Your Knightsbridge

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LIFESTYLE

FASHION

BEAUTY

WATCHES

Issue 45 • January 2016

MOTORING

TRAVEL

PROPERTY

CONTENTS 34 First signs of Spring It may be January, but beauty brands are already preparing you for Spring.

12 WIN National Wedding Show Tickets Ten pairs of tickets up for grabs for the National Wedding Show in London.

41 Travel The Gambia may be small, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to travel destinations.

14 Chinese New Year The year of the monkey set for celebrations in London on 8 February.

56 Your Palate New openings, tipples to help you through January and some detox ideas if that doesn’t work.

21 Precious Greek elixir Metaxa launch the Everness for your stunning AEN decanter.

60 Time to buy: Wine Edward Gerrard has let the secret out, now is the time to buy.

22 Roger Dubuis Blossoms Set to stun crowds at SIHH 2016, Roger Dubuis have released details of some blossoming timepieces.

24 Set sail for the seven seas Van Cleef & Arpels release their latest collection inspired by the sea.

78 Original Fiat 500F A stunning example of this iconic classic, perfect for London’s little roads.

27 Johnstons of Elgin The English brand launches their first flagship store on New Bond Street.

81 Your Living Savills and Lourdes take a look at the year ahead and it’s set to be a busy one.

4

MONTEGRAPPA.CO.UK Tel: 01245 225775 Email: info@montegrappa.co.uk Available at Montegrappa in The Great Writing Room, Harrods

64 Perfect Wine Pairings Nutritional dishes that you can enjoy with a glass or two of the perfect wine helping you keep your body on track but not starved of lifes little pleasures.

FROM THE EDITOR

January brings with it the inevitable resolutions and ideals that we aim to continue throughout the year - but can mostly only continue for less than a month. Gyms will be taunting your extra couple of pounds from Christmas and your desk will be longing for a Spring clean, but you must not despair.

There are plenty of simple solutions to help you through this month. Thanks to the weather appearing to have remained somewhat tropical, you can take advantage of being able to spend more time outside and integrate it into your working day killing two birds with one stone. Walk an extra part of your journey or take the stairs once you arrive and you won’t need to pay out extortionate fees for a gym membership that you will use for two weeks out of the year. You will also notice a boost in your energy levels thanks to the release of endorphins lifting your mood to avoid the January blues.

There are also lots of ways to help you through with the food you eat, and it doesn’t have to be boring superfoods or plain, tasteless dishes. Madeleine Shaw has taken up residence at Harrods as Chef of the Season until the end of

February, so head over to find some incredible ingredients that will deliver a meal that you will enjoy and reap the benefits of too. Immune boosters, energy raisers and of course fat fighting techniques are all at the top of the list this month, but remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Set yourself some small, achievable goals every couple of weeks and the time will fly by. Before you know it, it will be time for a holiday.

For something a little different this year, why not take a trip to remember in The Gambia. A fascinating country on the West coast of Africa boasting incredible sun and beaches along with magnificent wildlife and the most inviting communities you will find anywhere. You can tailor your trip too with the help of The Gambia Experience to make sure you do as little or as much as you like.

Whilst dreaming of the holidays to come, just remember that everyone is in the same boat, so use a little retail therapy - which will burn some more of that turkey off - and make the most of what will be the quietest month of the year!

Managing Director Paul Gregory Group Editor Emma Tompkins | Editorial Director Lyndon Ford Commercial Director Jason Plom | Sales Director Jennifer Tompkins | Brand Director Nicholas Edgley Circulation and Production Kevin Rowden | Accounts Manager Beverley Hearn +44(0) 20 7515 1339 | info@yourmedialondon.com | yourmedialondon.com Your Media Magazines Limited, Cascades, 2 Westferry Road, London E14 8JN ©Your Media Magazines Limited. All material is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any language without the written permission of Your Media Magazines Limited is strictly prohibited. The greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine at the time of going to press, but we accept no liability for omissions and errors. Terms of acceptance can be viewed online.

Explore the space between yesterday and tomorrow.

The Mulsanne.

For more information, call +44 (0)1270 448 468 or visit www.BentleyMotors.com.

Mulsanne fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle in mpg (l/100 km)*: Urban 12.4 (22.8); Extra Urban 28.4 (9.9); Combined 19.3 (14.6). CO2 Emissions 342 g/km. *Fuel consumption figures are subject to Type Approval. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2015 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Mulsanne

Lumiere London You’d be forgiven for thinking now that January is here the twinkling festive lights will all but disappear, however you couldn’t be more wrong as London prepares to host the biggest ever light festival to hit the capital.

Produced by Artichoke and supported by Mayor of London, Lumiere London will see two iconic destinations at King’s Cross, and the West End be transformed with neons, video-mapped projections and installations, responding to the unique architecture of each location. Taking place outdoors over four evenings, the festival will be completely free to attend and is certainly not one to be missed.

The 300 year-old Leicester Square will be transformed into an exotic tropical garden. Garden of Light, created by the French artists TILT, will feature giant illuminated plants and flowers, bringing a touch of summer to the winter nights of January. While the historic Piccadilly, which features some of London’s most impressive architecture and is home to an eclectic mix of world famous retailers, iconic cultural institutions and hotels and eateries, will be hosting two remarkable installations as part of

Lumiere London – details of which will be unveiled this January.

These installations are set to blow spectators away, transforming one of the area’s most spectacular landmark buildings.

Artichoke is passionate about the possibility of light and how it can transform urban environments and produced the first Lumiere in Durham in 2009, where it has since returned every other year, commissioned by Durham County Council. In 2013 the company also travelled to Derry~Londonderry where a unique Lumiere programme was part of the finale to the UK City of Culture celebrations.

Artichoke’s first ever project, The Sultan’s Elephant took place in London in 2006. This was followed by extraordinary projects such as The Telectroscope and Antony Gormley’s One & Other.

Now, the company’s return to the capital coincides with their 10 year anniversary.

Prepare to be amazed with a dazzling array of artists preparing to throw new light on some of the city’s most celebrated buildings, everyone is invited to start the new year in spectacular fashion at Lumiere London.

Plan your visit at visitlondon.com/lumiere

Lumiere London, 14-17 January 2016 | www.lumiere-festival.com/london-2016

WIN White Hot Tickets to the

Wedding Show of the Season This spring sees the return of the UK’s biggest wedding show, where you can experience every element of your dream day unfolding before your very eyes. From discovering your perfect venue and trying on the dress of your dreams to sampling delectable delights, eyeing up fabulous floral creations and seeking out your idyllic honeymoon hideaway; The National Wedding Show is the ultimate one-stop-shop to discover the wedding experts in every field. Endless inspiration and countless shopping opportunities to try, buy, book and hire everything you can imagine for your big day, all under one roof.

Kickstart the day by taking a seat at the renowned Catwalk Show to see the latest trends for all the bridal party brought to life on the runway. A showcase of the hottest collections of the season from the nation's finest designers, boutiques and retailers, provides invaluable inspiration for not only the bride, but also mothers and fathers, beautiful bridesmaids, dashing best men and ushers and not forgetting the man of the moment, the groom. The must-see line-up includes designs from the likes of Jenny Packham, Sassi Holford, Suzanne Neville, Ian Stuart, Halfpenny London, House of Mooshki, Nigel Rayment, Jeff Banks Savile Row, Ted Baker at Moss Bros, Ghost London and Maids to Measure, to name just a few.

Get up close and personal with the all-important wedding dresses by hitting the designated Bridal Boutique and Designer Boutique to browse and try on an unrivalled selection of dresses under one roof.

From high street to couture, short and sassy styles to long, glamorous, show-stopping numbers, there is something to suit every style, shape and budget.

Floral fantasies become a reality at the Designer Flower Market, where you will find inspiration-a-plenty from the show-stopping displays together with expert advice from a line-up of top florists. Whether you

are dreaming of a big, traditional fairytale wedding or planning an intimate summer garden affair, there are stylish solutions for all themes and colour schemes.

If you’re looking for something a little more alternative for your big day, head to The Rock n Roll Bride Collection. Brand new for 2016, the Rock n Roll Bride Collection will feature everything from bridalwear and accessories to flowers, cakes and stationery, to make your big day truly unique in every way. The Rock n Roll Bride Collection will also play host to the The Rock n Roll Café, the perfect place to unwind during an action-packed day of shopping, wedding planning and inspiration.

After an action-packed day of shopping and planning, make a beeline for the Champagne Bar to enjoy a well-deserved glass of bubbly and raise a toast to your exciting big day ahead! If you appreciate the finer things in life then get ahead of the crowds and enjoy the show in style with VIP tickets. The exclusive package includes fast track entrance to the show, reserved seating at the Catwalk Show, unlimited access to the VIP Lounge, a complimentary glass of fizz, a mini make-under from bareMinerals, and a goody box containing beauty products to pamper yourself in the build up to your big day.

Your Media London has teamed up with The National Wedding Show to offer 10 lucky readers and their ‘plus one’ the chance to attend the year’s most prestigious wedding event, absolutely free! Simply send your name, address and contact number to competitions@yourmedialondon.com to be in with a chance of winning. Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for?

Send your entry today!

The National Wedding Show | London Olympia | 26 - 28 February 2016 | nationalweddingshow.co.uk

Show-stopping seafoodseafood bar andbar luxurious all-day dining in an elegant Show-stopping and luxurious all-day dining Twenties Kaspar’ s festive set menu available and in a setting. dazzling Twenties setting.

Open from for 7amlunch to 11pm. pre/post theatre. ÂŁ28 for three-courses.

To make a booking, please contact +44 (0)20 7420 2111.

To book a table please call +44 (0)20 7420 2111.

SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL

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Year of the Monkey London's Chinese New Year celebrations are the largest outside Asia. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people descend on the West End to wish each other "Xin Nian Kuai Le" - Happy New Year in Mandarin -or "San Nin Faai Lok" - in Cantonese.

Chinese New Year 2016 is the Year of the Monkey and will fall on 8 February. The event, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar and celebrates the start of new life and the season of ploughing and sowing.

New Year festivities start on the first day of the lunar month and continue until the fifteenth, when the moon is brightest. The first week is celebrated with visits to friends and family following special traditions designed to bring good luck. The second week ends with the Lantern festival on the evening of the 15th day of the lunar month.

The colour red is particularly important during the celebrations and symbolises fire which is thought to scare away evil spirits so people can enjoy

a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. Most people dress head to foot in new red clothing to ward off the spirits.

Lots of events will be taking place around the capital; however the main activities will happen in Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue so make sure you plan your celebrations early!

The traditional opening ceremony will take place in Trafalgar Square with speeches from officials before an array of fireworks, Chinese music, Dragon dancing and performances on the main stage.

Hundreds of performers are set to take part including the world-renowned Chen Brothers Flying Lion Dance and a variety of performers from the Guangdong and Sichuan Provinces.

As well as the parade and festival, there will also be a variety of stalls offering an incredible array of souvenirs including lanterns, paper dragons, drums and paper cutting artwork. Visitors are recommended to sample the delicious regional food that is served in and around Chinatown while enjoying one of the many impromptu lion dancing performances.

Chinese New Year, 8 February | www.chinatownlondon.org

68ft of new

flybridge ideas.

The 68 is our latest and most advanced flybridge yacht. Pushing the boundaries of design, windows surround the interior of this four cabin yacht. The result is spectacular – horizon everywhere you look. The 68 reaches a top speed of 35 knots with totally assured handling. With foredeck seating, a private master stateroom stairway, a five-person lower helm, two full dining areas and a huge flybridge, the 68 is a powerhouse of good ideas.

PRINCESS MOTOR YACHT SALES +44 (0)1489 557755 · sales@princess.co.uk · www.princess.co.uk

princessyachts.com

Choconut Newly opened Choconut is perfectly located between the affluent areas of Marylebone, Fitzrovia and Mayfair and is hard to miss as you pass down Great Portland Street. Comprising of clean and unique marble surfaces along with some stylish wooden displays, the store is eye catching from the offset, but when you add some truly stunning chocolate work in the window, it is hard to ignore.

The beauty of this new brand is that they are doing everything for themselves. Right down to the chocolate recipes, you won’t find anywhere else in the world. You can see for yourself as the two chocolatiers craft the next selection at the back of the shop while you order one of the finest coffees you will find in London. The team behind Choconut have gone to great lengths to ensure that every aspect of your experience is one that you will remember. They grind their own coffee, but they control each and every grind to offer specific characteristics. Not only that, but they also use the best tech on the market to heat the coffee to the

throughout the store - which is the last of its kind, once used by the Pharaohs - to the highly trained chocolatiers and baristas using the best equipment available, everything has been taken into account to deliver the highest quality product to their customers. A delectable selection of nuts are on offer displayed beautifully in bespoke-built rotating wooden towers along with candied fruits, homemade cakes and pastries. Thanks to everything being handcrafted and closely managed by the team, you won’t find a single preservative and everything is made using natural ingredients. So if you are looking for a little treat to help you though the lean January, head over to Choconut and they will be happy to help you find the perfect fix. And don’t forget to try the coffee while you’re there, it will revolutionise your drinking habits.

This is the perfect place to get something a little different for your loved one on Valentine’s Day too.

With a unique flavour and texture, along with incredible appearance, their chocolates offer something out of the ordinary from the mundane that will be

perfect temperature for each individual drink. So if you order an espresso, the temperature will be different to that of a cappuccino creating the perfect drink for you every time.

Considerable time, money and effort has gone into this project and it is clear to see why. From the solid chocolate marble featured

a welcome and refreshing surprise for any recipient and chocolate lover alike. As the brand settles in to their new home, you can expect to see plenty more on offer, so take a detour on your daily journey very now and then to see what’s on offer and you can rest assured that you will be lured in to this tasty treasure trove.

Choconut, 161 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5PB | info@choconut.london | choconut.london

established 1909

The Players Package 18 Holes on Lower or Upper Course Bacon Roll with tea/coffee on arrival Only £17.50 pp Monday - Thursday £21.00 pp Friday £27.00 pp Weekends 22 Bay Driving Range - 36 Holes - 42 Buggies –100 years of history

020 8500 2131 | www.hainaultgolfclub.co.uk Hainault Golf Club, Romford Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 4QW

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FINANCE WITH MATT GOLD

US Rate Hike...So What?

Our ďŹ nancial insider reviews the global markets

Finally, since June 2006, US interest rate has gone up again. Fed Rate has gone up by 0.25% to a range of 0.25 to 0.5%. So why did US Fed increase interest rate in Decembere? There is no perfect timing and perhaps the Fed missed a better slot earlier. Like before the China A shares bubble burst in July. The tension between the European Union and Russia over Ukarine, the Syria rufugees and the unhealing Greek situation have nailed Euro to the floor. Commodities currencies such as Canadian Dollars and Australian Dollars fell as China’s economy slowed down. China Renmanbi also joined the dark side to depreciate its currency to ease the downward pressure in the property and stock markets.

