JUMEIRAH

THE OPULENCE ISSUE December 2019 - January 2020

A

M A G A Z I N E

C U R A T E D

B Y

A

Jumeirah Corporate Dubai Design District, Building 5, Floor 5 PO Box 73137, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 3665000, Fax: +971 4 366 5001. www.jumeirah.com Jumeirah is a trading name of Jumeirah International LLC. A Limited Liability company. Registration Number 57869.

Share Capital Dhs 300,000 fully paid up.

M A G A Z I N E

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice Editorial Director Gina Johnson Senior Art Director Olga Petroff Contributing Editor Conor Purcell Art Directors Clarkwin Cruz Ángel Monroy Junior Designer Thokchom Remy Senior Editorial Assistant Cecilia D’Souza Contributors Iain Akerman, James Brennan, Minh Trang General Manager – Production S Sunil Kumar Production Manager R Murali Krishnan Production Supervisor Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne Publishing Director Carlos Pedroza Group Sales Manager Bindu Gupta Senior Sales Manager Neha Kannoth For Jumeirah Claire Henshaw

C U R A T E D

B Y

Head Office Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai UAE, Tel: +971 4 427 3000, motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845.

Abu Dhabi PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 657 3490, Fax: +971 2 657 3489, editor-wo@motivate.ae London Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, motivateuk@motivate.ae

Jumeirah International LLC its affiliates, parent companies and subsidiaries (“Jumeirah Group”) and the publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication for whatever reason, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of Jumeirah Group or of the publishers. Readers are advised to solicit advice before acting on the information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. Jumeirah Group and the publishers take no responsibilty for the goods and services advertised. All materials are protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form (Including photocopying or storage in any medium by electronic means) without the written permission of the copyright owner, except as may be permitted by applicable laws.

4

December 2019 - January 2020

Sparkle in Style Glitter this festive season in stones and settings fit for a princess Refined British jeweller MaximiliaN London has reason to celebrate. The renowned jewellery house has been creating stunning pieces for lovers of luxury jewels for two decades. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in style, the jeweller has launched a stunning collection of the finest quality of gems such as coloured diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds, to create unique and individual pieces that will last a lifetime.

The elegant collection can be viewed at MaximiliaN London’s flagship store, MaximiliaN Palace Jewellery, on the ground floor at Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel in Dubai.

December 2019 - January 2020

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Natural Coloumbian ring in white gold, diamonds and emerald; Diamond and white gold sautoir; Diamond and onyx earrings; Diamond and onyx ring in white gold; Natural Akoya pearl and diamond brooch set in white gold; Natural Colombian Emerald and Diamond Choker

5

We craft watches not to meet expectations, but to surpass them.

SeaQ Panorama Date Dive into the Original

Glashütte Original Boutique ”The Dubai Mall“ Financial Centre Street 00971 04 3 39 87 62 ⋅ glashuetteoriginal.dm@rivoligroup.com

The Edit We take a cultural tour of the must-see happenings across Jumeirah cities (page 10); Profiling one of the most legendary fashion icons who ever lived (page 12); We take a tour around one of China’s most vibrant cities, Guangzhou (page 14); We browse through some cutting-edge photography (page 19); We introduce a Dubai tailor focused on the future (page 20); We meet a husband-and-wife watch making team (page 24); Jumeirah has a host of high-end options for the discerning traveller: we discover the best of the best (page 28); More and more luxury brands are embracing sustainability, but is it more than just lip service? (page 34); From vintage wines to vintage cars, we reveal how to make the most of your alternative investments (page 42); We learn about the restaurants and chefs reinventing high-end cuisine in Shanghai (page 48); We find the best luxury festive gifts for your loved ones (page 54).

10

19

34

14

12

8

24

42

December 2019 - January 2020

CONTENTS

62

66

74

68

Index There’s no better place to celebrate the festive season than across our portfolio of properties. We reveal where to go this year (page 62); We take a tour of Frankfurt Jumeirah, a stand out hotel in one of Europe’s most charming cities (page 66); Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is one of Abu Dhabi's most spectatacular buildings (page 68); We give you the low-down on the neighbourhood around Jumeirah Emirates Towers, one of Dubai’s most interesting areas (page 70); Learn more about Jumeirah’s hotel portfolio from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to Shanghai and London (page 72).

December 2019 - January 2020

9

Olafur Eliasson In Real Life The renowned Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Elaisson returns to the Tate Modern in London for what promises to be one of the artistic events of the year. Known for his use of light and colour, Eliasson’s installations are an assault on the senses, and he combines geometry, motion patterns and colour theory with a wonderful playfulness. He tackles themes as diverse as architecture, climate change and immigration, and his work is always fascinating.

Tate Modern, South Bank London, until Jan 5th www.tate.org.uk

New Year Celebrations Ring in the New Year at Shanghai’s Longhua Temple, which will feature dragon and lion dances before the clock strikes midnight. On January 1st, the abbot will strike the gong 108 times, and the temple’s monks will give prayers for the New Year.

This is a charming, reflective way to see in the New Year in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

Longhua Temple, Longhua Road, Xuhui, Shanghai Dec 31st – Jan 1st

10

We're Feeling Cultural highlights from Jumeirah cities

December 2019 - January 2020

Lee Krasner in Europe The first European retrospective show of the legendary American abstract artist Lee Krasner, this exhibition features paintings, drawings and collages from her entire body of work. Krasner’s constant ability to reinvent herself meant she has a huge range of work to admire, and also cemented her position as one of the most important female artists of the 20th century. Although previously overshadowed by the output of her husband, Jackson Pollack, her work is now given the respect it deserves. A must-visit for art fans in the city.

Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, until Jan 12th www.schirn.de

Sole DXB 2019 One of the most interesting cultural events in the city has grown from humble beginnings in 2010 to encompass everything from live hip-hop to street art, documentary screenings and streetwear fashion shows. If you are into anything remotely related to street culture, then this is a must.

Dubai Design District, Dubai Dec 5th to Dec 7th www.soledxb.com

10,000 Years of Luxury This fascinating exhibition focuses on luxury, or more specifically, what is and what was luxury. Featuring more than 350 objects from the worlds of fashion, jewellery, art and design, it looks at the history of luxury over thousands of years.

From opulent pieces of furniture to Hermès handbags, it reveals how

December 2019 - January 2020

what was considered luxury shaped our societies in the past and in the present. A remarkable look at how what we value reveals about us as a society.

Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, until Feb 18th, 2020 www.louvreabudhabi.ae

11

12

December 2019 - January 2020

Coco Chanel in her Paris boutique in 1954

Icon Coco Chanel Has there ever been a more influential fashion icon than Coco Chanel? Not only was she incredibly talented, but her determination to leave her mark on the world saw her rise from the most unpromising of circumstances to become a true icon that transcended the world of fashion. Born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in France in 1883, she was put in an orphanage age 12 after the death of her mother. The nuns were to give her one gift: they taught her to sew. After a failed career as a singer – where she adopted the name ‘Coco’ – she started a millinery business, thanks to the generosity of her then boyfriend. She soon left him for a richer man, Arthur Capel, showing the cleareyed determination to improve her circumstances that would mark her life. In 1910 she opened her first store on Rue Cambon in Paris, where she sold hats. She later opened stores in Biarritz and Deauville, and branched out into making clothes.

She was a consummate networker, and counted among her friends the likes of Jean Cocteau, Pablo Picasso and Winston Churchill. She was also a brilliant businesswoman, understanding early on the importance of branding and the need to push boundaries. In the 1920s she launched her first perfume: Chanel No. 5, which was the first fragrance to feature a designer’s name. It was a huge hit, and propelled Chanel to new heights.

Other peaks were to follow. In 1925 she created the Chanel suit, still iconic today with its collarless jacket and fitted skirt. It was – shock horror – comfortable, something that could not be said for the majority of women’s fashion at the time. “Luxury must be comfortable,” she once said. “Otherwise it’s not luxury.” The following year, she invented the ‘little black dress’, revolutionary at the time, as the colour had been almost exclusively reserved for funerals. It’s still a mainstay of every wardrobe worth its salt today. World War Two and the years after saw her business stagnate, and Chanel spent much of her time in Switzerland, but she returned, triumphantly, to the fashion world in the 1950s.

She died in 1971 in her apartment in the Hotel Ritz.

Her legacy lives on today, possibly more profoundly than any other fashion designer. She was a brilliant marketer, the queen of the soundbite and a creative genius as great as anyone else in the 20th Century.

December 2019 - January 2020

13

01 10am: Jumeirah Living Guangzhou Featuring 169 state-of-the-art residences, Jumeirah Living Guangzhou (14 Zhujiang East Road) is the perfect place to wake up in. Divided into two towers, the North Tower has a contemporary feel, while the South Tower is more palatial, and very luxurious. Whichever tower you stay in, you are guaranteed Jumeirah’s brand of first-rate hospitality – as well as the latest in technology, from flat screen TVs and high-speed WiFi to top of the range dishwashers, washing machines and cooking facilities.

24 HOURS IN GUANGZHOU This city of 14 million combines cutting-edge architecture with a host of cultural attractions.

Words − Conor Purcell While often overshadowed by its southern neighbour Hong Kong, Guangzhou is a compelling destination in its own right. Formerly known as Canton, it’s always been a vital trading

14

hub, and now, with a raft of stunning modern buildings complementing the leafy streets and colonial-era architecture, it’s a booming 21stcentury city that buzzes with energy.

December 2019 - January 2020

02

03

12pm: Opera House

2pm: Shamian Island

Opened in 2010, this Zaha Hadiddesigned masterpiece was commissioned to put Guangzhou on the region’s culture map. Overlooking the Pearl River, Guangzhou Opera House (1 Zhujiang W Rd, Tianhe) exhibits all of Hadid’s trademark style: endless curves, lots of white, and a wonderful asymmetrical interplay between glass and steel. It has become something of an artistic hub in the city and hosts everything from operas and classical music to more commercial pop music events. We recommend arriving earlier and taking advantage of the guided tour to really take in this magnificent building.

