all countries involved in the battle.

Ships from the United States, New Zealand and Australian navies will be in port for wreath laying ceremonies planned over the wrecks of warships lying off the coast of Guadalcanal.

Planning for the event also includes establishing a new national park on Bloody Ridge, site of a decisive battle during Operation Watchtower, the fight for Guadalcanal, with a dedication service planned for 4pm on August 7, the exact time the battle began in 1942.

War history plays a significant, year-round role for tourism in the Solomon Islands. There is huge

appeal for divers, who come to explore hundreds of sunken planes, ships and submarines, while local tour companies host specialist war history tours, visiting war monuments, museums of war relics and open fields where the hulls of landing craft sit rusting. They also tell war stories, embedded now in island folklore.

These are stories of heroism; of locals who risked their lives to save ship-wrecked and wounded allies; and of the Coastwatchers who were hunted with dogs by the Japanese as they hid on junglecovered high points and radioed in enemy positions, thwarting many attacks. There are also stories of battles in ‘The Slot’, the narrow but oh-so-beautiful passage between the main groups of islands that trapped naval boats like sitting ducks, the big guns and bomber planes a vision at odds with the stunning beauty of the lagoons, reefs, sandspits and islands.

Near Gizo, in the Western Province, is Kennedy Island, where a certain young US naval lieutenant swam to safety, towing a wounded crewmate, after his PT109 torpedo boat, on night patrol, was rammed and sunk. Kennedy and his surviving crew were rescued by two locals. He scratched a message on a coconut shell for them to take to American command, conveying his location. That shell later became his paperweight in his US Presidential office.

52

THE LIST

Travel Assistance

o n the Wrist

Make the most of your smartwatch with these savvy travel app essentials One of the most popular itinerary management apps,

real-time flight status updates and notify you of any flight

TripCase can gather all your travel information on a single device, from flight details and hotel confirmations to restaurant reservations. The app will send out notifications on flight updates and gate changes, while its map and direction function will make sure you always reach your destination. Thanks to the “Remember This Place� feature, you can even add a new restaurant discovery and access its information whenever you desire. www.travel.tripcase.com

changes, the app also provides useful information and navigation maps of major airports around the world. While in the air, read up on landmarks and attractions in its destination files. www.appintheair.mobi Leading travel website TripAdvisor has launched its own smartwatch app to offer globetrotters more conveniences. Based on your location, the app will recommend a list of top-rated restaurants, hotels, attractions

Want to pick up a new language while on the road? Down-

and tours, along with ratings and reviews from other dis-

load the location-based language app, Babbel, on your

cerning road warriors. You can also save your favourite

Apple Watch. Equipped with 14 international languages,

points of interest with the press of a button and access

from Spanish, French and German to Bahasa, the app will

them later. www.tripadvisor.com

detect your location and help you learn essential lingo for your new surroundings. Each language includes 18 loca-

Hotwire offers a fast and easy way to secure great deals

tion-specific categories, ranging from airports and restau-

on hotels and car rentals. With just a few taps, you can

rant to supermarkets and museums. www.uk.babbel.com

enjoy up to 60 percent off on reputable hotels around the world, while quickly renting a car from well-established

www.jetsetter.hk

One of the tiniest yet most efficient personal flying assis-

brands like Enterprise, Alamo and Hertz. The app also

tants, App in the Air will make sure you stay informed

boasts a hotel check-in feature, as well as car pick-up, re-

on every detail related to your flight. Not only does it show

turn and refuel reminders. www.hotwire.com

INSIDER 53

EYE ON THE PRIZE

Canadian bartender Ryan Nightingale, recent Hong Kong winner in the Chivas Masters competition, talks inspiration, motivation and experimentation with Isabelle Lui. What made you want to be a professional bartender?

next time. I like the format Chivas uses for the

I always knew I wanted a job that kept me on

room for interpretation.

my toes, with something new happening every

cocktail creation; it’s focused and yet still has

London is still very cutting edge; some great

part of the job could be combined with the

What’s the best whiskey you’ve ever tried and how do you see whisky evolving as a cocktail ingredient?

creative side. That’s what hooked me.

Whisky is my favourite spirit, simply because of

minute. But it wasn’t until I was working in a cocktail bar that I thought the fun and social

Having worked in some of the world’s most vibrant cities, which one fascinates you most? and forward-thinking bartenders are always coming from that city.

the endless variations that come from a simple

Which cocktail bars do you think are defining the Asian cocktail scene?

grain spirit aged in wood. The exploration is

Beach bars in Bali, speakeasys in Shanghai,

what I enjoy the most. Cocktails being made

molecular and Tiki bars in Hong Kong – and

I think Hong Kong is well-informed about

with scotch whisky are exciting because for

that’s not even scratching the surface. Asia

global trends. It’s quite influential for a young

a long time it was deemed too difficult to mix

has great bars everywhere, and it’s hard to pin

scene too. We have an interesting mix of local

with. People’s palates are expanding and

down the best.

creative bartenders working with expats from

you’re seeing bartenders using those intense

all over the globe. This leads to a lot of different

flavours in playful and creative ways.

How does Hong Kong’s mixology scene compare to overseas?

styles and tastes interacting with one another.

It’s a unique dynamic.

Tell us your inspiration behind your winning cocktail, the Noble Bean.

You recently won the Hong Kong heats of the Chivas Masters Champion 2017; how important is the competition for inspiring bartenders and how did you find the event?

For the competition I had to create a cocktail

I think competitions are great for the exposure

and a scant splash of soy sauce. I thought that

it can bring to both the bartender and the bar

this craft and process reflected how whisky-

they’re working at. The best ones, like Chivas,

blenders can take simple grain spirit and turn it

will give you some detailed notes about your

into wonderfully delicious products like Chivas.

performance and even tips on how to do better

inspired by local trends or local ingredients. I wanted to show how a very neutral soybean could be manipulated and crafted into a variety of flavours. I made the drink using malted soy

You’re heading to Tokyo next for the Chivas Masters finals in July; what are your tips for standing out at the event.

I’m aiming to be my loud Canadian self when it comes to promoting who I am and how I’m representing Hong Kong, but I also plan on doing my research into Japanese hospitality and bartending techniques.

Which bar would you like to drink at next?

I'd love to go down under to see the Bazter Inn in Sydney. I'd also love to stumble into some local haunt in Old Cuba and drink too many daiquiris. www.jetsetter.hk

56

THE

ROAD WARRIOR

TRAVEL MAD HATTER HAVING TRAVELLED THE GLOBE LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION, PASSIONATE GLOBETROTTING MILLINER NICK

FOUQUET SHARES WITH ISABELLE LUI HIS FEELINGS FOR HIS ADOPTED HOME AND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HIS TRAVEL EXPERIENCES AND HIS UNIQUE HAT DESIGNS. You’ve explored some of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations; which captivate you the most?

It subconsciously influences my ideas; it’s everything from

I’ve been fortunate to really explore this world and I never

wear. Literally everything and anything.

the shapes, colours and sounds I see, to what is going on around me. The taste, the smells, the people, and what they

take it for granted. Each place brings me inspiration and humility. I get my greatest ideas from travel. It’s hard to say

What will we find in your carry on?

which place has impacted me the most as there are so many.

I always travel with noise-cancelling headphones, a good

However, Peru and Morocco have been mystical places

book, music, and a toothbrush.

filled with vibrant colours and mesmerising landscapes. I could name a lot more, but those spring to mind.

After a year of travelling around the world, you decided to stay in LA and start making hats. Why Los Angeles?

Los Angeles at the time seemed like the last frontier in my life; I had lived in so many places and LA felt like the end of the line. It was “make or break” for me. I gave everything I had to a town reputable for narcissism, flakiness, and empty promises, but I saw a beautiful city filled with so much potential. Today, more than ever, LA is having a huge renaissance, and is becoming a global player once again.

You mentioned travel is your inspiration; how does it shape your designs?

www.jetsetter.hk

What’s the perfect hat for travel?

My hats change all the time, so it’s impossible to pick a perfect travel hat. For a while I travelled with a leather hat, which was my go-to piece when I was on the road.

It’s happy hour in your favourite city, where are you headed?

I go to the beach. Most people go to bars, but I like to meet friends and hang out at the beach at Malibu.

Where’s your next destination?

I’m headed to Rio for a wedding and I'm bringing my film camera and will take advantage of the beauty, people and style while I'm there. That’ll be fun.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Culture, Flavors and More at Grand Hyatt Singapore

Singapore’s fabulous Orchard Road is a place of legend—and the Grand Hyatt Singapore is certainly one reason why.

This exciting hotel attracts the international swish set seeking the finest this rich city has to offer. It is located just 15 car minutes to other vibrant cultural areas around the city including Little India, Chinatown, and Arab Street. the Grand Hyatt Singapore features over exciting stays, eats, drinks, exercise and more.

Their culturally inspired Damai Spa, for example, is a proper place for either working up a sweat in the gym or taking the edge off with a massage. After all, the pace of excitement here means your body will want a work-out and a work-off.

Business travellers in particular are famous for treating clients to incredible dining and wine at the Grand Hyatt Singapore’s several fine dining and drinking locations. The lobby level 10 SCOTTS restaurant is the ideal coffee, tea and cocktail networking space.

Their garden Oasis restaurant, StraitsKitchen, and Pete’s Place serve everything from Singapore staples like Chicken Rice, Laksa, to mama Italy mains. mezza9 now has a special pop-experience inside the restaurant.

In other words, for entertaining and priming this city’s pulse, the Grand Hyatt Singapore has it all—with a quite a bit more.

Check Them Out: www.singapore.grand.hyatt.com

GRAND HYATT SINGAPORE A. Scotts Road Singapore, Republic of Singapore, 228211 T. +65 6738 1234

58

THE GUIDE

Photo Credit: Martin Gregus, Thank You Canada

www.jetsetter.hk

THE GUIDE 59

THE TENACIOUS

T-TOWN

Perched on the banks of Lake Ontario, Toronto is a modern cosmopolitan city with a rich tradition of arts, culture and great dining. discovers Nick Walton.

www.jetsetter.hk

60

THE GUIDE

Stay Located at the heart of this vibrant city, the iconic 1,590-room Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, is just steps from some of the city’s best shopping, as well as a vibrant theatre district. More an urban resort than a standard inner-city business hotel, expect some of Toronto’s best bars and restaurants, including the T Bar, home to the city’s best Bloody Mary menu; and the al fresco Market Garden; as well as spacious guest rooms – we’re quite partial to the one-bedroom suites, which feature large master bedrooms and fully-equipped kitchenettes, perfect for when you’ve done the rounds of the St

+1 416 868 6937; www.cntower.ca Rub shoulders with the city’s beautiful at Lee, the Asian fusion restaurant of Hong Kong-American celebrity chef

C

Sunsur Lee, located in Toronto’s theatre district. With a sexy

M

main dining room flooded with neon and wait staff that look

Y

as if they double as models, Lee showcases classic Asian dishes with modern touches. Order one of the imaginative cocktails from the island bar – the Mandarin Monkey blends the auspicious citrus with vodka, fresh orange juice, golden pear, lychee, goji berries and basil – and tantalise your tastebuds with a tidal wave of flavours, textures

There’s also a comprehensive recreation area with

Chinese New Year staple; and a Thailandaise rack of lamb

the city’s only indoors hydro-slide, making this a great spot for travelling families. 33 Gerrard Street

and traditions, from a modern take on the lo hei salad, a marinated with dry green curry rub; to ‘Bhudda-style’ lettuce cups with tofu, eggs, and crispy onion; and Luckee Shrimp Cheung Fun with ginger flower, basil and sweet red date

West; +1 416 595 1975; www.chelseatoronto.com

soya sauce. Be sure to book well ahead as this remains one

Eat

www.susur.com

A Canadian icon, Toronto’s CN Tower offers both spectacular views (all the way to Niagara Falls on a fine day) and a chance to delve into the Canadian foodscape, with fine-dining menus at 360 Restaurant laced with locally-sourced artisanal ingredients. From your lofty position 351 metres above the centre of the city, you’ll have the opportunity to feast on seasonal fare, from West Coast foraged mushroom chowder with CN Tower’s own roof-top tarragon-infused honey; and grilled Northern Spy apple and pork sausage, with caramelised Brussel sprouts and orange cardamom jus; to 45-day aged Alberta prime

www.jetsetter.hk

550-label strong Cellar in the Sky. 301 Front Street West,

Lawrence Markets.

heated pools for adults and kids alike, including

(clockwise from top left): Tortería San Cosme; Toronto Old Town; organic honey at the St Lawrence Markets

rib with Yukon gold potato, complemented by the tower’s

of the city’s hottest tables. 601 King St W, +1 416 504 7867;

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

62

THE GUIDE A bar for true mixology fans, Frankie Solarik’s Barchef is a sexy little speakeasy that takes cocktails to the next level, from house-made bitters and bottled cocktails, to aging and infusions. Solarik is regularly listed among the best and most innovative bartenders in the world and his cocktail bar, dressed like an Aladdin’s cave of herbs, spices and other curious ingredients – including jars holding 150 litres of the bar's own bitters lining one wall – is where he plays with flavours and textures, pitting science against tradition. Look out for the signature Vanilla and Hickory Smoked Manhattan, the playful Apple Rum Froth with cinnamon syrup, raisin bitters and spiced rum; or the soul warming Winter Cottage, with vanilla-infused brandy, black plum, and star anise. 472 Queen St W, +1 416 868 4800; www.barcheftoronto.com Another spot for cocktail purists, Civil Liberties is a bar without a menu. Instead each concoction is crafted by the experienced cocktail team based on a consultation with the guests. With a gilded pineapple – the timeless symbol of hospitality – set into the deliberately-narrow bar top, this is the kind of watering hole where the barstools are more prized than the booths, and where young mixologists can test their metal against a clientele that knows its Martinis from its Madame Butterflies. That said, its founders insist this isn’t an uptight mixology joint and a range of craft spirits and locally-sourced beers are also on offer. 878 Bloor West, 416 546 5634; www.civillibertiesbar.com

Explore Although you’re in meat territory, one of the city’s culinary hotspots it Awai, the new vegan restaurant from convention-defying chef

Stroll, sip and savour your way through Toronto’s Distillery

District. Once the largest distillery in the world, Gooderham

Nathan Isberg, whose previous projects have included a paywhat-you-can tasting menu. Isberg’s dishes are imaginative, tactile, and beautifully presented, and range from porcini soup with cauliflower ‘crumble’ spiced with a mountain-pepper jerk; and artichoke barigoule ravioli with pea shoots and mustard; to a seedling salad dressed with edible flowers, aragan oil and a crisp cider vinegar. Even the cocktails are good for you. Bloor West Village, 2277 Bloor St. West, +1 647 643 3132.

