Download - Issue 22 for Highlife Asia Readers
N E W Z E A L A N D ’ S O N L Y D E D I C A T E D L U X U R Y T R A V E L M A G A Z I N E
RRP NZ$19.95 / AU$16.95 incl gst
LUXURYHOLIDAYS & CORPORATE TRAVEL
On the Tracks
in Thailand
COLORADO SKI COUNTRY
A Powderhound’s playground
EAT CHIC NEW YORKThe standard, beautiful & spicy
RAINBOWS IN RAJASTHAN
Colourful culture, and vivid impressions
FOOD OF THE GODS The makings of fine chocolate
TOP 5 NEW HOTEL SUITES
Elegant, opulent, contemporary but always unforgettable
Issue 22 Autumn/Winter 2013
WIN 1 OF 3 BOTTLES OF LIMITED EDITION WAIWERA SPIRIT
2 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. Above: Dubois-designed 50m aluminum sloop Zefira won 2011 World Superyacht Awards for Best Yacht over 45m as well as 2011 Sailing Yacht of the Year. Zefira carries a 56m rigging package from Southern Spars. Photo courtesy of Fitzroy Yachts.
Pushing the boundaries in technology and design
Passion - Technology - Design - PerformanceSouthern Spars is the world leader in the design and construction of carbon fibre spars, components, rigging, and rig servicing.
www.southernspars.com
Southern Spars FP Advert v3.indd 1 26/04/13 5:28 PM
2 3Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. Above: Dubois-designed 50m aluminum sloop Zefira won 2011 World Superyacht Awards for Best Yacht over 45m as well as 2011 Sailing Yacht of the Year. Zefira carries a 56m rigging package from Southern Spars. Photo courtesy of Fitzroy Yachts.
Pushing the boundaries in technology and design
Passion - Technology - Design - PerformanceSouthern Spars is the world leader in the design and construction of carbon fibre spars, components, rigging, and rig servicing.
www.southernspars.com
Southern Spars FP Advert v3.indd 1 26/04/13 5:28 PM
4 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Just imagine. A train linking not only east and west Switzerland, but
also two of the world’s most famous holiday resorts. The remarkable
journey by Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz takes just 8 hours
of luxury. The Glacier Express journey is a feast for the eyes.
From the depths of the Rhine Gorge up to the 2033 Oberalp Pass,
the Glacier Express travels through no fewer than 91 tunnels and 291
bridges on this epic journey. And, discover the very best of Switzerland
while enjoying delicious culinary creations served straignt to your seat,
or in the spacious dining car. Perfect.
www.railplus.co.nz
4 5Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The Glacier Express. Switzerland from the ultimate vantage point.
From corporate jets to superyachts.
With the increasing trend of needing to create
impressionable experiences in limited time frames,
the rise of personalised concierge services has been
astounding. Around the world, companies are offering
their 24-hour, on-demand service, which specialises in
things like obtaining a reservation for a fully-booked
restaurant, jumping the queue at a premium nightclub,
obtaining VIP status for a fashion show, or organising a
private jet to take a group to a luxury event.
Originally, a concept more reserved for when staying in a hotel, demand has
extended for this type of assistance in the work environment, at home and while
staying in private accommodation. In this issue we introduce Highlife Asia, a leading
event management and concierge company headquartered in Shanghai and we
talk to Jacqui Spice, founder of Touch of Spice, a company that offers tailored
experiences for high-end visitors to New Zealand. When faced with challenging
requests, ‘no’ is never the answer for Jacqui and her team.
From corporate jets to superyachts, this issue is packed with stories ripe for the
jet set. We take a peek inside some of Korean Air’s luxury private jets and visit
Southern Spars in Auckland, a company who is leading the way in superyacht
technology and one of the reasons why the world’s yachting elite make their way
to New Zealand. Staying with the subject of yachting, we check out San Francisco,
primed and ready for an influx of the international boating aristocracy before the
America’s Cup fever really hits town.
Next we hit the slopes of Colorado’s winter wonderland for some fantastic late
season skiing and journey by luxury rail for six nights through Thailand’s numerous
villages and towns to take in the ever-changing landscape. Then it’s off to New
York for a whirlwind stay at two boutique properties and some fabulous dining.
For something a bit different, we explore the ancient Inca sites of Peru and the
colourful culture of Rajasthan. Then follow the journey of the cacao bean and how
it’s transformed into an artisan chocolate bar – plus show how chocolate lovers can
travel and indulge.
Take time to luxuriate in our Top 5 New Hotel Suites story before taking a sneak
peak at the new Fiji Airways. We look forward to trying out their enhanced service
and features soon.
So enjoy the read and I invite you to email me your thoughts on your luxury travel
finds to [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you. Keep
relishing in what the wonderful world of travel has to offer.
Melanie Hawkins
Editor, LUXURY Holidays & Corporate Travel
N E W Z E A L A N D ’ S O N L Y D E D I C A T E D L U X U R Y T R A V E L M A G A Z I N E
RRP NZ$19.95 / AU$16.95 incl gst
LUXURYHOLIDAYS & CORPORATE TRAVEL
On the Tracks
in Thailand
COLORADO SKI COUNTRY
A Powderhound’s playground
EAT CHIC NEW YORKThe standard, beautiful & spicy
RAINBOWS IN RAJASTHAN
Colourful culture, and vivid impressions
FOOD OF THE GODS The makings of fine chocolate
TOP 5 NEW HOTEL SUITES
Elegant, opulent, contemporary but always unforgettable
Issue 22 Autumn/Winter 2013
WIN 1 OF 3 BOTTLES OF LIMITED EDITION WAIWERA SPIRIT
Editor’s Letter
PS: Just released is Lauraine Jacobs’ latest book that documents her travel
memoirs, all-time favourite recipes and food tips. Look for this delicious read
entitled ‘Everlasting Feast’, available at all good book stores RRP NZ$55.
LUXURY Holidays & Corporate Travel
Cover image: Eastern & Oriental Express
Publisher:
Travel Publications Limited
Editorial Director:
Philip Harrison Phone: +64 21 477 514 Email: [email protected]
Editor:
Melanie Hawkins Phone: +64 21 557 579 Email: [email protected]
Contributors:
Philip Tetley-Jones Peter Thornley Denise Cohen Timothy Giles Mary Gaudin Toni Gillan Paul Rush Gemma O’Sullivan Tim Lamb Richard Lott Jackie O’Fee Hannah Whiteoak Michelle Wranik Fiona Harper Creative Director:
James Rangihika Designer:Natalie Barlow
Advertising Enquiries:
Janice Burmaz Phone: +64 21 630 257 Email: [email protected]
Contact Details:
PO Box 559, Shortland Street, Auckland 1140, New Zealand Phone: 0800 758 759 Fax: +64 9 300 7511 Website: www.luxurymagazine.co.nz
ISSN: 1178-2382
Although we endeavour to provide the highest level of quality in our content, the views and opinions contained within this magazine have been obtained from independent sources, and Travel Publications Limited explicitly disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, content or availability of the information.
Digital version available from www.zinio.co.nz
7Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
24_AKLSM_215_297_LM.pdf 1 13. 04. 11 오후 3:00
8 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
COLE
NSO
0091
With crystal clear water, white sand beaches, lush rainforests and smiling people, it’s easy to see why Fiji is the happiest country on earth.* Why not come visit and let happiness find you.
Visit www.fiji.travel to find out more.
happiest place on earth. Welcome to the
* Gallup International and the Worldwide Independent Network of Market Research 2012.