A small island in the centre of the city, Shamian is a throwback to a bygone time when Canton was a vital trading hub for the British. Technically a sandbar, it’s home to a series of pretty, leafy streets, all lined with beautiful, historic buildings. There’s a range of architectural styles here, from Gothic and Baroque to Neoclassical, and it’s a rather unexpected delight in the centre of one of China’s busiest cities. There’s lots of small parks, and due to the restriction of cars on the island, its blissfully pollution-free.

Head to southwest of the island, find an al-fresco café, and enjoy a coffee with views over the Pearl River.

December 2019 - January 2020

15

5pm: Dōngshān

04

3pm: Qingping Chinese Medicine Market Just north of Shamian lies the wonderful Qingping Chinese Medicine Market (23 Zhuji Rd, Liwan), which is filled with an array of traditional herbs and potions. It’s not for the faint of heart, with rows of jars featuring centipedes, scorpions and other creepy crawlies as well as rather questionable produce such as turtles, monkeys and owls. For something less morally dubious, check out the giant herbal market (apparently the largest in China), which is stocked with thousands of roots, berries, plants and fungi which, the sellers claim, will cure virtually all ills. The whole market is a bustling, sensory overload and definitely worth a visit.

A respite from the buzzing modernity of the rest of the city, D¯ongsh¯an is filled with rich flora, historic buildings and huge villas. One of the highlights is the wonderful three-storey café, Kuí Yuán, a heritage gem, which was built in 1922. At this stage, you are probably getting a bit peckish, so head to Guigangdama Lu, which is filled with dim sum restaurants and a host of (very addictive) bubbletea outlets.

06

6pm: Guangdong Museum One of the most comprehensive museums in China, Guangdong Museum (2 Zhujiang E Rd, Tianhe) is a wonderful way to take in the breadth and depth of China’s natural, cultural and historic riches. The building

16

05

itself was built in 2010, as part of the city’s architectural reimagining, and it’s a striking, modern way to house the nation’s treasures. One of the highlights is the collection of ceramics which range from the Neolithic era to the Qing Dynasty. Another mustsee is the Maritime Silk Road section, which focuses on the region’s opening up to foreign trade. There are also exhibits dedicated to the Sino-Japanese War including photos and artefacts from 1840-1940. There’s a huge amount to see, and if you are staying in the city for any length of time, a second trip may be in order.

December 2019 - January 2020

08 9pm: Song

07 7pm: Canton Tower At more than 600 metres tall, the Canton Tower (Yuejiang W Rd, Haizhu) dominates the city’s skyline, particularly when colourfully lit up at night.

Head to the rooftop observatory (the highest outdoor observatory in the

December 2019 - January 2020

Guangzhou has a range of worldclass restaurants to choose from, but our favourite has to be Song (Hop 417, 4F, G.T. Land Plaza Winter, 16 Zhujiang East Road, Tianhe), one of only three Michelin-star restaurants in the city. Focusing on Sichuan cuisine, and named after both the Song Dynasty and the owner’s last name, the interiors here are as spectacular as the menu. Huge glass feathered wings descend from a glass ceiling, while stainless steel brick pillars carve up the room. Signature dishes include wood-roasted 42-day Peking duck and a spicy boiled tiger grouper.

This place gets busy, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

world) at a head-spinning 449 metres above the ground and take in the spectacular views of the city. Sixteen passenger cars bring guests around the edge of the tower’s roof, a sort of horizontal Ferris wheel which is not for the faint of heart. If you are going to the top deck, bring warm clothing, and be prepared for the building to sway – all part of the experience!

17

China’s Rising Star Jumeirah Group opens its second luxury hotel in Guangzhou, China – Jumeirah Guangzhou Located in one of the world’s most bustling cities on the Maritime Silk Road, alongside Jumeirah Living Guangzhou, the stunning Jumeirah Guangzhou offers a gold standard experience.

It is Jumeirah’s third property in China and solidifies the group’s reputation for quality hotels, location selection and the highest level of service.

Whether its majestic heights in Shanghai, the mix of modern and classic in Nanjing, or the essence of Guangzhou, each Jumeirah hotel here is a masterpiece of excellence, joining the ranks of the group’s other iconic properties such Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.

Jumeirah Guangzhou has 117 rooms, all of which are located from the 50th floor. The accommodation includes deluxe and premier rooms, suites and the signature loft suites which extend over two floors. The Presidential Suite on the rooftop presents breathtaking views of the city while the outdoor terrace offers an ideal vantage point for sunset drinks under a starry sky.

Guangzhou is known as the ‘culinary capital’ of South China and Jumeirah Guangzhou pays homage to that reputation with seven remarkable dining op-

18

tions and bars to tempt any palate. Whether it’s having tea at the Lobby Lounge, admiring the facades of the Shamian Islands while feasting on delectable fare at the all-day dining Chineserie restaurant, or delighting your taste buds at the Japanese-Peruvian eatery, the options are sumptuous. The hotel’s lounge and Bar On Six are also great choices for meetings and social gatherings.

Designed to cater for special events, the hotel has a 600sqm multifunctional ballroom with a ceiling height of 5.3m and can accommodate up to 400 guests. There is also an in-house professional wedding-planning team available to assist in hosting even the most lavish celebrations.

Wellness is at the core of the guest experience at Jumeirah Guangzhou. Guests can relax in the Jumeirah SPA Turkish bath with Hammam or work out in the 200sqm fitness centre equipped with treadmills, elliptical equipment, rowing machines and more, while enjoying the sweeping views of Guangzhou.

Jumeirah Guangzhou, No 12, Zhujiang East Road, Tianhe, Guangzhou, China Tel: 86 20 8883 8888

December 2019 - January 2020

Objects of Desire CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Portrait 40: Miro LARGE by Roberto Voorbij; Bondi Beach; Until You Wake Up, Limited Edition 14 of 25 by Martin Stranka; First Light, Limited Edition 1 of 10 Photograph by Journey Gong; Qaqortoq 11 Photograph by Monika Nguyen

Wall Candy Dean West’s limited edition print of Bondi Beach, titled unsurprisingly, Bondi Beach ($1,730) taken in 2012, forms part of his ‘Under The Sun’ series, and it’s both mysterious and revealing. One of the most awarded photographs of 2017, is this striking image by the Czech photographer Martin Stranka, Until You Wake Up ($4,740) which shows a deer investigating an upturned car. Printed on cotton fine art paper, it manages to be both beautiful and compelling.

This beautiful abstract image from the New York-based photographer Journey Gong, First Light

December 2019 - January 2020

($655), is part of his ‘Necessary Errors’ series, where he takes experimental pictures, taking inspiration from traditional Chinese artworks.

Monica Nguyen’s early morning photo of Greenland Qaqortoq 11 ($1,410) is a beautiful slice of landscape photography in one of the most inhospitable – and intriguing – countries in the world.

A digital photographic collage from the Dutch photographer Roberto Voorbij, Miró. LARGE ($650), is a playful take on the Spanish artist’s best known surrealist painting, Carnival of Harlequin.

19

Words − Conor Purcell

A Cut Above

We profile a Dubai fashion stalwart who's playing a part in finding the next generation of designers 20

December 2019 - January 2020

December 2019 - January 2020

21

The fashion designer Tom Ford once said that dressing well is a form of good manners, which is a good way of illustrating the importance of wearing the right suit. If that is the case, then Dubai is a very well-mannered city indeed.

From the tailor shops of ‘Old Dubai’ to the cutting-edge boutiques in Jumeirah to the international fashion brands in Dubai’s malls, the city has never been backwards about being fashion forward.

At the heart of the city’s fashion scene is Ashok Sawlani, who runs the bespoke family tailoring business, Royal Fashion, which has six branches across Dubai.

Fabrics are key to what Ashok does – they can make the difference between a suit costing $500 and one costing $5,000. Royal Fashion uses fabrics from the likes of Ermenegildo Zegna, Holland & Sherry and John Foster. The choice of fabric partners is no accident. “We look at a variety of factors such as heritage, quality and their collections, as well as the future prospects of the mill – will it continue to innovate and create?” he says.

A good suit, according to Ashok, should be timeless. “For generations a suit has been the go-to in a man’s wardrobe. I think the beauty lies in its simplicity and its ability to blend into a variety of social occasions, while still having the ability to make the wearer stand out as bold and confident.” For Ashok, there are three key elements to a good suit: the fabric, the quality of the tailoring, and the fit.

“We have been fortunate to work with exceptional fabric mills for decades now,” he says. While the quality of the fabric is paramount, Ashok also knows that speed is key. “We can tailor bespoke suits for our visitors in two or three days while they are in Dubai, and the shirts can be delivered within 24 hours or even faster. This is without compromising on quality or the fit,” he says. Indeed Ashok points out the biggest mistake a man can make when buying a suit is not paying enough attention to the fit.

Ashok now runs six branches across Dubai, his business growing along with the city. “Our first tailor shop was opened in 1992 in Karama, near the Burjuman Centre,” he says. “Prior to that, our customers would buy fabrics from our textile showroom and bring them to tailors we recommended. However we discovered that our customers were not satisfied with either the quality or the speed of the tailors, and so we opened our own showrooms to cater to them,” he adds. As for how they decide where to open a new branch, nothing is rushed. “We study different locations in the city over a long period, speak to various people, including our own customers, and then decide to open a new branch,” he says.

22

December 2019 - January 2020

Dubai Designers Feathers Set up in 2010, Feathers is inspired by the symmetry of peacock feathers – creating stylish accessories (everything from sandals to cufflinks) in their own imitable style. With seven branches across the UAE, they are a true home-grown success story. www.feathers-fashion.com

Reema Al Banna Reema has quickly made a name for herself as one of the most exciting designers in the country. A Palestinian born and raised in the UAE, Reema got her big break after winning a dress design competition in 2009. Her designs are now worn by style icons around the world (Bella Hadid was seen rocking her denim jacket), and she is definitely one to watch. www.reemami.com

Rami Al Ali This Syrian designer, now based in Dubai, made his debut during

ABOVE: Shirts on sale at Ashok's showroom LEFT: Fabric from Holland & Sherry

While Dubai’s tailors have been making suits for generations, the city is now also at the forefront of cutting-edge fashion, increasingly staking a claim as the regional fashion hub. Ashok plays a role in this, as he is on the board of the Dubai Design & Fashion Council, which supports the emirate’s fashion entrepreneurs. “Being a founder and former Honorary Chairman of the Textile Merchants Group I was privileged to be a board member at DDFC,” he says. “The idea was to provide a platform for fashion designers and manufacturers, so that they can source any type of fabric locally required for designing and eventually supply to clients worldwide.”