Drink Toronto prides itself on its secret bars, chic, half-hidden houses of mixology, where the city’s in-the-know come to play. One of the favourites is Cold Tea, which is located down a narrow corridor at the heart of Chinatown (look for the dim sum cart). Inspired by the speakeasies of the Big Apple, Cold Tea features communal long tables, exposed plumbing, a spacious patio that’s popular during the summer months, and a cocktail menu laced with Asian inspiration – the Bruce Lee is a heady combination of Wild Turkey, calvados, apple cider, stewed cherries and homemade Chinese five-spice syrup. 60 Kensington Ave, Kensington Markets.

www.jetsetter.hk

The view from 360 Restaurant; artwork at the Distillery District

64

THE GUIDE

and Worts Distillery (now known as the Distillery Historic District), has the largest collection of industrial Victorian buildings in Canada. One of the best ways to explore this fascinating and historic precinct is by Segway with a 40-minute distillery tour from Segway of Ontario. You’ll learn the history of the neighbourhood, and how it’s been preserved and developed into a creative enclave, with great restaurants like Pure Spirits Oyster Bar & Grill, Mill St Brew Pub, and Cluny Bistro, alongside breweries, galleries and boutiques,

including

acclaimed

chocolatiers

Soma. www.thedistillerydistrict.com You’ll work up an appetite with a walking Tasting

and sell their goods to one another. This evolved into the city’s

Tour of the eclectic Kensington

famous Kensington Market, today one of the best spots for

Markets.

One of Toronto’s most multicultural inner-city neighbourhoods, the Kensington Market area is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, many of which are lined with brightly-coloured Victorian houses and equally vibrant murals. During the 1920s, when it was a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood, families would set up stands in front of their homes

dining. On this interactive foodie foray, led by founder John Lee, you’ll visit sustainable fishmonger Hooked, cool down with icy desserts from Hawaiian Ice, and spice it up with cactus nopales at Tortería San Cosme. http://tastytourstoronto.com No visit to Toronto would be complete without an early morning visit to the St Lawrence Market, a spectacular food hall at the heart of the Old Town. This expansive complex is home to fresh produce, restaurants and specialist food stores – if it’s in Toronto,

(clockwise from top left) vibrant murals in Kenington markets; early morning at St Lawrence markets; the beautifullypreserved distillery district

and can be eaten, you’ll find it here. A public market has been on the site since 1803 and in 2012 the modern rendition was named the best food market in the world by National Geographic. In 2015 the halls underwent redevelopment and now they’re better than ever; be sure to graze the many stall fronts as produce arrives each morning, and sate your appetite with an iconic peameal bacon sandwich. www.stlawrencemarket.com

www.jetsetter.hk

Luxury Opinions is changing the way the world’s best luxury and wealth management companies research consumers, design and launch new products, Our private community participates in short, online surveys in order to genuinely influence the future of luxury.

66

HOTELIER

BEAUTY & THE BEACH Photographer Steve Herud Writer Alex Onderwater

www.jetsetter.hk

HOTELIER 67

Pedro Marques was fast on his way to becoming an

engineer when inspiration hit – he would use the magical experiences he had in his parents’ summer beach house to create one of Brazil’s most naturally inviting resorts.

I

t was destiny that brought Pedro Marques

“From the summerhouse, I already knew I loved

to the sunny state of Alagoas, Brazil. And

Tenório’s style and level of execution,” he says. “The

one must obey destiny. Following the path of

fact that he is a resident [of the area] only strengthened

his parents, who built a summerhouse in the

my resolve to have him be the lead architect.” Both men

district years before, he instantly fell in love with the

share a passion for simple, natural design, and the

area’s natural splendour, turning his complete lack of

result oozes authenticity.

hotel experience into a positive by building an exclusive resort from scratch with one goal in mind: executing

While Kenoa is firmly rooted in the area, the interior

every detail from the guest’s point of view.

design reflects a global vision. Green batu hijau stone from Bali is used in the pool because, as Marques

How does a Portuguese engineer wind up running

notes, “the stone reflects the colour of our ocean.” In

an exclusive property in one of Brazil’s most naturally

the restaurant, old-fashioned street lamps adorning

beautiful states? A blend of entrepreneurial skills,

the naked stone walls hail from the infamous Rua

sensitivity, guts, and a firm family bond were part of the

do Lavradio, a strip of antique stores in Lapa, one of

equation that made Marques turn from mathematics

Rio’s most authentic districts. In the spa’s relaxation

to the art of hospitality. After graduating in Portugal,

area, windows framed with Chinese wood carvings

Marques opted for a master’s degree in marketing in

reminiscent of the Song Dynasty lend a Zen flavour to

one of Brazil’s most energised cities, Rio de Janeiro. It

the irregular concrete walls. Eclectic as this may sound,

was to be a one-year study to top off his chosen career

the interior is one of harmony and natural simplicity.

path in numbers and digits. Or was it? “Already during my study period I was looking into other ventures,” he

For all of its beauty – natural and manmade – Kenoa

says.

also aims to involve the community. “We recruited and employed people from nearby villages, thus supporting

The ambitious youngster, then aged 27, knew how to

the local economy,” he says. Something guests aren’t

dream. Strolling the infamous beaches of Ipanema and

likely to pick up on, but which is “classic Marques”

Leblon, he started to reflect on what would come next.

behaviour: most of the people he hired are friends that

“I felt the urge to start something of my own.” At first, he

had no hospitality experience whatsoever. The young

was thinking of investing in property, but then he realised

staff is trained on-site, and Marques offers English

the potential of building a high-end boutique hotel from

classes to all of his employees.

a rather unusual – for Brazil, at least – starting point. “I bypassed the rules that an experienced entrepreneur

“Everyone who works here shares a passion and

would rely on. Instead, I wanted to create a hotel from

sensibility to make our guests happy,” he says. “It’s

the eyes of the visitor. I consider the fact that I lacked

important to do small things and it’s the details that

any hospitality experience a major advantage.”

make the difference. In fact, we try to learn as much as possible from our guests without them knowing we are

The more Marques mused on the idea of a resort,

learning from them. We see Kenoa as a place to receive

the more he thought of his parents’ summer home.

friends. We want you to feel at home. And the people

Designed by local interior designer Osvaldo Tenório, the

who work here will go beyond their means to make you

house had quickly become a family favorite. Marques

feel that way. It’s a shared passion.”

himself had spent many summers there, and the area had “already marked a firm place in my heart,” he says.

This story originally ran in Design Hotels’ Made by

So, it’s no accident that Marques decided to build Kenoa

Originals book. www.designhotels.com”

opposite his parents’ summerhouse. www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

THE CENTRAL LOCATION OF THE REGENT TAIPEI IN DOWNTOWN OFFERS GUESTS AN UNMATCHED URBAN ODYSSEY ON THE ISLAND OF TAIWAN.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Minutes by foot from the city’s finest attractions, sensational dining and world-class shopping are just a few of the many reasons why guests find the Regent Taipei so alluring. Another is its 45-minute drive to Taiwan’s Taoyuan International Airport and a mere 5-minute walk to Taipei’s Zhongshan MRT station.

This location gives stunning views of downtown from its 538 restful retreat rooms ranging from Superior Rooms to the grand Presidential Suite. The Regent Taipei features 478 deluxe guest rooms and 60 luxurious suites. The innovative Executive Club Floor concept, named Tai Pan Residence & Club, is another winning draw for the jet set, spanning two floors with dedicated rooms, suites and facilities for business executives. All room décor consists of modern classical and large ceiling-height windows for a fantastic visual experience. Lush pillows and marble floor bathrooms offer touches of home.

Regent Taipei’s culinary experience combines savory traditional Asian and Western flavors. Mihan Honke offers the best of Japanese tastes with shabu-shabu, robatayaki, and yakiniku reminiscent of the ancient city of Kyoto. Brasserie serves a spectacular international buffet with a garden view while Azie

offers globally-inspired light fusion dishes in an atrium-styled café.

The best of China is on offer at Silks House with Cantonese and Sichuan specialties. Enjoy Michelin-starred chef tapas recipes and signature drinks at the Gallery lounge.

For down time, the Regent Taipei offers first class Spa and Wellness treatments, from massages to Jacuzzi spa, sauna and a year-round heated rooftop swimming pool. The Health Club & Sauna also has state-of-the-art fitness equipment, exercise classes, and private trainers.

For global shopping lovers, Regent Galleria features the best brands in fashion and design, the only GRAFF and GOYARD retail locations in the country and VIP services complete with private shopping butlers. In sum, a full package stay in full bloom is available for those seeking a Taipei urban odyssey.

Get Connected: www.regenthotels.com/regent-taipei/accommodation

70

AFRICA

www.jetsetter.hk

AFRICA 71

IN THE LAND OF

CONTRASTS Nick Walton encounters two

remarkably different landscapes on a safari at South Africa’s acclaimed Phinda Game Reserve.

www.jetsetter.hk

72

AFRICA (clockwise from top left); a hyena cub; adolescent rhino; on a game drive at Phinda Mountain Lodge

I

t’s a standoff of sorts. The adolescent white

expansive reserve is also home to six safari camps

rhino, his buddies backing him up like a

operated by andBeyond, each of which offers visitors

Westside Story chorus line, blocks the dirt

access to a different stage on which some of South

track before us and studies our group with

Africa’s best wildlife encounters take place.

earnest. A wave of silence washes over

our Land Cruiser, broken only by the buzz of camera

My adventure begins at andBeyond’s Phinda Forest

shutters. With a gentle snort, a flick of an ear, and a

Lodge, a clutch of 16 luxurious glass-and-timber

perfectly executed balancé that illustrates the fluid

cottages scattered throughout one of Africa’s last

grace bestowed on such a bulky beast, the rhino lets

remaining dry sand torchwood forests, which offers the

us pass and we all start breathing once again.

perfect camouflage for the shy Livingston’s suni and red duikers which skulk silently past my floor-to-ceiling

Thrilling wildlife experiences like this are par for the

windows. Each suite is its own domain; one in which

course at the 23,000-hectare Phinda Private Game

you can disappear from the world amidst refined,

Reserve in South Africa’s northeast province of

contemporary interiors more akin to a chic Long Island

Kwazulu-Natal. An icon of progressive conservation

beach house than a safari camp. There’s plush throw

for the country, Phinda is unique in that it hosts seven

pillows, a fully-stocked mini bar and a deep soak tub,

distinct ecosystems, offering a magnificent tapestry

and thanks to picture windows on all sides, a sense of

of woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and forests,

place that’s both cosy and captivating.

interspersed with mountain ranges, river, marshes

www.jetsetter.hk

and even dramatic stretches of coastline. These

Walking from suite to lodge, you’re likely to encounter

ecosystems are, in turn, home to an abundance of

nimble nyala and impala on the sandy trails, while

protected and sustainably-managed wildlife, from the

above, giant kingfishers and melba finches frolic in

Big Five, to cheetah, giraffe, crocodiles, zebra and a

the canopy. During al fresco meals served on the main

who’s who of the antelope world, offering a captivating

lodge’s sundecks, elephants tussle in the nearby reed

and sustainable one-stop safari experience. The

beds and troops of vervet monkeys leap from branch to

True Resort Experiences

度假真體驗

74

AFRICA branch above. The deck and its adjacent lounge

a rhino killed by poachers in South Africa ever

is the hub of activity at Phinda Forest; it’s where

seven hours during 2015, costly relocation,

meals are served and sundowners sipped before

often to Botswana’s sprawling but better secured

mezmerising African sunsets. It’s also from where

Okavango Delta, is the only chance South

we depart on our first game drive with young

Africa’s rhinos have for survival. Over the coming

yet experienced guide James Walker. Mounting

years andBeyond, in partnership with Great

one of the camp’s custom Land Cruisers, we

Plains Conservation, will relocate 100 rhinos to

rumble along dirt tracks arched by graceful fluted

undisclosed locations in Southern Africa in order

milkwood and brown ironwood trees, leaving the

to give the species a fighting chance.

forest behind as we delve into the grasslands.