Another angle is that the purpose of loosening in monetary policy and dropping interest rate to zero was to save the US finanicial industry. The AIG, Fannie Mae and Frediie Mac, Citibank and other financial institutions that were paralized from the shock of Lehman bankrupcy. Now these Financial Institutions have regained strength and the US Fed can increase rate. Increased interest rate is like sending the US economy to the gym for training. Make the economy sweat, it gets fit and builds muscle to prepare for the next bubble bursting.

US companies can take advantage of the US Dollar strength for acquisition. Many foreign markets and currencies have fallen against US Dollar. It could be shopping time.

The bond market would suffer especially bonds with fixed coupon.

As interest rate goes up, these bond prices tend to drop. The longer the maturity of the bonds, the more they could drop in price. The currency market is harder to read as USD is already so strong. Long USD short EUR is an attractive carry trade. Banks charge clients to deposit EUR and pays clients interest on their USD deposit. Would EUR drop to less than a USD? Many institutions have shorted EUR agasint USD and rode the long term trend. Many hedge fund managers and currency traders who short EUR with high leverage got burnt from wrong timing as EUR could rebound fiercely. For those who are non professional but have a strong conviction in the currency market, lower or no leveage positions could help you to ride the longer trend and withstand sharp market movement. Leverage or margain trading are definitley high risk investment as the investors could lose more money than they put up in the first place, leading to debt beyond affordability.

For stock investors who feel EUR will be further weakened against USD, companies that are EUR sensitive

could be interesting. For example, international airlines that have most of the cost in EUR but getting revenue in USD. Similarly tourism sector, luxury goods, engineering companies and manufacturers.

Eurostoxx 50 Index ETF or the German DAX Index ETF are convenient investment tools to get exposure to the Euro zone story.

However, the increased compeitiveness due to a weak Euro is offset by many risk factors. The Euro zone is a live case study of a system that is facing all the uncontrollable risks at a corporate level. Currency unpeg, political risk, war, terrorist attack and social unrest are all real risks in the Euro zone. Buyers beware.

There are two other economies that could potentially continue their growth in a rising US interest rate environment. UK is likely to enjoy its physical separation as an island from the rest of Europe and its independency in Great British Pound. UK global software and IT sectors are competitive. Education sector is a real GDP contributor and the growing population in oversea university students drives rental market nearby and supports property prices. UK economic growth is expected to be around 2.9% in 2015 and it is the second fastest in the advanced world after USA. UK economy is expected to be 6.1%, larger than its peak before the financial crisis. Ireland is the only English speaking country in Europe using EUR. Its GDP rose by 7% in the first half of 2015, probably the fastest in the Euro zone after surpassing the pre-crisis high last year. Its low corporate tax rate of 12.5% attracts phamaceutical companies like Pfizer and tech companies like Apple, Google and Facebook to setup European base.

Content within this column is personal opinion and does not constitute financial advice and should not be taken as such. Information correct at time of going to print.

Contact Matt by email at matt.gold@yourmedialondon.com

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The Everness A stunning piece of art for the already spectacular AEN Metaxa

Created in 1888, the AEN is an exceptional liquid crafted from more than 200 different blends and has spent over eighty years evolving and maturing. AEN is the ancient Greek word for forever and this, the forever-living spirit of Metaxa. The maturation process is such that Metaxa Master Costas Raptis is fifth in a row of men of singular talent who have carefully tended to AEN Cask No1. The AEN Metaxa decanter is designed for lovers of pure beauty, each crystal decanter is elegantly handmade by the Crystal de S vres traditional craftsmen. nce you open the decanter, the exquisite elixir is almost enticing you to be savoured in its cap. Uniquely crafted and finished with real gold, it creates a beautiful, drop shaped reflection. Each AEN cap is unique, crafted and finished with 20.6 Carat Gold. To respect the true spirit of AEN Metaxa, only 1 decanters have been created to hold the precious spirit.

Furthermore, Dimitris Tsigos has created a symbol of eternity to hold, protect and caress this precious decanter.

Everness, the sculpture he has created for AEN, is the embodiment of this everflowing elixir, enhancing the decanter’s uniqueness and embracing its impeccable beauty. A true collector’s item that would appeal to admirers of innovative design, the Everness for AEN is a cutting edge sculpture made from fibre glass and is modern ingenious translation of the classic AEN spirit. This remarkable piece of art truly cherishes the decanter it embraces, to complement the exquisite Metaxa AEN

experience and you can even personalise it.

Everness is the expression of the authentic Greek talent, Dimitris Tsigos. Born in Athens in 1 7 , raised overlooking the Panathenaic stadium, Dimitris accepted the challenge of creating an artistic translation for AEN, fascinated by this unique spirit.

The story of the House of Metaxa motivated and inspired him to accept the iconic House’s invitation. For him, this was a call to visually interpret the Metaxa heart and soul he has admired since his early years. Everness became a labour of love, as he felt that he co-designed the sculpture together with the people of the House.

Each AEN decanter bears a serial number, accompanied by an authenticity certificate signed by hand by the Metaxa Master. The Colours chosen for the Everness respects the multidimensional nature of the spirit’s deep and warm palette, depending on how you look at it, AEN can become a mahogany red, or a bright bronze gold. The colour of Everness is here to capture this complexity, as it changes colour depending on the light, an always evolving visual.

AEN inspired him to revive elements and movements found in nature, to create a model by following the whirl of the precious liquid.

AEN Metaxa is available to purchase from Hedonism Wines for £1,365.80. Visit hedonism.co.uk or Hedonism Wines, 3-7 Davies Street, London W1K 3LD. The impressive personalised limited edition Everness for AEN is available for £220.00 but is only available upon request at metaxa.com or by emailing aeneverness@metaxa.com directly. metaxa.com

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Roger Dubuis Set to Blossom The word is out, there’s no denying it: Roger Dubuis and women are engaged in a passionate love affair that has already gone public and is about to move to a whole new level. At the SIHH 2016, Roger Dubuis is re aring to raise the curtain on a gorgeous arra o elvet time ieces o ering irre utable confirmation o its ability to meet women’s expectations through the expression of various facets of feminine nature.

SIHH 2016 will provide yet another opportunity for Roger Dubuis to demonstrate its staging abilities, this time in cinematographic Technicolor, with a World that is part film studio, part opulent theatre, part red-carpeted staircase. Exactly the backdrop required to stage the unveiling of five new Velvet stories. Lights, camera, action!

Within this stunning setting evoking the world’s most starstudded film events, the Roger Dubuis woman and the watch she wears become the unmistakable stars of the Roger Dubuis World.

Vividly highlighting the jewellery expertise cultivated by Roger Dubuis, the Velvet collection pays triumphant homage to the timeless beauty of womanhood in all its multiple facets.

Representing an essential complement to its horological knowhow as the ‘specialist of architectural and technical mechanics’ and the ‘pioneer of contemporary skeleton calibres’, this powerful emphasis on its intimate ties with femininity is now set to establish Roger Dubuis as the ‘jeweller of rare artistic masterpieces’. The horological expertise cultivated by Roger Dubuis and clearly evidenced in its loyalty to the Poin on de Gen ve standards of watchmaking excellence, also translates into a determination to present a firmly mechanical ‘fist’ inside the Velvet glove.

This is done by providing movements designed for women sensitive to the inner and outer beauty of their timepiece naturalborn Divas who instinctively transcend clich s and expect a timepiece that quite literally has it all. The Blossom Velvet Pink is an anthem to floral fantasies that encapsulates the mysterious, instinctively possessive and captivatingly sensuous facets of feline femininity. Its exquisitely sculpted and engraved mother-of-pearl marquetry motif takes time into a dimension where counting the hours and minutes is replaced by serene contemplation of blooming nature.

Combining a soft, floral exterior with the sharp mischief of the Diva’s inner felinity, Blossom Velvet Pink is the quintessence of blooming femininity, a multi-petal expression of sensuality and glamour. Above and beyond its floral name and motif, the Blossom Velvet subtly hints at the feline facet of female nature. Captivating,

possessive, instinctive and mysterious, the Blossom Velvet conceals its innermost instincts beneath a demure and dainty exterior.

The Blossom Velvet Pink depicts wild blooms that transcend any specific geographic location by appealing to the imagination and its indefinable floral fantasies, even conjuring up visions of powerful jungle vines beneath dazzling exotic flowers.

The 36 mm pink gold case is rimmed with two rows of brilliant-cut diamonds adorning the bezel and lugs, transforming the Velvet’s classic central third lug into a precious link. These sparkling gems surround the characteristic split-level motherof-pearl dial graced with an engraved and sculpted floral marquetry motif. The signature Velvet central tonneau or barrel shape contributing to its trompe l’oeil effect and swept over by the hours and minutes hands is delicately accentuated by diamonds.

Gifted artisans have played with softly curved shapes and subtle shades of pink to form a unique floral d cor skilfully fashioned from an exceptionally thick plate of Grand Feu enamel.

Roger Dubuis has also announce that other varieties will be blooming in the Blossom Velvet flowerbed, but their nature and identity remain a budding promise, for now.

rogerdubuis.com

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Van Cleef & Arpels

Head to the Seven Seas for Inspiration From peaceful shores to the open sea, from foaming breakers to crystalline expanses, Van Cleef Arpels has let its gaze drift to the far horizon. The ever-changing spectacle of the waves and the grace of the sea’s denizens have captivated its senses to inspire a new collection of High Jewellery.

Much like a travel memoir, it brings together treasures and impressions, transposed into jewellery by the language of gems. In a cascade of blues, the distinctive sparkles of the Adriatic and the Mediterranean stand alongside those of the Caspian and Arabian Seas. The far reaches of the Atlantic and the Indian cean have inspired streams of light, while dazzling associations of materials evoke the Red and Black Seas. During this contemplative voyage, the Maison explores

the sea’s multiple shades from gradations of turquoise and emerald green to sparkling sunlight in the heat of the afternoon or moonbeams glittering on its mirrored waters.

Nature has always occupied a central place in the world of Van Cleef Arpels, and here in the aptly named ‘Seven Seas’ collection is represented in all its richness and diversity.

The theme of the sea fascinating for its flora and fauna as much as for the legends attached to it has provided the Maison with an infinite source of inspiration for its High Jewellery creations.

The Seven Seas collection pays tribute to this universe with a vision that is both cultural and dreamlike. It invites us to embark on a dual voyage across the world and to the origins of the expression the seven seas .

@VanCleefArpels | #SevenSeasTreasures | www.vancleefarpels.com

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@VanCleefArpels | #SevenSeasTreasures | www.vancleefarpels.com

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Photographer Dalien Marz

www.8over7.com

info@8over7.com

Johnstons of Elgin

Left Gentleman: Knitted scarf: £200 Jumper: £299 Right Gentleman: Tartan Scarf: £79 Blue Jumper: £299 Hat: £59

Cashmere Knitted Ties: £89.00 Left Gentleman: Cashmere Mens 2 Ply Slim Fit V Neck Jumper £115.00 Cashmere Contemporary Jacket £450.00 Right Gentleman: Cashmere 4 Ply Cable and Rib Shawl Collar Cardigan £395.00

Cashmere Donegal Hat: £40.00 Cream and Blue Marl Crochet Stitch Scarf: £69.00 each Cashmere Cable Cardigan £315.00

Gentleman: Cashmere Donegal Hat: £40.00 Cream and Blue Marl Crochet Stitch Scarf: £69.00 each Cashmere Cable Cardigan £315.00 Woman: Cashmere Ribbed Scarf £75.00 Cashmere Muted Check Stole £299.00

Johnstons of Elgin | 03442 252 252 | www.johnstonscashmere.com

Gentleman: Cashmere Ribbed Hat £59.00 Cashmere 4 Ply Ribbed Shawl Collar Jumper £225.00 Woman: Cashmere Highland Fling Hat £59.00* Cashmere Highland Fling Wristwarmers £39.00* Cashmere 30 Ply Belted V-Neck Cardigan £335.00 *Cashmere Highland Fling Gift Set (Hat, Gloves and Scarf) £199.00

Johnstons of Elgin | 03442 252 252 | www.johnstonscashmere.com

Beauty Buys Spring back to life with the latest makeup offerings

While you may consider it’s far too early to think of spring, it’s not for the beauty brands out there.

Perfect pastel nail varnishes, and a delicate array of pinks and pearlised highlights. The Dior SS16 collection is as pretty as it is wearable. Inspired by glowing gardens, the Diorskin Nude Air Glowing Gardens draws inspiration from the popular strobing technique.

The superfine powder contains glistening, illuminating pigments and is embossed with a delicate floral motif.

We are coveting the stunning Blooming Blush in Floral Pink and the oil-gel Lip Glow Pomade which enhances the lips and brings out their natural colour.

Available at Selfridges and online at selfridges.com | dior.com

Blending the benefits of BB formulas and blur technology, La Roche-Posay unveils the latest addition to the award-winning Effaclar range with Effaclar BB Blur; designed to remove shine, for an instantly flawless complexion.

Heavy coverage can often make visible marks from blemishes, redness, scarring and enlarged pores look worse, and often worsen too. Available in two shades, the cream mousse formula has been developed by dermatologists to address issues specifically unique to oily skin, Effaclar BB Blur is ideal to use to remove persistent shine all whilst being suitable for the most sensitive skin.

Effaclar BB Blur, £16.50, La Roche-Posay. Available exclusively from escentual.com from January 2016. Available from larger Boots stores and pharmacies nationwide, boots.com and my-dermacenter.com from April 2016.

Sensitive neck and d collet skin has recently come into the spotlight due to the ageing effects of something called ‘Tech Neck.’

Heads tilting down as we email, or painstakingly edit the perfect Instagram picture are causing horizontal rings on the neck to become prominent earlier. Despite this emerging ageing concern and add it to the general signs of aging over time from gravity and UV damage, most women still tend to concentrate their skincare treatment products on the face, neglecting the delicate neck and chest. rigins is introducing Plantscription Powerful Lifting Neck and D collet Treatment, a targeted treatment to combat Tech Neck and general signs of ageing by visibly lifting and firming this delicate

Discover Jo Malone London’s latest innovation rris Sandalwood Cologne Intense.

The surprising duality of orris.