The Council was created by HH Sheikh Mohammed in 2014, with the aim of raising the emirate’s profile on the international fashion stage.

It works both with individual entrepreneurs, as

December 2019 - January 2020

the 2012 Couture Fashion Week in Paris, and his sumptuous designs have graced catwalks around the world. A celeb favourite during awards season, his flowing gowns and sheer dresses are as innovative as they are eye-catching. www.ramialali.com

Nathalie Trad This Lebanese accessories designer is now based in Dubai’s Design District. Known for incorporating seashells in her work, her bags are striking and utterly original. Each object she creates is handcrafted and she has gained an international reputation for the quality of her work. www.nathalietrad.com

Madiyah Al Sharqi This Emirati designer founded her label in 2012, and has gone from strength to strength since then, with her collections garnering international praise and being featured everywhere from Vogue Italia to Grazia. www.madiyaalsharqi.com

well as local universities in order to place students with suitable companies.

Another important part of the emirate’s fashion strategy is Dubai Design District (d3), which is home to a host of innovative, local fashion boutiques, such as Amato and Montroi. It’s no surprise then that Ashok is bullish about the future.

“The Government of Dubai has indeed done a lot to attract regional and global designers by providing d3 as a platform that includes 100 per cent foreign ownership of business, regular exhibitions and fashion shows as well as affordable licensing and visa fees. You can now see that all the big names from Paris, Milan, New York and London have a presence in Dubai and the city is considered a major hub alongside the established fashion capitals,” he adds. The future, then, is bright, and immaculately dressed.

23

December 2019 - January 2020

How I Made It

An English watchmaker reimagining classic timepieces

As told to − Conor Purcell

December 2019 - January 2020

Photos − Andy Pilsbury, Jonny Wilson

25

Based in Birmingham, UK, in the city’s jewellery quarter, Struthers Watchmakers are a husbandand-wife team – a master watchmaker and antiquarian horologist – who have redefined the art of watchmaking, both through their painstaking restorations, and the custom-built watches they create themselves. We spoke to the pair about their process, their challenges and the watches they create.

How did you get into this line of work?

Rebecca: I discovered watchmaking completely by accident. I’ve always had an equal love of science and the arts and struggled at school to find a way to combine the two. I left to study jewellery and silversmithing when I was 17 and the university I was at happened to teach horology too. I was friends with some of the watchmaking students who suggested I visit the workshops and from that moment on I realised I had found what I wanted to do with my life. Watchmaking is the perfect combination of both science and art so I get to practice the things I feel most passionately about at the same time every day.

Craig: Watchmaking was my second career. I did a few different jobs in my teens and 20s before eventually ending up in IT. It wasn’t a career I enjoyed and I’ve never particularly liked working with computers, so one day I decided to go to the job centre to take an aptitude test to see what other sorts of jobs I might be good at, and watchmaking came up as a suggested option. At that point, I had no idea how huge and varied the subject was.

You never stop learning. I started studying when I was 34 at the same university as Rebecca which is where we met.

How long does the training take? What was the most difficult aspect of it?

Rebecca: The course we took was run by the British Horological Institute and lasts for three years. That provides you with the foundation skills you need to get a job which is when the learning really begins, Craig: Traditional apprenticeships lasted around seven years with a further three to five years of being a journeyman before you finally become a master watchmaker. That said, we’ve been doing this for more than 30 years between the two of us now and we still regularly find ourselves coming across new things, especially in watch restoration. There have been hundreds of thousands, probably millions, of different watch calibres made over the past 500 years so you will never have seen everything.

How does the market for these types of watches change?

Craig: In terms of the watches we make, the fine bespoke end of the market has always existed

26

and been fairly constant. There has always been a demand for artisanal watchmaking and the numbers of pieces we make mean workshops like ours only need a limited number of clients to survive.

Who are your customers?

Rebecca: Our customers vary hugely, it’s hard to find specific patterns as we only make between one to five watches a year, so we don’t have many clients to compare. Generally, the people who value our work value art and design generally. Some

December 2019 - January 2020

love watches and have collections, other might only have a few watches but collect vintage cars, shotguns, fine art and sculpture.

How does the creative process work when creating a new watch?

Craig: From concept to creation, our creative process generally takes between 12 months and three years. We start with hand-rendered illustrations outlining our plan for the piece which we work with the client to create. Once they have signed off the design, we begin the technical design elements for the case and movement. When we started making our own watches we used vintage and antique calibres which we salvaged from our local bullion industry and rebuilt them into new watches again. We are currently working on our first in-house movement which we are making in our workshops in Birmingham.

What sort of personality does it take to be a watchmaker?

Rebecca: Patience and perseverance are definitely qualities a watchmaker needs; but I also think having the ability to know when it’s time to step back from challenges and take a moment is really important. Watchmaking is a balance between

the generations they can hold great sentimental value to their owners. Being able to help clients revive pieces that mean so much to them is humbling and incredibly rewarding. From pieces inherited from late parents, to creating memorial pieces devoted to a lost child, we’ve taken on a few projects over the years that will stay with me.

You created your own watch, the Carter. What was the process like?

Craig: The Carter is based around an antique English movement made in the late 19th Century which we strip back and completely rebuild, and include improvements such as a Breguet parachute shock setting. We make the dials and cases ourselves and perform all of the necessary watchmaking work. We work externally with engravers and dial printers to finish the elements we don’t have the skills and equipment in-house to perform.

How do you source the artisans you work with?

Rebecca: For us, the most important aspects of finding the right artisans to work with are the quality of their craftsmanship and shared creative values. There is little beyond that which matters.

We don’t mind if that person is down the road, or in Austria as one of our engravers is, we want to

“Patience and perseverance are definitely qualities a watchmaker needs. It's a balance between haptic and mental problem solving skills” haptic and mental-problem solving skills so being able to move between the two, knowing when to act and when to pause and reflect, is really important.

What sort of restoration jobs do you do?

Craig: Rebecca specialises in earlier watches generally pre-1820s, and my favourite eras are mid-to-late 1800s English through to early Rolex Rebberg and 1920s/30s Swiss wristwatches. The main challenge we face in restoration is economic viability rather than something being beyond repair. We’ve restored watches that have been given to us as a bag of bits and some that have had such severe rust damage almost all of the steel work has needed re-making. It takes a long time and can be a very costly process, but if the watch is worth it to the client, it’s worth it to us.

The watches you restore must have huge sentimental value?

Rebecca: The relationships we build with the watches we own are one of my favourite things about being a watchmaker. As an object we carry on our body and then can be handed down through

December 2019 - January 2020

work with the most skilled people in our industry who put excellence and their clients at the very forefront of their work.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your profession? And the hardest?

Craig: Watchmaking is definitely the most rewarding aspect of the job. There’s nothing I love more than being on the bench working on a watch, whether it’s a restoration, or our first in-house movement. The hardest aspect that goes with that is the challenge of running a small business and how many other things we have to deal with that take us away from the practical side of our work.

Rebecca: I feel exactly the same. I’m happiest when I’m making but it’s challenging balancing that with administration, marketing, project managing and so on. At the moment, it’s just Craig, me and our apprentice Heather so we’re still a very small workshop. At the same time, that’s not something we ever really want to change. We don’t have any intention of becoming a large workshop.

27

The Luxe List Sometimes you just need to live a little and what better way to treat yourself than by checking in to one of Jumeirah’s sumptuous five-star homes away from home? From seaside villas to state-of-the-art suites high above the city, we have your New Year getaway covered.

28

December 2019 - January 2020

Words − Conor Purcell

December 2019 - January 2020

29

There are few places more inspired than one of the suites at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Whether you are looking for an intimate escape or want to treat the entire family, we have the perfect solution.

Our suites feature spacious living areas, filled with Italian marble, 24-carat gold and are furnished with top-of-the-range Swedish DUX beds (harvested from abandoned Eider Duck nests in Iceland). The sheets are equally comfortable, made from ultrasmooth Egyptian cotton, sourced from the banks of the Nile. Browse the pillow menu and secure your favourite – choose from nine different types, from revitalizing to silk or hypo-allergenic.

Of course, the sublime experience doesn’t stop once you leave your suite. Pamper yourself in our stunning Talise Spa, which is perched 150 metres above the Arabian Gulf. Wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows, the spa offers a host of tailored treatments using only the highest quality products. A plush aqua retreat that accentuates the spa is present in both the ladies and gentlemen’s relaxation areas. It features separate indoor infinity pools, Jacuzzi and treatment rooms along with saunas, steam rooms and plunge pools. Gentlemen can look down through a rare fog-proofed glass at the World Islands and Downtown Dubai. Additionally, a squash court, a fitness centre with aerobic facilities and advanced cardiovascular and resistance training equipment squarely complement the spa.

If all that pampering has worked up an appetite, pay a visit to Al Mahara, which features a remarkable floor-to-ceiling aquarium, award-winning chefs, and an extensive menu of fine seafood cuisine. Whether you are celebrating or just want to treat yourself, there’s no better choice.

If you like your luxury lower slung, how about Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf? With 29 villas spread across a series of winding waterways (and overlooking the Arabian Gulf ), it’s an idyllic escape in the heart of the city. The summerhouses offer the intimacy of a private villa with all the amenities of a five-star hotel. Each summerhouse features an Arabian Majlis or living room, and a courtyard with a daily complimentary happy hour during which guests are offered champagne or cocktails.

With a dedicated team of 144 butlers – who speak more 10 languages – at your service around the clock, luxury doesn’t get any more convenient.