Once you settle into the Phinda landscape you James has an eagle’s eye and it’s not long until he

quickly begin to see how busy it is with wildlife.

spots the gang of rhino teens sauntering towards

A pair of male zebra wrestle on hind legs,

us across a vast plain punctuated by black

flashes of barcode backdropped against the

monkey thorn trees. The rhinos, each weighing

grassland’s greens and yellows. A lilac-breasted

over a ton, totter along a risen sand bank, eyeing

roller, a beautiful little bird whose vibrant rainbow

us the whole time as they approach a watering

hues seem at odds with the green patchwork

hole where their kin sniff the air between gulps.

landscape, waits patiently atop a sapling for us

They shuffle onto the road in front of us and the

to take its photo, before darting away. Nestled in

standoff ensues.

a sandy den, we watch, enthralled, as a spotted hyena feeds her cubs, aware of our presence but

Of andBeyond’s many conservation initiatives,

not hindered by it.

Rhinos Without Borders, a campaign born from the first donation of rhino from one reserve to

James takes a turn off the main trail and suddenly

another, is perhaps the most important. With

we find ourselves face to face with a meandering

www.jetsetter.hk

AFRICA 75

(clockwise from above) Zebras battle at Phinda Forest Lodge; a giraffe on the trot; cheetahs in trees; a guest villa at Phinda Mountain Lodge; Phinda staff serve dinner

herd of towering elephants. We back up to

once again engulfed by the serenity of the

give the majestic beasts space, although

torchwood forest.

one calf, barely the height of the Land Cruiser’s bonnet, feels emboldened by his

The next day we head southwest towards

company, his ears outstretched, his little

sister retreat Phinda Mountain Lodge but

trunk high in the air as he struts, steps

on the way there’s time for an andBeyond

from the safety of Dad. After a breathtaking

Community

moment during which we each watch

with

with equal intently, the elephants slip

Foundation, which has many initiatives in

soundlessly into the thick brush.

the villages that wreath Phinda.

During a late afternoon drive we trace a

During the fascinating three-hour tour with

long boundary trail to discover a pride of

guide Bheki, we visit the Ubuhlebenkosi

lions; two young cubs play fight as the

creche, a patchwork tent filled with smiling

adults doze, huge gleaming white teeth

children who sing the national anthem

revealed as they yawn, their golden tails

loudly and proudly, before we inspect their

capturing the fading light as they flick the

new school, presently under contruction

air. Slowly, one by one, the lions emerge

nearby. When these same children go

from their afternoon siestas and, as the

to high school it will likely be at Nkomo

sun begins to sink towards the horizon and

Full Service School; its principle Nomusa

the shadows lengthen, they depart on the

Zikhali once had to ferry children across

night’s hunt.

a rushing river to get them to her open-air

Tour,

development

a

collaboration

partner The

Africa

classrooms, set beneath a great acacia The light drains quickly from the African

tree. With help from the Africa Foundation,

sky as we return to the camp, a pair of

Nkomo now has 500 students and a series

graceful giraffes, startled by our headlights

of modern class rooms. On our return to

as we emerge from a dry river bed,

the reserve we stop in at the Mduku Clinic,

galloping towards the setting sun as we’re

where vital accommodation for nurses www.jetsetter.hk

76

AFRICA cheetah population is the fourth largest in South Africa.

Conservation programmes like this are at the core of the Phinda Game Reserve. As we traverse the western edge of the reserve in search of two spectacular male lions, Andy tells us about andBeyond's ongoing initiatives, which include research into the resident leopard population, which is presently stable at 30; contraceptive programmes to help maintain a sustainable elephant herd; and the relocation of cheetah cubs to other parks to help foster new coalitions.

It’s been a mesmerising few days exploring the ever-changing landscapes of Phinda but Andy has one last surprise for us. With the blanket of night settling across Africa we dismount from the Land

is being built, while at the Mbhedula Craft Market nearby, another Foundation project, the sales of brilliantly-coloured art pieces, crafted by local women, bring much needed income to the village.

Under a ceiling of brooding clouds that look set to burst we approach andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge. With its panoramic views of the spectacular Ubombo ranges, Phinda Mountain Lodge is as dramatic a safari retreat as you’ll find anywhere in Africa and a true contrast to the torchwood forest. Each of its 24 cathedral-esque suites, clustered

(clockwise from top) faces of the future at Ubuhlebenkosi; a female lion at Phinda forest Lodge; vervet monkeys at Phinda mountain.

Cruiser and descend into a corpse of wild fig trees.

Here the culinary team has set up an open-air kitchen, complete with a traditional braai barbeque, a candlelit cocktail bar, and tables lit with fairy lights. As the first stars emerge from indigo skies, we join other Phinda guests in toasting this remarkable corner of the earth and the efforts of andBeyond in preserving it for generations to come.

on a steep mountain flank, features master bedrooms and bathrooms

TraveL eSSenTiaLS

that lead out on to expansive private verandahs, which, in my case,

South African Airways has direct flights from Hong

is seemingly part of a vervet monkey highway, making for some

Kong to Johannesburg and on to Durban, a three-hour

interesting eye-to-eye interactions during moonlit outdoor showers.

drive from Phinda. Business class from HK$42,000

The next morning we chase the dawn with Andy Macfarlane, an east coast surfer-turned-wildlife guide, and tracker Sibu. After inching our way past a snoring warthog at the lodge entrace, we delve into the mists which cling to the mountains like cotton candy, quickly encountering one of central Phinda’s lion prides. A zebra has been killed in the night and the pride – three cubs, two adolescent females and two adult females – hunker down as they feed, their chins stained red, their eyes always alert. It’s a raw but fascinating scene; the circle of life in all its untamed splendor.

Bumping our way along undulating tracks of crimson red soil, we spy a coalition of infinitely graceful cheetah lounging beneath a clutch of Tamboti trees, and disturb a solitary black rhino, who grazes, almost hidden, in a sea of new green shoots. Under the watchful gaze of a martial eagle, two young cheetahs clamber over the rocky terrain in a game of tag, taking turns to climb the boughs of low-slung trees before leaping into the honey-hued grass.

Since these elegant cats were reintroduced to the land in 1992, Phinda has earned itself a reputation for its cheetah communities.

The cats were released into the reserve before lions were, in Africa’s first successful reintroduction of the two species, and now Phinda’s www.jetsetter.hk

(US$5,400).

Phinda Forest Lodge from HK$4,700 (US$612) per person, per night; Phinda Mountain Lodge from HK$4,300 (US$558) per person, per night; www.andbeyond.com

AFRICA 77

www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

A CULINARY JOURNEY ACROSS THE INDIAN OCEAN Constance Moofushi Maldives Totem Bar

Constance Halaveli Maldives Jahaz Restaurant

Constance Halaveli Maldives Wine Cellar Somellier

Constance Moofushi Maldives Manta Restaurant

More than just luxurious accommodation, Constance Hotels & Resorts offer guests an insightful culinary experience that taps into the properties' locations like never before.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

I

n the Maldives, the freshest dishes are served and enjoyed at restaurants perched above the azure lagoons or nestled amidst lush island canopies. Situated a 35-minute speedboat journey from each other, Constance’s Halaveli Maldives and Constance Moofushi Maldives are committed to offering guests the best culinary journey, from traditional local dishes and extensive buffets, to international fine dining and tropical beverages, all enjoyed in a serene environment complemented by luxury hospitality.

After a day exploring the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters surrounding Constance Halaveli Maldives, retreat to the Jahaz restaurant and bar, which features an outdoor dining area and themed evenings filled with live music and an international buffet; after dinner enjoy cocktails under a star-filled sky at the beachside bar, home to refreshing bespoke cocktails.

Alternatively, find a perch at one of Meeru's beach tables, where the freshest seafood and meat is served.

For an enjoyable meal experience, both for the palate and the eyes, the open cooking counter at Kaika Sushi offers traditional Japanese gourmet delights, enhanced by views of the mesmerising lagoon.

The food adventure does not end here. Jump on a boat to embrace boundless ocean views on the way to Constance Moofushi Maldives, a beautiful tropical hideaway ringed by swaying palm trees. The luxury resort’s Manta restaurant surprises with a menu that boasts different specialities each day, and can be paired with a range of fine wines lining its glass-wrapped wine cellar. Enjoy a barefoot walk on the sand and savour a selection of grilled gourmet seafood at Alizée or visit the resort’s two bars, Totem and Manta, for a variety of tropical beverages served al fresco.

Constance Halaveli Maldives Jing Restaurant and Bar

Constance Halaveli Maldives Beach Wine Tasting

The Sensational Experience Goes On

Culinary surprises are not limited to the restaurants at Constance’s Maldivian properties. There are a host of special gastronomic events taking the dining scene of Constance’s Mauritian establishments to the next level, with celebrated chefs and wine connoisseurs hosting unique culinary occasions.

Constance’s fourth edition of La Paulée, a weeklong culinary event, celebrates the grape harvest in Burgundy, France with a traditional banquet that gathers experienced wine growers, acclaimed chefs and well-versed sommeliers.

Dedicated to the shared passion for cuisine, each day of the week features hosted dinners at Constance Le Prince Maurice in Mauritius, allowing guests to sample impressive dishes specially paired with fine wines from France and South Africa, as they take in the sweeping views of ocean and Mauritian hinterland.

Another celebrated annual gastronomic event, Festival Culinaire Bernard Loiseau, brings dishes created by Michelin starred chefs and Constance chefs to the judging panels at Constance Belle Mare Plage, which serve as the battlefield for a series of world-class culinary competitions.

During this week-long celebration of passion and creativity, Michelin-starred chefs and Constance’s chefs – test their skills and creativity with the hopes of winning the prestigious title. Other festivities include a local market visit, a special banquet that delves into Mauritian culinary traditions; cooking classes; and wine pairing experiences, in addition to a la carte or buffet offerings at all the resorts’ restaurants, promising a week of satisfaction on the palate. www.constancehotels.com

80

SPAIN

STAR OF

SPAIN Matt Flemming travels to San

Sebastian to investigate how the city got all its Michelin Stars.

www.jetsetter.hk

SPAIN 81

www.jetsetter.hk

82

SPAIN

capita ratio – eight restaurants garnered a total of 16 stars in the 2016 edition of the guide. In fact, only eight eateries in Spain were deemed worthy of three stars, and three of them – Arzak, Martin Berasategui and Akelarre – are in San Sebastian.

The fine dining accolades are the result of a centuries-old food culture, a pair of influential historical events, the area’s excellent terroir, as well as a group of chefs who revolutionised Basque cooking. And the spectrum of food experiences

in

San

Sebastian

extends

beyond fine dining, to the many pintxos bars,

S

gastronomy clubs, cider houses and markets found throughout the city.

an Sebastian has no shortage of charms. The crescentshaped La Concha Bay and its beachfront Belle Epoque

Some of the city’s most important institutions

character are iconic, flanked by Mount Urgull and its

are its gastronomy clubs. These exclusive

imposing statue of Christ in the east and Mount Igueldo

societies provide a space for members to cook

and its funicular to the west. The cobblestoned streets

with friends and family and dine in a restaurant

of the historic Old Town are at the heart of the city’s cultural identity.

setting. Chef Pedro Subijana of three-starred Akelarre claims that these clubs emerged

With a population of less than 200,000 residents, San Sebastian has

from the ruins of the Siege of San Sebastian

the vibe and the pace of a small town, where Basque traditions are

in 1813, during which much of the city was

maintained and local businesses and products are valued above all

destroyed.

else.

“The people of San Sebastian held meetings to In a country with an abundance of exceptional local restaurant scenes,

discuss how the city would be reconstructed,”

San Sebastian seems an unlikely place to be dubbed Spain’s culinary

says Subijana. “And at these meetings, they

mecca and no less than one of the greatest food cities in the world. It

cooked together — that’s how gastronomy

begs the question: How did San Sebastian earn its world renown?

clubs were invented.”

This reputation is often attributed to its remarkable Michelin stars per

These

www.jetsetter.hk

clubs

introduced

cooking

as

a

SPAIN 83

competitive sport into the everyday lifestyle. “A long time ago, they used to be only for men. So there was competition among the society members to be the best cook but also among their wives, who wanted to cook well enough to give their husbands a reason to eat at home. Competition is always positive -- the level gets higher when there is competition,” says Subijana.

Decades later, San Sebastian was transformed into a resort town when it became known as a high society retreat popular with Spanish royalty and later as something of a Spanish Monte Carlo – a grand casino (now San Sebastian’s ornate city hall) was built in 1897 and operated until the Franco-era brought about the prohibition of gambling. Spain’s aristocrats arrived with servants, drivers and cooks in tow, but also hired local residents to work in their kitchens. San Sebastian was left with a workforce of chefs who were skilled in cooking for the upper class. This era, according to Subijana, was when the seeds for San Sebastian’s fine dining scene were sown.

Subijana and Juan Mari Arzak are two of the fathers of New Basque Cuisine, a movement they began with 10 other local chefs in the 1970s. This modern take on traditional Basque cuisine not only brought the city to the forefront of Spanish cooking, it was extremely influential on the nation’s fine dining scene as a whole. Subijana and Arzak didn’t seek to reinvent Basque cooking; instead they pursued a philosophy of experimentation and collaboration. New Basque Cuisine also embraces a scientific understanding of cooking and the use of modern technological techniques in the kitchen.