8 9Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Cover Story50 On the Tracks in Thailand
– Eastern & Oriental Express
Features20 Colorado Ski Country
26 Rainbows in Rajasthan
34 Eat Chic New York
58 Top 5 New Hotel Suites
67 An Epic Journey – Indian Pacific Rail
68 Fiji Airways Arrives in Style
72 Fiji – Maximise Your Island Time
86 Inca Sites of Peru
89 Food of the Gods – The Makings
of Fine Chocolate
In Every Issue10 Review
12 Luxury Preview
45 Style File
46 Luxury Insider – Jacqui Spice
49 Foreign Exchanges – Switzerland
78 Travel Accessories
96 Premium Economy Review – Air NZ
98 24 Hours in – San Francisco
Hotel Reviews30 The Imperial, New Delhi
36 The Greenwich Hotel, New York
40 The Standard High Line, New York
80 Hei Matau Lodge, Waiheke Island
92 Grand Hyatt, Kuala Lumpur
Lifestyle
74 Superyachts – The Leading Edge
of Luxury
83 Soar Through the Skies in Luxury
– Korean Air’s Private Jet Service
50
26
74
36
89
40
1010 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Review: Autumn/Winter 2013Check out these great events happening over the next few months. Ranging from cuisine and wine tasting to some of the biggest international events of the year, you’re sure to find something here of interest.
America’s Cup, San Francisco, USAJoin the world’s yachting elite for the 33rd America’s
Cup that kicks off in San Francisco from July.
Download the official America’s Cup free app for the
latest news, results, video and live action, on the go.
Louis Vuitton Cup: 4 July - 30 August 2013
Red Bull Youth America’s Cup: 1 - 4 September 2013
Super Yacht Regatta: 9 - 13 September 2013
America’s Cup Finals: 7 - 21 September 2013
www.americascup.com
Vivid, Sydney, AustraliaThis 18-day festival is the platform
for some truly unique performances
incorporating music, lighting and
artistry. Talented German music
pioneers Kraftwerk are the headline
act set to perform at the Sydney Opera
House this year.
24 May - 10 June 2013
www.vividsydney.com
Rugby World Cup Sevens, Moscow, RussiaThe 6th RWC Sevens tournament
comprising of a division for both men
and women is set to be a big event
for Rugby Sevens fans. With Wales
currently holding the title, 24 countries
will compete in the hopes of winning
the cup.
28 - 30 June 2013
www.rwcsevens.com
Long Weekend Festival, Noosa, Australia This annual 10-day cultural celebration is well-known as one of
Australia’s leading regional arts festivals. A real multi-arts genre
event, events include music, theatre, cabaret, drama, dance,
literature, food, film, supper clubs, workshops and even a
Viennese Ball.
14 - 23 June 2013
www.noosalongweekend.com
The Extreme Wine Experience, Provence, FranceThis effective short course is
guaranteed to improve your wine
expertise and tasting skills. Be prepared
for total immersion into all things
‘wine’. Held at La Verrière private wine
estate nestled in a UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve, it is suitable for wine
enthusiasts of all levels.
22 - 28 June 2013
www.laverriere.com
Meow Meow. Photo credit: Harmony Nicholas
10 11Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 10
Luxury Preview
Fast cars and fireworks
Macau, the glitzy playground of southern
China, is preparing to celebrate two
anniversaries this year. Prepare for plenty
of fireworks as the former Portuguese
enclave puts on a carnival atmosphere for
the 60th anniversary of the Macau Grand
Prix as well as the 25th annual Macau
International Fireworks Display Contest.
An annual event since 1954, the Macau
Grand Prix will commemorate its
Diamond Jubilee over two weekends from
November 9-10. Prior to this carnival, over
the latter half of September, the night sky
will glow with a myriad of magnificent
fireworks as a number of countries
compete for top billing in a competition
that is celebrating a silver anniversary.
Macau is superbly situated for a stopover
to Europe, so why not schedule a visit in
late 2013 and join in the festivities.
A new star for BaliBali isn’t short of fine hotels and villas but a new star is always welcome. The brand new
Alana Vasanti Seminyak is close to Bali’s most popular restaurants and clubs whilst enjoying
a serene setting enclosed by emerald-green rice fields. Designed by Alex Bayusaputro
from Genius Loco Architects, the hotel features four Presidential and 24 Deluxe Suites
with separate lounge space and a mix of 93 oversized guest rooms with private balconies,
spacious bathrooms with rain showers and iPod compatible sound systems.
There’s a restaurant, a pool with sundeck, a pool bar and a wellness centre with gym on
offer. Devali is a chic restaurant featuring a relaxed contemporary setting with private and
communal tables, regular chef tables and a menu highlighting modern interpretations
of Balinese cuisine. The Splash Pool Bar invites guests to interact and enjoy poolside
refreshments while the AUM Wellness Centre, set in the gorgeous landscape of Seminyak,
combines exotic beauty with utter indulgence.
Cathay Pacific’s First Class lounge sets the bar highHong Kong’s leading airline has spared no expense to pamper its premium passengers in
Hong Kong. Called simply ‘The Wing’, this new lounge sets unparalleled levels of comfort.
Among the many changes is an upgrade to The Haven, the iconic feature of the First
Class Lounge. This popular dining area has been expanded to more than double its
original capacity and features an expanded buffet counter that offers an extensive range
of appetisers, Asian and Western dishes, and delicious desserts. The passenger dining
experience has been further enhanced by a reinvented à la carte menu complemented by
recommended wine pairings.
Luxury Preview
Banyan Tree’s new resort in VietnamVietnam is the hot new travel destination, with planeloads of adventurous tourists arriving
ready to explore this fascinating part of Southeast Asia. The Banyan Tree group has
responded to the demand for sophisticated accommodation with an immaculate new
resort in the Lang Co area. Built on a unique crescent bay offering privacy and unparalleled
exclusivity, Banyan Tree Lang Co is the most luxurious edition to the resort and hotel
collection of the Laguna Lang Co complex.
Enveloped by eco-diverse mountains and located close to heritage sites in Hue, Hoi An
and My Son, the area around Banyan Tree Lang Co is ripe for exploration. The intrepid
adventurer can experience the wonders of nature while art and culture aficionados can
discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
If that all sounds like too much effort, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s an 18-hole
championship golf course as part of the complex and ample opportunities to simply soak
up the tropical ambience. If Vietnam is on your places-to-see list, make sure you include
the Banyan Tree Lang Co on the itinerary.
Asia’s ultimate concierge
If you’re based in Asia, or doing business
there, you know how important it is to
make the right impression.
Exclusive access to the most sought-after
events is a guaranteed way to make
business associates take notice – or simply
enjoy a taste of the high life yourself.
That’s why the appropriately named
Highlife Asia is your perfect introduction
to the fine art of living well. Much more
than an event management company,
Highlife Asia organises bespoke events
for selected individuals and groups.
You could be whisked away on a plush
Business Class flight to experience New
York Couture Fashion Week, with VIP
tickets to the final Project Runway show.
Or you could treat Highlife Asia as your
high-end concierge and tap them for
tickets to Ascot or Wimbledon. With the
right connections, anything’s possible.
Highlife Asia can also help you stage
the most amazing events, from elegant
evening galas to red carpet launches.
Find out how you can have Asia’s
top concierge working for you at
www.highlifeasia.com
1414
Luxury Preview
Your luxurious gateway to Sydney
With views looking out over Sydney’s
Darling Harbour, the 340-guestroom
PARKROYAL Hotel is a gateway to the
best of Sydney, its staff are able to connect
guests to the unmissable experiences the
city has to offer.
For those wanting to relax and unwind
without venturing outside, the hotel
offers a range of bar and restaurant
options and on-site facilities to keep
guests entertained.
Having undergone a multi-million dollar
refurbishment in 2012, the Parkroyal
now offers a contemporary interior that
is as welcoming as it is striking. A fresh,
vibrant palette of natural tones and
finishes is sustained throughout, with
neutral greys and fresh blues and greens
elegantly contrasting to exude the sense
of an urban sanctuary, seamlessly set in its
Sydney surrounds.