Guests have access to more than 50 restaurants across the Madinat Jumeirah complex, meaning you will never be short on world-class dining options. From al-fresco breakfast at Shimmers to a romantic meal at the stunning Pier Chic, you are spoiled for choice. Pier Chic, located over the water at Jumeirah Al Qasr, has a huge range of delicious seafood on offer, from caviar (Caspian Royal Be-

December 2019 - January 2020

FROM TOP: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers; Birds eye view of Pier Chic.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Gold on 27 at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

luga) to Canadian Lobster Ceviche. Enjoy a glass of something special from our extensive wine collection while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

In Abu Dhabi, you are also spoiled for choice with city, desert and island retreats all offering world-class hospitality options. Located right in the heart of the capital, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers’ Royal Etihad Suites offer stunning views of the city via the floor-to-ceiling windows, while the interiors feature custom-made crystal chandeliers, sumptuous fabrics and rich timber veneers.

The furniture is equally impressive; sourced from Minotti in Italy and Baker in New York. We are also home to one of the capital’s best Japanese restaurants: Tori No Su. This award-winning restaurant features an innovative menu from the kaiseki-trained chef, Ando Takashi.

If you prefer a luxury retreat away from the buzz of the city, the Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa is perfect for those looking to get away from

31

it all. This boutique resort features 13 private villas, each with private plunge pools and panoramic desert views. Order a glass of something cold and sit out on your balcony taking in the stunning desert landscape. Or, why not get pampered in the Talise Spa? It features 13 treatment rooms, individual male and female Hammam, saunas, hot tubs, Jacuzzi, steam room, crystal salt room, a Cryo Treatment room and hot and cold plunge pools. So, it’s safe to say your body (and your mind) will be well looked after.

If you want an island retreat in the capital, pay a visit to the Presidential Abu Dhabi Suites or Saadiyat Suites in Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. These offer panoramic views from oversized windows, which open to let in the gentle sea breeze. Exclusive villas offer two, three or four bedrooms with impeccable comfort, private pool and the Spa Villas offer their own spa treatment room. Pure bliss.

Across the Gulf, Jumeirah Royal Saray offers the most spacious and well-appointed villas in Bahrain. Nestled in luscious gardens with private swimming pools and butler service, the villas are the last word in discreet exclusivity. Set over two levels, the Garden Villa and the Royal Villa feature distinctive white and gold Calacatta Italian marble.

Experience in-villa dining with delicious cuisine created by your private chef. With spacious dining and living rooms, private pools and ample indoor

32

ABOVE: The entrance to Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort.

OPPOSITE PAGE FROM THE TOP: The Talise Spa at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; the main pool at the Jumeirah Vittaveli.

and outdoor space for relaxing and entertaining, these hideaways are ideal for anyone seeking total seclusion and privacy.

If you are looking for the ultimate New Year luxury getaway, take a trip to Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives, which features jaw-dropping private villas right over the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Tucked away in a secluded corner of the island you’ll find the Five Bedroom Royal Residence with Pool, or choose the amazing Private Ocean Retreat with Slides, the ultimate family retreat – although it won’t just be the kids who will want to use the incredible slide! The Two Bedroom Beach Suite with Pool, nestled amid lush jungle on the sunset side of the island, is perfect for families or small groups of friends. Gaze out over the ocean from your upstairs balcony while sipping a glass of bubbly. Bathe in the crystal clear sea or in your very own private infinity pool.

December 2019 - January 2020

OPPOSITE PAGE: Gucci Equilibrium initiative

December 2019 - January 2020

33

34

December 2019 - January 2020

Words − Ian Akerman

Going Green With more and more luxury brands embracing sustainability, Iain Akerman examines if this is a real shift or just a marketing ploy

December 2019 - January 2020

35

OPENING SPREAD: A model walks the runway during the Stella McCartney show at the Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Fall/Winter 2019/2020 RIGHT: The Inspiration photographed by Leslie Zhang, La Bouche Rouge Paris OPPOSITE PAGE: Natural skincare products from Tata Harper Skincare

In August this year, 32 fashion houses, including Chanel and Ralph Lauren, came together at the G7 summit in Biarritz to sign a ‘Fashion Pact’. Although not legally binding, it represented an unprecedented commitment to sustainability. Why they chose to sign it, and why now, is instructive.

Fashion is one of the great polluters. Not only is the industry’s carbon footprint bigger than that of the airline industry, it has, until recently, done little to address its impact on the environment.

That impact includes the pollution of vast tracts of water and soil and responsibility for 10 per cent of the world’s carbon emissions. Textile dyeing alone is the second-largest polluter of water globally, says the United Nations, and the equivalent of a truck full of textiles is landfilled or burnt every second.

If the industry continues along the same path unchecked, by 2050 the fashion industry will use up a quarter of the world’s carbon budget.

In response, fashion houses have sought to boost their environmental credentials. Think Stella

36

McCartney, one of the earliest luxury fashion companies to adopt sustainable practices, and Gucci Equilibrium. The latter forms part of Gucci’s 10year ‘Culture of Purpose’ sustainability plan, which aims to reduce the company’s greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2025. In September, the company also said it had gone carbon neutral.

“The reality is straightforward,” says MaryAnn Keverian, who worked as a handbag designer, manufacturer and distributor for 10 years and now works as an account director for Tribal Worldwide Dubai. “Our world is changing because of mankind and if we all don’t make changes, it will keep getting worse.”

Other luxury sectors are also going green.

Within the beauty industry, brands are attempting to find more sustainable alternatives to disposable plastics and optimal ways to source ingredients, with La Bouche Rouge being marketed as the first luxury sustainable make-up brand. The Vermont-based natural luxury skincare brand, Tata

December 2019 - January 2020

Harper, is creating 100 per cent non-toxic, natural, high-performing products using raw ingredients free from GMOs, toxins, fillers, artificial colours and fragrances, and synthetic chemicals. In March, car designer Pininfarina launched the Battista, an electric hypercar with a potential zero-emissions range of up to 450 kilometres.

Yet only a few years previously, sustainability was a niche concern. So what changed? “The scientific evidence has become material evidence, which is highly emotional,” replies Jackie Hughes, chief strategy officer at Impact BBDO, a communications group headquartered in Dubai. “Plastic has become the icon of the sustainability, global warming and carbon emissions debate. Green has now become an emblem, an icon of the enlightened and the sophisticated. It is on-trend, in vogue. It is now as much of a statement of belief and a projection of who you are as a person as it is a cause. Who on earth would want to be called anti-green and be caught holding a nonrecyclable cup in their hand?”

There are a number of reasons why this is happening now. Firstly, the global conversation has shifted. The British broadcaster and natural historian David Attenborough and the Swedish teenage environmental activist Greta Thunberg have forced climate change into the global spotlight. So too have movements such as Extinction Rebellion. All are united in their belief that the world faces an unprecedented environmental disaster, with deforestation, ozone depletion and industrialisation threatening our very existence. The situation is so bad that The Guardian no longer refers to climate change, but to a ‘climate emergency’ or a ‘climate crisis’.

Secondly, brands find themselves under the consumer microscope. They stand accused of creating a culture of materialistic excess and over consumption, while simultaneously marketing themselves as virtuous, even as they ignore issues of inequality, wellbeing and global concerns over the environment and health. Public trust in the credibility of multinational firms has plummeted.

In 2016, the economist Noreena Hertz released the findings of a research project into the attitudes of 13 to 20-year-olds – a group she nicknamed ‘Generation Katniss’ after the star of The Hunger Games. She found that only six per cent of Generation ‘K’ trusted big corporations to “do the right thing”. For 20 to 30-year-olds, it was 12 per cent. Hertz also revealed that the group – also referred to as Generation Z – embraced topics such as inequality and communitarianism, and distrusted traditional institutions. They may be young and idealistic, but they are also indicative of a movement towards social responsibility.

December 2019 - January 2020

37

38

December 2019 - January 2020

OPPOSITE PAGE: Gucci Equilibrium initiative – an online communications platform designed to connect people, planet and purpose

“Millennials and Generation Z are the current or near-future target audience of these brands and going green is a very important, if not the most important, matter for them,” says Keverian. “By addressing this sensitive topic, luxury brands have a higher likelihood of gaining them as consumers.

Nearly three-quarters of consumers globally say they would change where they shop if [a brand] reduced its environmental impact, according to a 2018 Nielsen survey.”

It is through this prism that labels green credentials should be viewed. Consumers expect labels to reflect their ideas and principals and for them to be responsible in an era of environmental vandalism. Labels know what consumers want.

They know they want to lead better lives and to be kinder to the earth. They also know that destructive practices and ethical ambiguity erode trust, and that once trust is lost it is almost impossible to regain. It is these enlightened consumers that are a company’s future buyers. As a result, sustainability is fundamental to the future of luxury.

Indeed, sustainability itself is becoming a luxury value, which helps explain the third – and arguably the most important – factor fuelling brands’ collective charge towards sustainability: the bottom line. There’s nothing quite like the threat of financial loss to fast-track a company’s environmental conscience.

“If brands don’t deliver sustainability they will lose consumer trust,” says Hughes. “And losing trust will affect top-line growth, margin and profitability.

It is a simple equation. In the current environment all brands have to change. It is not just about morality or ethics (though I wish it were), but the bottom line. Behaviour needs to build trust. Authenticity and truth about the journey are key. Making statements of intent are not enough as people will be suspicious of motives. Accountability is crucial.”

Authenticity is a genuine concern. Have brands embraced the green movement because they believe

December 2019 - January 2020

it’s the right thing to do, or because it’s a bandwagon they cannot afford to miss? After all, improving profitability while bettering society has been flavour of the month for some time, based largely on the knowledge that to not care would be to commit corporate suicide. Nielsen’s 2018 survey proved that sustainability sells. It even has its own lexicon – ‘ethically-sourced’, ‘organic’, ‘fair trade’, ‘green beauty’. All aided and abetted by ‘cause marketing’ and ‘advertising for social good’.

Yet it’s easy to be cynical about the motives behind brands going green. Just consider the term ‘greenwashing’ – the use of deceptive marketing to promote the perception of an organisation’s positive environmental stance. No matter what the potential repercussions, some brands continue to pump out false and deceptive information. In 2017, a BMW ad was banned for making ‘misleading’ environmental claims, with the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority stating that the brand falsely claimed the i3 was a ‘zero emissions’ and ‘clean’ vehicle. In August this year, Norway’s consumer watchdog also criticised fast-fashion chain H&M for misleading marketing of its Conscious collection. The Norwegian Consumer Authority said the Swedish clothing retailer provided ‘insufficient’ information about the sustainable nature of its ‘sustainable style’ collection.