“We wanted to build something together,” says Subijana.

“As chefs, we had no secrets. We opened the doors to our kitchens to show others what we were doing. We felt free to try new things, to adopt new ideas and to create new dishes that were based on traditional Basque cooking."

www.jetsetter.hk

84

SPAIN Subijana says that while a healthy sense of competition

Bayonne ham, deviled eggs, olives, Russian salad,

still exists, it is not unusual for San Sebastian’s star

anchovies and shrimp served on small slices of bread.

chefs to get into the kitchen and cook a meal together

Most shops will have a small menu of hot items prepared

at a gastronomy club. He and the other founders of New

to order, which may include Bechamel croquettes,

Basque Cuisine also work to mentor talented young

Spanish omelets and garlic potatoes.

chefs in their kitchens, and also through the Basque Culinary Center, an education and research facility.

But there is no shortage of pintxos bars serving more modern takes on the common pintxo. A Fuego Negro,

Luis Andoni Aduriz of Mugaritz spent time working at both

Bar Antonio and La Cuchara San Telmo are three such

Akelarre and Arzak before opening his own restaurant.

bars, which play with textures and ingredients in crafting

Aduriz has gone on to become arguably Spain’s

some of the city’s best small dishes.

foremost culinary creative genius – he spends four months each year researching new dishes and planning

The Basque flavour palette is on display each day at

a new menu that provides a full sensory experience.

the city’s La Bretxa Market near the Old Town. At the

Mugaritz is currently ranked seventh on the World’s

heart of Basque cooking is a heavy dose of fish including

50 Best Restaurants list, and for good reason. Edible

hake, cod, eel, sole and anchovies -- add to that locally

cutlery, edible river stones and even edible centerpieces

raised beef and lamb, as well as game meats, cured

are some of the surprises that await guests.

meats, chorizo and goat cheese. Fresh vegetables such as mushrooms, asparagus, artichokes, tomatoes and

While most visitors may come to the city for the Michelin

peppers are also central elements of local cooking.

stars, a night spent exploring the pintxos bars in the Old Town is just as much of a quintessential San Sebastian

Rounding out the quintessential culinary experiences

experience. Pintxos, the Basque equivalent of tapas,

in San Sebastian are the cider houses. Found in

are served up on large platters on bar countertops.

the countryside villages surrounding the city, these

Guests can walk in and help themselves to these two-

purveyors of hard cider typically offer traditional set

or-three bite dishes as bartenders serve up glasses of

menus that consist of massive T-bone steaks, roast cod

txakoli, a local sparkling white wine. Local residents love

filets, and codfish omelets, with sheep’s cheese, quince

to bounce from one eatery to the next, sampling and

paste and walnuts for dessert – along with all the cider

snacking while drinking and socialising in a friendly and

you can drink.

convivial atmosphere.

Any foodie’s expectations for a tour of San Sebastian are

www.jetsetter.hk

The Gilda, a concoction that consists of an anchovy,

sure to be sky high but given the dedication to culinary

pickled peppers and olives on a toothpick soaked in oil,

craft that exists here and the host of delectable food

is the classic pintxo – a salty, savoury and sour snack

experiences, it’s hard to imagine anyone would award

consumed in one quick bite. Other cold pintxos include

this city anything less than three stars.

86

TURNING LEFT

The American Dream American Airlines AA126 Hong Kong- Dallas

American Airlines has shrugged off the negative stereotype of a US carrier and delivers a very competitive business class product on its long-haul routes to Asia, discovers Nick Walton on a recent flight.

Check in/The Lounge I checked in at HKIA but also used the airline’s very intuitive app, which allows you to track your bags and also offers flight and airport info. I headed to Cathay Pacific, American’s oneworld partner’s The Bridge lounge as it was closest to my departure gate. While it was very busy (as it often is) they make a pretty good martini. The boarding process on to the Boeing 777-300ER was speedy and on time.

The Seat American Airlines operates a three-class Boeing from Hong Kong, with 52 newest generation business class seats. Mine, 15J, was located on the starboard side, and is a dream for travellers on ultra-long haul routes.

Similar to those used by CX, American’s lieflat seats are 20.5-inches wide and are set in a reverse herringbone configuration. There’s plenty of privacy, especially for window seats, and storage space galore, as well as a large monitor offering access to AA’s extensive collection of films and television shows. Also at shoulder height are intuitive controls for the entertainment system and seat, USB and AC ports, and a reading light. A Cole Haan amenity kit contained all the essentials for flying, including a dental kit, eye mask and moisturizer and lip balm. Each seat also offers access to the carrier’s high speed inflight wifi system.

When in bed mode this seat is blissfully comfortable, especially with AA’s fluffy duvets www.jetsetter.hk

and a rather limp pillow bolstered by rolled

Bishop cow’s milk cheese and a rather good

up AA pajamas. You can stretch out, and

Pecorino.

roll easily, even with your seat belt on, and I managed to get a good nine hours sleep mid-

As this is an ultra-long flight, AA also offer

way through the flight, which is pretty good for

snacks throughout the journey, many of which

any ultra-long haul journey.

are available at a self-service pantry located between business class cabins, which offers

Service During

pre-flight

seasonal preparations,

the

crew

seemed stretched and while they were

fruit,

sandwiches,

Deep

River

potato chips, Boom Chicka Pop popcorn, and Ginnybakes cookies.

friendly enough they only passed twice in the 40 minutes before departure, to pass out

Brunch was served as we flew down the centre

plastic glasses of champagne, and to offer

of the US, with the offer of a perfectly adequate

newspapers. A young crew member named

American

Doug slipped me another glass of wine as if it

unsmoked British bacon, roasted potatoes

was contraband. Crew were still taking orders

and herbed tomato; or a continental breakfast

as we taxied, a process that must have been

with seasonal fruit, yogurt and granola. This

sped up by the fact that half the dishes on the

was complemented by mixed berry smoothies,

menu were not available. When I asked one

and pain de chocolat.

attendant named Folton why this was (leaving

breakfast

of

scrambled

eggs,

only fried chicken or the vegetarian option) he

Summary

said “well, we start from the front, you should

American Airlines’ hardware is very hard to

have pre-ordered”.

fault; the 777 is a dream to fly on, the seats are

Dining

modern, user-friendly and very comfortable, entertainment options are impressive and

Dinner service commenced an hour into the

the dining was leagues above what you might

flight and started with a roasted Portobello

expect. If the carrier can inspire its older crew

mushroom with ratatouille and a truffle

the way it has its younger staff then American

balsamic vinaigrette, which was surprisingly

Airlines will continue to be a force to be

good; followed by fried chicken with chili sauce

reckoned with, in Asia and beyond.

and black sesame steamed rice, which was succulent and well-balanced but perhaps a little meager in its proportions. I skipped AA’s

Hong Kong-Dallas Fort Worth in business class from HK$46,338 (US$5,838). www.aa.com

signature ice cream sundae (although many

Note: The author travelled on a fully

passengers ordered it) and opted instead for

paid business class ticket with the

the cheese plate, which included a Stinking

airline’s knowledge

88

TURNING LEFT

Service with a Smile Jet Airways Amsterdam-Mumbai

Nick Walton

Check-in/ The Lounge I checked in at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, where the

Dining

process was quickened by designated business class

Dining is always a delight on Jet Airways. Crew began the

finds a counters, and then endured long delays going through meal service shortly after we reached cruising altitude, connection in security screening. Jet Airways premium passengers with piping hot towels and glasses of Billecart-Salmon Brut have access to the Aspire Lounge 41, which was Reserve champagne. Options for a late breakfast included Mumbai helps packed to the gills and offered a rather meagre food fresh fruit and yoghurt, and a selection of cereals, as well break up and beverage selection, so after wrestling a glass of as croissants, rolls and muffins. Hot mains included a wine from the crowds, I decided to leave and give spring onion and cheese omelet with chicken pojarski, long-haul myself plenty of time to reach G10 for departure.

Lyonnaise potato wedges, and baked beans; raisin and travel on a cinnamon French Toast with crème Anglaise and maple recent business The Flight syrup; an Indian medley of oatmeal upma, onion tomato Boarding the Jet Airways A330-300 was a breath of uttapam, and steamed subz idli rice cakes; and Kala class flight fresh air after the busy airport concourse. Immaculately Chana Masala with onion paratha. The omelet was between uniformed crew in bright yellow and dark blue welcomed perfectly cooked and was matched with another cheeky Amsterdam and passengers into the cool, quiet 16-seat Première glass of champagne as I settled in to watch a movie from business class cabin with glasses of water and fruit the airline’s extensive international selection.

Hong Kong juice before taking drink and meal orders. The chaos with Jet Airways. of the airport continued beyond and despite boarding The Service at 10.30am we didn’t pull back from the gate until

11.38am, finally taking off at 11.55am, with a flight time of eight hours 30 minutes.

The Seat While Jet Airways has a very contemporary herringbone configuration on some of its Airbus A330s, the aircraft used on the Mumbai-Amsterdam route uses an older but still very comfortable staggered configuration similar to those used by Swiss and Delta. There is a 2-2-1/12-1 flow and I selected my seat earlier online to ensure

Jet Airways has always impressed me with its sincere, intelligent and authentic service and this journey was no different. On my flight, I watched crew ease the fears of a nervous flyer; serve a meal as if they were in a fine-dining restaurant; fish out a lost smartphone from the depths of a seatback; and offer dining suggestions in Mumbai, all with grace and genuine warmth. Crew were never guilty of hiding in the galley (like those on so many carriers these days) and always made any request look effortless.

I got one of the coveted ‘throne’ style single window

Summary

seats on the port side, each of which features a pitch

We arrived in stormy Mumbai right on schedule, allowing

of 49-inches, a width of 21-inches, a sizable monitor set

me enough time for a shower in the newly-opened GV

into the seatback in front, a large dining tray, and two

Lounge before my onward flight to Hong Kong.

extra-wide arm rests, perfect for tablets and phones.

While the footwell is a bit more restrictive (especially

Hong Kong-Mumbai-Amsterdam return in Premiere from

for my size 13 feet), there’s great, accessible storage

HK$20,842 (US$2,687) per person; www.jetairways.com

space and the cushioning of the seat was sublime. www.jetsetter.hk

LIFESTYLE IN HIS PRIME LAURENT TOURONDEL

MIGHTY MEZCAL

VOLVO S90

THE ESSENCE OF MEXICO

SUPREME SOPHISTICATION

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE THROUGH IMAGE AND FILM RED OBSESSION

TOKYOLIMA HONG KONG

AGE OF EMPIRES

90

FOOD ADVENTURES

www.jetsetter.hk

FOOD ADVENTURES 91

THREADS

OF RED Saffron, often referred to as ‘red gold’, is the world’s most expensive spice by weight, and has been treasured by the cultures of Central and Southwest Asia for its culinary and medical attributes for centuries.

Now you can discover the benefits of this crocus sativus-derived spice with these innovative botanical-themed travel experiences. By Isabelle Lui

J

et west to the metropolis of Dubai for the most expensive ice cream in the city, Black Diamond, created

by Scoopi Café, a family owned ice cream and handcrafted chocolate

I

f you prefer a spicy kick in the glass, head down to Hyde at 53M in Damansara Uptown in Kuala Lumpur, a speakeasy serving artisanal cocktails. A highlight of the hidden bar’s innovative menu, the

specialist. Savour the shop’s signature liquid

Neighbourhood Negroni is made with saffron-

nitrogen ice cream made with Madagascar

infused gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. A

vanilla, and topped with Iranian saffron, sliced

perfect balance of bitter and sweet flavours,

Italian black truffles, edible gold powder and

this elixir is laced with notes of herbal and bitter

23-karat gold flakes. At a price of US$298, this

orange with a hint of honey. www.hyde53m.com

opulent gourmet dessert is complemented by a handcrafted golden bowl and a silver spoon. www.scoopicafe.com

I

n England, the Spa and Health Club at The Landmark London takes saffron’s medical

benefits,

said

to

include

preventing cancer and treating colds, to the next level, with its Silks and Saffron

treatment. The 50-minute Turkish massage begins with a therapist gently stretching limbs with a piece of silk foulard, which helps release tension. This is followed by a massage using a

Y

ou can do your own culinary experimentation

with

bottles

of pure saffron honey from

Moroccan Saffron, located the Eastern Market in Washington DC. Saffron is infused with unprocessed honey from the Virginia Shenandoah Valley to create a silky and exotic touch of sweetness. Tea enthusiasts should also try the stall’s handcrafted saffron tea, Taliouine, a mixture of green tea and saffron that exudes notes of vanilla. www.moroccan-saffron.com at

saffron-infused balm, which is laced with antioxidants. www.landmarklondon.co.uk

www.jetsetter.hk

92

CHEF PROFILE

IN HIS In Hong Kong for the relaunch of BLT Steak, acclaimed chef Laurent Tourondel speaks with Nick Walton about dining trends, celebrity status and the perfect egg sandwich.

www.jetsetter.hk

CHEF PROFILE 93 You started off your career cooking for a French admiral?

shouldn’t affect the diner’s expectations – if

goes fast here. I like to go and eat in Chinese

they are coming to see me then for sure, I

restaurants, to experience the real Chinese

It was one of those things when the

won’t be here, but it’s the same guy cooking

food. I love it.

government sent me to cook for the Admiral

either way.

year and a half. The upside was I met a guy in

Do you have a favourite cut of beef?

the same barracks who became a good friend

I like the skirt steak; it’s a cut of beef that’s

You appeared on Iron Chef; what impact do you think these television cooking shows are having on diners?

and who hooked me up with a restaurant in

closer to the heart so it’s pumping more blood

I think people enjoy these shows but they also

London and not long after I was working at

which means it has a stronger flavour than say

make people wanting to work in the industry

gentleman’s club Boodle’s and was there for

a fillet or a leaner cut. It also has more texture

get a big head and they don’t realise that doing

three years.

to it, a stringy texture that I love. I don’t serve

a cooking show is one thing, and you can be

Kobe; for me it’s too rich, but some people like

a great entertainer, but that doesn’t mean you

What was cooking at this old-world gentleman’s institution like?

it. We serve Prime, Black Angus and Wagyu

can be a great businessman or a great chef in

and I think they all have something to take

the kitchen. In fact, it’s often the opposite. The

There were two sides to the cuisine at

away from it but every grade of beef is like

problem is that most of the kids straight out of

Boodle’s; there was the British side and the

wine, it’s all up to your palate.

school see these shows and decide what they

as part of my military service. I was there for a

classic French side but the chef of the club

want to be, that they want to be a rock star,

made; they have great produce and there are

You’ve worked for some big names during your career. Who had the most impact?

definitely some great chefs in London.