Sydney’s most spectacular over-water suitesThe Sebel Pier One Sydney, located in Walsh Bay adjacent to The Rocks precinct, has
unveiled seven of the city’s most spectacular over-water suites with peerless views of Luna
Park, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
Perched on and over Sydney Harbour, the hotel’s new suites include four Harbour View
Balcony Suites, which have direct access to expansive balconies with sweeping Sydney
Harbour views. The unique location makes an ideal setting for private alfresco dining,
sunset drinks or simply taking in the beauty of Sydney Harbour and watching the yachts sail
past. All the balcony suites have designer day beds and arm chairs, which are positioned to
maximise the panoramic views.
Sydney Harbour is justly world-famous, and these stylish new suites certainly make the
most of their unrivalled setting.
Relax in French luxury Explore marvelous Melbourne with a Magnifique Breakfast escape at Sofitel Melbourne
On Collins located at the ̀ Paris end’ of Collins St, right in the heart of Melbourne’s premium
shopping, dining and theatre district. Whether it is a weekend getaway, a business trip,
or a relaxing holiday, Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is the perfect home away from home.
Dine at No35, the hotel’s signature restaurant which offers breathtaking views over the
city, enjoy cocktails after dark at the intimate Atrium bar on level 35, or indulge in a
decadent afternoon tea in Sofi’s Lounge in the lobby. All Melbourne’s renowned attractions
including the famed MCG sporting ground, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the National
Gallery of Victoria are just minutes from the hotel.
Auckland Airport the best for 5th year running
At the 2013 SKYTRAX World Airport
Awards, held at the passenger Terminal
EXPO in Geneva, Auckland Airport was
named the Best Airport in the Australia
Pacific region for the 5th successive year.
It was also awarded Best Staff Service for
the Australia Pacific region for the 2nd
year running.
As well as this, Auckland Airport came
2nd globally for airports with 10 to 20
million passengers per year.
Luxury Preview
Pure luxury in MarlboroughPerched on a hillside above Havelock, the subtle colours and rustic woodwork of Pelorus Lodge
blend into the native bush to create an unspoiled, timeless and therapeutic environment.
Editor’s note: The nearby Pelorus River features in a scene from Sir Peter Jackson’s movie
‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’. www.peloruslodge.com
Private seclusion in Koh SamuiLuxury lovers will need no introduction to Koh Samui. This idyllic island off the south coast
of Thailand offers some of the region’s most beautiful scenery, not to mention a glimpse
of the graceful local culture. And now there’s a fabulous new hotel to make your stay even
more relaxing.
Hidden away in a secluded cove near the famous white sands of Chaweng Beach, and with
breathtaking views over the island, Vana Belle is more than just a resort. Every suite and villa
provides you with total privacy and your very own personal private pool and terrace. The
serenity is tangible and you’ll feel like you’re the monarch of your own private paradise.
Two exquisite restaurants offer a choice of the finest Thai and Italian-influenced dining. If
you need to rejuvenate body and spirit, the Vana Spa is on hand. We can’t think of a more
pleasant way to spend a few days or weeks in the blissful environment of Koh Samui.
1414
Photo tour to tackle California’s Eastern Sierra
Sometimes the best way to see a region
is through the lens of a camera. There’s
nothing quite like framing a magnificent
landscape through the viewfinder, or
seizing the perfect moment to capture a
wild eagle in mid-flight. It’s an experience
that creates its own souvenir.
Catering for photography buffs of
all ages, David Metcalf Photography
has put together a unique tour of the
awe-inspiring California Eastern Sierra.
Departing in October 2013, this is your
chance to follow in the footsteps of Ansel
Adams and capture the stark beauty
of Yosemite, Mammoth Mountain
and Death Valley. You will be staying
in comfortable accommodation and
travelling by private bus with ample time
to upload photos and learn from the
review sessions with your professional
photographer guides.
If photographing glacier-carved valleys,
crystal-clear lakes, mountain wildflowers,
old west towns, and vibrant fall colours
with the backdrop of 14,000-foot
mountains is your idea of stimulating
holiday, then this is an experience you
should be part of. Find out more at
www.davidmetcalfphotography.com
Luxury Preview
Business can be a pleasure in Jo’burg
Johannesburg has many attractions but
it’s not high on most travellers’ lists for
a luxury holiday. Business, or stopping
over on the way to the other attractions
of South Africa is a more likely reason to
be spending time in the Transvaal capital.
However, that’s no reason to forego a
little pampering.
The Maslow Hotel is a new hotel with
a difference. Located in the Sandton
district, it’s ideal for business travellers
and a stylish alternative to the standard
international business hotel template.
Special attention has been given to
physical comfort in each of the hotel’s
281 bedrooms. The design philosophy
could be described as ‘simple luxury’, with
a soothing colour palette and clean lines
that contrast with the vibrancy of Africa
outside the front door.
Como opens second resort in the MaldivesIf you ever needed a reason to put the Maldives on your must-visit list, now you have two.
The world-renowned Como group has just opened its second Maldives resort, Maalifushi
by Como. This eight-hectare private island in the southerly Thaa Atoll complements the
Como resort that opened in 2002 on South Malé atoll.
The 66-room property will be the first luxury resort on the unspoilt Thaa Atoll where
it will offer away-from-it-all seclusion and a remarkable underwater experience. The
island’s pristine white sands and bright turquoise lagoons are neighboured by a string of
uninhabited islands – perfect dashes of powdery sand and lolling palm trees – including
another island belonging to the resort that can be booked for castaway picnics and
romantic private dining.
Reclining in the sun will be a major attraction but there’s much more on offer. Underwater,
the Thaa Atoll boasts a range of unspoiled corals, attracting a whole host of colourful reef
fish and sea creatures, with the chance to spot magnificent hammerhead and whale sharks.
Luxury Preview
Experience glorious Greece and Italy with Aman Zo’e is Greek for ‘life’, and you’ll certainly feel full of the joys of it when you stay at the
latest Aman resort. Surrounded by undulating olive groves and overlooking the island of
Spetses and the Argosaronic Gulf beyond, Amanzo’e is just a 10-minute drive from the
tavernas and vibrant life of Porto Heli. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the
natural beauty, coastal pleasures and ancient heritage of the Peloponnese region.
History and culture buffs will revel in the picturesque forests and coastlines, interspersed
with ancient ruins. Sun-lovers will enjoy the perfect Mediterranean climate with its clear
light and azure waters. And everyone will feel a deep sense of relaxation, brought on by
the sophisticated simplicity of the Aman style.
While you’re in that part of the world, it would be a shame not to visit the newest addition
to the Aman family. The Aman Grand Canal Venice is a boutique hotel that complements
the unique splendours of Venice. The 24 suites feature historic frescos and artworks that
will turn your Mediterranean holiday into a cultural highpoint.
View the Serengeti migration in style
Tanzania’s Serengeti is the site of one
of the natural world’s most amazing
phenomenon – the awesome annual
migration of vast herds of wild animals.
If you’re looking for a comfortable
base to view this awesome event, we
recommend Singita Serengeti House.
Designed for families and friends, the
house is Singita’s response to a growing
demand from travellers for privacy
and flexibility. Offering thrilling game
viewing and stunning accommodations,
this new property has space for eight
people in two suites in the main house
and two further guest suites on either
side of the main house, connected by
pathways from a central pool deck with
a 25-metre rim-flow lap pool.
Offering the convenience and luxury of
a private lodge, Singita Serengeti House
is your ideal introduction to African
wildlife with home comforts.
Amanzo’e
Aman Grand Canal Venice
18 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Luxury Preview
Ying at Altira Macau: fine dining with a difference
The former Portuguese colony of
Macau, situated a short distance from
Hong Kong, offers no shortage of fine
dining options. One of the very finest is
Ying at Altira Macau. The combination
of superb Cantonese cuisine with the
distinctive Portuguese influence is both
subtle and unusual. Ying has a love
affair with Iberico pork, as even their
sweet and sour pork uses Iberico ham.