How do consumers distinguish between a brand that is making serious commitments to sustainability and a brand that is only making superficial statements? Or worse, is downright lying?

It’s not easy, and part of the problem lies in definition. What do ‘ethical’ and ‘sustainable’ actually mean? As The Fashion Law, an independent source for law, business and culture, stated in August, the problem with sustainability is that it doesn’t really mean anything.

“Sustainability and being green can be defined so broadly that many brands exploit the use of the word just to hop on the bandwagon,” says Keverian. “There needs to be a clear depiction and explanation of what being sustainable means – from raw materials, to production, to employee well-being – in order for it to be evaluated fairly for each brand claiming their greenness.”

“The key is that they don’t have a way out – regardless of whether they are authentic or not,” adds Hughes. “When you ask people ‘do you think sustainability or environmental waste is a brand’s problem?’ they say an emphatic ‘yes’. People don’t see plastic as their problem: they see it as the brand’s, the government’s problem. And the stakes are high if they get it wrong. At London Fashion Week, for instance, there was the launch of the ethical buyer’s guide. If you look closely, Stella McCartney, the ulti-

39

mate luxury green, is at the bottom. Why? Because she is owned by Gucci.”

This is all taking place at a time when the luxury fashion industry is booming. Gucci and Louis Vuitton are among the fastest-growing brands in the world, with the luxury fashion and accessories sector growing by 42 per cent since 2017, according to global brand consultancy Interbrand. Gucci’s revenue topped $9 billion in 2018, rising 33.4 per cent compared with 2017.

The personal luxury goods market also grew by 6 per cent in 2018, according to the 17th edition of Bain & Company’s annual luxury study, reaching $290 billion. This positive growth trend is expected to continue until 2025.

Interestingly, the artisanal nature of smallerscale luxury brands may be their saving grace. Centred on quality and craftsmanship, they are less

ABOVE: Environmental activist, Greta Thunberg OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Pininfarina Battista – an electric sports car manufactured by Automobili Pininfarina GmbH; Designer Stella McCartney; Models walk the runway at the Stella McCartney Womenswear Spring/Summer 2020 show at Paris Fashion Week

“If brands don’t deliver sustainability they will lose consumer trust, and it will affect top-line growth, margins and profitability” prone to the environmental abuses of mass consumer brands or the perils of fast fashion. Yet the road to genuinely sustainable luxury brands is likely to be a long one. The designer Eileen Fisher has previously stated that three main challenges lie in the way of fashion houses being truly sustainable: the availability of materials, the fair cost of materials and human labour, and, of course, human behaviour.

Fashion’s premium on fast-paced trends and globalised consumerism is also anathema to environmental concerns. Which begs the question of whether the industry is doing enough. According to the report Pulse of the Fashion Industry, which is published by the Global Fashion Agenda, the Boston Consulting Group and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, the answer is no. It stated that “fashion companies are not implementing sustainable solutions fast enough to counterbalance the negative environmental and social impacts of the rapidly growing fashion industry”. The repercussions? If the industry doesn’t implement changes at a faster rate, “it will be unable to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or meet the Paris Agreement”.

“We need to define exactly what sustainability means,” says Keverian. “To have a clear picture

40

of what brands need to be doing. It’s not just about the materials used – there’s a bigger picture to it and being educated about it is the first step. The most important thing (as a consumer) is to read facts.

Companies need to be transparent about their contribution to the green movement and not just claim to be part of it to gain credibility. Companies need to maintain this as a long-term commitment and enhance their sustainable movement over time.

“Other brands that aren’t involved need to join the movement. This will be very tough as mainstream or inexpensive brands will need to implement huge investments and most-likely will have to increase prices to achieve this, which will probably affect sales. But with the proper marketing tools, they will have a better outcome in the long run”.

What is important to remember is that brands’ drive towards sustainability can make a genuine difference, especially in the automotive and fashion industries. That’s why initiatives such as the ‘Fashion Pact’ are so important, even if they are non-binding.

“Let the facts speak for themselves,” says Hughes. “Fashion drives 20 per cent of the world’s global water waste. That’s not a genuine difference, but a massive one. And because of Attenborough and Greta we believe them now.”

December 2019 - January 2020

December 2019 - January 2020

41

42

December 2019 - January 2020

Alternative High End Investments From cutting-edge street art to stamps and wine, we look at the ever changing face of the alternative investment market

With doomsayers predicting a stock market slump is on the horizon, more and more of the one per cent are doubling down on alternative investments. So how can you make non-traditional investments work for you?

Firstly, as any investment broker worth their salt would say, diversity is key – put simply, you don’t want all your eggs in the one basket. What this means in practice is that you need to ensure a diversified portfolio, and that you can afford to lose the money you allocate to alternative investments. The range of opportunities is huge: from vintage cars to vintage posters, from wine and cigars to art – there are few things that don’t appreciate in value given time. So, here then are some of our picks for when the stock market just won’t cut it.

December 2019 - January 2020

43

STAMPS There are an estimated 60 million stamp collectors worldwide, and more and more of the 1 per cent are branching out into philately in order to expand and diversify their portfolios. As there are a finite number of old stamps in the world, and an increasing number of investors, prices have risen hugely. According to the Stanley Gibbons investment GB250 Index, which ranks the performance of the top 250 investment-grade British stamps, prices have risen by more than 10 per cent a year for the past 15 years. In 2014, the British Guiana One-Cent Magenta stamp was sold for a staggering $9.5 million.

So, what should would-be investors be looking for? Firstly, and most obviously, scarcity is key.

The rarer a stamp is, the more it’s worth. Taking advantage of this requires two things: doing your research, so you know how valuable a stamp is on sight, and trawling websites, antique stores and second-hand shops in the hopes of finding a gem.

If a stamp doesn’t have a perforated edge, it’s worth buying as perforations only started appearing in 1854. The condition of the stamp is vitally important as stamps are graded. Grades run from ‘poor’ to ‘superb’ – check to see how faded the colour is, what condition the edges are in, and if there is gum on the back of a stamp.

You will also need to ensure your stamp is genuine, so get a certificate of authenticity from the seller if you are buying investment stamps. As always, diversity is key, so ensure when building a collection, your stamps come from different countries and different decades. You can also buy a portfolio of stamps from companies such as Stanley Gibbons – for this customers need to deposit at least $15,000 for between five and ten years. This will get you a portfolio of five to seven stamps which can be kept at Gibbon’s office in Guernsey in the Channel Islands.

At the end of the time period, if the stamps have not risen in value, Gibbons will refund all the money – if they have, they will take 20 per cent of the jump in value. This is a risk-free investment, although stamp investing is unregulated, so if, for example, Gibbons shut down, your investment would be lost.

If you want to buy direct, there are numerous stamp fairs around the world, such as Philatex, which is held in London every year. Lucie Warren, at the Philatelic Traders Society, told the Financial Times that it’s important would-be collectors “make friends with the dealers at the show, as they can give you sound tips and advice.” She also recommended researching stamp magazines in order to improve your knowledge of the industry. There

44

The Most Expensive Stamps Ever Sold

The British Guiana 1c Magenta 1856: $9.5 million With only one left in existence, this stamp is as rare as it gets, which goes some way to explaining its huge price tag.

The Treskilling Yellow 1855: $2.1 million Bizarrely, this Swedish stamp owes its value to a misprint. It was supposed to have been printed in blue and green, but was instead printed in yellow. It’s the only one in existence and could well break the $10 million mark when it’s next up for auction.

Baden 9 Kreuzer 1851: $1 million Another stamp that benefitted from a mistake, this was produced by the German state of Baden in 1851. It was supposed to be printed in pink, but came out green instead. Only four exist, and again, that scarcity has resulted in its enormous value.

Inverted Dendermonde 1920: $75,000 Yet another mistake, this time it was the printing machine producing the stamps upside down. There only 17 of the Belgian stamps left in the world, although the whereabouts of all of them are shrouded in mystery.

are plenty of auctions too, with all the main auction houses holding rare stamp auctions, while the likes of Regency Stamps and Vance Auctions hold online-only stamp auctions.

And once you have made that investment, storage is key. Keep them in a dry, safe place and insure them against fire, flood and theft. Unlike art or wine, they take up virtually no space, but there are also plenty of specialist stamp storage companies who will look after your collection for you.

December 2019 - January 2020

STREET ART

ABOVE: Depending on the artist, street art can fetch huge prices at auction

Street art as an investment didn’t exist two decades ago, but in recent years this art form has made its way from street corners and subway trains to art galleries around the world. And it’s not just readyto-hang art created by street artists, but actual street art taken from the public sphere and hung in galleries and auction houses. In 2014, Girl with the Red Balloon, a Banksy piece, was removed from the wall of a shop in East London and sold for more than $640,000 at auction. While work by the likes of Banksy, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, will be out of reach of most investors, there’s plenty of up and coming artists it can be worth investing in.

Get it right, and the return on investment can be incredibly high. “Going back a decade, if you take one of those artworks that I sold for $200,000, – something of that value at that time – they would now be worth upwards of $350,000 to $500,000,” says Steve Lazarides, a British art gallery owner, who once represented Banksy. “So that’s a pretty good return in your investment in a 10-year period.”

Bonhams, the London auction house, held its first street art auction in 2008, and raised more

December 2019 - January 2020

than $1.5 million. Other auction houses have followed suit, and with more and more galleries specialising in the form, it’s never been easier to invest.

Instagram is a great place to explore – follow one street artist, and lots more will pop up in the ‘Suggested For You’ tab, allowing you to explore the various styles out there. Most are now represented by galleries or agents, and while original works can be expensive, limited edition print runs can be great value.

Street art – like all art – has no real intrinsic value, and the price of a painting is entirely down to how much someone is willing to pay for it. It is important to ensure that you love the work you buy, and you are happy having it hang on your walls for an extended period of time. Indeed, one of the most interesting aspects of investing in street art is seeing how your own taste changes over time, and how your favourite artists’ work evolves.