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Jo Malone London Orris & Sandalwood Cologne Intense, £105.00 jomalone.co.uk

area. Formulated with a potent blend of natural anti-agers, the lightweight serum-like emulsion works to smooth skin’s texture and boost density. With new ingredients Goji Berry and Sweet Almond il, known for their anti-ageing and lifting properties, the quick-sinking formula glides on to redefine a more youthfully smooth-looking neckline. ver time, elastic fatigue is addressed so horizontal lines, crepiness and saggy skin are reduced.

Plantscription™ Powerful Lifting Neck and Décolleté Treatment at select department stores and via origins.co.uk | £52.00

Beauty Revivers Restore Me Nutritional Therapist, Gabriela Peacock, will be launching her highly anticipated Nutritional Supplement Programme this month. Each programme is designed to offer timepoor city-dwellers the opportunity to gain the expert benefits and prescriptive advice of a nutritionist, within a supplement, and on-the-go support in the form of Clean Me, Slim Me, Restore Me, Enhance Me and Boost Me. Gabriela’s varied background in fashion modelling led her to experience first-hand the importance of a nutritious diet, and its impact on maintaining a youthful body image. This experience, coupled with working alongside high profile women such as Laura Bailey, Clemence Poesy and Jodie Kidd led her to develop the highly anticipated range. Along with her other accolades, Gabriela is qualified in Metabolic Balance the most efficient way of losing weight, based on altering your diet as a result of blood testing. ur favourite is the Restore Me box, an ideal post-Christmas pick me-up and perfect for those who work long hours, travel frequently and have a high-energy social life and are looking to rebalance and stabilise their energy levels. www.gpnutrition.co.uk

Like your body and mind, it is essential to take a break and let your skin recover and deeply renew itself.

With January upon us, and many winding down the social events, what better way to restore the skin than treating it to Chanel’s Le Weekend Edition Douce, the weekend treatment for sensitive skin. The gentle exfoliation hydrates, soothes and prepares skin ready to face a new weekly cycle.

Refreshing Radiance With Victoria Secret models fans of the highly popular illumino Body and Face il, dermatologist backed brand Colbert MD have recently launched a brand new sheet mask to the range. Ideal for rehydrating the skin after the draining party season, the masks use Colbert MD’s patented uSome science which ensures that the products’ ingredients remain active until they are absorbed by the skin. www.colbertmd.co.uk

Le Weekend Edition Douce, Chanel, £72.00. www.chanel.com available at Harrods.

REVIEW

Carol Joy London Royal Scalp Treatment Luxury British hair and Beauty Brand, Carol Joy London Hair Salon and Collagen Bar has its flagship salon at the Dorchester Spa and offers state of the art treatments which combine anti-ageing skin, hair and nail products from their very own skin care range. Indulgent and highly effective, these treatments are tailored to your personal needs and all products are designed to work perfectly together, complementing each other in every way possible.

The Carol Joy hair care range has been clinically proven and uses natures super powered ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, hydrolysed collagen and collagen boosting peptides but their key ingredient throughout their product lines is refined golden millet oil. This super oil dramatically improves the condition of skin, hair and nails due to its high content of oleic acid, omega oils and essential fatty acids.

All these ingredients are formulated to the highest possible concentration levels to achieve maximum potency.

Having revolutionised the way hair treatments are applied, the Carol Joy Royal Scalp treatment is the ultimate in scalp and hair indulgence. The soothing and tranquil atmosphere of this elegant and luxurious spa provides the perfect environment to experience this unique and innovative hair care treatment. Putting you at your ease as soon as you enter, the friendly and attentive but highly professional staffs provide uncompromising client care and great lengths are taken to make sure that your visit is an enjoyable one.

Lasting approximately forty five minutes, this intense treatment starts

with an examination of the scalp and hair by the stylist. nce done, you are ushered over to the basins where your hair is washed with the appropriate and wonderfully smelling Carol Joy hair shampoo and conditioner in order to cleanse and rebalance. You will also be given the most relaxing, sleep inducing head massage imaginable.

You are then back in the stylist’s chair where thick cotton wool is wrapped around your hairline and your hair is then prepared for a stimulating and nourishing steam session which incorporates cell renewing pure oxygen in order to boost circulation. Effervescent menthol products are applied and the heat from the steam opens up the hair follicles which then enables it to easily absorb the nourishing effects of the refined golden millet oil and allows the deep penetration, root to tip, of the other key proteins and essential trace minerals and vitamins. This is ideal for promoting hair growth and allows stronger, healthier and more lustrous hair. Perfect for restoring your damaged locks after styling during the festive party season! All the elements used in this treatment assist in strengthening and repairing of the hair in order to protect it from environmental damage. nce this is over, your hair is then allowed to cool down before you are treated to a fabulous blow dry. What better pick-me up for the New Year and dreary January!

You will notice an immediate improvement and you will see that your hair is a lot healthier and that it feels beautifully clean and soft and looks absolutely shiny and radiant.

Your lustrous locks will be a definite head turner and after all, as they say, your hair is your crowning glory and the 120 price tag is well worth it.

Carol Joy London, Dorchester Hotel, 53 Park Lane, London W1K 1QA | 020 7319 7090 | caroljoylondon.com

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Terms and Conditions: Price of £1,645 is based on two people sharing a Cat.E Standard Suite on the 8-day Treasures of the Rhine cruise departing on 14 November 2016 and is subject to availability at the time of booking. Supplements apply for upgraded suites with balconies. Butler services vary. Offers valid for new bookings only made between 27 September and 30 November 2015. Laundry restrictions apply. A 1.5% credit card charge (1.95% AMEX) may apply when booking. Prices correct at time of going to print (September 2015). For full itineraries and booking conditions, please visit scenic.co.uk. *All drinks are included on-board except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.

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travel

Culture, Cuisine and a Mangrove Canoe The Gambia’s many hidden treasures, its food, friendliness and an unimaginable beauty. The canoe ride through Makasutu will keep you coming back for more, let alone any of the other incredible experiences you come across.

THE GAMBIA

Sun, Sea and Smiles

TRAVEL

It is the smallest country on the African mainland covering an area of just ,361 square miles yet offers an unexpected diversity when you consider it as a holiday destination. Similar in size to the island of Jamaica, The Gambia’s borders follow the meandering Gambia River from the coast some 2 5 miles inland and provides plenty to see along the way.

Africa is often overlooked as a travel destination thanks to unfortunate events that impact on the wider area despite its relative containment. The Gambia experienced this first hand following the ebola outbreak, although no cases were actually found in the country, the tourism industry took the full force of the surrounding uncertainty. Thankfully there has been sufficient realisation that it is in fact safe to travel to the country and tourist numbers are once again rising, although not to the same levels as you would find in other coastal holiday destinations such as Gran Canaria.

However, that is one of the beauties about The Gambia, it is a hidden treasure sitting in plain sight.

Enjoying a tropical climate, temperatures remain between 2 and 3 C year round, but the humidity levels do rise between July and ctober thanks to often short but impressive rain storms similar to those found in the Caribbean. What this means for the rest of the year is very little if any rainfall from November through to June making it perfect for those looking for some guaranteed sun. It boasts 50 miles of coastline with numerous properties to choose from depending on the experience you want to enjoy.

Thankfully there is an incredibly easy way to create your dream trip. The Gambia Experience offers an unrivalled service as the UK’s only Gambia specialists and can tailor your holiday to suit your every need. The diverse landscape that this incredibly lush and beautiful country possesses has created the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of varied hotel styles and locations. You can enjoy a few days soaking up the sun on the coast then venture elsewhere to take in a whole new experience.

Water is abundant here which is more than evident as you drive around with varying shades of green at every turn. Thanks to the river basin, the water table remains at a fairly consistent level throughout the year supported during the rainy season with a healthy dose of precipitation. There is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the water too, whether you relax in the warm Atlantic, take to the waves for a more invigorating time or indulge in a tranquil canoe through the peaceful mangroves, The Gambia Experience will be happy to arrange any and every aspect of your stay.

You can stay in the boutique coastal spot home to Ngala Lodge which offers stunning views over the Atlantic along with luxurious suites each carrying an individual character. The service is highly personalised and incredibly friendly, much like the rest of the country, and provides the perfect hideaway in which to escape.

As a child-free resort, you are welcomed in to a quiet and relaxed environment complete with tropical gardens in which you can enjoy the wildlife and a good book. Utilising the raised position

The Gambia Experience | 0845 330 2087 | gambia.co.uk

TRAVEL

of the suites, the rolling garden leading down to the ocean reveals incredible views along with a seating area and sea deck on which to enjoy the sun undisturbed on the waters edge. Equally, the infinity pool provides the ultimate escape for those looking to watch the day pass by as the waves gently crash against the shore. The ocean facing pool is well positioned next to the restaurant and bar, so you can get some inspiration for the day with breakfast while you soak up the view and then retire to the bar at the end of the day.

Ngala Lodge boasts an excellent reputation, celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2015 with six new luxury sea view suites. The all-new Macondo suites, named after the fictional town in the book ‘100 Years of Solitude’

by Colombian author Gabriel Garc a M rquez, one of owner Peter Engels’ favourite books, feature breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Three of the suites also benefit from private plunge pools, creating a space rivalling the best in The Gambia. All 2 suites are fully air conditioned and each offers a unique aspect to make your stay even more personal. The care and attention that is given by every member of staff is excellent and you can be certain to see a smile on everyones face from the moment you leave your room in the morning to when you retire at night. It would be a fantastic selling point for the hotel if this was a phenomenon in The Gambia, but unfortunately, Ngala Lodge cannot stake

a claim on having the only smiling individuals in the country.

Every face you pass on the road or in the market or at dinner is smiling, the Gambian people are some of the friendliest you will find anywhere in the world. Whereas you can often find yourself being harassed by individuals trying to sell you something when you go on holiday, here you will find yourself being harassed with sheer interest. What your name is, where you are from and if you are having a good time, all harmless questions which actually make you appreciate the conversation.

The Gambia Experience | 0845 330 2087 | gambia.co.uk

THE GAMBIA The theme of appreciation continues through the community and is apparent as you travel around the region. Young children are immediately interested in anything you say or do and adults are equally intrigued by your presence. There are many opportunities - which can be arranged with the help of The Gambia Experience - to engage with the local communities, visiting schools and local projects to give you a better understanding of what it means to those fortunate enough to be working in the fantastic hotel that you are staying in. It is frighteningly evident when you visit a local school just how much the children appreciate education and the fact that they even have the opportunity to go to school. nly a small percentage of individuals in the UK truly appreciate having the chance to go to university, let alone primary school. ne of the many excursions available through The Gambia Experience is a four wheel drive adventure, taking in the real Gambia, visiting local villages following the coast and then on to a Gambian school. You can take in the lively atmosphere, speak to some locals and children, then continue the journey to enjoy lunch on an unspoilt beach. By the time you return to the hotel you will be ready for some afternoon relaxation, so you can enjoy the pool or take a trip to the spa. This is one of the most popular excursions and it is easy to see why. Not only is it a fantastic experience, but you have the opportunity to observe so much whilst you are traveling too, baboons in the trees and brightly coloured birds passing by are all part of the package.

There are many other unique excursions to enjoy while you are there including a home cooking class. You may wonder what this could possibly entail, but it will be one of the most enjoyable items on your itinerary. You arrive at Ida’s family home in the morning, slip into something a little more Gambian - both men and woman have a plethora of garments to choose from - then venture down to the village of Tanji. This fishing village is alive with colour, endless traders selling their daily collection of fruits, vegetables and of course, freshly caught fish which includes the likes of Barracuda, Red Snapper and John Dory. It is an experience that you will never forget and is a fantastic opportunity for some breathtaking photography. nce the produce has been chosen and carried using traditional baskets, you return to the house to begin preparations for lunch. Everything is washed and cut to Ida’s specifications everyone will be getting involved in some respect - then the food is put on to cook. This is where Ida takes control to ensure you have an authentic and delicious meal, and once ready, everyone gets to enjoy the spoils. It is a unique way of experiencing Gambian life, but really helps you to engage with the community in a way that you otherwise wouldn’t without a guide.

If you are interested in taking in more of the local scenery, then you should most certainly take a trip to see the Wide pen Walls Project. Set up by Lawrence Williams, the project brings artist from across the world to local villages in The Gambia to illustrate their homes and buildings. Some of the artwork is truly exceptional and contrasts dramatically with the surroundings. n your visit, you will be shown around by residents of the village who clearly appreciate you visiting and are openly enthusiastic about the project. Lawrence has plenty more big ideas for The Gambia, so watch this space because there will undoubtedly be more to see soon.

Projects like Wide pen Walls have come about thanks to Lawrence’s love of the region. Along with good friend and colleague, James English - who sadly passed away last year - Lawrence founded Makasutu, meaning ‘sacred forest’ in Mandinka, as both an ecology project and a place for people to come and learn about the local culture and people. Makasutu is a tropical 1000-acre reserve encompassing five different ecosystems, including gallery forest, savannah, mangroves, palm forest and wetland. Wildlife is plentiful with many bird species, monitor lizards, baboons, vervet and red colobus monkeys, and the occasional crocodile and what makes it even better is that you can actually stay.

Comprising jungle lodges, stilted lodge, mangrove lodge and floating river lodges, the Mandina Lodges are the ultimate escape for any traveler. Hidden in the heart of Makasutu, you take a peaceful canoe through the mangroves and arrive at an oasis of relaxation. ffered as an ‘add-on’ for your holiday, you can stay for 3 nights on top of a week long break to round off your trip in the best way possible. Completely secluded from the outside world, you can slip in to an indulgent state of relaxation and forget about everything. You can also enjoy getting to know the local wildlife as you awake to the soft call of the birds and playful sounds from the monkeys. There are very few places in which you can truly escape, but this is one that is worth a taking a look at.

If you are looking for something even more indulgent and luxurious, then there really is only one option. Coco cean Resort and Spa offers the pinnacle of hospitality in The Gambia. Not only is it immaculately designed in a Moroccan theme, but is complete with Moroccan spa, a trio of pools - as well as further private pools for specific rooms - and a number of excellent restaurants on site to suit every taste. Beautifully positioned on the ocean front, Coco cean delivers the ultimate hotel experience in The Gambia for the discerning traveler. There is plenty of opportunity to relax on the beach in private cabanas or next to the many pools. Equally, you can still take advantage of any excursions that take your interest with The Gambia Experience representative more than happy to help. If you want to have it all, then you can. Just add a Mandina Lodge stay on the end!

The Gambia Experience | 0845 330 2087 | gambia.co.uk

TRAVEL

13X9.5

Ngala Lodge, Luxury Boutique features within the Luxury Collection. Holidays are available from 10 per person for seven nights staying in a standard air conditioned suite on bed breakfast valid for travel March 11th 2016 . This price includes return Gatwick-Banjul flights, inflight meals and hotel transfers.