It tastes as delightful as it sounds.
We aren’t the only ones who were
impressed. On 26 February 2013,
Forbes Travel Guide unveiled its 55th
annual listing of Star Award-winning
Worldwide Hospitality Establishments.
Altira Macau was among the world’s 76
Five-Star Hotels with this prestigious list
featuring only five hotels from Macau.
Ying restaurant was also recommended
in the prestigious Hong Kong Tatler’s
Best Restaurants Guide.
Unique local experiences with MövenpickInternational hotels tend to operate to a template. This guarantees consistently high
standards around the world, but the price can be a certain sameness everywhere from
Vancouver to Vietnam. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, the upscale hotel management
company, has decided to challenge the status quo.
Feel like cooking authentic Thai food with a local chef in Phuket? What about exploring
UAE cultural highlights and traditions? Or perhaps playing a lute in Vietnam with a Hanoi
musician? Mövenpick’s Local Flair Getaway concept connects travellers with unique local
experiences that are light years away from traditional tourist attractions.
Every Local Flair Getaway experience includes room nights, special services and features
experiences that are as unique as they are varied, from art, architecture and culture to
cuisine, wildlife and history.
Mumbai hotel lures world’s most awarded chefThe name Joël Robuchon is one to conjure with. Along with culinary star Hide Yamamoto,
he’s been lured to the Indian metropolis of Mumbai to open a restaurant in a stunning new
42-suite hotel.
The Aayu Mumbai will claim the top five floors of Kohinoor Square’s Central Tower, a
50-storey commercial building in the city. Part of the GHM group, the all-suite hotel
overlooks Shivaji Park and offers views of the Arabian Sea to the west, and the island
mainland to the east. The property is scheduled to open in December 2013.
High-rise views will be combined with a high standard of luxury. A library lounge and bar,
cigar and cognac lounge and exclusive malt bar will occupy the 49th floor. The hotel’s spa
will be unmoored from a fixed location, with all treatments conducted in the guest’s room.
We’re looking forward to seeing how the whole package comes together.
Aloha Auckland!
Hawaiian Airlines has now launched
their non-stop service from Auckland
to Honolulu. Their trans-Pacific and
interisland route networks allow
several convenient connections to and
throughout Hawai’i, as well as onward
to eleven gateway destinations in the
United States.
Hawaiian Airlines will operate three
flights a week between Honolulu and
Auckland using an A330-200 aircraft.
18 19Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Boutique luxury in BerlinThe German capital may be the best-kept travel secret in Europe. The home of a vibrant
arts scene and some magnificent cultural attractions, it now has a boutique hotel that lives
up to the destination.
Called simply Das Stue, this member of the Design Hotels Group is a place where quality,
heritage and contemporary design come together. Its 80 guestrooms are housed in the
former Danish Embassy, which was constructed in the 1930s. As with all the best design
hotels, the atmosphere is utterly unique, blending the solid structures of 20th Century
German style with clean modern lines and colour palette.
Every single room at Das Stue is an experience of its own. Some come with high ceilings,
interconnected doors for families and friends, and attached balconies or terraces, while
others feature organically curved bathtubs. Quite a few boast views overlooking the
ostriches and gazelles of the Berlin Zoo. All rooms fuse furniture classics with contemporary
design and sumptuous fabrics, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and mystique.
Luxury Preview
Haute cuisine cruises
We may have found the ultimate holiday
for cruise lovers who also have gourmet
tendencies. Silversea is hosting the
exclusive Relais & Châteaux L’École des
Chefs interactive cooking school in 2013.
On 14 luxurious voyages across the
globe, Chef David Bilsland will present a
programme developed in collaboration
with Jacques Thorel, a consulting Grand
Chef Relais & Châteaux. The innovative
programme – which is offered completely
free of charge – provides guests with
a special culinary curriculum including
hands-on instruction.
Highlights include workshops covering
topics from basic knife skills and kitchen
terminology to cooking demonstrations
with wine pairings and interactive
Q&A sessions. There are lively cooking
competitions between Chef Bilsland and
the ship’s own culinary team, a ‘Lunch
and Learn’ event, and inspired ‘Take
It Home’ recipes to give you an edge
when entertaining.
Also offered when the itinerary permits
is a ‘Market to Plate’ experience that
provides an escorted tour of a local
market followed by a cooking class.
With all that fine dining, it might pay to
check out the on-board gym and exercise
options as well.
Image courtesy of Design Hotels™
Image courtesy of Design Hotels™
20 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Story: Timothy Giles
Panoramic view of Telluride village and ski trails
20 21Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
22 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
For a truly great experience it is worth going the extra mile and in
Colorado that effort is richly rewarded. Air New Zealand Business
Premier to San Francisco, it’s a quick transfer to the ‘Mile High
City’, Denver.
Owned by the city and just over 100km from the airport is Winter
Park, the oldest continually operated resort in Colorado. Hugely
popular in Denver but very much a local secret, Winter Park is yet
to be discovered from further afield. Across four mountains, most
significant being Winter Park and Mary Jane, are three thousand
acres with every type of terrain for skiers, snowboarders and
adaptive-skiers from expert to novice.
Winter Park is immense and never over-crowded. Even on a
busy weekend the twenty-five lifts move us smoothly between
beginner slopes and the challenging moguls of Mary Jane that
regularly attract the US Ski Team.
Annual snowfall is over eight metres and combined with three
hundred days of sunshine this sustains a season from November
to April. My March stay is gloriously warm and the locals tell me
the late-season is particularly blessed.
An instructor is advised, to find your ski-legs and to navigate
this massive playground. With friends I valued the expertise of
instructors, Jetta and Gerry, mountain veterans in their sixties
who delighted in discussing between themselves which of the
multitude of trails to take, as much as we enjoyed our first views
from the mountain. The views are spectacular – the village
is 2736m above sea level, with ridge runs almost a thousand
metres higher.
It was a particular pleasure to be coached and guided by gentler
words of age rather than young-gun instructors easily frustrated
by my middle-aged limitations.
I stayed only four days, hardly long enough to pick a favourite
run, spoilt for choice at this immense park centred on a quaint
mountain village. Purpose built by the city, the whole village is
practically ski-in, ski-out.
A short walk from the slopes, past instructor and hire centres, are
boutique providers for all a tiring skier needs – pizza, coffee, après-
ski. Busiest is Goodys Creperie; blueberry pancakes morning and
night. In a high-studded wooden building overlooking the village
ice rink where child-friendly activities occur most days, is my pick
for the best – The Cheeky Monk. Grab a pew and order some
hearty bistro-food to match beers of Belgium, or as I did, one of
many local craft brews fresh from tap or bottle.
There are hotels in the village or Hotel Vintage is above the
bustle, a brief gondola ride away. I did cast an envious eye to
guests of Zephyr Mountain Lodge, seen on my last run of the day
enjoying slopeside jacuzzi’s.
You will envy no-one however if you have gone that extra mile
for your accommodation and carry on a few minutes past Winter
Park and made your home at the exquisite Devil’s Thumb Ranch.
A working ranch stretching across 5000 acres, Devil’s Thumb
offers luxury accommodation, in a setting of rare beauty on a
ranch established in the early 1900s. The Continental Divide
dominates everything here, a towering line of rugged peaks
majestically define the region and encircle this alpine playground.
The alpine playground at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Telluride’s corduroy runs
22 23Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
I will choose Devil’s Thumb Ranch for my next Winter Park stay.
The lodge has single and multi-room suites, in rustic earthy tones
with warm comfort to balance the rugged outdoor surrounds.
For privacy or to feel close to nature, choose the forest-clad
cabins on a low-ridge a few hundred metres off from the lodge.
The finest dining for miles is at the memorable Ranch House
Restaurant. My ski instructors acclaimed it the region’s best,
serving “New American Mountain Cuisine – which means real
food, cooked with real ingredients. Organic and locally grown
whenever we can.” It is superb, as is the wine list with great wines
of the world and the USA. Book for Wednesday when every wine
is half-price. Do the degustation menu, truly fine dining.