Probably the Troisgros family, [owners of

was a very talented guy and I actually learned a lot. I think British food is great when it’s well-

There’s a lot of steak restaurants in Hong Kong, how does BLT Steak stand out?

Well, we’ve been here eight years so we must

and that’s just not the reality.

three Michelin-starred restaurant La Maison

How do you maintain the balance between running your restaurant chain and being a chef?

Troisgros in Roanne] who gave me respect for

I have good people to help me and I try to give

the product and discipline in the kitchen. I was

each restaurant individual attention. We have

23 when I worked for them.

a lot of restaurants and we are building a lot so it’s a balancing act.

What ingredients are you experimenting with at the moment?

try to use seasonal produce. For example,

You just brought a place in New York’s NOMAD district. What are some of the culinary gems we should be looking for?

we’ll have some raw fish, some tartare, some

There’s always a new trend in cities like New

this morning I was playing with dragonfruit for

ceviche, some Alaskan king crab; products

York. At the moment, it’s ‘the bowl’; we eat

one of our new desserts at BLT Steak.

you won’t find in a classic steak restaurant.

everything in bowls and everything is separate,

be doing something right and we have a lot of return guests. We serve very good quality beef and we try to be a little bit inventive and

with ingredients like healthy rice, salmon, and

I’m always trying to play with new ingredients;

You’re a self-confessed pizza freak.

If you had to create your legacy in the form of a pizza, what would it be?

What’s the one meal you’ve had that you’ve stepped back from and thought ‘if I die tomorrow it will be ok, because of that meal’.

steamed vegetables.

The pop over maybe. It’s sort of like a bread

I don’t like warm oysters and I don’t like the

would have smoked peck and caraway seed.

that we’ve become famous for at BLT Steak.

mixture of chocolate and fruit; for me they

I’ve had this in mind for years and everyone

It’s like a bread that pops up with cheese on

are two different things. I’m not crazy about

who has tried it has loved it. I’d love to do a

top. The one we have here is just perfection

intestines either; I’m not a nose-to-tail guy, I

pizza place in Hong Kong.

I think.

know what I like.

What do you think about the trend of giving chefs celebrity status and do you think it impacts on the dining experience?

What do you think of the food scene in Hong Kong?

You’ve done something terrible and you’ve been condemned to death – what would your last dish be?

I think it follows the trends of New York in

I know that most chefs will say foie gras, or

many ways. Every time I come here I see

truffle or something, but for me it would be a

It’s not part of my life. I’m in restaurants all day

restaurant concepts that remind me of New

simple American egg sandwich and the best

and people can call me a celebrity if they want

York, and there’s always something new. It

one I’ve ever had is in Harlem, where I lived

to but it’s not what I live for. Celebrity status

What’s one ingredient you don’t like to use in your kitchens?

It would have four types of cheese, and it

for 16 years.

www.jetsetter.hk

94

RESTAURANT REVIEW The hits

The signature La Causa, layers of beetroot and potato mash with prawn tartare and charred avocado, is topped with a tempura battered prawn and is a sure winner, combining simplicity with great flavours. The Hamachi & Maguro tuna with citrus shoyu is also brilliantly balanced and quite addicitive. The Kim-mo-Chi fried chicken is succulent and perfectly matched with a spicy mayo.

Hong Kong’s TokyoLima delivers a delightfully modern touch to Nikkei Cuisine, discovers Nick Walton.

What is it?

TokyoLima is the newest baby of Pirata and The Optimist founders Manuel Palacio and Christian Talpo. We’re big fans of their previous projects so expectations were high.

What’s the vibe?

Think dark, sexy and hidden. TokyoLima’s location off Lyndhurst Terrace helps set the scene for its Japanese-Peruvian cuisine – also known as Nikkei cuisine – perfectly. Guests enter a standalone terracotta-tiled cocktail bar that serves a brilliant smoked negroni by mixologist Isabella Vannoni, before stepping into a similarly dark yet inviting Izakaya-styled main dining room that wreaths an open kitchen framed by a sushi counter. This isn’t where you go on first dates, it’s where you go with people you genuinely like spending the evening with.

What’s the theme?

Peru has a long history of Japanese influence, thanks in part to the more than 7,000 Japanese who moved to the South American nation in the late 1800s to work the sugarcane crops. A cuisine that adopted local flavours and textures while maintaining the techniques of Japan developed and was thrust into notoriety by leading chefs like Nobu Matsuhisa and Albert Adria.

How about the food?

Peruvian chef Arturo Melendez’s menu is pretty comprehensive, with dishes presented in five categories: Small Plates, Raw & Seared items, Sticks, Nikkei Sushi and Larger Plates. It’s easy to get carried away with the small plates, which fuse flavours and traditions seamlessly and include everything from magura and avocado maki rolls and Nikkei-style soba salad; to crispy squid with black olive mayo; and slow-cooked pork belly buns with pickled onions and chimichurri. On the Raw & Seared menu, there’s yellowfin tiradito, a selection of cervices, and Daniel Sorlut oysters; while the Sticks menu, perfect for snacking on over drinks, includes chicken yakatori with garlic confit; and Picahan, grilled rump with pickled cucumber.

For the truly hungry larger sharing plates include grilled black cod with citrus miso glaze; Tacu Tacu, traditional Peruvian rice and legume pancakes; and baby back ribs. www.jetsetter.hk

The misses

Don’t come here for sushi. The maki rolls were not worth the wait; bland and generic they just take up belly real estate you could have used for more H&M. The Ceviche Nippon was also a miss; a dish like this is supposed to have personality in spades but on our visit it was having an off day.

Service

Our waitress was very well informed, told us her favourite dishes and regularly checked on us, despite the 50-minute wait between the first and second round of starters. Something had gone amiss and she was very apologetic.

Open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday; G/F, 18-20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2811 1152; http://tokyolima.hk

RESTAURANT REVIEW 95 BLENDING WESTERN LUXURY INGREDIENTS WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE RECIPES, NEWLY OPENED DIM SUM LIBRARY INTRODUCES AN INNOVATIVE MENU OF MODERN CHINESE GOURMET DISHES TO HONG KONG’S DISCERNING YUM CHA FANATICS, DISCOVERS

ISABELLE LUI

N

estled within the luxury Pacific Place mall, matched with one of the refreshing signature cocktails, Dim Sum Library by Aqua Restaurant which include the Blackened rose buds, an infusion of Group is the latest art deco addition to Ketel One vodka and jasmine tea, mixed with dried lime, the Hong Kong Island culinary scene. jasmine syrup, fresh lemon, and Fever Tree tonic.

Located adjacent to the entrance, the

restaurant’s contemporary cocktail bar, which is decorated Well-suited to truffle lovers, the Yunnan black truffle crispywith tree branches and bird paintings and specializing skin chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfectly cooked and in tea-infused concoctions, is the perfect contemporary balanced, with skin as crunchy as that of a Peking duck addition to the traditional Chinese concept.

(I’m almost fooled by the texture and the presentation), and shredded meat that maintains its tenderness.

Beyond, with dark interiors complemented by menus and black plates accented with gold, reminiscent of the These delectable morsels, when matched with the sublime Great Gatsby era, is the dining room, helmed by award- décor and crisp, informed service, ensure an elevated dim winning executive chef Chau Sai To, who brings a touch of sum experience for locals and visitors alike. contemporary luxury to classic yum cha dishes prepared by dim sum chef Leung Kwok Wa.

We end the meal with a tofu panna cotta, a combination of bean curd pudding and the Italian classic, topped with

A perfect example of humble origins meeting new cocoa powder and served in an elegant Chinese tea cup. refinement, spring rolls stuffed with Hokkaido king crab Light, with just a hint of tofu, it is the perfect fusion finish to and sea urchin are presented on slate with wasabi sauce in an exceptional meal. a plating as meticulous as Japanese art work. A complete crowd pleaser, the deep fried aubergine, tossed with Shop 124, Level 1, Pacific Place, Admiralty, Hong Kong; salted fish and minced pork, is addictive, especially when +852 3643 0088; www.dimsumlibrary.com.hk www.jetsetter.hk

96

TOP TABLES

HEAVY

HITTERS From hidden gin joints to modern takes on classic Singaporean hawker fare, these are the region’s top tables this season. By Nick

Walton.

Galaxy Macau has unveiled its newest restaurant concept,

The Apron, specialising in the freshest steak and oysters.

With a menu packed with award-winning dry-aged beef cuts and jet-fresh oysters, The Apron serves refined, elegant fare in a sophisticated setting that will appeal to visitors and regulars to Macau alike. Top selections include Coastal Rye Grass Fed Angus from Wakanui, New Zealand and award-winning Kobe Wagyu from Darling Downs, Australia; the gin-laced Tiger Prawn Cocktail; grilled salmon with almond and cauliflower ‘Skordalia’ puree; and the 24 hours sous vide slow-cooked, milk-fed Pyrenees lamb ribs and shoulder fillet, served with tahini yogurt and fresh pomegranate and rocket salad. Overseeing the new restaurant is chef de cuisine Andre Correia, who has worked at numerous restaurants and hotels in Macau and Hong Kong. www.galaxymacau.com

Umi, the latest creation of Hong Kong’s Le Comptoir group, has opened on Hollywood Road, serving the delectable Edomae sushi of fourth generation master Yukio Kimijima. With room for just 10 lucky souls at the seven-metre long Japanese Hinoko wood sushi counter, Umi delivers jet fresh Edoera styled sushi with multi-dish Omakase menus, during which every morsel is hand made by the chef using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Priced from HK$1,588 (US$204) per person, this showcase of Japanese sushi tradition uses ingredients flown in from Japan daily, with highlights including kawahagi (thread-sail filefish), native to the western Pacific; maguro (tuna), served in three different cuts; and fragrant Hokkaido rice, all of which are paired with a list of boutique sakes. www.lecomptoir.hk

The latest opening by ZS Hospitality steps back into Hong Kong’s history with Lee Lo Mei, a playful new eatery on Lyndhurst Terrace reminiscent of the city’s cha chang teng diners. With classic Hong Kong dishes reinterpreted by head chef Max Lee, complemented by innovative cocktails from award-winning mixologist Audrey Eschemann, the two-level restaurant boasts a crowd-pleasing menu that will appeal to locals and visitors alike. Look out for steamed Cheung fun noodles, a street food staple that’s been reimagined with sous-vide chicken, foie gras, and black truffle; baked chicken in sea salt with whole abalone and sticky rice; turnip cake with home-made XO sauce; and golden shrimp with salted egg yolk and black truffle.

Cocktails inspired by Hong Kong's past include the N*8 Elixir, with Chrysanthemum-infused pisco, honey and egg white; and the Bloody Victoria, with Bols genever gin, tomato juice, lemon and kaffir lime leaf-infused Shaoxing wine. www.leelomei.hk www.jetsetter.hk

TOP TABLES 97 Hidden away in the basement of the Landmark mall, Dr Fern’s Gin

Parlour, Hong Kong’s newest speak easy, takes its inspiration from the persona of an eccentric physician Dr Robben Fern, who prescribes beautifully-made organic cocktails created by former Lobster Bar guru Gerry Olino, to settle the nerves of his frazzled patients. During the day, Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour serves organic teas and coffees sourced from Australia. By night this pint-sized parlour becomes an elegant, vintageinspired gin joint where cocktails and signature gin and tonics are made using selections from a list of over 250 small batch spirits and matched with an ever-changing menu of snacks, including charcuterie and cheese plates. Drinks not to miss include the Blind Tiger Imperial gin and Fever Tree Tonic, using the rare Belgian craft spirit and garnished with grated lime and rosemary; and the G'vine Floraison Gin & Fentimans Tonic, garnished with green grapes. www.landmark.hk

Culture,

heritage

and

cuisine

come

together

at

Singapore’s The Warehouse Hotel with the opening of destination restaurant Po. Perched on Robertson Quay, the new flagship for The Lo & Behold Group presents modern takes on Singaporean classics envisioned by chef Willin Low, founder of Wild Rocket and pioneer of the Mod-Sin culinary movement. The menu is punctuated with humble street food dishes elevated through the addition of premium ingredients; the popiah, fresh spring rolls, comes with options for tiger prawns or flower crab; the charcoalgrilled satay is made with Iberico pork marinated in spice for 12 hours before being served with fresh pineapple; and the spicy tamarind barramundi is a nod to Peranakan cuisine with a tangy assam sauce, okra and dehydrated pineapples. www.po.com.sg

Featuring the cuisine of world-renowned Michelinstarred chef Magnus Hansson, Bizou American

Brasserie has opened at Hong Kong’s Pacific Place.