Additional room types include Macondo suites newest suites, available from last winter, The Penthouse, Atlantic suites, Manor suites and Suite 10 . gambia.co.uk/Ngala Mandina Lodges at Makasutu, featured within the Unique Collection. Prices from 3 for three night’s half board staying in a Jungle Lodge. This price includes transfers excluding flights - and is a popular add-on to a week’s hotel package which includes flights on the coast, providing an attractive 10 night holiday option. Room types include Stilted, Floating, Mangrove and Jungle Lodges. gambia.co.uk/mandina Coco cean Resort Spa, features within the Luxury Collection. Prices from 10 for seven nights staying in a Junior suite on bed breakfast including flights and airport transfers.

This price is currently valid for arrivals 5th 11th Jan . gambia. co.uk/CocoOcean The Gambia Experience run an excursion programme with West African Tours which can be booked locally through the hotel representative. Visit gambia.co.uk/excursions to browse all of the available excursions, including Kachikally crocodile park!

Home cooking with Ida. Day prices are 35pp and overnight prices are 5pp and can be pre-booked.

If you are interested in learning more about Lawrence Williams’ Wide pen Walls Project W W , then please visit mandinalodges. com/makasutu-forest/wide-open-walls gambia.co.uk

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St. James’s

Hotel and Club Tucked away just one block away from bustling Piccadilly and a short walk from London’s best shopping streets, St. James’s Hotel and Club is one of the capital’s best hidden gems.

A member of Althoff and Small Luxury Hotels, the five star boutique hotel and club is home to the in-house Michelin-Starred restaurant Seven Park Place by William Drabble, and 60 stunning bedrooms and suites.

The hotel itself has a rich history that dates back to 1 57, the stylish interiors are thanks to renowned German designer Anne Marie Jagdfeld and feature a range pleasing neutrals and sumptuous scarlet, with art deco inspired features. Handmade silk wallpaper adorns the walls and luxury touches such as the handcrafted Murano glass chandeliers allow for elegant yet relaxed settings. The clever use of space throughout the hotel means that you easily feel like you’re in a home from home rather than the usual run of the mill room.

The suite we were lucky enough to stay in boasted a fantastic terrace that felt very Parisian looking at the surrounding rooftops, a walk-in-wardrobe, lounge area and huge bathroom.

Again, the art deco interior carried through and each of the mattresses at the hotel are the finest Hypnos mattresses which are also used by the Royal Family.

Alongside these elegant touches, the hotel and club boasts an impressive private art collection of more than 50 paintings, pictures and sculptures called The Rosenstein Collection. Dating

from 1 20 to 1 50, the collection showcases fine examples of Impressionist, Expression and Cubist work from across Europe.

For a really special occasion, The Penthouse Suite at St James has a private lift and occupies the entire seventh floor of the hotel, measuring 130 square metres. It has played home to the rich and famous and features two large bedrooms, two sitting rooms and 50 square foot private terrace.

With relation to dining at the hotel, guests will not be disappointed with the fantastic offerings from Seven Park Place By William Drabble. Launched in 200 and awarded one Michelin star just one year after opening and four AA Rosettes, the intimate and stylish restaurant is headed up by Executive Chef William Drabble.

As one of the smallest Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe with just 26 covers and nine tables, the menu is influenced by classic French cuisine but made using the very best British produce.

What’s lovely about the restaurant is that it uses the intimate feel to its advantage. Instead of having a vast dining room, little alcoves decorated in rich jewel colours allow diners to feel away from each other without missing out on the buzz of an upscale restaurant. This makes the location perfect for romantic dinners as well as groups celebrating a special occasion. All staff add to this experience using their knowledge and expertise to ensure the meal is personalised to your tastes from food to fantastically paired

St. James’s Hotel and Club, 7-8 Park Place, St. James’s, London SW1A 1LS

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TRAVEL wine thanks to talented Head Sommelier Andre Luis Martins.

William, or Billy, as he is known, prides himself on his excellent supplier relationships, particularly loves to cook with the freshest lobster and Lune Valley lamb, which can both be found on his menu all year round, with varying seasonal accompaniments.

The Menu Gourmand with matching wine is just 126.00 and includes William’s signature dish of poached native lobster tail with cauliflower puree and lobster butter sauce. ther highlights on the seven course menu, with optional British cheeses, includes Griddled fillet of Seabass, celeriac and apple puree and Passion fruit souffl with dark chocolate sauce.

There is also an a la carte menu available, as well as breakfast and lunch menus. It is worth noting as well, that all dining for private events and in room service also comes from the Michelin-starred kitchen.

In addition to the club at the hotel, there is a reciprocal arrangement in place with over 500 private members clubs worldwide and members enjoy VIP status and numerous benefits at each.

Rooms start at 2 2 per night.

020 7316 1600 | info@stjameshotelandclub.com | stjameshotelandclub.com

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Feng Shang Princess

FLOATING CHINESE RESTAURANT

London’s best kept secret

An exquisite social retreat serving outstanding Chinese food, fine wine, cocktails and champagnes

020 7485 8137 | 020 7485 0216

Cumberland Basin, Prince Albert Road, Regents Park, London NW1 7SS info@fengshang.co.uk | www.fengshang.co.uk

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palate

Nutritious and tasty, the best way to get through the lean January. Boost your cell reproduction and feel full of energy with some simply diet tips from Madeleine Shaw, this month’s Chef of the Season at Harrods.

The ‘Bat and Ball’ Pop-Up at Westfield Stratford City

Sipsmith Sipping Service

Westfield Stratford City recently welcomed Urban Pubs and Bar’s year-long, 12,000 sq ft pop up bar and cafe, ‘The Bat and Ball’.

With some off beat help from their DPP Director of Ping Pong Ed Turner previously Geronimo Inns , The Bat and Ball features a whole floor of Ping Pong tables, VIP Ping Pong rooms for private hire and a lounge bar and deli.

During the day the cafe serves up coffee, pizzas and artisan deli snacks before transforming in the evening into a lively bar for groups to share jugs of premium cocktails, craft beers and food boards accompanied by live DJ sets and the unmistakable sound of Ping Pong.

Located on the Street in Westfield, the pop up is split across two floors and offers a great drinks list, including range of cocktails, draught beers including some from the local Trumans and a range of forty bottled craft beers. Wines are supplied by the Cave de Pyrennes.

It may be January but any gin lover will be pleased to hear about Sipsmith’s new quarterly gin sipping service, delivering the brand’s renowned gins straight to your door. Known for their passion for gin and innovative spirit, Sipsmith create a variety of unusual sips, including Truffle Gin, Mince Pie Gin and even Smoked Venison Gin, which many don’t get to taste as it simply isn’t feasible to produce them at a level that could reach shop shelves.

This is where the new sipping service comes in. Every three months, the brand will select of the best gins they have trialled that season and send them directly to you in x 0ml bottles. Each gin will be a surprise and you will get insider information as to what is happening behind Sipsmith’s large Distillery Doors before sending back your opinion.

All distilled using Sipsmith’s uncompromising methods, meaning that each and every one will be smooth enough to be sipped on its own if you so wish and will mix perfectly in a cocktail or two which they will be trialling and recommending from the Distillery . You can sign up for an annual membership for 160 to receive your exclusive boxes.

The Bat and Ball, Unit 1110/1111, The Street, London E20 1EJ | batandball.co.uk

Search Sipsmith on indiegogo.com to sign up now.

PLENISH Cold Pressed Juices After a heavy festive period, now is the time almost everyone looks to get healthy and fitter. Juices are not new, however what better time to discover the benefits than the brand new year. Boost the body’s immune system and ensure you kick off 2016 with the perfect health boost. PLENISH, is a leader in premium cold pressed juices, and are

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designed to provide energy and immunity with an added benefit of being delicious and convenient.

Available to buy in selected Waitrose stores, the brand has recently added two raw new juices to the range, Lift including pear, spinach, broccoli and lime; and Boost cucumber, kale and lemon, which include over 1 2kg of organic produce making them perfect for getting your 7 a day and revitalising your mood.

Plenish Boost and Lift is available from selected Waitrose stores.

RRP . 5 for 250ml and . 0 for 500ml Purchase the full Plenish 250ml range from Whole Foods, Planet rganic and cado and their 500ml range and cleanse programmes exclusively on www.plenishcleanse.com

Selfridges ‘Taste of Japan’ This month, Selfridges Foodhalls and Homeware departments will be transformed into an authentic slice of Japan for eight weeks.

Seen as the next cultural phenomenon, Selfridges will bring the most authentic, exclusive and up-to-date artisanal products to the store, as well as partnering with a number of food experts including Sake expert Hidetoshi Nakata, who will open the UK’s smallest Sake Bar and Michelin star Chef Murata, who will open a pop up restaurant in Selfridges’ The Corner Restaurant.

Selfridges will also partner with some of Japans biggest consumer brands including Kikkoman, Meiji and Hello Kitty.

Burns Night

www.selfridges.com

Ditch the diet for one day this January and celebrate Scotland’s favourite son on the 25th for Burns Night.

Gordon Ramsay Group will be hosting a variety of feasts complete with Scotch whisky, including a four course Balvenie Dinner with James Buntin at Bread Street Kitchen; and Live bagpiping at The Narrow to accompany a special three course menu complete with Macsween’s haggis on the night itself. As well as a celebratory Burns menu at maze Grill Mayfair, Park Walk and Royal Hospital Road Chelsea that will run from 25-30 January at just 35.00 per person.

To book and find out ticket prices see the individual website for each restaurant. www.breadstreetkitchen.co.uk | www.thenarrow.co.uk | www.mazegrill.com

Celebrate Epiphany in January: PAUL Galette Frangipane

Whiskies in the Spirit Room Escape the cold in the luxurious Spirit Room at The Bulgari Hotel, Knightsbridge.

Continuing its Spirit Season series with a limited-edition menu of delicious warming whiskies that are perfect for enjoying in the colder winter months, guests can settle in and enjoy three limited-edition delicious whisky serves, expertly crafted by the Bulgari Il Bar’s Head Bartender Tomasz Staron.

Sauvage 45ml Glenmorangie Original | 15ml Amaretto | 10ml Bergamotto | Bergamot perfume | Garnish orange peel www.bulgarihotels.com

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Eat like a king this January and celebrate the day of Epiphany with a classic French dessert from artisan bakery and patisserie, PAUL. Marking an occasion that brings together friends, family and colleagues alike with a feast of royal proportions, the day culminates in slices being served from a Galette des Rois King’s Tart . Traditionally eaten on the Twelfth Night 6th January , PAUL have created the limited edition Galette Frangipane 15. 5 which is made of buttery, flaky puff pastry with a soft, nutty frangipane centre and serves -10 people.

In keeping with tradition, one lucky slice will have a hidden ceramic charm, so be sure to chew carefully! Whoever finds the ceramic surprise inside their slice is honoured King or ueen for the day, presented with a crown to wear and goes on to host the party the following year.

The Galette Frangipane is available in all PAUL shops and online www.paul-uk.com until the end of January 2016.

REVIEW

Santini, Belgravia Italian cuisine is very easy to come by in London, but few establishments boast the level of quality and understanding of the food as this one. Santini, nestled in the heart of Belgravia is a family owned and run restaurant with over 30 years of experience.

Established in 1

by Gino Santin, the restaurant has welcomed both local and international guests to enjoy some of the finest classical Italian dishes you will find in London. Laura Santtini, one of the world’s leading flavour experts - a good place to start with a restaurant - and daughter to Gino Santin, has recently taken the reigns at Santini and has the task of moving the restaurant forward whilst maintaining the magic it has possessed for the past 30 years.

Interestingly, the name of the restaurant featured an additional ‘i’ at the end for purely marketing purposes as Gino Santin believed that the restaurant could be pronounced San-Tin and consequently confused for a Chinese eatery. More recently with the launch of Laura Santtini’s other business, an additional ‘t’ was added to differentiate between them. The restaurant Santini however has recently enjoyed a refurbishment, updating everything from the spectacular new bar to the outdoor terrace - which can be enjoyed year-round thanks to some stylish new heaters and large canopies.

Decorated with olive trees, Mediterranean herbs and fairy lights, the new terrace is the perfect spot for a romantic evening meal or equally enjoyable during your lunch break. ffering an inviting, warm and comfortable atmosphere, the inside space is also perfect for any diner regardless of your reason for being there. You can comfortably enjoy a romantic dinner or indulge in a friendly feast with plenty of high quality wines and you can be sure that the atmosphere will be the same on any day of the week.

Unlike many restaurants, Santini suffers not the woes of a midweek drop in custom. In fact, you might want to book your table right away if you decide to dine there in the next month or so, and it is easy to see why. The staff manage a perfect balance between attentiveness and allowing you to enjoy the experience and are on hand the second you need anything. Each and every member of staff is well versed and all show an innate knowledge

of the menu and ingredients within, to the extent that you can immediately see an appreciation when asking about one of the dishes. Keen to divulge the wonders of the dish, you will find it hard not to be drawn in by the suggestion, but in all honesty, you could pick anything on the menu and leave more than satisfied with your choice.

This is a truly remarkable restaurant that has been home to countless top corporate and celebrity clients alike and shows no signs of slowing down. The refurbishment has brought with it an incredible new bar space which is as inviting as the dining area, complete with a new cocktail menu to match, so it’s definitely worth arriving early to sample one, or two. nce at the table, you will be offered some fantastic complimentary bread which is the perfect way to start your meal. The Umami Platter is then a great choice to begin with. Comprising of cured meats, cheeses, olives and the house umami paste courtesy of Laura , it is an exceptional sharing dish that everyone will enjoy. ther antipasti dishes include; Carpaccio di Tonno, smoked tuna carpaccio with pink grapefruit, rocket and caper vinaigrette and Pasta e Fagioli, a traditional bean and pasta soup. Starters range from - 2 for the umami platter. The main course is where the real decision making is required however. With 6 salads, 11 pasta and risotto dishes and 11 other secondi options, you will be hard pressed to settle for one. If you are dining with someone who is happy to share, you can get away with a number of dishes, but otherwise, it would be wise to stick to one, you don’t want to waste any.

There is also a substantial dessert menu to enjoy, complete with classics such as tiramisu and zabaione as well as a cheese selection.

If you have space, it is definitely worth sampling the Rococo fiori e cioccolato box which consists of spectacular floral creams in rose, violet, lavendar and geranium. The real star of the show however is the impressive wine selection, featuring over 130 wines and champagnes ranging between 32 and 1210, you will be sure to find something that catches your eye. Be careful though, it is very easy to get lost in this magical world.