Architecturally the features are sustainably built, with details of
handcraft construction, like the hand-stacked two-storey, six-
sided stone fireplace, centre-piece of the craft-brew bar and
bistro Heck’s restaurant. A restored civil-war era barn hosts
large functions; and another features in the new High Lonesome
Lodge due for completion for next year’s ski season. Bookings
are being taken.
Outdoors the ranch really comes into its own. Breathtaking
cross-country ski-trails, snowshoe treks, with the guides and
instructors to show how, a heated outdoor pool, snow-swept
jacuzzi and fitness centre.
Rivaling the beauty of the trails are ranch-based activities; horse-
treks, riding lessons and time with Garth, the most soft-hearted
of working cowboys. Take the sleigh ride, the bells jingle as he
softly instructs the heaving flanks of huge powerful horses to
walk on. A surge of raw horsepower carries us into the snow,
sleigh laden with guests amongst hay-bales to feed a beautiful
array of horses and donkeys, all hoof deep in snow. These are
working animals (with a few retirees) bred, bought or dearest to
Garth’s heart, rescued from torment, distress or neglect.
The outdoor beauty, animal interaction and the unique
chance to hear the life philosophy of a cowboy encapsulated
the sole drawback of Devil’s Thumb Ranch. I came to ski, but
once settled was reluctant to take the complimentary ski-
shuttle to Winter Park, preferring to stay home, home on
the ranch.
But Colorado has many hidden attractions and by going a few
extra miles, I found another luxurious treat, at distant Telluride. I
took a shuttle driven by an Elvis fan, who played seven continuous
hours of ‘Elvis Radio’ broadcasting live from Graceland. The
ideal soundtrack for journeying to this remote corner of
southern Colorado.
Telluride is a picturesque memorial to America’s West. Here
in 1889 Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank (for US$24,000)
attracted by a boom that founded the town in 1876, the year
after its first mining claim. That bank still stands in the town’s
main street that, thanks to local heritage values, looks much as it
did back then. A town tour is highly recommended, as is a guided
snow-ski adventure above and beyond the settlement to truly
take in Telluride’s beauty.
Heck’s fireplace at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
John Ls’ Wine Cellar Private Dining Room at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
24 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Skiing at Winter Park
24 25Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
About Colorado Ski Country: Colorado Ski Country USA is home to 21 of the USA’s top
ski and snowboard mountains. For further information
visit www.coloradoski.com, www.winterparkresort.com
and www.tellurideskiresort.com
Pretty as it is, this is hard-country, a box canyon, framed on
three sides by towering slopes. Up the highest slope a free
Gondola runs daily from 7am to midnight, connecting Telluride
to Mountain Village, a purpose-built winter wonderland 2900m
above sea-level. Here I stayed at the sumptuous Hotel Madeline,
with ski-in, ski-out ease in a picture-perfect village. Competing
for a luxury stay is boutique Lumière Telluride and yet higher up
is Mountain Lodge Telluride, alpine themed hotel/lodge/cabin
accommodation with an inviting slope-side pool and jacuzzi.
One hundred and twenty seven trails span 2000 acres of ski
terrain, serviced by nineteen lifts. Even at their busiest there’s
only just minutes of waiting to ride rapidly to the expert-only
ridge-top bowls, challenging mogul runs down into Telluride, or
the gentle, Galloping Goose where even timid beginners enjoy a
serene seven-kilometre run of sweeping tree-framed views past
enviable holiday homes, owned by the likes of Tom and Jerry
(that’s Cruise and Seinfeld).
The refined tastes of the super-wealthy are evident in Telluride’s
astonishingly good on-mountain hospitality. Atop the mountain
(3656m) is Alpino Vino winebar, a wee chalet seating just fifty for
rustic European fare and a wide-ranging wine list. I was tempted
to stay for a glass or two more than was wise, given the descent
that followed. If you enjoy wine, book for lunch, it’s a special place.
A little down the mountain is the aptly named Bon Vivant. Locals
call this roofless French-bistro, ‘après-ski’, but this far up the
mountain it is mid-ski. Serving only French wines, it is F for France
and fun, seated beneath powerful heaters at tables surrounding
a large oval bar. Quite literally the height of hedonism.
Deciding where to take your pleasure is Telluride’s only vexation.
Hotel Madeline offers the finest food and wine in the village,
making home hard to leave.
But make time for Telluride itself, a morning stretch at the Yoga
Centre before breakfast at a main-road eatery, coffee at The
Steaming Bean – a hub of local news, or later in the day Between
the Covers, a small café behind the excellent bookstore where I
did my gift shopping. Après-ski at the Cosmopolitan then on to
Floradora’s saloon for well-priced American cuisine or authentic
Italian food (and staff) at Telluride’s largest eatery Rustico.
See out your night at the New Sheridan Bar, first opened in 1896
and largely unchanged since – the perfect historic spot to toast
Telluride and goodwill. I did so with my new friends George,
a stetson-wearing Dallas rancher and his beautiful artist wife,
Bonnie. They are dedicated Telluride fans, visiting annually and
pressed me for a promise to meet them there again.
Heading home, I settled into Air New Zealand’s warm, Kiwi
welcome and a glass of Cloudy Bay 2006 Chardonnay (yes 2006
and drinking perfectly!). In ski-recovery, Business Premier, I
pondered that promise. It’ll be easy to keep.
Little known and more precious than the minerals that made its
name, Telluride is worth every extra mile it takes to get there. Ski
Colorado soon, let the West win you over.
Vino Alpino welcome at Telluride
Winter Park Village
26 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
We skilfully weave around a motorised tuk-tuk on our left with
barely half-a-metre clearance, while a fruit seller pushing an
unwieldy wooden cart shouts at us on our right – and it was
definitely not a friendly ‘Namaste’. By the time I turn back to the
front, I find myself straining against the seat belt as Somu stands on
the brakes. “Sorry about that,” he says politely in crisp, clear English.
“There’s a Brahman cow lying in the middle of the road.”
At that moment I see a motor scooter. It flashes past our car and
squeezes between the cow and a stationary truck with consummate
skill. It’s packed with five riders; a man, a woman and three children.
I’m impressed with the undoubted economy of this mode of family
transport but even more with the brilliant, dazzling pink silk sari the
woman is wearing.
The vivid colour stands out in the bright Indian sunlight like a
shimmering beacon in the drab, swirling miasma of unrelenting,
unregimented traffic. The sari is edged in a soft blue pattern and
Rainbows inRajasthan
Story: Paul Rush
In multi-faceted, multi-cultural India the most vivid impression you
get is of pervasive, mind-blowing colour. Somu displays all the
finesse of a safe, professional driver, for which I’m very relieved,
given the unmitigated chaos and confusion that surrounds us as
we try to escape Delhi.
26 27Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
the skirt billows out behind the scooter like a bullfighter’s cape.
The woman’s black hair is enveloped in a white veil and her arms
are bare save for a stack of gold bangles that jiggle up and down.
As we finally clear the outskirts of the city, Somu is able to relax
a little and maintain steady progress over a reasonably smooth
highway. “To drive safely in India you need three things,” he tells
me. “A good horn, good brakes and good luck.”
My tour of Rajasthan is planned to take in Agra, Jaipur, Jaisalmer,
Jodhpur, Rohetgarh and Udaipur. This is a circuit of Royal
Rajasthan, as these cities are all capitals of former princely states
that ceded their powers to the central government in 1947 when
independence was gained. They are all justifiably proud of their
formidable fortresses and fairy-tale castles, many of which are
now serving as museums and luxury hotels.
We pass a number of small towns where I catch a thousand
glimpses of rainbow-coloured saris and glittering gold jewellery.
I sense that people here have an enduring passion for decoration.