With honest American fare packed with seasonal punch, matched with cocktails by Joseph Boroski, and set against walnut wood-hued interiors by Neri & Hu, Bizou capitalises on Hanssons strengths as a farm-to-table pioneer, a master bread maker, pastry chef and chocolatier to serve delectable, modern dishes that boast the five flavour elements of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami. Start off with the MultiCoastal, a cocktail combining Arabica coffee-infused El Charro tequila with curry leaf syrup and egg white, and starters ranging from the pan-roasted sweet prawns with hot-smoked paprika and salty fromage blanc; to fried Camembert balanced with cloudberry preserves and toasted sourdough. Highlights from the mains menu include an aged filet with red miso butter, apricot grain mustard marmalade and baked purple yam; an aged grass-fed chargrilled burger with Gruyere cheese; and Casarecci alla Amatriciana with Italian cured pork Guanciale. www.diningconcepts.com

www.jetsetter.hk

98

MINIBAR Bless bartenders and distillers for coming

Four Pillars Spiced Negroni, a limited-edition gin up with concepts like the

created specifically for one of the world’s most endearing classic cocktails. Highly aromatic, rich, and spicy, with plenty of intensity, Four Pillars Spiced Negroni builds on the brand’s base botanicals with extra Tasmanian pepperberry and a hefty pinch of cinnamon, followed by the addition of exotic Grains of Paradise from West Africa, a spice that boasts clove and Sichuan pepper characters; as well as organic blood oranges and a hint of ginger to maintain the spice. Bottled at 43.8% ABV, this cheeky number is as good over ice with a slice as its namesake tipple. www.fourpillarsgin.com.au

For the perfect tipple for spring cocktails,

Sorel

is an imaginative hibiscus liqueur

created from a centuries-old Caribbean recipe. Produced in Redhook, New York,

For spirit aficionados looking for an elegant yet innovative spirit, Greenhook Ginsmiths' American Dry Gin boasts a curious and intriguing

but now available abroad, Sorel blends the

range of botanicals, including Ceylon

best flavours of the islands, including clove,

Cinnamon, Elderflower, Chamomile, and

cassia, ginger, nutmeg, and pure cane

Tuscan Juniper, which are combined

sugar with New Nork grain alcohol to create

with state-of-the-art vacuum distillation.

a rich and spicy liqueur that lends itself

The result is a superb spirit with touches

perfectly to tall spritzers and home mixology.

of sweetness, warm hints of juniper in

Perfectly matched with dark, aged spirits,

summer, and accents of spice and floral

Sorel also adds a touch of spice to classics

notes thanks to the tea infusion. Balanced

like the Daiquiri, adding a vibrant purple hue

and unashamedly contemporary, this gin

in time for the warmer months.

is perfect for mixing spring cocktails or for

www.jackfrombrooklyn.com

modern takes on the classic gin and tonic. www.greenhookgin.com

From vibrant liqueurs from distant, exotic locales, driven boutique gins, these are the spirits www.jetsetter.hk

MINIBAR 99 From the New Harbour Distillery in South Africa comes

Rooibos Gin, an

elegant yet fanciful spirit that epitomises the finesse of the contemporary craft spirit movement to perfection. Using New Harbour Copper Catalysed vodka as its base, the Rooibos Gin is made with eight carefully selected botanicals and is distilled in small batches using a Carter Head still and a modern technique called vapour infusion that allows the alcohol vapour to pass over the botanicals to form fresher flavour profiles. A percentage of un-aged gin is then married over several days with the finest Rooibos tea leaves, mixed back together and rested, enriching the texture to transform the spirit into a red amber coloured gin with sweet floral notes. Try this with tonic and a slice of peach. www.newharbourdistillery.co.za

Available in leading nightclubs across

Asia, the new Belvedere

Midnight Saber is a captivating luminous bottle

Don’t let the name fool you, Black

Cow Pure Milk Vodka just

might be the best vodka you’ve ever

that ensures you get all the attention you’ll

made a martini with. Produced on

ever want next time you order luxury bottle

the West Dorset coast of the United

service. With exquisite laser etching and a

Kingdom, Black Cow is the world’s only

delicate black coating, the bottle’s audacious

pure milk vodka, and is made entirely

yet elegant design marks the first of its kind

from the milk of grass-grazed cows,

in industry packaging; LED lights line the

ensuring a remarkably clean yet creamy

bottom and when turned on produce an eye-

finish. Milk beer, produced from whey, is

catching effect of misty trees emerging from

distilled and treated in a secret blending

the depths of the bottle, offering the most

process, before being triple filtered

stunning night experience of the season.

and hand-bottled. Beautifully smooth,

Available in 1.75L bottles, at Asia's most

well-rounded and infinitely elegant, this

exclusive nightclubs.

is a sophisticated artisanal drop that

www.belvederevodka.com

you should use only for the most refined home mixology, or neat with a touch of citrus. www.blackcow.co.uk

to jaw-dropping vodkas and bartender- we’re pouring this season. By Nick Walton www.jetsetter.hk

100

SPIRITS

MIGHTY MEZCAL

THE ESSENCE OF MEXICO

Traditional mezcal, made from all-natural ingredients using centuries-old methods, ticks all the boxes for conscientious drinkers, says Joe Mortimer.

D

emonised for years as the raucous, roguish and unrefined cousin of tequila, mezcal has been largely overlooked by spirit connoisseurs outside Mexico. But for the past decade it’s been making a quiet

comeback, and is now the darling of hip cocktail bars from New York to Hong Kong.

Infused with a smokiness reminiscent of an Islay whisky; an elegance that befits an aged wine; and a balance of complex, aromatic flavours that will turn gin-lovers goggle eyed, the world of traditional mezcal is a wonderful rabbit hole that begs to be explored.

Born from the humble agave cactus, mezcal has been around for centuries. In villages all over Mexico, agave is harvested, baked, smashed, mixed with pure spring water and left to ferment, before being distilled in clay or copper stills. Most traditional mezcal doesn’t leave the village in which it’s made.

The spirit’s renaissance in recent years is a knock-on effect of the world’s growing desire for natural, authentic

people started looking at things that are handmade. Mezcal fits in

products, says Silvia Philion, co-founder of Mezcaloteca,

perfectly with that change of cultures in the consumer,” she says.

a mezcal tasting room in Oaxaca, Mexico. “Around 10 years ago, we got bored of monochromatic products and

Mezcaloteca works with ‘Maestros Mezcaleros’ – farmers who make mezcal – from all over Mexico, to assist in bottling, marketing and distributing traditional mezcal, ensuring they receive a fair price for their products. The second goal is to educate visitors about the spirit: the manufacturing process, the different styles and flavours and the various types of agave plant from which it is made.

“The complexity of mezcal comes from the plant,” explains Silvia.

“Mezcal has a lot of terroir like a wine, because the plants take so long to mature; up to 35 years. They absorb water and grow with other vegetation in different soils and weather conditions. So the complexity of a mezcal starts with a plant.”

Learning what type of mezcal you prefer requires dedication, says Silvia, who advises trying as many varieties as possible. It’s a steep order, but one with a silver lining: all-natural, traditional mezcal doesn’t give you a hangover, as long as you don’t mix it with other drinks. Apparently. There’s only one way to find out.

www.jetsetter.hk

102

WINE

THE

RED

OBESSION Rickesh Kishnani offers his predictions for the red wine regions that will dominate Asia’s palates in the year to come.

W

hile we continue to see a general

Australia on the Rise

broadening in consumer demand for

China is the most valuable export market for Australian wine (taking

wines across Asia, one thing remains

over the US just in the last few months), with exports to mainland

constant: red wines are our top choice.

China growing by 51 percent to AU$474 million (US$353 million) in

According to VinExpo 2016 statistics,

the 12 months leading to September 2016 — almost 18 times its

over 75 percent of consumers in

value from a decade ago. Interest in wine is increasing in China’s

Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong prefer red wine over white.

growing middle class and the average consumption frequency of

However, while many consumers began their wine journey in

imported wine is on the rise, according to Wine Australia. Shiraz and

Bordeaux, as we head into 2017 there are a few other wine regions

Cabernet Sauvignon lead the pack as the top Aussie varietals in

to keep an eye on.

demand (both reds of course!).

Burgundy is Still King

Italy Steals our Hearts

“There is definitely a shift from Bordeaux to Burgundy. The market has

Brunellos, Barolos, Barberescos, and even Super Tuscans will all be

fully grasped and digested the fundamentals of Bordeaux, and now

on the tip of the tongues of Asian wine drinkers in 2017. Italian wines

they are moving to explore another famous region in France,” says

have always been the perfect complement to Italian food with strong

Simon Tam, head of wines for Christie Wine Auctions in Asia. Auction

access through wine lists at Italian restaurants. The next evolution

sales for Burgundy wines continue to shatter records (six magnums

we hope to see in 2017 is if the vineyards, wine merchants, and

of 1995 Romanee-Conti recently sold for US$155,879 when the

restaurateurs can convince us of the opportunities to pair Italian

auction estimate price was only US$20,191) while restaurants and

wines with all the rich flavours of Asian cuisine.

wine merchants are now focused on having a strong selection from Burgundy to meet the demands of their top clients.

Across Asia consumers enjoy different wines for different reasons but two things continue to unite us as wine lovers, our continued passion to learn, and our love for the reds!

www.jetsetter.hk

CHAMPAGNE 103

Two exciting new champagnes showcase the marriage of innovation and tradition in time for the warmer days of Spring. By

nick Walton

In the latest innovation from the champagne

Capturing the essence of the chardonnay

house founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot

grape, an iconic touchstone of the PerrierJouët style, the champagne house’s newlyreleased Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs, a vibrant and bright wine unlike any other in the Perrier-Jouët family, has arrived in Hong Kong. With touches of wild hedgerow flowers and citrus fruits on the nose, with a tantalising lightness on the palate that lingers blissfully, the new permanent Cuvee is presented in a crystal-clear carafe with accents of gold. www.perrier-jouet.com

RICH is a champagne specifically designed for use in cocktails. Designed to be mixed with everything from spices and herbs to fresh fruit and even vegetables, the new champagne is inspired by the “rich” extra-sweet wines once produced by Veuve Clicquot for Russian nobility. A blend of 45 percent pinot noir, 40 percent pinot meunier, and 15 percent chardonnay allows the meunier to come through with fresh, fruit and gourmand notes. https://rich.veuve-clicquot.com

www.jetsetter.hk

104

BEAUTY TRAVEL

Inspired by traditional health and beauty practices, Kiehl’s has created the Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream, which gives discerning ladies healthier and younger looking skin.

Combining the essence of two natural ingredients, New Zealand Manuka honey, valued for its anti-inflammatory attributes, and Korean red ginseng, which offers a rich variety of minerals and nutrients for skin revitalisation, this solution protects from harmful environmental substances while smoothing and energising your complexion. www.kiehls.com

ROAD TO

rEViTALiSATiOn

Stay refreshed and hydrated on your next adventure with these innovative new travel-friendly potions. By Isabelle Lui

For travelling night owls seeking a solution to eye bags and dark circles, Estée Lauder has introduced its first Advanced Night Repair Concentrated Recovery Eye Mask, which revitalises and moisturises the skin for younger looking eyes. With the collection’s Advanced Night Repair technology, these innovative, three-layered eye pads allow concentrated moisture to penetrate skin, and provide soothing anti-irritants that rejuvenate the skin around the eyes while removing fine lines. www.esteelauder.com

Travellers will love La Mer’s new Revitalizing Hydrating Serum, inspired by the earth’s moisture cycle, which boosts skin’s natural healing process for effective revitalisation. With its Miracle Broth, which renews skin cells, and its active Deep Hydration and Youth Activating ferments, which lock in moisture and restore energy, this new lotion enhances the repair and nourishment of wearied skin cells, while removing dullness. www.cremedelamer.com

www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Natural - Pollution Free Herbal Purity’s Antrodia Cinnamomea is made of highest range of Antrodia Cinnamomea and meticulously yielded in a natural, pollution-free environment.

Proven by research studies, both our Antrodia Cinnamomea and the wild Antrodia Cinamomea possess the same structure, appearance of fruiting bodies and odor under the investigation by microscope. Unlike other types of its kind, Herbal Purity’s Antrodia Cinnamomea is the purest form of Antrodia Cinnamomea with qualities that are simply unmatched with the industry.

Restore your health the natural way

Antrodia Cinnamomea Nature’s rare and medicinal edible mushroom that promotes overall wellness.

Antrodia Cinnamomea Capsules Our Antrodia Cinnamomea is the purest form found at an altitude of 450- 2,000 m in the government-protected lands in Taiwan.