It’s worth networking with gallery owners and agents too – ask them who they like, and which young artists they think are going to do well. Remember, trends are fickle, and just because an artist is ‘hot’ now, doesn’t mean they will be in two or three years down the line.

45

RIGHT: Wine may not provide the same returns of other alternative investments, but it can be a good long-term strategy

WINE Wine has long been a favoured investment of those looking to diversify – it’s also a status symbol: talking about your wine collection at a dinner party is far more interesting than talking about mutual funds.

Like all investments, a huge amount of research is needed to ensure you are putting your money to good use. Unlike other investments however, the research part of this is usually a lot of fun. Firstly, the region the wine comes from is important. While certain regions can become popular, places such as Tuscany, Burgundy and Bordeaux have consistently produced quality wine for decades and are always popular with buyers. Again, it’s also important to diversify – make sure your collection is comprised of wines from different regions and different vintages.

It’s also important to understand when different vintages ‘peak’ – just holding onto your wines won’t result in the biggest bang for your buck, so you need to know when is the best time to sell and when is the best time to hold. Explore the Liv-Ex which is a global wine marketplace, and a good place to understand current trends.

Some advise a starting point of at least $10,000 with which to invest with, although the most important thing is that you can afford to have the amount tied up in wine for years to come. There are other factors that can effect price. Bad weather in a certain region can affect the harvest, ensuring a certain type of wine becomes more scarce. That’s good news if you already own the wine, bad news if you are planning to buy. Another issue is storage.

Few assets are as fragile as wine, but it is possible to buy wine insurance or add wine to your household insurance policy. There are plenty of climate-controlled wine storage units on the market, as well as professional wine storage solutions for bigger collections. If you buy individual wines, it’s important to ensure its in its original packaging – and most importantly, resist the temptation to drink it!

46

The Most Expensive Bottles of Wine Château Cheval Blanc, St-Emilian, Bordaux 1947: $304,375 (2010)

Heidsieck Monopole Gout American 1907: $275,000 (1998)

This impressive imperial-sized bottle (about six litres) was sold in 2010 at a Christie’s auction in Geneva to a private collector.

More than 2,000 bottles of this champagne were found on a shipwreck off the coast of Finland – bottles which were originally destined for Russian Tsar Nicholas II’s Imperial Court.

Château Margaux 1787: $225,000 (1989) So, this bottle of wine was never actually sold, or drunk. It was a bottle from Thomas Jefferson’s private collection that was dropped by a waiter in New York’s Four Seasons hotel. That calamity resulted in an eye watering insurance pay out.

Château Lafite Rothschild 1869: $230,000 (2010) One of the most eye-opening wine sales – one collector bought three bottles of this Bordeaux for a total price of $690,000 at a Hong Kong auction.

December 2019 - January 2020

Five Cars to Invest in Volvo 1800ES Who knew a Volvo could look so good?

The original P1800 made its name as Roger Moore’s car in the classic TV show, The Saint. The ES is a more homely version, and more affordable at around $20,000.

Alfa Romeo Spider Series 2 Launched in 1966, this Italian roadster is a thing of beauty. There are a variety of models to choose from, and you should be able to buy one for around $20,000. Repairs are expensive however, and it needs lots of TLC.

Bentley Turbo R An iconic 1980s’ luxury icon, a well maintained Turbo R can be picked up for under $15,000 which is a pretty good investment. Replacement parts can be very expensive, so it pays to do your research before you buy and make sure you give any potential purchase a thorough once over.

VINTAGE CARS While most cars start depreciating in value the moment you drive it out of the dealership, vintage cars are different. For a start, most vintage cars are scarce: not that many were manufactured in the first place, or their numbers have dwindled over the years. Another factor is design. Trends come and go, but there is a certain timeless quality to many vintage cars – for example the original Jaguar E Type is never going to go out of style, and perfectly restored models can make more than $250,000 at auction, not too shabby when you consider models needing lots of restoration can be found online for around $20,000.

This brings us to the sweet spot of vintage car investment – finding a classic car in terrible condition and restoring it to perfect condition. Obviously restoring a car back to its original state is not cheap and can be very time consuming, but if you time it right, the rewards can be huge.

Other factors that you will have to deal with are storage, maintenance, transportation and insurance. Whereas you can put a stamp collection in your home safe, a car is going to need to be parked somewhere, safe and dry. Restoration is the big

December 2019 - January 2020

ABOVE: Vintage cars have long been favourite alternative investments

Fiat 500 The original Fiat 500 have risen sharply in price in recent years, but you can still get one in decent condition for under $10,000. Restore it properly (not a cheap proposition) and you could be looking at doubling your investment.

Pontiac Grand Prix A classic slice of Americana, a Grand Prix in decent condition can be bought for less than $10,000. While the market for these types of cars fluctuates, and maintenance can be prohibitive, time it right, and you can make a pretty penny.

cost however and one that will put most people off.

For those who have the skills and the enthusiasm, the restoration is all part of the fun, and for many, it’s the main reason they invest in the first place

47

Words − James Brennan

Changing Tables

How the world of haute cuisine is changing Shanghai’s dining landscape.

48

December 2019 - January 2020

Cantonese soup at Lu Chao, Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel Shanghai

December 2019 - January 2020

49

No city encapsulates China’s great surge towards modernity like Shanghai. The very word ‘metropolis’ seems to conjure an image of Shanghai, crowded and vibrant, with its gleaming towers and neon lights. Anthony Bourdain once said it makes New York City look like a developing nation.

China’s financial hub and the world’s busiest port is an outward-looking global city with an affluent and ambitious population eager to embrace the new. Things are ever-changing here, and they’re changing fast.

This city of immigrants attracts people from all over China and the rest of the world to work, strive and hustle in pursuit of all the things Shanghai promises – money, luxury, status and success. But if anything reflects all that dynamism and drive in bold technicolor, it is Shanghai’s food. In Shanghai, as with the rest of China, food is the glue that holds society together, and it reveals much about the culture of the place and its people.

Chinese cuisine has always been notoriously difficult to define. Of the eight main regional cuisines, those most familiar to international diners are Cantonese and Sichuan. But the traditional food of Shanghai is influenced mainly by the cuisines of Jiangsu and Zhejiang, which together emphasise robust flavours that bring out the best of the freshest ingredients, whether it’s lotus seeds, pork or freshwater shrimp.

Perhaps the reputation of Shanghainese food as oily, sugary, salty, sticky and smothered with dark, heavy sauces does it few favours? Dishes like hong shao rou (braised pork belly in soy sauce), xiao long bao (steamed dumplings filled with pork and broth), and beggar’s chicken (stuffed with rice and mushrooms, encased in lotus leaves and clay, then baked in an open fire) are still hugely popular in little side-street restaurants and dai pai dong street food stalls across the city. But in Shanghai, with its love of all things modern, the appetite for innovative fine dining is proving insatiable.

In 2016, the Michelin Guide landed in Shanghai to great fanfare. In its first edition a total of 35 stars were awarded to restaurants in the city. Among the 2-star restaurants were the avantgarde Ultraviolet by French chef Paul Pairet, 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana by Italian chef Umberto Bombana, and L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon. Four restaurants specialising in Chinese fine dining were awarded two stars, among them Canton 8, which was lauded as the cheapest 2-star restaurant in the world. And of course, Jumeirah’s Shanghai property, Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel, features the 1-star Shang-High, under the tutelage of executive chef, Frank Hu. The Michelin Guide has always demonstrated a strong trend towards Chinese fine dining in

50

Shanghai. Food journalist Liya Su, who has written for the Chinese edition of the book and the South China Morning Post, believes Chinese food is only just beginning to bloom. “Generally speaking, Chinese food is changing in three ways,” she says.

“More Chinese restaurants are paying attention to the spirit of fine dining. They are trying to improve the dining atmosphere. Secondly, more Chinese restaurants are embracing the concept of fusion.

Some restaurants now offer dishes with ingredients coming from different regions and countries. Thirdly, Chinese food is becoming more diverse and creative.

Many young chefs are thinking out of the box and creating new dishes. Some chefs use Western-style cooking techniques to prepare Chinese dishes.”

Western chefs like Paul Pairet (whose Ultraviolet now has three Michelin stars) and Joel Robuchon are certainly an influence on the progressive Chinese fine dining scene in Shanghai.

Indeed, Ultraviolet has become something of a vanguard of the city’s experimental dining scene.

Set in an anonymous bunker just outside central Shanghai, it’s as much a stylised theatre experience as it is a meal. Only ten diners a night experience the 20-course menu, all of whom sit at a communal dining table surrounded by high-end video projection technology which turn the walls into a canvas. While Ultraviolet has gained thousands of column inches since it opened in 2012, it should not detract from the great strides being taken by Asian chefs themselves in revitalising Chinese food, which is undergoing a renaissance all of its own.

Perhaps fusion has become something of a dirty word among gastronomes? But in today’s global environment, it’s hard to deny the flow of ideas and techniques from one cuisine into another. Bo Shanghai is a perfect example. Owned by the London-born ‘Demon Chef ’ Alvin Leung, it differs from its 3-Michelin-star Hong Kong sister restaurant Bo Innovation, in that it explores China’s regional cuisines. Food writer Xiaoyi Liu, whose Restaurant Hunter blog is hugely popular in Shanghai, explains: “In each menu they try to pick a cuisine, say Italian, then they translate the eight great cuisines of China using the methods of Italian cooking. For example, Sichuan beef carpaccio.”

Under chefs DeAille Tam and Simon Wong, Bo Shanghai has won a Michelin star, but Liu is not entirely convinced that it constitutes a bold advancement in Chinese cuisine. “It's a reinterpretation of Chinese food using molecular and other Western methods that have nothing to do with Chinese food,” she says. “Sure, it captures some of the Chinese flavours and ingredients, but it's fundamentally different. I would say it's a very interesting concept but I don't see this as the future trend where Chinese food should be going.”

December 2019 - January 2020

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Canton 8’s master chef, Jie Ming Jian; a table at Wujie; Fu He Hui’s head chef, Tony Lu

Innovation in Chinese cuisine is nothing new.