Somu identifies the bright, block-printed headscarves as ‘odhinis’
and the delicately embroidered leather shoes as ‘jootis’.
When we stop at a tourist bazaar I notice how colourful the arts
and crafts are, especially the hand-woven carpets, which are both
decorative and functional. I learn of the cherished tradition of
deriving colours from natural sources: yellow from turmeric, green
from banana leaves, orange from saffron, blue from indigo and
purple from the Kermes insect.
Emerging from the muted tones of the desert highway and its
dusty crowded towns into the brilliant reflected glory of Agra’s
Taj Mahal, entails a massive culture shock. This marble monument
to Shah Jahan’s love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is almost too
magnificent to exist in an imperfect world. It’s like a painted
landscape that’s somehow made real, a vision of symmetry with
impossibly delicate and beautiful designs.
The road to Jaipur is lined with pilgrims. The men stride
purposefully along the dusty verge proudly holding aloft their
district flag. The heavily-veiled women move more circumspectly,
seeming to float in slow motion as if carried along by their flowing
red, orange and yellow saris. I find this bewildering as they
are carrying overnight bags on their heads, while the men are
completely unburdened.
Amber Fort in Jaipur is a study of power and position. The honey-
coloured citadel rises from a steeply-sloping ridge to soaring
watchtowers and battlements. I mount a richly caparisoned
elephant adorned with garish body paint and ride up to the fort to
view its lavish Maharajahs’ private quarters and the still-glittering
Hall of Mirrors. My ‘Western’ eyes are slowly focusing on the
incredible creativeness and strength of character of the Indian
people. I’m gaining enlightenment.
Rajasthan
28 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 28 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Getting There: Cathay Pacific has daily flights from Auckland to New Delhi.
Getting Around: Adventure World organises small group tours around
Rajasthan in modern vehicles with local guides at each city
to show you the sightseeing highlights such as palaces,
forts, temples, gardens and produce markets. Carry a
good supply of lower denomination currency (10, 20 and
50 rupees) as tipping is widely practised in India.
Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’, has an equally impressive fort rising
defiantly from the dun-coloured desert sand dunes, a vision of
Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. This giant sandcastle has one
quarter of the city’s population living within its castellated walls.
It’s India’s last living medieval fort town. I wander through the
warren-like bazaars and meet several members of the Jaisalmer
New Zealand Cricket Club who wear Kiwi symbols on their shirts.
As we enter the bustling ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur under the
protective gaze of Mehrangarh Fort, I see the usual street scenes
of massed pilgrims, donkeys yoked to heavy carts and holy men
sitting cross-legged on steps waiting to give blessings and advice.
It would be hard to imagine a more romantic setting than the
picture-perfect, wedding-cake Lake Palace in Udaipur. Lake
Pichola is the centrepiece of a series of mirror-surfaced lakes with
beautiful reflections of palaces and wooded hills. Once more I
lay my head on a feather-soft pillow and sleep as soundly as a
Maharajah in a luxury palace hotel.
Out on the streets I meet a stall owner who decides that I should
try a red turban on my head. Miraculously the headwear seems
to give me a new persona. Later, an enthusiastic saddhu priest
dabs a red paste dot on my forehead. With all the chilli-spiced
food, the heat, grandeur and colours, I’m feeling quite flushed,
but it’s all good karma just being in India.
It does not take long for this country to grow on you. Colour flows
out of a pantheon of forts, palaces and temples, which embrace
every visitor. I soon experience the warmth of that embrace and
begin to feel that I’m part of India and India is part of me.
Clockwise from top left: Jaisalmer Fort at sunset; Amber Palace in Jaipur; ‘Blue City’
of Jodhpur; Lake Palace in Udaipur
28 29Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 28
Londolozi Private Granite Suite Outdoor Bath
0800 538 727 UnitedTravel.co.nz
See us in store Like us
Cruise & Rail Australia Cruise onboard Celebrity Solstice® from Auckland to the Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Akaroa, Dunedin, Fjordland National Park including Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds then across the Tasman Sea to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Esperance before disembarking in Fremantle.
Spend two nights in Perth before crossing Australia by rail onboard the Indian Pacific to Sydney via Kalgoorlie, Adelaide and Broken Hill.
Includes:• 18 night cruise onboard Celebrity Solstice® • Main meals and entertainment onboard• Port charges, taxes and gratuities onboard• Transfer from Fremantle port to hotel • 2 nights accommodation in Perth • 3 night Indian Pacific rail journey in a Gold Service Sleeper Cabin• Meals and beverages including soft drinks, beers, high quality
standard wines and base spirits onboard the Indian Pacific• Off-train excursions in Kalgoorlie, Adelaide and Broken Hill • One way ‘The Works’ airfare flying Air New Zealand from
Sydney to Auckland
$6859*
per person share twin – balcony grade
23 nights & flights from
From Sea to Outback
Cruise departs Auckland 03 February 2014
*Terms and Conditions. Special Conditions apply. Sales end 30 Aug 2013 unless sold out prior. Price is per person share twin in a Balcony Cabin category 1C onboard Celebrity Solstice & Gold Service Twin Sleeper onboard Indian Pacific & is subject to availability. A non-refundable deposit of $1300pp is due within 3 days of booking (by midday). Airfare payment & ticketing is due within 7 days of booking. Travel agent service fees are not included. Prices are correct at the time of printing & are subject to change without notice. Cancellation fees apply. Price is based on consecutive nights. Offers valid for new bookings only. Events beyond our control such as currency fluctuations may result in price variations. Capacity is limited and may not be available on all dates. Prices are based on payment by cash or cheque only. Product is supplied by reputable suppliers with their own terms & conditions, please contact your local United Travel.
J002343-GO Cruise and Rail Australia Ad v3.indd 1 3/05/13 4:35 PM
30 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Today I could go sightseeing and take in some of the old grandeur of the city’s blushing
pink mosques, massive red fort ruins and bizarre Moghul tombs. But it’s hot and dusty
in the streets and I’m enjoying the comfort of a fine hotel. The Delhi Imperial scooped
the pool as the number one Indian Hotel in the 2011 World Luxury Hotel Awards.
This sort of pedigree encourages me to have a look around and feel the ambiance
of The Grand Old Lady. The Imperial authentically embodies the essence of The Raj
Period. In a very real sense it is a living museum with three art galleries and priceless
artefacts on display.
Story: Paul Rush
Staying in New Delhi’s most luxurious hotel with its bespoke service with a regal flourish
can be likened to living like a Maharajah. I watch the sun rise out of the morning mist
from my hotel window. It gently touches the cupolas and copper domes of Delhi’s neo-
classical buildings with creeping fingers of gold.
The Imperial New Delhi, India
The Spice Route
30 31Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
32 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The Imperial, New Delhi at a glance
Category: City hotel replete with heritage.
Room reviewed: Imperial Room.
What’s great? City centre location, spacious
rooms, exemplary service, art galleries,
heritage artefacts and outstanding
cuisine selection.
What’s not so great? Let down only by the
road noise coming over the perimeter wall
into the pool and outside dining area.
Editor’s tip: Try the specialties in each of
the restaurants – they cover the whole
world of gourmet cuisine. Ask for a guided
tour of the art galleries – it’s a great insight
into the days of the British Raj.
Website: www.theimperialindia.com
Rate: Deco Room from US$228 per night.
Imperial Room from US$291 per night.
Location
Room size
Room interior
Overall service
Food & beverage
Hotel pool
Business needs
Recreational facilities
Spa facilities
Value for money
Imperial elegance.87%
The first thing I notice is an unmistakable
jasmine fragrance wafting through the
foyer and atriums. Then there are the
effusive smiles and gracious bows of the
hostesses in the dazzling pink and blue
silk saris accessorised with gold bangles
and rings. The doormen salute guests
with military precision and sport crisp
handlebar moustaches to set off their
orange turbans and flowing white robes.