Santini, 29 Ebury Street, Belgravia, London SW1W 0NZ | 020 7730 4094 | santinirestaurant.com

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santinirestaurant.com

First Edition Proudly serving Canary Wharf fresh food cooked to order for over 20 years.

With winter upon us, the time has come for some serious eating and drinking. Whether organising a lunch, dinner or drinks event – with our newly renovated heated terrace and seasonal menu choices, here at First Edition we are as ready as ever to offer flexibility and attentive service that can only be found in a family establishment.

First Edition Wine Bar & Seafood Brasserie à la carte menu available from January 2016 Soups - Soup de Poisson, served with Aioli, Bisque of Langoustine, Bisque of Crab Salads - Warm Salad of Scallops, Rocket Salad, Caeser Salad; Traditional, Chicken, Salmon or King Prawn Starters - Triple Spiced Cajun Squid, Warm Crispy Duck Rolls, Breaded Goats Cheese, Sashimi of Fresh Salmon Main Course - Fish & Chips, Homemade Fresh Sea Bass Ravioli, Swordfish Tandoori, Confit of Duck, Bavette d’Aloyau, First Edition Tofu-Cakes, Homemade Fresh Ravioli, First Edition Teriyaki; Chicken Breast, Fresh Salmon Steak, Fresh Sea Bass Fillet, Sirloin Steak, Fresh Swordfish Steak, Fresh Tuna Steak

Wine Corner Great value - Syrah ’Saint Desirat’ 2013 A stone’s throw from St.Joseph Rhone), yet miles away in terms of Syrah offers exceptional value and glass 175ml £8.95/ 250ml £9.95/

(the pride of price; this ripe quality by the bottle £29.95

Perfect Pairing - Givry 1er Cru ‘’Domaine Joblot’’ 2012 It’s just not Christmas without a fine Burgundy to enhance your game bird. The Joblot is a perfect match for our roasted Guinea fowl from the special Christmas menu £64.95 Treat yourself - Taurasi DOC ‘Di Prisco 2007 ‘’The Godfather’’ of the list, robust yet smooth with well tamed tannins, the Taurasi is the epitome of indulgence; particularly when matched with our luxury cheeseboard £79.95

REVIEW

The Detox Kitchen With Christmas and New Year out of the way, many of us with busy lifestyles are now thinking about how we can get through this month because of all the stress and tiredness that the festive season brings with it. This is where the Detox Kitchen comes in.

These days so many of us have busy lifestyles and rely on fast foods and highly processed ready meals because we don’t have the time to freshly prepare them ourselves so our bodies have to work harder than ever to rid ourselves of toxins and to protect us from the damage caused by modern life.

By detoxing and removing these foods which make us feel tired and bloated and replacing them with a healthy, balanced diet we can start to repair the damage and in turn feel more energised, less stressed and may have the added advantage of losing weight.

The Detox Kitchen believes that all food should be pleasurable to the taste buds and also tempting to eat. They only use the best ingredients and use suppliers who have the same values when it comes to sustainability and quality and ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible. They use mainly plant based whole foods and lean protein and no wheat, dairy, refined sugar or preservatives

are used in any of their food. With this in mind, their expert chefs and nutritionists have developed a nutrient dense, delicious and well balanced diet which is available in the form of five different packages all designed to cleanse your body and leave you feeling revitalised. By choosing one of the packages you immediately take away the stress of planning and cooking deliciously healthy meals.

The packages included are Protein, Vegan, Green with Protein, Green and Active Protein. Simply study the ingredients supplied in each one and choose the one that is right for you and decide on a start date and the Detox Kitchen will do the rest. The menus work on a three week rotation and are changed every season but each package can be ordered for a minimum of five days and don’t need to be taken consecutively. Your breakfast, lunch, dinner, pressed juices and snacks are prepared daily and standard delivery to your door is usually between 3am and 7am.

Packages start from ÂŁ28.90 per day.

There is no doubt that if you stick to your chosen plan you will feel amazing inside and out.

detoxkitchen.com | 020 7498 6417

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Harrods Chef of the Season

MADELEINE SHAW Harrods have a new chef of the season and it has been perfectly timed to help you get through the start of the year. Many of us will have decided to once again claim to have revolutionised our lives, eating nothing but a single berry a day and not stepping within 10 feet of any alcohol, however the reality is a very different scenario. Fortunately, the new chef of the season is Madeleine Shaw, with a philosophy all about enlivening the hottest, happiest and healthiest you. Keeping things simple and delicious, her ideas will awaken you to a whole new side to food that you never knew existed, so you won’t be left feeling bored or deprived by your dinner.

Head over to Harrods’ food hall from now until the end of February to take advantage of her knowledge and understanding of food and you might just get a pleasant surprise. The idea is not to starve yourself, but think about the produce you are putting in to your body and how it will affect you, your skin, your energy levels and your brain, to maximise your potential and find a new level of yourself that just needed to be fed the right way.

We’ve managed to get some tasty dishes to give you a head start, so take advantage with this unique orange spiced salmon with bok choi, spicy chilli and ginger chicken burgers and indulgent sweet potato wedges with chipotle BBQ sauce.

Orange Spiced Salmon with Bok Choi Serves 3

salmon llets

1 ts of cumin see s freshly groun

Ingredients ts of cinnamon ts of cayenne avoca o oil alt an in e ercorns

he est of 1 lime

he est of 1 orange

ts of

Mix the dried spice, zest and oil together with a big pinch of salt and grind of pink peppercorns. Marinate for a few hours.

Heat a grill pan and grill for 5 minutes skin side down then flip and cook for another few minutes each side until just cooked through but not overcooked).

Chilli and Ginger Spiced Chicken Burgers Serves 2 Ingredients 50g of roughly cho e chic en thigh e-bone , s inne 2 garlic cloves tbs of freshly cho e corian er leaves 2 tbs of freshly cho e basil leaves 1 ts of freshly grate ginger 2 nely cho e s ring onions re chilli, nely cho e 2 ts of tamari alt an e er 2 tbs of coconut oil

Place the chicken, garlic, chopped herbs, ginger, spring onions, chilli, tamari and a pinch of salt and pepper into the food processor. Process until fully combined.

Roll into 4 even patties.

Heat a grill pan over a medium heat. Rub each burger with a little melted coconut oil and grill for 7- minutes then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through.

Sweet Potato Wedges with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Serves 4

500g of s eet otato

Wedges Ingredients 2 ts of smo e a ri a alt an

e er

tbs of avoca o oil

Chipotle BBQ sauce Ingredients tbs of olive oil 1 cho e hite onion cloves of crushe garlic 120ml of ma le syru 120ml of a le ci er vinegar 1 tables oon of molasses 2 teas oons of chili o er teas oon of cayenne teas oon of smo e a ri a

cu of straine tomatoes alt an e er

Preheat your oven to 210°C. Cut the sweet potato into wedges, cover in smoked paprika, salt, pepper and drizzle over the avocado oil. Roast in the oven for 45 minutes until golden, cooked through, crispy edges and soft on the inside.

To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a pot over a medium heat, finely chop the onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Throw in the crushed garlic and cook for another few minutes. When the onions are soft and fragrant add the rest of the ingredients plus a big pinch of salt and pepper and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring every 5-10 minutes. Blend the sauce and let it cool. harrods.com | @Harrods | #HarrodsFood | madeleineshaw.com

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COLUMN

The Oenophilist

with Edward Gerard, Wine Buyer for Harrods

dward erard started his career c cling cases o fine wine round the SW1 and SW3 postcodes. Some 13 years later after a stint in the and having e tensivel traveled and tasted his wa around the wine world he finds himsel with the enviable ob o selecting the vast range available in the ine ooms at arrods

utter geniuses when it comes to the art of wine making; this wine comes from their vineyards around Santenay and is made from their old vines Vielles Vignes means old vines with an average age over 60yrs, this gives you way more depth than your average Bourgogne Rouge. With notes of dark cherry fruit and herbaceous undertones this will tantalize even the most discerning of palates.

With over 300 lines in the Harrods Sale this year, it is not just based around everyday drinkers so here are my top picks for special occasions in 2016. I’m a huge fan of white burgundies and this year we have a great deal on, one of my favourites, the 2013 Buisson-Charles Meursault Vielles Vignes, is nothing short of spectacular. This is a wine that is drinking beautifully now, with notes of yellow stone fruits, of peaches and apricots alongside a lemon citrus note and delicious spice notes on the finish. Whilst this is drinking well now, it will also reward further cellaring and drink beautifully for the next five years, so picking some up at £34.95 in the Harrods Sale is a savvy purchase. For Bordeaux fanatics we have a plethora of choice, from the lovely 2007 Chateau Lagrange to the critically acclaimed perfection that is the 2001 Chateau d’Yquem and everything in between. My choice, however, comes from the epic 2010 vintage and is the second wine of Chateau Canon in St Emilion.

The investment in the vineyards and winery facilities that the Wertheirmer family have put in since the purchase in 1996 has truly elevated this Chateau back to the top of the appellation and in 2010 the team under the guidance of the esteemed John Kolasa made not only a brilliant Grand Vin but also a fantastic second wine in the 2010 Clos Canon which at £27.95, in the Harrods Sale will certainly be finding its way into my personal cellar.

To those of you who still haven’t broken their New Year’s resolutions, well done and for those of you who didn’t bother with any New Year’s resolutions well done to you too, I’m sure you are brilliant just as you are. Now it might seem odd writing about wine so soon after we have all imbibed our festive share and many are now on health kicks which means wine is far from our minds. As a wine buyer I rejoice in January as it inevitably means sale prices, so whilst my household intake is at an all year low, I still make sure that I stock the racks with some opportune bargains and this year our Harrods Wine and Spirits Sale is stocked full of brilliant deals so I thought I’d share my top choices for this year.

Up first is the delicious 201 Domaine de Pellehaut Blanc from the Cotes de Gascogne; down to just £7.95 in the Harrods Sale this is an absolute bargain with lovely tropical notes and a fresh clean finish, this is a great wine for when the weather warms up. My next choice goes to 2012 Rioja Garnacha from Casa Primicia, it is still quite rare to find single varietal Rioja’s and even rarer when that varietal is Grenache Garnacha in Spanish . The wine displays lovely, spicy, hedgerow berry fruit of damsons and blackberries and has brilliant depth whilst not being overpowering - it makes it a perfect all year round wine great and at just £10.95 in the sale this is one to stock up on. If Pinot Noir is your thing, then the 2013 Domaine Borgeot Bourgogne Rouge Vielles Vignes is the one for you at £10.95 in the sale. The Borgeot brothers are

harrods.com | @Harrods | #HarrodsFood

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Royal China

Royal China Canary Riverside, 30 West Ferry Circus, London E14 8RR Telephone: 020 7719 0888

Robert Just around the corner from Novikov in Mayfair, Arkadiy’s latest venture sees a move into the hearts of its locals. A true neighbourhood restaurant, I Robert offers home-cooked Mediterranean cuisine six days a week. Focusing on the quality of the produce to provide regulars with a reason to keep coming back, I Robert’s pasta is made freshly every day and rolled entirely by hand - a dying art even in Italy, hand-rolled pasta is infinitely superior to anything produced by a machine.

Inside, original artwork adorns the walls and the dining space offers a homely feel whilst still delivering a restaurant experience, and the dishes continue the theme. Combining comforting Italian cooking with Novikov’s expertise and quality produce, the menu

Robert, 5

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includes an excellent variety that you can enjoy every time you visit. You are not limited in any way with the dishes on offer which means you can keep coming back for more. Sarters include a selection of charcuterie options along with salads and dishes such as octopus carpaccio and Romesco sauce while you can enjoy mains such as spaghetti with long fin tuna, sundried tomatoes and aubergine and pork cheek, mashed potatoes and red wine jus.

This is a quaint restaurant that offers a dining room away from home that you can enjoy time and time again. Even if you don’t live in the area, it is perfectly located just off of Berkeley Square, so there are no excuses.

020

5

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hello irobert.lon on

irobert.lon on

Michelin Stars in the Maldives Coco Bodu Hithi Welcomes Savour 2016 with Michelin Star Chefs Coco Bodu Hithi CBH returns with Savour 2016, a sophisticated culinary experience that is fast becoming Coco Collections’ homage to fine dining in the Maldives. From 21st February to 04th March 2016, guests will be able to experience the exclusive opportunity to indulge in award-winning creations with renowned chefs.

Leading this signature event are three celebrated personalities Coco Bodu Hithi is proud to welcome back after the successful 2015 event. From France, Michelin starred Chef Frédéric Doucet from Restaurant Frédéric Doucet, from the UK, Michelin starred Chef Nigel Haworth from Northcote Restaurant in Lancashire, and Aktar Islam from Lasan Restaurant in Birmingham.

A dedicated programme spread over two weeks will delight gourmets with 5 course dinners prepared exclusively by the chefs.

While each chef brings a hint of nostalgia with regional tastes, at the core of each course are exquisite flavours and a unique sense of cooking. Similarly, master classes will enable guests to get up close and personal with all three chefs as they demonstrate how to re-create dishes from their menu for a light lunch. The wine tastings with an expert sommelier invites guests to explore or more information, visit

the light flavours of Ros with themed tastings such as Ros Soirée. The team at Coco Bodu Hithi further enriches the programme with special demonstrations. While the head chef of Tsuki shares the impressive techniques behind Japanese cuisine, another chef teaches some tricks behind the skill of Wok cooking.

With seafood barbecue nights on Breeze beach and extravagant buffets at Air restaurant, guests can expect two weeks of dining excellence at Coco Bodu Hithi.

Savour 2015 was an exceptionally successful experience among all our guests and the 2016 chapter will gather likeminded gourmets. CBH’s over-water restaurants, Stars and Aqua, will once again set the backdrop for many evenings of original creations.

Starting from USD ,250 approx. 2, 52 for two persons, enjoy luxurious accommodation in an Island Villa for 5 nights, two exclusive dinners created by the visiting chefs, two master classes to take home some expert culinary tips, and two wine tastings with a sommelier to discover wines from the old and new world.

Guests are invited to indulge in this culinary journey spread over two weeks, valid for stays from 19th February - 07th March 2016.

.cocobo uhithi.com or email reservations cocobo uhithi.com to boo your stay.

Pea, feta and avocado salad Serves: 4

We may know our chimichurri from our kimchi, but according to research by Pays d’Oc IGP, 87% of Brits are clueless when deciding what wine to drink with more unusual dishes and ingredients. A further 41% claim to panic when choosing wine for any meal, traditional or modern.

With over a third of Brits having cooked Korean, Middle Eastern, Spanish, Greek or North African for friends at the end of last year, our lack of knowledge of the wines to pair with these flavours could be ruining an otherwise fantastic meal.