Excellent Health-Preserving Value Promotes Healthy Liver Function Helps Promote Detoxification Enhance Essential Qi Contains 100% Antrodia Cinnamomea Rich in Triterpenoids, Polysaccharides and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)

For more information please visit:

w w w. c h u n s h e n g . t w

This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general wellbeing and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. Always seek advice from your medical doctor.

106

WISHLIST

PInt

SIZED PoWER

Ensure you don’t give away your game on the green with the Titleist Select Newport 3 , the newest addition from Scotty Cameron to the iconic Select line of putters. Trusted by many of the world’s best players, Select putters blend precision milled Scotty Cameron craftsmanship with advanced multi-material construction and innovative face-inlay technology to deliver tour-validated performance. Available from March, the new Select Newport 3 extends the popular line with a model designed for players seeking a smaller round mallet with additional toe flow and forgiveness. The heel-shafted mid-mallet, based on the classic Newport head shape, is designed with a flow neck for players that need maximum toe flow in their stroke, and features a precision milled, lightweight 6061 aircraft grade aluminum face and a built-in vibration dampening system that connects the face inlay with the stainless steel body, producing a responsive feel and feedback that’s sure to make you king of the greens. US$379. www.titleist.com

www.jetsetter.hk

WISHLIST 107

REGAL

RISTRETTO

There’s drinking coffee and then there’s drinking coffee from the Royal Coffee Maker, a purist’s syphon brewer that’s possibly the most extravagant coffee maker in the world. Hand crafted by Royal Paris in 14-karat gold or silver (pictured), Baccarat crystal and semi-precious stones, the French artist Jean-Luc Rieutort creation brings ceremony to the humble brew. Ground coffee is first placed in the fine Baccarat crystal carafe, with hot water poured into the boiler pot, and the Baccarat burner vase lit. Next, the fully automated system allows heat, steam and gravity to brew the coffee in the crystal Baccarat vase. Brewed at the perfect temperature, with no artificial filters, and no place for the aromatic oils to escape, the resulting brew is crystal clear with unrivalled aroma and flavour. The Royal Coffee Maker is also the only coffee maker that allows for customised coffee or tea, with the ability to add liqueurs and spices before the brew. From GBP9,000 (US$10,950). www.royalcoffeemaker.com www.jetsetter.hk

108

WISHLIST

COLOURS OF SPRING New for the season, Louis Vuitton opens a new chapter with the unexpected Tuileries family. Mixing iconic Monogram canvas and colourful

leather, the new collection is made up of three complementary shapes to address all women’s needs: one tote, one hobo and one “besace”.

The Tuileries Besace mixes Monogram canvas with tricolour leather accents for a bold, fashion-forward look. Easy-chic every day bag, the Besace may be carried by hand, on the shoulder or cross-body, thanks to a removable strap. The new Tuileries Handbag tells a bold fashion story with its eye-catching mix of Monogram canvas and tricolour cowhide leather. It allows multiple ways of carry, with twin Toron handles for a chic elbow carry and a strap for practical over-the-shoulder wear. Named after the Tuileries Gardens (site of Paris Fashion Week), the new Hobo combines the heritage cachet of Monogram, twisted by colourful leather for a bold, chic look that makes it a laid-back yet elegant bag for everyday use. www.louisvuitton.com

www.jetsetter.hk

Hong Kong’s Only Travel Expo Comprehensive Expo on Affluent & Theme Travels

Snapshot of ITE 2016

15 - 18 June 2017

The 31st

The 12th

[B2B] 15-16 Jun [B2C] 17-18 Jun

International Travel Expo

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (Hall 1A-1E)

商務及會獎旅遊展

MICE Travel Expo

Over 600 exhibitors from 50 countries / regions from Asia, Americas, Africa, Europe, Oceania, and island paradises in the Pacific and Indian oceans! Sport & eco-tourism, Overseas Wedding and Culture tours etc and other trendy travel themes! Seminars by popular travel writers & experts and cultural performances! Separate days and programs for trade and public to facilitate visits! Held annually, Hong Kong's only travel fair last drew 12000 regional trade / MICE and some 90000 affluent public (FIT) visitors!

We welcome enquiry for Exhibiting and Visiting!

Organizer

itehk TKS Exhibition Services Ltd E: travel@tkshk.com | T: +852 3155 0600 Trade Website: www.itehk.com Public Website: www.travelexpo.com.hk

Supporting Organizations

110

WATCHES

an icon

R eturns

Every new Speedmaster carries the spirit and design inspirations of the models that came before it, a lineage immediately apparent in the new Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer. With its distinctive minute-track style, reminiscent of the 1968 Speedmaster model, the new, masculine time piece offers links to the Speedmaster family’s motor racing heritage, this time on a matt-black dial complete with orange markings and bevelled 18K white gold arrowhead indexes filled with white Super-LumiNova. The new Speedmaster also features slightly expanded subdials for improved readability, while its 44.25mm case is thinner than previous versions thanks to reworked sapphire crystal. A polished ceramic bezel features a brushed Liquidmetal tachymeter scale as well as distinctive orange wording that match the colour of the varnished hands and tip of the seconds hand.

Driven by the calibre 9900, the watch and its movement have reached the Swiss industry’s highest standard of precision, performance and magnetic resistance, as approved by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). www.omegawatches.com

www.jetsetter.hk

WATCHES 111

Past i s Present The new Da Vinci Tourbillon RĂŠtrograde Chronograph from IWC Schaffhausen, part of the newly revamped-for-2017 Da Vinci collection that features a return to the original round case popularised in the 1980s, is a stunning example of the watchmaking art, complete with a flying tourbillon, a retrograde date display, and a flyback chronograph, all presented in 18-carat red gold with a brown alligator strap by Santoni. Powered by a new IWC caliber 89900 self-winding in-house movement (visible through a transparent case-back) and featuring a tourbillon with an unusual stop-seconds feature, allowing for by-the-second accuracy when setting the timepiece, the new piece boasts a 44mm case and a silver dial graced with Arabic numerals, with its namesake retrograde date display located on the left-hand side. www.iwc.com www.jetsetter.hk

112

WATCHES WISHLIST

A VIEW TO RENDEZ-VOUS Swiss luxury watchmakers Jaeger-LeCoultre has written a new chapter in the story of its iconic Rendez-Vous collection of women’s timepieces, first launched in 2012, with the release of four elegant new models.

The new Rendez-Vous Night & Day Large features a case of 38.2mm in diameter - the largest ever for this collection - which allows wearers to change their watch straps or buckles as they wish. Available in both steel and yellow gold with diamonds (another first for the collection), the Rendez-Vous Night & Day Large features a guilloché silvered dial with exaggerated Arabic numerals; a day/night indication placed in an aperture at six o'clock that boasts a rotating disc bearing the sun and the moon; and a caliber JLC 898D/1 automatic movement with a 40-hour power reserve. The Rendez-Vous Night & Day Medium at 34mm is available in yellow gold, and is paired with a silver guilloche dial, and fitted with a pink watch strap. Finally, the Rendez-Vous Moon represents the collection’s first moon phase function and is available in both steel and rose gold, with a guilloche dial featuring a moon phase indicator. The rose gold model also features brilliant cut diamonds, set on both the bezel and the rim of the case, as well as the semi-circle surrounding the moon phase indicator. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com www.jetsetter.hk

114

LUGGAGE

FORM FOllOWS FUNCTION

Featuring

a

striking

design

of

undulating,

contouring sculpted angles, the new Tumi 19 Degrees collection in aluminium is as much as a piece of art as it is a functional friend on the road.

Delivering a sense of fluidity and elegance to a market segment dominated by lockbox-inspired cases, the new 19 Degrees collection, available in aluminium or matte black, in two sizes, features a reinforced frame with snap closures and die-cast corners for additional durability. This ruggedly beautiful exterior, complete with TSA-certified locks, a Tumi Tracer number plate, and a patented X-Brace 45 telescoping handle made from aircraftgrade aluminium, protects a voluminous interior lined with mesh zip pockets and lightweight nylon embossed with diamonds. Four dual-spinning recessed wheels make running for planes through busy concourses a breeze, without reducing space within. www.tumi.com

www.jetsetter.hk

10 - 12 July 2017 Bangkok, Thailand AMITE CONNECTS HIGH-VOLUME MICE BUYERS WITH QUALITY ASIA-BASED SUPPLIERS.

A boutique event, the Asia Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange features:

BUYERS Incentive to Meet: Source for your next MICE program in Asia this summer • 40 selected Asia-based MICE suppliers • Private meetings with suppliers in a 5-star hotel in Bangkok CBD • Multiple networking events, site-visits and a fam-trip across one week

SUPPLIERS Incentive to Meet: The 20 Appointments that Provide Better ROI on your Marketing Budget • 60 handpicked, high-volume MICE buyers • 20+ guaranteed meetings with buyers in a private hotel suite • US$300 million in purchasing power from global source markets

www.questexevents.net/amite

Presented by

Official Host Venue

Supporting Organizations

Contact us: hospitalityevents@questexasia.com

Destination Sponsor

Supporting Media

Supported By

Part of

Organized By

116

THE BITE

AUSSIE APPETITE Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, and with a rich multicultural make up, Sydney boasts an eclectic dining scene with plenty of colour and tradition. Here are some of the iconic dishes you can’t miss Downunder. By

Crystal Leung

www.jetsetter.hk

S

tart your day off in style

By night, pamper yourself with the freshest

at

institution

oysters (shucked to order) at the Sydney

Roasters.

Cove Oyster Bar, located right on the

Sydneysiders take their coffee

water’s edge. Offering uninterrupted views

very seriously so expect silky

of the Sydney skyline, Circular Quay and

‘flat white’ coffees, and a few delectable

the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this acclaimed

bites, including banana bread with espresso

bar sources its oysters from the best

butter; and ‘Mr Croque’ cheese toasties,

producers from northern New South Wales

bouncy sour dough buns packed with fried

and Tasmania. Tease your taste buds with

egg, leg ham and cheddar cheese. 60-64

a selection of oyster dressings, including

Reservoir Street, Surry Hills; +61 2 9211

Spanish red wine vinegar, wakame (soy,

0665; www.singleoriginroasters.com.au

mirin and wakame seaweed), and nam jim.

Surry

Single

Hills Origin

Lot 1 Circular Quay E; +61 2 9247 2937; Finish your walk along the beach at Watson’s

www.sydneycoveoysterbar.com

Bay at the famed Beach Club at Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel, home to some of the

As the early hours approach, do as the locals

best beer battered fish and chips (and

have for a generation and try an old-fashioned

harbour views) in the city. Although fish and

Aussie meat pie, hot from the oven. Founded

chips has its origins in Britain, the favourable

by Harry Edwards in the 1930s, Harry's Cafe

weather of Sydney and the freshness of its

de Wheels is an iconic pie cart situated next

seafood has made this working class dish

to the navy base at Woolloomooloo. Try

a national icon. Served with homemade

their signature Harry’s Tiger, a chunky lean

tartare sauce and lemon juice, fish and

beef pie served with mushy peas, mashed

chips are joined by the likes of mini

potato and gravy. If beef is not your thing,

lobster rolls, grilled Yamba prawns, and

there are also chicken and mushroom pies,

Sicilian mussels on a menu that draws in

seafood pies and even veggie options. Corner

crowds from around the world. 1 Military

Cowper Wharf Roadway and Dowling Street,

Road, Watsons Bay; +61 2 9337 5444;

Woolloomooloo; +61 2 9357 3074; www.

www.watsonsbayhotel.com.au

harryscafedewheels.com.au

118

AUTO

SUPREME

FWD and S90 T6 AWD petrol engine – both

SOPHISTICATION Volvo’s all-new S90 flagship executive sedan marries world-class safety with captivating Scandinavian design, discovers

C

of which are equipped with the award-winning Volvo Drive-E 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with

eight-speed

automatic

transmission,

delivering superior capacities in terms of engine performance, low emissions, and fuel efficiency compared to compeditors of the same class.

The S90 T5 FWD turbocharged engine has a

Nick Walton.

maximum of 254hp and accelerates from rest to 100km/h in just 6.8 seconds, while the T6

hange is afoot at Volvo. Famed

first Volvo model to introduce City Safety,

AWD turbocharged and supercharged engine

for being among the safest

an integration of a bumper camera, sensors

provides even more impressive performance,

cars in the world, the Swedish

distributed

delivering a maximum of 320hp, while sprinting

brand is increasingly being

automatic brake system, collision detection,

recognised as a premium

and large object motion sensing equipment and

segment contender and the launch of the new

technologies, which contribute to more effective

Just because the new S90 is super safe and eco-

flagship four-door S90 sedan is sure to help

collision prevention.

friendly doesn’t mean you’re compromising on

across

the

vehicle

body,

an

seal the deal.

from 0 to 100km/h in merely 5.9 seconds.

comfort. The interior of the new flagship masters Safety and functionality continue with the S90’s

the art of blending innovative technology and

The first things you might notice on the new S90

array of innovative driving assistance functions,

natural

are aesthetic and yet oh-so-Volvo: at the front,

such as Keyless Drive, Engine Start/Stop,

wood, into an elegant, welcoming and tasteful

there’s the Thor’s Hammer T-shaped daylight

four driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, and

ambience. There’s a 12.3-inch colour electronic

LED warning lights; eye-catching radiating lines

Individual), Head-up Display, Adaptive Cruise

display instrument panel, showing all essential

on the radiator grille; and Volvo’s iconic Iron

Control, Park Assist, Lane Keeping Assist,

driving statuses at-a-glance; and a central

Mark emblem. The rooflines extend gracefully

and Active High Beam, which senses the

console that includes a nine-inch SENSUS

to emphasise the elegant contours of the

vehicle’s relative position to other vehicles and

touchscreen that integrates navigation, vehicle

vehicle while accentuating the “long front-end,

pedestrians and automatically adjusts the high

function, and multimedia controls while also

short rear-end” silhouette that gives the sedan

beam lamps accordingly. The T6 AWD variant is

delivering satellite navigation in a vertical and

a sporty stance.

also equipped with a 360-degree camera and

thus more intuitive display.

materials,

including

Scandinavian

Blind Spot Information for an elevated alertness Despite its good looks, safety remains the top

of nearby obstacles.

priority for Volvo fans and the next-generation Volvo S90 is no exception. The S90 is the www.jetsetter.hk

Priced from HK$499,800 for the T5 FWD and HK$739,800 for the T6 AWD model.