The interior is a luxurious blend of
Victorian and old colonial design with a
playful dose of informal art deco added
as the hotel was completed in 1936. The
concept of East meets West comes to
mind as I examine the nostalgic paintings,
lithographs, sculptures and intricate murals
from the heady days of the British Raj,
while surrounded by modern design flair.
The atrium and art gallery rooms have
the aura of an early 19th Century English
manor house. I might well be in Downton
Abbey. There are fine pieces of Burma
teak and rosewood furniture, London
tableware, Italian marble floors, Florentine
fountains and the very best of Indian
cabinet making.
The hotel has 233 guestrooms and mine is
a study of French elegance coupled with
rich Indian heritage, high ceilings, a marble
bath and finely-crafted furniture. The
beautiful marble bath has a hand shower
and Fragonard bathroom products. Other
features include high speed WIFI and dual
phone line with data port. There is a view
over the city skyline and to the lush green
gardens of the hotel, an oasis of calm and
coolness that offers complete privacy from
the bustling metropolis outside.
I choose the San Gimignano Restaurant
for lunch and enjoy its gourmet fare. The
specialty Italian flavours are wonderful,
especially the risotto, prawns, cheeses,
chocolate desert and the premium wines
and grappa. I note with satisfaction that
New Zealand lamb is featured on the menu.
The restaurant manager tells me that
six local men have been meeting here
as a group of friends since they were
teenagers. They are now 85-years-old.
You can’t buy brand loyalty like that. “The
Imperial is a one-off hotel, like the Ritz,
recognised around the world as one of the
best,” he tells me. “Our staff have every
detail of your stay meticulously planned.”
In a city that loves food, The Imperial
provides a global range of cuisine in three
other restaurants: The Spice Bar, which
takes diners on a culinary journey through
the Asian spice route, the 1911, which
pays tribute to the milestone of 1911
when New Delhi emerged as the imperial
capital of India and Daniell’s Tavern, which
offers a fine dining experience.
Overall, a stay at The Imperial feels
like living in another world – a journey
back in time with nostalgia, opulence
and seamless service. It’s a complete
destination in itself, having played host to
business barons, royalty and politicians.
Relaxing in the Atrium, I savour the
thought that I’ve clinked my glass of wine
on the same table as the viceroys and
Indian royalty in the days of the Raj. It’s
a true taste of imperial elegance, which
guarantees a memorable stay.
Verandah Lounge
32 33Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Cherish life’s special moments
Discover a collection of irresistible, intriguing and indulgent escapes selectively located throughout Australia and New Zealand. From country estates to beachside resorts, each has its own individual charm and character.
Luxuriously appointed resorts are a haven for the family with chic leisure facilities in popular holiday destinations. While our elegant and iconic retreats are filled with romance, ideal for an intimate escape. Whether you are getting away to relax and unwind or to create unforgettable memories with the family, you’re invited to cherish every moment with Peppers.
RESORT ESCAPES
Everything a resort should be, Peppers modern and iconic resorts are located in the best destinations. On tropical islands, overlooking magnificent beaches, lakes, harbours and golf links, from the far north of Queensland, down the central coast of New South Wales, dotted around Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand.
BOUTIQUE RETREATS
Every Peppers Retreat is indulgent and completely unique, each location somewhere desirable and relaxing to be. Tucked in the hinterland of Queensland, on country estates in renowned produce regions through New South Wales and Victoria, mineral and volcanic spa retreats, overlooking vineyards and alpine vistas in Australia and New Zealand.
Experience Peppers in Australia and New Zealand.Call 1300 987 600 or visit peppers.com.au
34 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Story: Melanie Hawkins
We agreed that a taste from the Raw Bar was in order and soon
devoured a plate of lobster and oysters accompanied by palatable
cocktails entitled ‘Penny Drop’ and ‘Fleur de Lis’. The ‘High Line
Fling’ punch also looked delicious with Champagne, orange
liqueur, grapefruit and lavender.
My seared black Sea Bass with sautéed fennel, almonds, raisins
and carrot-cumin foam sauce was perfectly cooked with the
flavours tantalising my tastebuds. The cumin was so subtle and
worked perfectly with the fish. The large sesame crusted diver
scallops served with spring onions, cherry tomatoes and an
avocado remoulade were equally divine.
Feeling replete but knowing we couldn’t leave without a sweet
sample, we eyed the menu once again. The selection felt all-
American with the likes of Banoffee pie, warm apple tart,
sour cream cheesecake and warm chocolate chip cookies.
They all looked amazing but the lighter mille crêpe caught my
eye accompanied by a dessert cocktail. The crêpe served with
Grand Marnier bavarian cream and orange-vanilla reduction
was just the right amount of sweet to round off a wonderfully
indulgent evening.
Night #2 Beauty & Essex 146 Essex Street, Lower East Side
Arriving at Beauty & Essex you could be mistaken for thinking you
had got the address wrong. The bright sign above confirms what I
am looking to find but below it is a pawn shop, not the restaurant
I was expecting. Oh well, I’m in New York where anything and
everything happens so I head on in and take it from there. I’m
directed to the door on the far wall, which opens to reveal an
Night #1: The Standard Grill 848 Washington Street, Meatpacking District
Inside The Standard Hotel, this restaurant offers American
Traditional fare in a humming environment. All types of people
come here from families to celebrities. There are two parts to the
restaurant – the front street-side café and bar is white and bright,
while in contrast the main dining room is more intimate with red
leather booths hugging the walls, dark wood, ambient lighting
and a floor paved in copper pennies.
Sydney was our waitress for the evening. She explained the
extensive menu, which spoils you for choice. From the Raw Bar
selection of fresh oysters, lobster, sea urchin and clams through
to the Main Courses and Signature Grill selection, it was a difficult
decision – and there was still dessert to consider!
Executive Chef Dan Silverman sources local ingredients wherever
possible and the restaurant has ownership in a sustainable farm
up state from where the bulk of their produce comes from. The
cuisine style is hearty and genuine with decadent elements, but
without being pretentious.
Choosing where to eat out in New York can be a daunting task especially with so many places to choose from. I had just three nights so my selection had to be fine-tuned and not left up to chance. I knew that both the trendy established restaurants as well as the newly opened ones are often booked out far in advance, even on week nights. I wanted to secure my table early and luckily the popular restaurants offer an online booking service that is available one month in advance. This worked out well from my perspective.
New YorkEat Chic
‘Jewels’ on toast from Beauty & Essex
34 35Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
amazing juxtaposition. It’s then that the penny drops and I realise
the shop front is actually a ruse.
Feeling a bit like Alice in Wonderland, I’ve arrived at what appears
to be ‘New York cool’. It’s still early and this place is packed. There
are so many aspects to Beauty & Essex that it’s hard to take it all
in. There are a myriad of spaces to be wined and dined – bar areas,
private spaces, even the female bathroom is embellished with
an elaborate sofa and Champagne bar serving complimentary
bubbles. A little party was well underway during our visit.
We took the grand staircase to the second level and were seated
in the Locket Room. As the name suggests, beautiful ornate
lockets adorn the walls against a backdrop of antique frames. An
elegant waitress took our order, which included whipped ricotta
and sweet eggplant ‘jewels’ on toast, tuna wonton tacos with
micro cilantro, radish, wasabi kewpie and oven braised chicken
meatballs with sheep’s milk ricotta and wild mushroom truffle.
Celebrity Chef Chris Santos’ tantalising ‘new American’ style
menu has been designed for sharing with a whimsical flair. This is
definitely a place to visit – bookings are essential.
Night #3: Spice Market 403 West 13th Street (corner of 9th Avenue),
Meatpacking District
Arriving here is like being transported back to South East Asia in
a time past. It has a buzzing and welcoming vibe and the décor is
incredible, with exotic wooden pagodas, screens, artifacts and rich
fabrics, you could easily forget that you are dining in New York. The food is fresh, authentic and the service is fast. Chef Jean-
Georges Vongerichten’s menu offers a mix of inspired street food
from across the South East Asian region, that’s perfect for sharing.