Pays d’Oc IGP, leader in French varietal wines and the number one French wine exporter, is here to help, along with wine expert Jane Parkinson, and French Michelin starred chef Eric Chavot, of Brasserie Chavot in Mayfair.

Eric has created ten recipes with both traditional and modern influences, which Jane has then paired with two Pays d’ c IGP wines, demonstrating their suitability for a range of occasions.

Eric’s recipes nod towards modern dining trends, such as Middle Eastern Mezze and Asian influences, whilst also featuring some of the most widely used ingredients that have gained popularity in recent years, such as kale, sweet potato and avocado.

Here you can try your hand at Chavot’s fresh pea, feta and avocado salad for the new year and pair with Jane’s perfect wine picks. Le Clandestin Sauvignon Blanc White, 201 is full-on Sauvignon Blanc-ness from start to finish, with freshly cut grass, peas and asparagus flavours. Available from Wine 2 You for £7.60. And the Louis Max Chardonnay from Climat Haute Vall e White, 201 . esty and tangy with red apple crunchiness, it’s one of the freshest Chardonnays in the group. £7.94 from Matthew Clark.

For those interested in food and who want to expand their wine knowledge, Pays d’Oc IGP wines, Eric Chavot’s recipes and Jane Parkinson’s expert advice is a good place to start.

Ingredients 100g Petit Pois 100g Broa beans 100g ucumber 1 Avoca o uartere - you can ress the Avoca o ith a little lime uice, lemon uice, oil an season ith ne sea salt an groun hite e er 0g ring onions slice 200g arinate feta su ermar ets sell feta marinate in s ices A bunch of mint A bunch of chives A bunch of basil 1 resh re chilli, cut ulienne hilli a es to taste A bunch of small basil leaves

125g live oil

5g Lemon oil vinegar

Lemon split dressing ingredients 2 s rigs Lemon thyme 6 small leaves resh sage Peel of 1 lemon 25g 150g ater ts ine sea salt ts aster sugar A inch groun

hite ine vinegar hite e ercorn

25g

hite balsamic

Method for lemon split dressing Gently warm the olive oil.

When warm, add your herbs and lemon peels.

Remove from the heat, cover with a lid or cling film and leave to cool and infuse on your worktop.

The following day, pass your oil through a fine sieve.

Add the lemon oil, vinegars, water and then season.

Green goddess dressing ingredients 0g ayonnaise 5g our cream 5g r me fraiche 0g ring onions A bunch of basil A bunch of cho e chives A bunch of at leaf arsley 25g Pic ling syru use a mixture of honey an vinegar mixe together to ma e this 1 arlic clove 1 inely cho e green chilli ine sea salt to taste roun blac e er to taste live oil to taste

A bunch of mint leaves 60g Avoca o cho e

Method for green goddess dressing Pick and wash the herbs in iced water before draining and spinning in a salad spinner.

Roughly chop the herbs with a knife and mix with all of the above ingredients, then add the seasoning.

Blitz with a kitchen blender/food processor, adding a couple of ice cubes until smooth.

When done, check the seasoning, pass through a fine sieve and keep refrigerated until needed.

Method Drizzle the feta with a dash of lemon oil and sprinkle some black pepper on both sides, keep in the fridge until needed.

If using frozen garden peas and frozen broad beans, blanch them together and drain immediately and then drizzle with a little lemon oil.

Mix and refrigerate until needed.

Dress and season your avocado as per above. Leave to macerate for a couple of minutes.

When ready, mix your peas, with half of the herbs, some lemon split dressing and seasoning.

Brush your plates with the green goddess dressing, and top with your pea salad, add chunks of crumbly feta, then with the avocado wedges and sprinkle the rest of the herbs and chilli flakes.

The Big Easy Brunch Located in Crossrail Place, it’s hard to miss The Big Easy Bar.B.Q & Lobstershack. Taking up a large corner of Crossrail Place and designed to pay homage to the area’s unique heritage and history by channelling the features of a turn of the 18th century dock-side warehouse, the restaurant is the company’s largest venue to date and only opened last November.

With 400-covers and open 18 hours a day, the lively venue also boasts a huge 14 metre open kitchen, one of the UK’s largest pit rooms housing three enormous two tonner US built smokers, additional

Big Easy anary

harf, 1 rossrail Place, Lon on E1 5AR

66

outside terraces, bars, take-out / retail and nightly live entertainment.

Here diners can stop for a hearty American Style breakfast; full afternoon tea; an exclusive Rum Bar and Lounge featuring over 100 rums as well as casks of rum on tap; and for those on the go – a take away shop and grab and go menu.

The restaurant also serves an unlimited boozy weekend brunch from 9am to 5pm for just £29.50 per person, the perfect cure to any hangover. Now, while this doesn’t mean you can sit drinking all day, the brunch includes 2 hours of unlimited Big Easy Brew, Prosecco or House Wine, you can have a fair bit in the allotted time. The real attraction is the food. We highly recommend opting for The Big Pig Gig – Limitless Bar.B.Q which features the delicious Pit-Smoked Bar.B.Q St Louis Pork Ribs, Chicken, North Carolina Chopped Pork, ‘Slaw, Pit-Smoked Beans, Fries and Fresh Baked Cornbread; or the whole fresh Lobster straight from Nova Scotia from the Lobster Fest option served with Fries and House Salad. If you can get your friend to order one or the other and share your way through the whole lot! ther options on the menu include, Fried Chicken Waffles and the Mac Attack. Don’t worry if you can’t finish it all though as you can always take it away.

Great fun for friends and family alike, the knowledgeable waiters will also hand out an assortment of tools to eat your dinner with from plastic bibs, to claw crackers and even a ‘how-to’ guide on eating a lobster.

If you can manage it dessert has to be either the Iron Skillet Smores Fondue with Graham Crackers or the DIY Ice Cream Sundae complete with Chocolate Sauce, Flake, Popping Candy and Sprinkles.

020 3841 8844 | bigeasy.co.uk

Tom’s Kitchen Canary Wharf Founded by chef Tom Aikens, Tom’s Kitchen is a well known institution in London. There are currently four restaurants and three delis across the capital as well as one international flagship in Istanbul. The London restaurants, located in Chelsea, Canary Wharf, St Katharine Docks and Somerset House, serve British favourites and comfort food classics in a relaxed and informal environment.

Third in the line of opening, Tom’s Kitchen Canary Wharf is located in Westferry Circus, and features a bar, deli, outdoor seating and private and semi-private dining options–perfect for private dinners, team meetings or other social events.

In keeping with the company’s ethos of placing importance on where food comes from and how it is grown, Tom’s Kitchen Canary Wharf uses a range of UK-based suppliers and local producers. The Kitchen uses the very best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, working with British suppliers and farmers that are as passionate about growing as the chefs are about cooking.

Light and airy, the homely restaurant is open for breakfast and a

om s itchen anary

harf, 11

popular place for business meetings and weekend brunches. For lunch and dinner, diners can choose from the British inspired menu with tempting dishes including Spicy Crab Cake served with cucumber and chilli salsa; and Hand Dived Scallops with caper puree, charred cauliflower and raisin vinaigrette. For mains there are plenty to choose from, with a wide variety of meat options from Seven Hour Confit Lamb to share; Venison Casserole; Cornish Duck Breast; and Slow Cooked Pork Belly served with soured cabbage, spiced sausage and mustard sauce. For fish lovers the Roast Fillets of John Dory with sweetcorn and bacon sauce and grilled leeks is a good choice, as is the Beer Battered Fish & Chips.

The restaurant also serves a variety of grill dishes including the Tom’s Kitchen Burger; and a host of sides from Triple Cooked Chips with Truffle to Buttered Savoy Cabbage. If you can manage it, desserts include Chocolate and Peanut Butter Fondant with caramel ice cream and a delicious traditional Eton Mess.

The bar is open daily from midday until late, offering a delicious range of cocktails and bar snacks; and the wine list is equally varied.

estferry ircus, Lon on E1

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020 011 1555

toms itchen.co.u

COLUMN

Salvatore’s tails

with Salvatore Calabrese

alvatore alabrese amousl known as he aestro is one o the world s to bartenders e made a name or himsel sourcing and mi ing i uid istor vintage s irits dating back to

and pests. It’s a complicated business which makes me grateful that I’m not the one actually toiling on the hills, but which has won Bruno Vespa several awards already.

I must admit I’m a little jealous that he’s gone one step further than me and actually owns the vineyard itself ! No matter, it was a privilege to have been asked to officially represent my home country in this way for the Made in Italy campaign alongside such esteemed company - Giorgio Locatelli was also there to provide food for the guests. And while it was ostensibly a wine-based event, it was a pleasure to make a cocktail using the wines of the guest of honour.

So here’s my tribute, which is called Il Vespaio: in a shaker I put four white grapes, and crush them with a muddler to extract the juice before pouring on 15ml Moscato grappa and 5ml of runny honey. I then add a handful of ice and shake the mixture for maybe 15 seconds before straining into a chilled champagne glass, and topping up with Bruno Vespa’s Noitre sparkling rosé wine, delicious, so do drop by Salvatore’s Bar at The London Playboy Club and ask for it by name. Should you wish to add the wine to your collection it is available through CV Food and Wines Ltd, email cvfoodwinesltd@gmail.com.

Maybe he’ll repay the favour and have me on his show one time, as long as it’s for the right reasons - I’d hate to make the headlines for the wrong reasons and cross the line that divides ‘famous’ and ‘notorious’! Salute e buon anno!

If ever I had created a bucket list of celebrities to meet, my bucket would be running over by now. Barely not a week goes by when I don’t chalk another famous face up at one of my bars, and it’s been a privilege to be able to make drinks for so many genuine A-listers, film stars, royalty and presidents. I dare say that some of them are no longer famous, but I’m still making drinks...

I’m way beyond getting star struck but there are occasions when I’m bowled over to have met one of my heroes - the Queen for instance, or Stevie Wonder who played the piano for me. One such meeting occurred last month when I met a famous Italian journalist called Bruno Vespa. You probably won’t know him but let’s just say he’s a national treasure, similar to, say, David Dimbleby here, having been on Italian screens since 1968 and winning multiple awards along the way.

Our meeting came during the launch of The Wasp’s own range of wines that’s what his last name means in Italian , as part of an Italian marketing drive hosted by the fashion designer Angelo Galasso and GQ host Dylan Jones, during which I was asked to create a cocktail in Bruno’s honour. His wines, called Vespa Vignaioli Per Passione, come from Puglia in the far south - the ‘heel’ of Italy is well known for its beautiful weather in the heart of the Mediterranean, so the grapes they grow are rich, abundant and bursting with flavour - you’ll know it as primitivo.

As I already put my name to a label of wines made to my specification, I know a little about what it is to make wine and to grow grapes, I felt a certain affinity to Bruno. The thing to remember is that making wine involves a constant and evolving relationship with your vines: you live and breathe your vineyards and you become at one with the grapes as they react to the temperature, rainfall and humidity, to the soil conditions, diseases

Salvatore’s Bar at Playboy, 14 Old Park Lane, Mayfair, W1K 1ND 020 7491 8586 | playboyclublondon.com | @cocktailmaestro

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COSY UP IN BABYLON

Enjoy great value set lunch menus, relax on the heated terrace with a hot cocktail and delicious baked cheeses and kick back with live jazz every Tuesday!

t 0207 368 3993 e babylon@roofgardens.virgin.com www.roofgardens.virgin.com @Babylon_London

7th Floor, 99 Kensington High Street (Entrance on Derry Street) London W8 5SA

your

R-Design for XC90 Classic 500F The latest release for Volvo’s impressive XC90 sees some high quality inclusions with the R-Design.

A fantastic example of an original Fiat 500F in stunning grey with red interior. The ultimate city car to break the mould and bring a bit of retro in to your life.

YOUR DRIVE

Get Sporty he olvo

esign brings the s ortiest version o the seven seat monster to date. And the red seems to help.

Launched at the end of last year, Volvo’s R-Design builds on the award winning XC90’s already impressive resume. The first in the model range to feature the brands Scaleable Product Architecture along with a striking new design, the XC90 has impressed onlookers since its release at the start of last year. Now, the marque has pushed their seven-seat SUV to new heights with a range of design, dynamic and equipment upgrades to create the sportiest XC90 we have ever seen.

Some might say that you can’t make an SUV of this size sporty, but those people would be wrong. For many years aftermarket companies have been making a substantial living by creating sporty upgrades for vehicles such as the Range Rover, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that companies should start offering the service themselves for a fraction of the cost. Volvo have suffered a similar plight to that of Jaguar a few years ago, but with the latest developments leaving the factory, it is safe

volvocars.com/uk

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VOVLO XC90 R-DESIGN

to say that they are on their way up. Developing some of the most influential and impressive technologies - often behind closed doors to the knowledge of the public - this company has invested considerably in the future success of the brand. Not only that, but they appear to have turned a corner with regard to automotive design .

The XC90 is a large car by anyones standards, but the design team have managed to impliment some clever features to ensure that the appearance is restrained. The R-Design adds some sleek yet structured features to create a sportier, aggressive look whilst still minimising the appearance of size. Slim headlight clusters nestled at the top of the sizeable front end are juxtaposed by the enourmous gloss black mesh front grille which fills almost the entire space between them. Lower down the face, contrast black detailing features throughout the spoiler which is supported by front fog lights yet again adding to the sporty edge that the R-Design brings. This specification also adds 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, silver-effect door mirrors and tinted rear windows.

Chiseled wheel arches provide a unique aesthetic combining a flat side commonly associated with cars on the world rally stage and a more regular protrusion, a standard feature on most road cars. This not only impacts on the look of the car, but adds to the illusion of size when looking from the front. Reducing the overall size

of the arch has meant that the car appears slightly narrower than it actually is. Of course this doesn’t help if you are trying to find a parking space in the local car park, but does make you look better whilst doing it.

Inside, there are leather/nubuck sports seats, and a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel complete with gearshift paddles. R-Design XC90’s also get a powered front passenger seat with memory function to match the driver’s seat , sports pedals, black headlining and upgraded interior lighting. You even get an exclusive R-Design leather-clad remote key fob.

The R-Design also benefits from further sports styling including the door, dash and centre console inserts which can be customised to suit you. And you cannot avoid noticing the impressive 12.3inch active TFT driver’s information display touchscreen interface which controls everything you could possible need - within the vehicle at least. Potentially confusing whilst driving, Volvo have done an excellent job at developing a system that is not only easy to use, but easy to use whilst driving. Clear options are provided in order to select exactly what you want and the ‘home’ button underneath the screen allows you to instantly return to the beginning when you want to look at something else. What’s great about this system is that you can have the navigation running to your desired destination whilst the screen also

“The launch of the XC90 R-Design makes our premium seven-seat SUV even more distinctive and dynamic than before.