Tea and tofu spring to mind, and the Chinese were eating pasta noodles long before the Italians dreamed up spaghetti. When times were hard and food was scarce, Chinese cooks invented creative dishes that used every available ingredient in its entirety. As anyone who has tried the traditional Shanghainese dish of chicken and duck blood soup will testify, the Chinese were doing nose-totail cooking long before the concept was rehashed in the trendy restaurants of London or New York.

These days vegetarianism might be all the rage in the West, but it has long been a facet of Chinese food culture, certainly among Buddhists. Only recently has the vegetarian trend in China seen a more general revival.

Wujie (The Bund) is a Chinese vegetarian fine-dining restaurant that nails its colours unashamedly to the fusion mast. It draws on philosophies of Chinese nourishment in dishes like radish soup, which is recommended in Chinese medicine as being good for the lungs, especially in cold weather. Cooked radish is blended with shitake mushroom and ginger, and then complemented with a sprinkling of white pepper, tofu skin and slices of radish. With its artfully serene décor and informed wine pairings, Wujie is a boon for Shanghai’s growing number of vegetarians, whose tastes are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

“Vegetarian food is definitely growing in popularity in China,” says Wujie’s manager Cheryl

December 2019 - January 2020

Lin. “With recent food safety scandals and air pollution becoming worse, people are paying more attention to their health. They are starting to see the link between what we eat and how we feel.

As more and more restaurants offer vegetarian options that are exciting, creative and delicious, it's evident that the demand is on the rise.”

Another fine-dining restaurant catering to Shanghai vegetable lovers is Fu He Hui (Fortune, Harmony, Wisdom) by chef Tony Lu. Ranked number 48 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, it has a particular focus on China’s seemingly endless array of mushrooms and fungi. In homage to Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, one or two appetisers at Fu He Hui mimic meat dishes, such as their ‘spare rib’ dish made from plum and lotus root.

Lu is a veteran Shanghai chef who honed his skills when the local food scene was dominated by traditional Cantonese cuisine. By his own admission it took him a few years to discover his creative side, but he has since earned a reputation as one of the city’s culinary stars. As such he is regarded as something of a celebrity, but he isn’t one to hog the limelight. Instead, he expresses himself through his five restaurants, which include FU1015, FU1039 and FU1088.

“In recent years many Chinese chefs went abroad and studied all around world. They acquired Western food cooking skills and put them into their own Chinese restaurants,” says Lu. “But I think we have to go back to the origin. The long history of Chinese food is famous around the world.”

51

52

December 2019 - January 2020

OPPOSITE PAGE: An Asian afternoon tea spread at Lu Cha Jie tea lounge at Jumeirah Nanjing THIS PAGE: Shang-High at the Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel Shanghai

That view is echoed by Shang-High’s executive chef, Frank Hu. “It’s about the ingredients and bringing out the best in those ingredients,” he says.

“While the chef ’s skills are essential in winning Michelin stars and other awards, the most important thing is always the ingredients,” he adds.

That importance is reflected in the back-tobasics approach seen in the dishes Hu and his team prepare: the braised beef cheek with black truffle, for example, a typical Shanghainese dish with a very untypical execution. Or take the fresh river shrimp dish, where each individual shrimp is shelled by hand, an attention to detail that reflects Hu’s determination to take fine dinning to the next level.

Chefs such as Hu demonstrate that Shanghai as a food city has the confidence to celebrate its own culture without resorting to outright mimicry of the great titans of gastronomy in Europe or America. And for chefs such as Frank Hu, there’s a confidence his home city can help shape a new food culture going forward.

“Shanghai is a very international city. All the famous restaurants and chefs want to open here. The people in Shanghai love to find new restaurants and are willing to accept new things.

So this is a very good ‘food lab’ for the world, and there are so many opportunities for young chefs.”

Food journalist Liya Su agrees about Shanghai’s potential for innovation when it comes to food.

December 2019 - January 2020

“Chinese people in Shanghai definitely want to see their traditional cuisine modernised. There are two main reasons: firstly, the younger generations really like to embrace new dishes and new restaurants to surprise themselves. Secondly, many Chinese people can’t tolerate Chinese food being in a rut, although they recognise traditional Chinese food.”

But for blogger Xiaoyi Liu, there’s little point in modernisation for its own sake. “Honestly, I am not a big fan of innovative Chinese food in terms of fusion with molecular gastronomy or Western interpretations,” she says. “I am more a supporter of when someone tries their best to translate traditional recipes using methods or presentations that the younger generation of diners, or even diners beyond China, can understand.”

Can Shanghai’s ambitions for Chinese cuisine match its citizen’s ambitions when it comes to money, prosperity, and success? There’s no shortage of any of that in this city, but for Xiaoyi Liu, it’s also a matter of identity and authenticity. “I believe it’s the quest of satisfaction for the diner, and perfection for the chef that keeps things going here,” she says. “On top of that, there’s also this goal to make people, especially international diners, understand what real Chinese food is. It’s not just hot pot, Peking duck and xiao long bao. Sichuan food has made some progress with help from [food writer] Fuschia Dunlop, but there's still a long way to go”.

53

THIS PAGE: Grande Seconde watch from Jaquet Droz with sunray satin-brushed dial set in a 41 mm stainless steel case, a power reserve of 68 hours and an alligator leather strap RIGHT PAGE: Rose gold case watch with ivory dial and an alligator leather strap from Blancpain’s Villeret collection

54

December 2019 - January 2020

Opulent gifts Treat yourself with an enchanting investment piece this festive season

December 2019 - January 2020

55

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Verona necklace with saphhires and diamonds, Van Cleef & Arpels; 18 carat gold and diamond earrings, Tiany & Co; White gold Plume de Paon ring set with morganite and paved with diamonds, Boucheron; 22 carat solid gold coin bracelet, Atasay.

RIGHT PAGE: White gold, emerald and diamond necklace, MaxmillianNLondon.

56

December 2019 - January 2020

December 2019 - January 2020

57

58

December 2019 - January 2020

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Men’s leather horsebit chain shoes, Gucci; Green Carpet Collection Bag by Chloe Sevigny, Chopard; Vinyl boombox in swift calfskin and streaming canvas, Hermès; The Butterfly In A Jar exclusive brooch from Tiffany & Co. LEFT PAGE: Montblanc pens

December 2019 - January 2020

59

December 2019 - January 2020

Index Jumeirah Frankfurt Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Jumeirah Emirates Towers Neighbourhood Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

December 2019 - January 2020

62

December 2019 - January 2020

Enjoy the festive season this year across all our Jumeirah properties

Words − Conor Purcell

Tis The Season

December 2019 - January 2020

63

From opening the presents first thing, to relaxing in front of a sumptuous festive spread, Jumeirah has every aspect covered

Yes, it’s that time of the year of goodwill to all men (and women), and what better way to celebrate the festive season than with these great offers across our properties?

There are few places more magical at this time of year than London, so why not enjoy a family break at Grosvenor House Suites by Jumeirah Living? Located on the doorstep of Hyde Park, and minutes from Winter Wonderland, Grosvenor House Suites by Jumeirah Living is the perfect base for a festive holiday in the English capital. During this magical period, children are able to stay for free with the bonus of complimentary Christmas time movies, cookies, hot chocolate and a personalised toy box filled with a handpicked, age-appropriate selection of latest

64

toys, crafts and books. Children will also enjoy complimentary breakfast to begin the day in style in their new home away from home. It’s the perfect way to create festive memories that will last a lifetime.

In Dubai, take advantage of the weather by soaking up the festive spirit at the sublime Jumeirah Beach Hotel. And for those of you who want to celebrate in style, The Enchanted Forest Gala Dinner is the place to be. Set in a lavish tent by the sea (the perfect place to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks), the dinner will feature a huge range of sumptuous cuisine, as well as unlimited alcoholic beverages.

If you want to witness the New Year’s Eve fireworks from the comfort of your room, book an unforgettable festive ex-

perience at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Not only will you be able to experience the one-of-a-kind hospitality the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is renowned for, but as the clock strikes midnight you will also celebrate 2020 on the stunning Terrace and watch the world-famous fireworks display from the best viewing point in the city.

Over on The Palm, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has a host of festive treats in store.

For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the season, this stunning Ottoman palace offers enough secluded spots to relax and forget the stresses of the year in. Or, if you want to be more social, enjoy our Imperium Festive Eve Dinner (Dh350), which includes a free glass of bubbly on arrival. On December 25th, celebrate in style with our Plaj Festive Celebration – for Dh795, you’ll get an unrivalled spread plus unlimited house beverages and free-flowing French bubbly.

On New Year’s Eve, we have six different venues, all offering world-class food and an unrivalled atmosphere in which to ring in the New Year.

If you fancy a view of Dubai’s skyline while ringing in the New Year, head to Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, which is offering a carnival-themed party on the rooftop bar, Cu-ba. Enjoy free-flowing drinks, light bites and some top-class tunes, as well as views across the Creek.

Whichever Jumeirah property you make your home in this festive season, you can be assured of world-class service and the warmest of welcomes.

December 2019 - January 2020

December 2019 - January 2020

JUMEIRAH FRANKFURT Mix business with pleasure in the heart of Europe’s business hub

66

December 2019 - January 2020

Located in the heart of one of Europe’s most culturally rich cities, Jumeirah Frankfurt combines cutting-edge technology (touch screen destination controls in the lifts, motion sensors in the rooms) with the renowned five-star Jumeirah hospitality.

Set in a spectacular 25-storey glass tower, the hotel features two restaurants,

a bar and a beautiful spa. The location isn’t too shabby either, connected to the MyZeil shopping mall (which is home to everyone from Adidas and Lego to Swarovski and The Body Shop) and only a few minutes’ walk from the majority of the city’s cultural highlights.

Guests can start off their day in considerable style at the Max on One Grillroom which hosts a delectable daily breakfast buffet. The wood and glass interior is the perfect place to fuel up, with a range of hot and cold dishes, including fresh honey from the rooftop beehives.

The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, with open-plan layouts, floor to ceiling windows and neutral, cream brown and white colour palettes. There are also tablets in each room on which guests can order room service, adjust room temperatures and connect to reception.