The Volvo S90 comes in two models - the T5

www.volvocars.com/hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

TASTE OF

MACAO Macao Applies for the 2017 UNESCO Creative Cities Network

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

T

he Balichão Pork chops comes out steaming and succulent. Next to them is a traditional Cantonese steamed garoupa, a Portuguese green vegetable Caldo Verde soup, and sweet Serradura dessert. To toast them, the waiter uncorks a classic Portuguese wine from the Douro River.

Welcome to the tables of Macao, one of the world’s finest international dining destinations. A city where the best seafood, freshest produce and hottest recipes commingle to create a culinary experience like no other.

From home-style kitchens to Michelin star extravaganzas, Macao’s magical meals include Portuguese, Chinese, Macanese, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Thai, French and Indian, among many.

Macanese cuisine is a unique and irresistible special combination of Portuguese and Chinese cuisines, with ingredients and seasonings collected from Europe, South America, Africa and South East Asia. Distinct with dishes such as roasted duck rice or Portuguese chicken (Galinha à Portuguesa), Macanese cooking places an emphasis on being fresh and savoury. Minchi, or stirfried minced beef with onion, fried potatoes and fried egg, and Tacho, a heavy stew with pork, beef, and Chinese smoked ham, are Macao must eats. Portuguese dishes such as codfish (bacalhau), octopus salad, lemon clams, grilled sardines, juicy beef-steak with

chips, and more are as tasty in Macao as they are in Lisbon.

Macao’s bounty of Chinese offerings are plentiful. Starting with local dishes such as fab egg rolls or succulent Dim Sum dumplings with shrimp, chopped vegetables or barbecued pork “cha siu” is a great way to start biting into Macao. Being located in the cradle of Cantonese culture along the Pearl River at the mouth of the South China Sea means that steamed seafood and river offerings are abundant. Pick your pleasure: giant crabs, mouth-watering shrimp, superb sea-bass. All can be netted from fresh tanks and cooked with supple sauces, chopped garlic, and twists of citrus.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION Spicy Sichuan or Hunan pork plates. Crispy skinned Beijing ducks. Sweet and sour Shanghai style fish. You name it—Macao has it.

Internationally, the city is exploding with the finest Japanese sushi restaurants —with ahi tuna flown in fresh daily from the deep Pacific. With a large influx of Korean guests, Korean restaurants are booming with kimchi and barbecued meat offerings. Southeast Asian and Indian curries are also bubbling up around Macao. French restaurants are also rising as high as the Eiffel tower.

In a nutshell, it’s a sweet time to have a sweet tooth too in Macao with incredible Portuguese egg-tarts, Macanese almond cakes, and Italian sorbets matched with port wines—if you have room.

To try a taste:

http://en.macaotourism.gov.mo/index.php http://en.macaotourism.gov.mo/corner/brochures.php

Macao Applies for the 2017 UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Significance of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) Launched in 2004, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) aims to strengthen cooperation with and among cities that have recognized creativity as a strategic factor of sustainable development as regards economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects.

Why is Macao applying?

Joining the Network will further promote the long-term win-win cooperation between Macao and the members within the Network in different creative areas such as Crafts & Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Music and Media Arts. We can also take advantage of this international platform to share resources and experiences and create new areas of knowledge. We believe that cultural and creative industries can be used as a driving force to promote the sustainable development of food culture. Such as the coordination of local resources, the conservation of traditional handicrafts; to maintain the diversity of food ingredients and cuisines; to strengthen food culture among the youth through education and training; to encourage community to participate and contribute in food creative culture.

Expectation if Macao is designated as a member of UCCN

If Macao is successfully designated as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the field of gastronomy, it will add a significant international brand for Macao, which will have far-reaching significance and give a powerful impetus to Macao’s transformation into a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure as well as adequate diversification and sustainable development of Macao’s economy.

CULTURE 123

AGE OF EMPIRES: Chinese Art of the Qin and Han Dynasties Featuring over 160 pieces of priceless Chinese artwork, including statues from the internationallyacclaimed Terracotta Army, the Age of Empires: Chinese Art of the Qin and Han Dynasties (221BC-220AD), exhibiting at New York’s Met Fifth Avenue April 3-July 16, 2017, showcases timeless paintings and calligraphy, in addition to sculptures and rare ceramics, from across the Middle Kingdom.

Exploring the unprecedented role of art during the Qin and Han dynasties in creating a new and lasting Chinese cultural identity, the exhibition’s pieces have been collected from 32 historical and archaeological institutions in China, with many masterpieces never viewed in the west before. www.metmuseum.org

Image credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

www.jetsetter.hk

124

TECHNOLOGY Dell has unveiled the new XPS

2-IN-1

LAPTOP. Part notebook, part tablet, it’s the ideal tech companion for travellers looking to stay connected and entertained. Featuring a seventh generation Kaby Lake Intel Core chip, available in i5 and i7 versions, a 720p webcam, a fingerprint scanner, and a 46 watt-hour battery powering the 13.3-inch touchscreen, the XPS boasts an SD card slot for quick photo transfer, as well as two USB-C ports. At just 0.32-0.54-inches thick, the new-look XPS weighs in at just 1.2-kilograms, with options for a 128GB-1TB solid state drive, and 4-16GB of RAM. www.dell.com

TECH-TASTIC From mirrorless cameras to laptop tablet hybrids, here’s the tech that’s getting us hot under the collar this spring. By Nick Walton Designed for lovers of travel selfies, the new retro-inspired mirrorless

FUJIFILM X-A3

features a compact, lightweight body, and an LCD screen that tilts 180-degrees without being blocked by the camera, thus helping to maintain 100 percent visibility. Eye Detection AF improves self-portrait shooting even further, while a new Portrait Enhancer mode includes the option to brighten skin tones. With its newly-developed 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor and Fujinon lens, this new travel companion ensures crystal clear images in a variety of shooting modes (including Ideal for film and music lovers on long-haul flights, the ROYOLE

MOON combines

two Full HD 1080p AMOLED displays, at over 3,000 ppi resolution (simulating a giant 800inch curved screen), with stereoscopic 3D, and active noise cancelling headphones, to deliver cinematic movie-watching experience on the go. Royole’s patented foldable design, ultra-soft headphone covers, and a premium breathable eye cover ensure comfort even after long periods of continuous use, while the 32GB (128GB upgrade available) of internal storage and fivehour battery life ensure entertainment that lasts the distance. www.royole.com www.jetsetter.hk

new film-inspired settings), while an ISO range extended to 25,600 helps shooting in low light situations. www.fujifilm.com

TECHNOLOGY 125

Perfect for travellers on the go, the new ASUS

ZENBOOK 3 DELUXE UX490, an enhanced version of the Zenbook 3, sports a 14-inch screen, a four-speaker audio system, Marking the Swedish camera guru’s 75th anniversary, Hasselblad has released the

X1D ‘4116 EDITION’, the next phase of

not one but two Type-C Thunderbolt 3 ports for fast data movement, and Corning Gorilla glass protection, all housed in a durable aluminum chassis. Available with either an Intel Core i5-

the world’s first compact mirrorless medium

7200U processor and an Intel Core i7-7500U

format camera. Weighing less than half that

chip, the new Zenbook 3 Deluxe features a

of a conventional digital medium format

fingerprint scanner for added security far from

camera, and packed with features, including

home, and at just 1.08-kilograms, is ideal for

built-in GPS, WiFi and HD video capabilities,

carryon luggage. www.asus.com

the recently-launched X1D is ergonomic and compact, offering a handling experience unlike any other. With its 50-megapixel CMOS sensor, 25,600 ISO range, and 14 stops of dynamic range, it also offers nextlevel photographic credentials. The X1D ‘4116 edition’ is a special all-black version that comes complete with an extended warranty, a leather hand strap, and an XCD 45mm lens. www.hasselblad.com

Featuring a camera so advanced it captures motion that the human eye can’t see, a beautiful 4K HDR display, superfast download speeds, a stunning loop design and even more intelligent features, the new SONY XPERIA XZ PREMIUM will become a travelling photobuff’s new best friend. Able to capture video at 960 frames per second, providing super slow motion video playback that is four times slower than other smartphones, the XZ Premium features a Predictive Capture feature that automatically starts buffering images when it detects motion even before you press the button, ensuring you don’t miss vital shots. Powered by the cutting edge Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 Mobile Platform, the new smartphone’s 19-megapixel high resolution sensor provides exceptional detail and sharp images even in low-light and backlit conditions. www.sonymobile.com www.jetsetter.hk

126

READ

www.jetsetter.hk

READ 127

THE TRUE NORTH,

STRONG & FREE

I

British

2013 the father and son have travelled

colonies of Canada, Nova

over 50,000km – sometimes together,

Scotia, and New Brunswick

sometimes

were united as one dominion,

from Tofino, British Columbia to remote

effectively giving birth to the

Pond Inlet in Nunavut to Cape Spear in

creation of the nation we know today.

Newfoundland, and to many points in

Marking the Canadian Confederation,

between. They visited many destinations

Canadian father and son photographers

multiple times to document how the

Martin and Martin Jr Gregus have

landscapes and people change with the

travelled the length and breadth of their

seasons.

n

July,

1867

the

solo

–

across

Canada,

homeland capturing the awe-inspiring landscapes, fascinating people and rich

However, the adventure isn’t over yet.

culture that make up the ten provinces and

“Outside of being in Ottawa for Canada

three territories of modern day Canada.

Day on July 1, 2017 this year’s expeditions

The resulting 600-page coffee table book,

will take us on many more epic journeys as

film and travelling multimedia exhibition,

we aim to document Canada’s 150th year.

titled Thank You Canada, is a testimony

We will follow the frozen Mackenzie River

to a shared dream and an ode to what it

up to the Arctic Ocean; sail across the

means to be Canadian.

Maritimes visiting many of its inaccessible islands; and follow the autumn colours

“Our goal is to document Canada like

from Yukon to Nova Scotia.”

no one has before,” says Slovakian-born Martin Jr, who has cruised the Canadian

For the Gregus family the project is a very

Arctic Archipelago, climbed the country’s

personal one. “The Thank You Canada

tallest tree, and delved into cities on both

project is a gift for Canada’s future, a

coasts, capturing his adopted home from

gift for our grandchildren and great-

both the ground and the air. “Last year

grandchildren,” says Martin Sr. "This is a

alone we visited Yukon and followed the

visual memory of our life in 2017, not just

largest sled dog race in Canada; we swam

for Canadians but for anyone wanting to

with Beluga whales in Churchill, and

know more about this remarkable land.”

camped in the middle of the frozen Arctic Ocean, only to come back two months

The duo is presently crowd funding their

later and sail through the same area as we

newest film project, 2017 The Thank

navigated through the Northwest Passage

You Canada Story, which captures the

in Sir John Franklin’s footsteps.”

nation on the eve of a century and a half of prosperity. Find out more or donate at

Since the inception of the project in

http://one50canada.ca/

www.jetsetter.hk

128

LIMELIGHT

LONGINES

MASTERS HONG KONG 2017 Asia’s highly anticipated show jumping competition finale, Longines Grand Prix of the Longines Masters series, has taken place in Hong Kong.

Adding to the excitement of the jumping, “horse

1

whisperer” Santi Serra and his team of performing steeds delighted guests with his daily dressage.

The three-day showcase, which saw Hong Kong’s Hang Yuk Sham and Baily's de Lanzelle winning the HKJC Junior Trophy on the final day, was

4

2 5

witnessed by over 5,000 local socialites and VIPs, including singer and actor Aaron Kwok; Mr. Hong Kong 2016 Jackson Lai; and Miss Hong Kong first runner up Tiffany Lau.

3

7

8

6 1. Amanda Bond, David Price & Corinne Bracken 2. Thomas Friedrichkeit & Sandra B. Augustin Spence 3. Jockey Derek Leung & girlfriend, Kit Li 4. Show Jumping 5. Timothy Fok 6. Jockey Neil Callan, Trish Callan, Jack Callan & Henry Callan 7. Daniel Deusser 8. Winners receive the rewards 9. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges GBS JP, his wife & guests 10. Dr. Simon Ip

www.jetsetter.hk

9

10