Its sportier looks certainly make it stand out on the road, and its extra equipment ensures that the interior is as luxurious as it is stunning.�

Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK

YOUR DRIVE

displays other useful information like the radio station or song you are listening to and your average fuel consumption, which will undoubtedly surprise you. You can also enjoy a built-in wifi hotspot along with Apple CarPlay to mirror your phone.

Technology is one of the key features that separates Volvo from many of its competitors with a keen focus on the future of motoring, not only with regard to how we interact with our vehicles, but how our vehicles interact with each other and the surrounding environment.

R-Design models come with Drive Mode Settings and Adjustable Steering Force as standard, which allow you to choose between different settings for the engine, transmission, steering and the optional air suspension providing the option for a stiffer, more responsive ride or softer more comfortable journey depending on your mood of circumstance. This is of course on top of the already generous standard specification of entry-level XC90 Momentum models, which includes Sensus Navigation, two-zone climate control with Volvo’s ground-breaking CleanZone air quality system, LED

headlights, power-operated tailgate with handsfree opening, and the Volvo On Call mobile app.

Every aspect of Volvo’s technology development is focused on moving the quality of driving forward for driver, passenger, fellow road users and pedestrian alike. As a result, the C 0 features standard safety equipment which includes City Safety - a technology with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and front collision warning with full auto brake - driver alert control with lane departure warning, and front, side and fulllength curtain airbags. These steps are edging the UK automotive industry closer and closer to the inevitable, fully automated vehicles, and Volvo are leading the way. Behind the scenes, the company has been working tirelessly for years on autonomous technologies for use on public roads and we are now reaping the rewards.

At least for now, we can still enjoy the pleasure of driving, just with some subtle support from our clever new ‘smart’ cars. But don’t leave it too long to take advantage of it, or you might find yourself with one that doesn’t even need a steering wheel to work!

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VOLVO XC90 R-DESIGN

Claiming a whopping 48.7 mpg from the 2.0-litre D5 diesel, the offering is not reserved to safety features.

The performance figures across the engine line are impressive to say the least, considering the cars size, you will be surprised at the return. You can expect up to a staggering 134.5 mpg from the twin engined ‘T ’ and an emission figure of just g km. Possibly more surprising is its 0-62mph time of just 5.6 seconds.

The battle has never been bigger between car brands to produce the ultimate all-round car with power, efficiency and the all-important economical figures that every buyer is now very aware of. This is where Volvo’s development and design departments come into their own. When you combine the cars performance figures with the incredible safety features and the latest design ideas provided by the R-Design option, you get a pretty impressive package that will be hard to beat. Especially with an on the road price tag of £49,785. The company has done a fantastic job in bringing the brand in to the 21st Century and now appear to be leading the way for the future of motoring technology.

If you are in the market for a seven-seat vehicle, this is certainly worth a look and a test drive from your local dealer. The quality of the product on offer is secondto-none in the price range and provides something a little different to the norm to stand out from the crowd.

And you can rest assured that no other car in its market will give the comforting knowledge that in any given situation, you, your passengers and any passers by will remain safe. So why not join the Volvo revolution and see just what’s been going on behind the scenes in Sweden. You might find its a lot more than expected.

Engine 2.0-litre V6 Transmission Eight-speed Geartronic® Power (PS) 228 Torque (Nm) 470 Acceleration 0-62mph (sec) 7.8 Maximum Speed (mph) 137 Fuel Consumption Combined (mpg) 48.7 Carbon Dioxide Emissions (g/km) 152 On the Road Price £49,785

volvocars.com/uk

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Little Gem

Pristine example of the iconic original Fiat 500 There are still many original Fiat 500’s on the road thanks to the impressive sales figures when they were launched, however few will be in a similar condition to this stunning 1966 example. Carrying the same badge as the earlier ‘D’ model, the 500F is distinguishable by the door handle positioning. From 1 65, the 500F introduced front hinged doors rather than the ‘suicide doors’ which featured on previous models.

This car is finished in the very desirable colour combination of grey coachwork with its original red leather seats. The car shows just 35000 miles from new which is believed to be accurate. With just 2 previous owners, the condition of the car is very original, it even has the ‘running in’ sticker on the back screen! The car comes with an extensive file and has its original sales letter, hand books etc. and has been serviced by a local Fiat 500 specialist.

This is a unique chance to acquire a very original RHD desirable F model that is not only finished in a stunning colour combination, but is in fantastic original condition too. Don’t miss your chance, because this car will not be around for long. A present to yourself for the New Year!

Chelsea Cars, 59-61 Armoury Way, London SW18 1JZ 020 8870 9977 | sales@chelseacars.com | www.chelseacars.com

T: 020 3005 2857 | info@justwheelrepair.co.uk www.justwheelrepair.co.uk

Fully Mobile Service | Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Wheel Polishing | Locking Nut Removal Wheel Straightening | Split Rim Rebuilds Colour Coding | Acid Stripping | Diamond Cutting Powder Coating 10% OFF ALL SERVICES When you quote Your Media London

Chelsea Cars INTERNATIONAL

Specialists in classic and sports cars

Chelsea Cars is the largest classic car centre in the UK. We have been trading for over 30 years and have recently Featured in the bbc's "Top Gear" programme.

Visit our show rooms to see one of the country's ďŹ nest collections of classic cars including: Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, Porsche and Aston Martin.

59-61 Armoury Way, Wandsworth, London SW18 1JZ

tel: 020 8870 9977 fax: 020 8877 1905 info@chelseacars.com www.chelseacars.com

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART

NISSAN & FIAT EAST LONDON

DEALERSHIPS NOW OPEN!

DESIGN THAT GRRS. FINANCE THAT PURRS. HAVE

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NEW NISSAN QASHQAI

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£129 A MONTH

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£1,650 deposit contribution and 2 years FREE servicing available on selected models>

£1,250 deposit contribution and 3 years LOW COST servicing available on selected models>

GlynHopkin.com 1021 ROMFORD ROAD, MANOR PARK, EAST LONDON E12 5LH 020 8003 8463 OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Saturday 8.30am to 6.00pm. Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm

Branches also in: Waltham Abbey Buckhurst Hill, Romford, Chelmsford Colchester, Ipswich, Bishop’s Stortford Watford, Milton Keynes, St Albans Bedford & Cambridge Search Glyn Hopkin Group

One of the UK’s largest volume Nissan dealer groups with 13 dealerships

Qashqai Range: URBAN 37.2-67.3mpg (7.6-4.2L/100km), EXTRA URBAN 55.4-78.5mpg (5.1-3.6L/100km), COMBINED 47.1-74.3mpg (6.0-3.8L/100km), CO 2 emissions 138-99g/km. Juke Range: URBAN 28.8 - 61.4mpg (9.8-4.6L/100km); EXTRA URBAN 47.1-76.4mpg (6.0-3.7L/100km); COMBINED 38.2-70.6mpg

(7.4-4.0L/100km); CO 2 emissions 169-104g/km. Information correct at time of going to print. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status. Written details available on request. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) to apply. Finance provided by RCI Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ. *Contract hire, excludes maintenance, based on agreed annual mileage, excess mileage charges apply. >T&C’s apply, ask for full details. Model shots shown are for il ustration purposes only. Models subject to availability. MPG figures are obtained from laboratory testing, in accordance with 2004/3/EC and intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results (Optional equipment, maintenance, driving behaviour, road and weather conditions may affect the official results). Calls may be monitored to ensure quality of service.

GlynHopkin.com 1021 ROMFORD ROAD, MANOR PARK, EAST LONDON E12 5LH 020 8003 8749 OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Saturday 8.30am to 6.00pm. Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm

Branches also in: Buckhurst Hill, Romford Chelmsford, Ipswich, Bishop’s Stortford Milton Keynes, St Albans & Cambridge Search Glyn Hopkin Group

One of the UK’s largest Fiat dealer groups with 9 dealerships

your

New Year, New Way of Life As we move in to 2016, now could be the perfect time to move in general. Savills have already seen some big moves in the property market even before Christmas, so don’t leave it too long. Your dream property could be on the market and waiting for you.

FIND

THE

HOME

YOU D E S E RVE

ea2 would like to wish you a Happy New Year We are looking forward to a positive 2016 and in assisting you in all your property requirements

Towerside, Wapping E1W

Burr Close, West Wapping E1W

ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this modern built 3rd floor studio apartment within this riverside development. The apartment benefits from open plan lounge and bedroom area, fitted kitchen and 3 piece bathroom suite. Laminate wood floors.

Video entry-phone system. Parking space. Close to Wapping station and local bus routes.

ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this 1980’s built 2 double bedroom 2nd and 3rd floor duplex apartment. The apartment benefits from kitchen diner, reception leading to patio garden. Bathroom with separate Wc. Parking space. Located close to Tower Hill Stations and St Katharine’s Dock.

£624,995

£365,000

Please do not hesitate in contacting us on enquiries@ea2group.com 020 7702 3456 www.ea2group.com

Cape Yard, West Wapping E1W

Capital Wharf, West Wapping E1W

ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this 1st floor 2 bedroom modern built apartment within this popular West Wapping development. The apartment benefits from lounge, fully fitted kitchen, en-suite shower room to master bedroom and family bathroom. Floor to ceiling windows. Laminate wood floors. Video-entry phone system. Allocated parking space. On-site caretaker. Close to St Katharine’s Dock, Wapping station and Tower Hill stations. Share of Freehold.

ea2 are pleased to offer this bright 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment with stunning River views from the balcony on the second floor within this sought after development. The master bedrooms ensuite comprises of a 4 piece bathroom suite. The second bathroom is also an ensuite in the second bedroom. Wooden floors throughout and has a separate cloak room. 24 hour concierge and use of residents gym Secure underground parking. Close to transport links to canary wharf and the city.

£675,000

| 35a Wapping High Street | Wapping | E1W 1NR t: 020 7702 3456 www.ea2group.com | enquiries@ea2group.com

£1,100,000

Ionion Building, Limehouse The Tower, Wapping E1W E14

The Highway, Wapping E1W Burr Close, St Katharine’s Dock, West Wapping E1W

ea2 arepleased pleased sale this modern built to1strent floor 2 adouble ea2 are to to offeroffer this for executive Studio apartment within luxuriousbedroom landmark development.within This this South Facingpopular apartment comprises of fitted kitchen, apartment secure development onmodern Narrow open Street,plan Limehouse.

The contemporary fitted bathroom & Balcony, The flat totals 382 Sq. ft.

Residents of Wapping Lane apartment benefits from an open plan lounge/fitted kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, have the benefit of 24hr concierge facilities, exclusive residents health club, gym and enjoy close 3 piece bathroom suite, balcony and laminate wood floor. The development offers proximity to DLR and underground stations.

24 concierge/security and located close to Limehouse Marina and Limehouse £360 Per Week stations.

this 2this double recently renovated modern ea2 are pleased to to show offer you for sale 1980’sbedroom built 3 bedroom 2nd and 3rd floor apartment which comprises of 2 bathrooms, this property benefits from a leading garden duplex apartment.

The apartment benefits from kitchen diner, reception and is close to transport links. to patio garden.

Bathroom with separate WC. Located close to Tower Hill Stations and St Katharine’s Dock.

Douthwaite Square, West Wapping E1W Casson Apartments, Docklands E14

The Highway, Wapping E1W Hermitage Court, West Wapping E1W

£425 Per Week £699,995

£625,000

ea2 are pleased to offer for rent this modern built 2 bedroom ground and first ea2 pleased to bringThe to market this spacious 2nd floor modern 2 bedroom, floor are duplex apartment. apartment benefits from lounge, fitted built kitchen, 3 piece 2bathroom bathroomsuite. apartment thisLaminate secure development. apartment benefits Double within glazing. wood floors. The Views over ornamental from balconies,parking floor to ceiling windows, open planDock lounge with canal.2Allocated space.

Close to St Katharine’s and and Towerkitchen Hill stations. integrated appliances and granite work surfaces. Laminate wood floors, secure underground parking space, 24 hour security/porterage, residents roof terrace and onsite resident’s gym. Located close to the All Saints station and an approx. 15 £425 Per Week minute walk from the Canary Wharf District.

£470 Per Week

ea2 are pleased to offer a fantastic opportunity to rent this 2 double bedroom ea2 pleased offerre tofurbished rent this completely modern built 2 bathroom 1st houseare which has to been to 2a bedroom, high standard throughout. floor apartment within this popular Wapping development.

The apartment The property offers a reception withWest bi-folding full length doors leading to garden. benefits fully fitted kitchen, lounge,Utility private terrace, laminate wood floors Fully fittedfrom kitchen.

First floor bathroom. room/ground floor cloakroom.

Canand be secure underground parking.

Residents communal courtyard and furnished or unfurnished.

Garden with decking.

Close to Tower Hillporterage. and withinClose easy to TowertoHillthe stations St Katharine’s access City &and Canary Wharf. Dock.

£460 Per Week £460 Per Week

| 35a Wapping High Street | Wapping | E1W 1NR t: 020 7702 3456 www.ea2group.com | enquiries@ea2group.com

Lettings

Willow Street, City of London, EC2 Two bedroom apartment The development sits in the perfect location for those wanting to embrace the Shoreditch way of life.

Every last detail of the interior at Willow Street Apartments has been designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The open-plan living area/kitchen is finished to the highest of standards as well as each bathroom lined with grey limestone and includes Villeroy & Boch

fittings and recessed lighting. Large windows ensure your home will be filled with light throughout the year and with a courtyard and private terraces large enough to entertain guests on, this isn’t your average Shoreditch apartment.

Located close to Old Street & Liverpool Street station provides good transport links across the City.

ÂŁ900 per week Prices are correct at the time of going to print.

residential.canarywharf@cbre.com +44 (0)20 7519 5900 cbre.co.uk/londonhomes

Sales

Ringwood Gardens, Docklands, E14 One bedroom apartment A well-presented one bedroom apartment in the highly sought after dockside development of Ringwood Gardens.

Mudchute DLR station is only a few minutes’ walk away with good transport links to Canary Wharf and the City.

The property offers a spacious double bedroom, lounge area and separate kitchen space. Benefits include secure parking and is located only moments away from the river Thames.

From ÂŁ335,000 Prices are correct at the time of going to print.

residential.canarywharf@cbre.com +44 (0)20 7519 5900 cbre.co.uk/londonhomes

www.lourdes-estates.com

The Watergardens, Limehouse, E14

Ability Place, South Quay, E14

A beautifully presented two bedroom apartment located in this desirable Narrow Street development.