Dinner is taken care off in El Rayyan restaurant, or for a pre-dinner tipple, head to the Ember Bar & Lounge, which has an impressive collection of gins, as well as access to a range of light snacks if you can’t wait for dinner.

Guests can also access the 25metre swimming pool next door at Fitness First, or indulge in some pampering at the wonderful Talise Spa. We recommend the Refinery Power Lift Facial. The spa also features a Finnish sauna, a relaxation area and a Crystal water lounge, as well as five treatment rooms, including a couple’s suite.

Jumeirah Frankfurt Thurn-und-Taxis-Platz 2, 60313 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Tel: 0049 69 2972370

December 2019 - January 2020

67

JUMEIRAH AT ETIHAD TOWERS Explore a huge range of culinary options at one of the region’s most spectacular hotels

68

December 2019 - January 2020

Jumeirah At Etihad Towers West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: 00971 28115722

December 2019 - January 2020

Location is everything, and you couldn’t be better placed than Jumeirah At Etihad Towers to take advantage of the UAE capital’s cultural highlights. Just across the street is the Founder’s Memorial dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, while Emirates Palace is only a moment’s walk away. The Corniche, and the golden sands of Corniche Family Beach are also a few minutes away, that is of course, if you can drag yourself away from the hotel.

First, let’s talk about the architecture. This cluster of towers looks stunning at all times of the day and night, and has added a touch of cutting-edge glamour to the Abu Dhabi skyline.

Inside is equally compelling, with Swarovski crystal chandeliers in the glass-panelled lobby, while the lifts are encrusted with amethysts. That attention to detail is also evident in the rooms: all 382 rooms and suites (and 192 serviced apartments) have large workspaces, with remote-controlled lighting and curtains.

While all the rooms are spacious (and have suitably stunning views of either the Gulf or the city, or both), the Club catego-

ry rooms are bigger still, and have access to complimentary meals in the lounge.

If you want to push the boat out, why not plump for an Etihad or Royal suite, which include butler service and a personalised check-in.

There’s few hotels in the region with as much culinary choice as you’ll find here. There are 12 (yes, 12) bars and restaurants to choose from, with something for everyone. One of the highlights is Toro Toro, a Peruvian restaurant that has become something of a go-to spot for foodies in the capital. Ray’s Bar is perfect for a sundowner (they have a huge range of cocktails), with unrivalled views of the seafront from the 62nd floor. If you fancy some regional cuisine, head to Li Beirut, which features a range of sumptuous Lebanese cuisine. With everything from lobster to mixed grill, it’s a veritable feast for the senses, just be sure to leave room for dessert. If Lebanese food is not for you, there’s also Rosewater (where breakfast is served), BiCE (a mix of traditional and modern Italian), Tori No Su (an award-winning Japanese eatery) and Nahaam (a funky, casual dining experience).

69

December 2019 - January 2020

Illustration − Trang Minh

Dubai Neighbourhood Guide Exploring DIFC, Dubai’s epicentre of art and commerce Situated right in the heart of the action, (1) Emirates Towers (00971 43300000) has long been one of the most iconic elements of Dubai’s skyline.

These two shimmering, angled towers look amazing at any time of day or night, and the interiors are pretty good too. But first, breakfast. Indulge yourself at Mundo, which offers a host of delectable morning treats, from a range of pastries to a full English. The atmosphere is chilled and is the perfect place to enjoy a latte (or two) and prepare yourself for the day ahead.

Dubai is known for its shopping and Emirates Towers is filled with high-end boutiques. There’s stunning jewellery from Ferini to Cartier’s exquisite creations, there’s something for everyone. We love (2) Mont Blanc (00971 43304810), which is filled with elegant watches, pens and accessories. Check out the Meisterstück Platinum-Coated Classique pen which, at $600, is sure to turn heads. We’re also fans of the Meisterstück wallet, which is slim enough to fit in any pocket and the perfect place for those credit cards. If you need an extra bag to carry home those presents, how about the Montblanc Cabin Trolley in deep red? It’s sure to get envious glances at the baggage carousel.

Even in a city with as many iconic building as Dubai, the (3) Museum of the Future stands out.

Looking somewhat like a squashed donut, it’s a striking piece of architecture. Designed by the renowned architect, Shaun Killa, the building’s windows take the form of Arab calligraphy, based on the shape of quotes from Dubai’s ruler, HH Sheikh Mohammed.

The building will eventually feature seven floors of

December 2019 - January 2020

exhibition space, an auditorium, as a well as a restaurant and café. It’s not open yet, but still worth a visit to take in the remarkable architecture.

Another piece of remarkable architecture in a district full of it is the (4) Gate Building, which signifies the entrance to Dubai’s financial centre. Modelled after the Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, the building comprises more than 46,000 square metres of office space, as well as a club on the 12th floor.

It’s the perfect place for that sunset selfie, just make sure to get Emirates Towers in the background too.

If all that architecture is making you hungry, head down the street to (5) Zaroob (00971 800927662), which features some of the best Lebanese food this side of Beirut. Inspired by the traditional street food vendors in the Levant, the menu features Arab street food with a modern twist. From the Akawi cheese man’oushe to the chicken shawarma platter to the koshari, there’s a huge range of delicious options available. Round things off with a nutella saj wrap and a cup of coffee. Yum. Once your food cravings have been sated, how about getting a cultural fix? The (6) Empty Quarter Gallery (00971 43231210) is one of the most renowned galleries in the region, and the only gallery in Dubai dedicated to fine art photography.

Expect remarkable work from photographers from around the region and the world. Previous exhibitions have featured the likes of renowned National Geographic photographer Steve Mc Curry, as well as regional heavyweights such as Reem Al Faisal and Al Moutasim Al Maskery.

71

Our Hotels DUBAI Burj Al Arab Jumeirah This iconic sail-shaped hotel redefined luxury when it opened, and still offers the finest in service and experience.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel With ocean-view rooms and suites, restaurants, cafés, bars, swimming pools and a private beach, this is the ultimate family hotel looking fresher than ever after its recent refurbishment.

Jumeirah Al Naseem This sprawling five-star property features lush gardens, generous terraces and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Jumeirah Al Qasr Designed in the unparalleled opulent style of a Sheikh’s summer residence, Al Qasr offers the ultimate in Arabian style.

Jumeirah Al Naseem

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf Understated charm is the byword at this intimate yet generous property.

Jumeirah Mina A’Salam Located in the heart of Madinat Jumeirah, Mina A’Salam is a luxurious boutique hotel. Take an abra through the canals that surround the hotel and soak up the atmosphere.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Nestled in the serene environs of The Palm Jumeirah’s West Cresent, this property exudes Ottoman-era charm and stunning views to bask in.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Royal Residences Set amid lush tropical gardens and facing a magnificent lagoon pool, the Royal Residences set a new bar for accommodations in the city.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers These two towers are icons of Dubai’s skyline. The hotel offers 400 rooms, eight meeting rooms, 11 bars and restaurants and lots of business and meeting facilities.

Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Residences Redefine the idea of home at these fully serviced beautiful residences in heart of Abu Dhabi.

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

Executive living reaches new heights at these serviced apartments in the heart of Dubai’s business district.

A resort that redefined grandiosity in the capital, this property, situated on a 400-metre private beach offers a host of leisure activities.

Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens

Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa

This 210-room social hub with its quirky neighbourhood, Insta-worthy interiors, laid back vibes and eccentric concepts is worth a stay.

Nestled in the spectacularly beautiful Arabian Desert, this boutique resort offers unrivalled tranquillity and views.

BAHRAIN ABU DHABI Jumeirah Royal Saray

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

Offers wonderful views of the Creek and the Dubai skyline. It’s perfect for business travellers who need to unwind.

These five dramatically sculpted towers have become an Abu Dhabi landmark, and they are as spectacular inside as out.

72

Situated on a private beach in Bahrain’s new Seef district, the Royal Saray marries Arabian opulence with worldclass service.

December 2019June - January - July 2020 2019

Jumeirah Carlton Tower

Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel

FRANKFURT

LONDON

MALLORCA

Jumeirah Frankfurt

Grosvenor House Suites

by Jumeirah Living

Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa

There’s nowhere quite like Mayfair, and this Park Lane property exudes oldworld charm and understated service.

Nestled amidst Sóller Valley and the UNESCO World Heritage Tramuntana Mountain range, the Port Soller offers understated luxury in the heart of one of Europe’s hippest destinations.

This 218-room five star property offers discreet splendour in the heart of the continent's financial hub.

GUANGZHOU Jumeirah Carlton Tower Jumeirah Guangzhou With 126 rooms all of which are located from the 50th floor, majestic views of sunsets and starry skies along with delectable cuisine at any of the seven outlets makes it a delighful base.

Jumeirah Living Guangzhou Located in the heart of Guangzhou, this already iconic building offers 169 luxurious residences, a temperaturecontrolled outdoor swimming pool and a host of F&B options.

This striking Knightsbridge property is currently under renovation and expected to open in spring 2020.

Jumeirah Nanjing Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel Located in the heart of Belgravia, and perfectly located between Hyde Park and the West End, Lowndes offers a boutique townhouse experience with the unrivalled hospitality Jumeirah is renowned for.

MALDIVES KUWAIT

Jumeirah Vittaveli

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa

Vittaveli mixes island charm with worldclass service. Enjoy the views, watch the sunset or cycle one of the complimentary bikes out to a deserted spot. Bliss.

Go for the huge private beach, seven world-class restaurants, kid’s club and a comprehensive fitness centre.

June - July 2019 December 2019 - January 2020

NANJING

Designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, this hotel is a stunning piece of design.

SHANGHAI Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel From the 16-metre high lobby to the artwork that adorns the walls, the Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel is an eclectic fusion of new and old.

COMING SOON Bali – Jumeirah Bali Oman – Jumeirah Muscat Bay

73

The shot

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai

74

December 2019 - January 2020

Breguet La Marine Marine Lady 9518

B R E G U E T B O U T I Q U E – D U B A I M A L L D U B A I ( U A E ) + 971 4 3 3 9 8 7 5 6 – W W W. B R E G U E T. C O M