The property has recently been refurbished to a high standard and features a large reception room with floor to ceiling windows, semi open plan kitchen, large private terrace overlooking the internal gardens, two double bedrooms, modern bathroom and a separate WC. Provided furnished or unfurnished, the Watergardens includes secure underground parking, day time porter, is within close proximity to Canary Wharf plus both Limehouse and Westferry DLR stations.

A fully furnished, two bedroom apartment located in the popular Ability Place development.

The property is presented to a high standard and features a bright reception room with floor to ceiling windows, uninterrupted water views, open plan fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms, two contemporary bathrooms, private balcony and an allocated parking space. Ability Place boasts a 24 hour concierge, residents gym facilities and is well located a short walk to South Quay DLR station or Canary Wharf.

EPC = C

£440 per week

EPC = C

£550 per week

Dunbar Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

Papermill Wharf, Limehouse, E14

A simply stunning three double bedroom duplex penthouse apartment with direct river views refurbished to a very impressive specification. Arguably one of the finest penthouses in Docklands, the property is accessed via a private lift, measures approximately 2217 sqft and features a master suite with dressing area, three ensuite bathrooms, two reception rooms, utility room, large fitted kitchen with breakfast/dining area, integrated audio system throughout, four terraces measuring 1453 sqft in total, glass staircase and many rooms offering 180 degree views from floor to ceiling windows.

A wonderfully presented apartment situated in the ever popular Papermill Wharf riverside development on Narrow Street, only a short distance to Canary Wharf’s shops and amenities. This spacious property comprises of two double bedrooms, two bathrooms which have been renovated to a high standard and an ample sized master bedroom with walk in wardrobe. Further benefits are a separate fully fitted kitchen, wooden flooring throughout and an underground parking space.

It is ideally situated for public transport with both Limehouse and Westferry DLR station.

EPC = D

£2,500,000

EPC = D

Docklands office: 96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP docklands@lourdes-estates.com | 020 7538 9250

£750,000

C ity office 0 2 0 7 3 7 7 5 7 8 8 city@ lourdes- estates.com

Blenheim Apartments, Cable Street, E1

Naylor Building East, Assam Street, E1

A very modern, spacious one double bedroom apartment with a fantastic W est facing private terrace, offering stunning city views. The apartment is finished to a high standard and is complete with a fully-fitted kitchen, including dishwasher, a large double bedroom, spacious modern bathroom and good quality furniture, throughout. ther benefits include plenty of storage, lift access and within easy reach of maj or transport link s lik e Shadwell D L R and O verground station. This property is ideally located for professionals allowing easy access to both the C ity and C anary W harf.

A stunning three bedroom duplex apartment with park views in the popular Aldgate Triangle, E 1 .

This contemporary property offers a large lounge and dining area with direct access to a private patio, a separate modern fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, a bright master bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the park, two further bedrooms, a family bathroom suite and en-suite shower room to the master. Further benefits include a guest cloak room, double glazing, wood flooring throughout and a secure underground car parking space.

£400 per week

£725 per week

Green Court House, Mile End Road, E1

Naylor Building West, Assam Street, E1

A fantastic investment in a developing area, this 1 double bed apartment in a private development, which is only a short walk from Stepney G reen Tube on M ile E nd R oad. The property boasts the benefits of a good size lounge, open plan fitted kitchen, bathroom/shower, lift access and security entrance. The property has neutral decor and laminate flooring throughout. Currently being mark eted below the average price for one bedroom apartments in Stepney G reen and in an area which is continuously being recognised as an investment hot spot.

A spacious, modern, two double bedroom property located on the edge of the C ity’ s Sq uare ile financial district. Situated on the ground floor, accommodation comprises generous living space and dining area with floor to ceiling windows, large private terrace, fully fitted kitchen, tiled bathroom and en- suite shower room off the master bedroom. Naylor B uilding W est forms part of the much sought after Aldgate Triangle Development and boasts 24 hour concierge, gym, acuzzi and large roof terrace offering far fetching views across L ondon’ s ever changing sk yline.

£330,000

£660,000

C ity office: 2 0 W hite C hurch L ane, Aldgate, L ondon, E 1 7 Q R city@ lourdes- estates.com | 0 2 0 7 3 7 7 5 7 8 8

Your Property Market

with Alasdair Carpenter Managing Director, Lourdes Estates

2016 could be a very interesting year for the London Housing market. There are several key changes to the UK housing market that will have particular effect in The Capital. The way buy to let rental income is taxed is changing, as is the stamp duty on second homes and investment properties. These changes, coupled with the recent introduction of CGT for overseas investors, are a clear attempt by the government to make investment in the UK housing market less appealing. These changes are likely to have their biggest impact in London as the City’s property market benefits from substantial investment from both domestic and also international investors.

Prices in the UK housing market grew at their fastest pace in 8 months according to recent data compiled by the mortgage lender Nationwide. Many property market commentators are predicting this trend will continue into the New Year due to the inability of the construction sector to keep up with growing demand. Robert Gardener, Nationwide Chief Economist has warned that annual house price growth in the UK could hit 6% over the course of 2016. The level of growth in the London market will be intriguing as affordability metrics in The Capital are already stretched.

I understand the sentiment behind trying to make the domestic

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housing market more about providing homes for the general population and less as an investment vehicle for the rest of the world’s wealthy. However, I do not feel the new reforms are particularly fair or that they are likely to go anyway to solving the fundamental issues that are affecting the UK property market.

I can’t help but think this has not really been thought through in enough detail.

The one issue that needs addressing above all others in the housing market is that of supply. There is just not enough property being built. So rather than taking the reactive stance of taxing investors wouldn’t it be better to see some proactivity? Would reforming the lengthy and bureaucratic planning laws not be a better solution?

Or providing government backed loans for the development of new homes, thus encouraging growth. Discouraging investment won’t cure the problem, encouraging more house building will.

Ultimately, if we discourage private investors from buying property in the UK, we will reduce the availability of stock for tenants in the private rental sector. This will in turn increase the prices for rental properties, making it even harder for first time buyers to save for the deposit required to gain a foot on the property ladder.

I am confident we will be in for another strong year of growth in the London property market and I would like to wish everyone a prosperous 2016.

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lour es-estates.com

CGI of living room

Atlas held the world on his shoulders. you can take the weight off your feet.

APARTMENTS OF STATURE LONDON EC1 Prices from ÂŁ580,000* Register your interest now TheAtlasBuilding.com 020 7205 4346

*Prices correct at time of going to print.

PROPERTY

January Sales Start Early with Chris Lewis Head of Savills Northcote Road and it often takes time for buyers to work out what they need and what is less essential. Here, buyers often choose either a smaller house between the commons, close to Northcote Road and its fabulous shops, restaurants and bars, or moving elsewhere for a larger house and more outside space, but then being further from as many amenities and transport links.

We have several new launches this month that offer the best of these two worlds. The first, on Manchuria Road between the commons, is a fabulous five bedroom family house, offering a wonderful blend between period features and contemporary family living space, as well as its incredibly convenient location a short walk from Northcote Road and easy access to Clapham Junction. The second, on Hillbury Road, is a stunning double fronted house with over 4,000 sq ft of space and a large garden.

It has a wonderful uninterrupted view of the lovely green space of Tooting Bec Common, as well as all the charm of a Heaver Estate house.

Finally, on the 19th January we will be hosting an evening with Sophie Chick from our Research Department, open to all. Sophie will be talking about the London market as a whole, as well giving a more local outlook. Do get in touch with us if you would be interested in attending; it promises to be a very interesting and informative evening.

Despite the expectation that December is a quiet month in the property market, last month saw a good deal more activity in the local market compared to the autumn. This was particularly obvious in the £1 million to £2 million market, though we saw more sales and committed buyers across all of the price brackets, which we hope will continue in the new year.

I expect this was in part thanks to the pent up demand over the year and prices having slightly softened, making it a more attractive time to buy. November’s Autumn Statement initially caused confusion in the market place, awaiting further legislation to explain exactly how the additional SDLT charges will work in practice. As a result, there was no immediate rush, but it did encourage some vendors who were already planning to sell to bring their property to the market earlier.

To help with this, we’re open between Christmas and New Year and this also enabled us to speak to those who wanted to start their search as early as possible before the usual January flurry. This is always a busy month for viewings, as buyers scout out the market to get a feel for what is available and what they can afford, before the bulk of sales start happening in February.

Buying in London almost invariably involves making a compromise somewhere in the list of requirements; such as more central property but less space, or a larger house but further out,

Savills Northcote Road | 020 3428 2222 | savills.co.uk

92

West Tower, E14 £395,000 Leasehold

Wards Wharf Approach, E16 £625,000 Leasehold

This is a beautiful studio apartment offering cutting edge interior design with flexible living space and great location on the thirty third floor within the impressive Pan Peninsula development in the heart of Canary Wharf. The property comprises of a spacious living area with generous balcony, luxurious bathroom and a fully fitted kitchen with a pull out dining table giving you the complete comfort of living.

This spacious three bedroomed, three bathroom apartment is situated on the 14th floor of this exclusive gated development, situated on the banks of the River Thames and benefits from a beautifully presented interior, private balcony, lift access and porter. The property comprises a large reception/dining room with glazed door to terrace, fully fitted and integrated kitchen, master bedroom with chic en-suite shower room, additional bedroom with an ensuite, third bedroom and modern family bathroom.

Proton Tower, E14 £1,475 Per Calendar Month

Adriatic Apartments, E16 £2,700 Per Calendar Month

This stylish one bedroomed flat is situated on the eighteenth floor of an iconic development close to Canary Wharf amenities and benefits from lift access, private balcony, concierge and gym. The property comprises a spacious reception room/kitchen with glazed door to balcony, bedroom with fitted wardrobes and chic bathroom. Proton Tower is enviably located next to East India DLR Station and moments away from a fantastic selection of Canary Wharf shops.

Boasting generous proportions and an open-plan arrangement of rooms, this fabulous two bedroom, two bathroom duplex penthouse apartment boasts excel marina views that can be enjoyed from a beautiful balcony located on the ninth & tenth floor of this modern development. This property has been meticulously upgraded from the developer’s specification and comprises a sensational reception room leading onto a dining area and providing access to a balcony, stylish kitchen with fitted appliances & granite worktops.

Docklands Office, Unit B, 20 Western Gateway, London E16 1BS T 020 7474 5505 | docklands@madisonbrook.com | www.madisonbrook.com

BUYI N G | R EN T IN G | SEL L I NG | L E T TI NG | NE W H O M E S VISIT WWW.MADISONBROOK.COM

FREE MANAGEMENT *

WHEN YOU INSTRUCT MADISON BROOK TO SOURCE A TENANT FOR 10% PLUS VAT Our fully managed service includes professional photography, floorplans, marketing on Rightmove and OnTheMarket, as well as our own website, The Wharf newspaper and Your Docklands magazine, full deposit registration, tenancy agreements, collection of rent and managing

the maintenance for the full term of the tenancy using our innovative management system.

We are also able to organise rent guarantee insurance, professional cleaning and check-in and inventory reports.**

* Offer valid on instructions taken before 31/12/2015 ** These services do attract an additional cost

WHY USE MADISON BROOK INTERNATIONAL? • • • •

Unique customer service experience Knowledgeable lettings consultants Professional / corporate tenants A proven track record of achieving the best price

• • • • •

Wider exposure / premium listing Qualified contractors Member of ARLA and regulated by OFT Total peace of mind Quarterly property inspections

MADISON BROOK (Greenwich) Unit C, 32/34 Wood Wharf, Horseferry Place, Greenwich, SE10 9BB Tel: 020 8853 8950 Email: greenwich@madisonbrook.com

OLYM P US TILES QUALITY BY DESIGN

JANUARY Big Brand Bathroom Sale SALE Starts 26th September NOW ON

LONDON’S LEADING TILE & BATHROOM COMPANY www.olympustiles.co.uk

60 - 64 Snakes Lane East Woodford Green Essex, IG8 7QQ T: 020 8504 8425 F: 020 8504 9278

Unit 6 - 7, East Ham Industrial estate 1000 Newham Way London, E6 5JN T: 020 7511 6210 F: 020 7474 0488

Email: sales@olympustiles.co.uk

reedsrains.co.uk

www.

Lordswood, Kent

Mayford Road

Guide

Longfield, Kent

£400,000-£425,000

The Laurels, New Barn

OIEO

£500,000

Four Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms. Stunning Detached House.

Three Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms. Detached Bungalow.

Walderslade Woods, Kent

Walderslade, Kent

Cossington Road

£550,000

Four Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms. Detached House on a Private Road.

Walderslade - Kent 01634 200279 walderslade@reedsrains.co.uk

Glamis Close

£375,000

Four Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms. Detached House.

Part of the

Group

reedsrains.co.uk

www.

Walderslade, Kent

Walderslade, Kent

Princes Avenue

£300,000

Snodhurst Avenue Guide £240,000-£260,000

Two Bedrooms, Lounge/Dining Room. Detached House.

Three Bedrooms, Recently Refurbished. Semi-Detached House.

Walderslade Woods, Kent

Chatham, Kent

Carpinus Close

£575,000

Four Bedrooms with separate annex with bathroom.

Detached House.

Walderslade - Kent Part of the 01634 200279 walderslade@reedsrains.co.uk

Group

The Ridgeway

OIEO

£850,000

Five Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms. Stunning Detached House.

Walderslade - Kent 01634 200279 walderslade@reedsrains.co.uk

LANDMARK WEST, CANARY WHARF E14 ● ● ● ●

3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Penthouse Residents gym

● ● ● ●

Allocated parking Approx. 1,679 sq ft (156 sq m) Heron Quays DLR - 0.4 mile EPC: B

Guide price £1,700,000 Leasehold For more information, call Charlotte Malone 020 3813 5941 or email charlotte.malone@eu.jll.com

11 Westferry Circus Canary Wharf E14 4HE

jll.co.uk/residential

THE BOARTYARD, CANARY WHARF E14 ● ● ● ●

1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Balcony Furnished

● ● ●

Approx. 538 sq ft (50 sq m) Devons Road DLR - 0.7 mile EPC: B

Price £325 per week Furnished For more information, call Charlotte Malone 020 3811 2225 or email charlotte.malone@eu.jll.com

Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.

11 Westferry Circus Canary Wharf E14 4HE

jll.co.uk/residential

Your West End | Issue 47 | January 2016

The Velvety Smooth Taste of Chocolate

161 Great Portland Street W1W 5PB info@choconut.london

www.choconut.london

www.yourmedialondon.com

NOW OPEN