We opted for the tasting menu to get a real sense of the mix of
flavours. Salmon sashimi with golden garlic and lemon soy along
with shaved tuna chilli tapioca, asian pear and lime set the stage
– the dishes are so much more captivating than their modest
descriptions suggest. This is one to enjoy at leisure.
Then after dark…
The Top of The Standard
848 Washington Street, Meatpacking District
Also known as the ‘Boom Boom Room’ this penthouse lounge is
located in The Standard Hotel, although not owned by the hotel.
Guests are granted discretionary entry early in the evening before
access is restricted to VIPs. Sleekly dressed hostesses glide past
offering table service, while we take a seat at the circular bar and
watch the barmen in white double-breasted suit jackets conjure
up signature cocktails. The plush sophisticated surrounds could be
straight out of a James Bond movie – this is New York high class.
Little Branch
22 7th Avenue (between Carmine & Leroy Streets), West Village
With its inconspicuous entrance and telltale line of people
waiting to enter, this tiny cocktail jazz bar is a must-visit. The
drinks here are delicious and strong and the bartender’s choice is
always recommended.
The Standard Grill
Beauty & Essex
3636 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
New York is an incredible city – mind-blowing in fact. So when I came across
The Greenwich Hotel tucked away in the chic suburb of TriBeCa in Lower Manhattan,
I knew staying here would be a welcome escape from the hectic parts of the city where
I had stayed before.
The Greenwich HotelNew York, USA
The neighbourhood of TriBeCa is a mix of heritage brick and modern façades, with
government offices rubbing shoulders with luxury apartments. Some of the city’s best
schools are also located here so it has seen an influx of families to the area in recent times.
The esteemed actor Robert De Niro has been active in this neighbourhood – founding the
Tribeca Film Festival, co-owning trendy restaurants and is also behind the creation of The
Greenwich Hotel. The hotel was originally an old car park that has been transformed with
a red brick exterior and comfortably ecclectic interior. Feelings of calm and restfulness
wash over and as you begin to settle in, you can really appreciate the warmth that this true
gem of a hotel has created.
The Greenwich is home to 88 guestrooms and suites. Each is different, giving a sense of
character to the property and an element of surprise for repeat guests. You can sense
that the owners have a passion for beautiful and interesting things and have furnished
each room with a considerate sense of style that contrasts the usual hotel model.
36 37Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 36
The Drawing Room
38 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
There is a mix of antique, contemporary,
quirky and period pieces from all over the
world that somehow work so naturally
together. Books are also an ever-present
feature, covering all genres. One could
easily get lost in the drawing room on the
comfortable leather sofas, just reading
the day away, with dappled light filtering
through the greenery from the adjacent
courtyard and the wood-burning fire
crackling in the background.
The guestrooms follow a similar theme.
The heavy dark wood door of my
Studio Suite opened into a little passage
bordered by an ornate armoire. The suite
was well-sized with a personable sitting
area complete with French Balcony doors
opening to the leafy courtyard below.
Appealing to the eye, eggshell blue and
brown was the colour theme with English
leather mixing with Tibetan silk rugs and
beautiful Duxiana beds from Sweden. An
iPad for connecting with the world and
an iPod pre-loaded with a tasteful music
selection are all there to finish the story. I
instantly felt like a personal guest.
The complimentary snack and amenity
basket plus non-alcoholic mini-bar drinks
are a point of difference, as is the private
in-room sauna. The bathroom is dignified
with Italian Cararra marble, Lefroy Brooks
hand-crafted ornate tapware and a deep
soak bath complete with Red Flower
amenities – organic and botanically based
body-care. I’m tempted to stay in and not
explore the city.
And for even more relaxation, the
masterpiece of this hotel really is the
below-ground lantern-lit swimming
pool that sits underneath a 250-year old
Japanese farmhouse that was transported
to the site and re-built by craftsmen to its
original state. Extraordinary!
The pool is part of the Shibui Spa. True to
its philosophy of balance, the spa offers
treatments that reflect the seasons and
the yearning to find equilibrium in our
busy lives. They say, “to enter Shibui is to
be embraced by wood, water and stone”,
with treatments that have a reverence
for nature. Dedicated therapists perform
Shiatsu, traditional bathing rituals,
massage and body treatments using high-
grade, plant-based products.
Try a ‘Peach Leaf Bath’ in Spring to
draw out impurities or soak in ‘White
Lotus Milk’ to calm your mind and spirit.
A ‘Bamboo Glow’ will leave your skin
feeling firm and regenerated after a
bamboo and gingergrass scrub, yuzu sea
algae wash and massage infused with
bergamot, vetiver and Japanese lime.
While a ‘Drunken Lotus’ treatment using
massage oil infused with cucumber and
jojoba plus hot sake-soaked towels will
increase circulation and eliminate toxins –
ideal for jet-lag or after a big night out.
Locanda Verde restaurant adjoins the
hotel and is also accessed internally.
Headed up by Chef and owner Andrew
Carmellini, it is a popular drinking and
dining spot, so reservations are essential.
On the menu are a delectable range of
pasta dishes including Girondole with
braised octopus and Lumache with
duck sausage. For the main course be
tempted with the likes of steamed red
snapper with clams, fennel and a sorrel
pesto or perhaps pancetta-wrapped
veal with creamy polenta, sofritto and
chanterelle mushrooms.
Everything considered, The Greenwich
Hotel certainly sets itself apart as a
distinctly unique establishment, and I for
one am glad that I experienced its charm,
warmth and effortless hospitality.
38 39Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The Greenwich Hotel, New Yorkat a glance
Category: City hotel.
Suite reviewed: Studio Suite.
What’s great? The personality and
character of the hotel that is so different to
the usual. The sense of calm you feel in the
city that never sleeps. The pool and spa are
also a highlight.
What’s not so great? Nothing to say here
– loved everything about this hotel with a
difference.
Editor’s tip: Request a room that faces into
the leafy courtyard. Stay for as long as you
can and plan some downtime to enjoy your
room and the hotel.
Website: www.thegreenwichhotel.com
Rate: Courtyard room from US$525 per
night. Studio Suite from US$1845 per night.
Location
Suite size
Suite interior
Overall service
Food & beverage
Hotel pool
Business needs
Recreational facilities
Spa facilities
Value for money
91% Inner city oasis.
40 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The Standard High LineNew York, USA
Driving through the Meatpacking District of New York’s Manhattan well after
midnight, you get a real feel for this trendy and popular area. It’s where the well-
heeled and the high-heeled teeter along cobblestoned streets as they move between
the fashionable nightspots located here.
Arriving at The Standard High Line, you could be mistaken for thinking you had arrived at
one of those nightspots, for the place was teaming with people. This hotel really comes
into its own at night. Through a bright yellow archway that houses a large revolving
door, the funky black and grey lobby is revealed. The way to the lifts changes from
day to night with concealed walls that appear and later disappear so you can feel a bit
disorientated at first but that’s all part of the changing persona of the hotel. There are
lots of design features throughout the hotel like the lattice dividers in the lobby and the
columns of light suspended from the ceiling in the lift foyer. Entering the lift you’re in for
an eccentric ride with a transcendental video that progresses from fiery visuals through
40
Hotel foyer
42 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
42 43Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
44 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The Standard, High Lineat a glance
Category: City hotel.
Room reviewed: Deluxe King.
What’s great? Definitely the location and
being part of the New York trend set.
What’s not so great? There were parts of
the hotel that were feeling a bit worn but
I’ve been told that since our stay several
renovation projects are underway.
Editor’s tip: Be sure to visit Le Bain’s rooftop
bar and Top of the Standard (not owned by
the hotel but located in the building) and
get two New York experiences that you’ll
never forget.
Website: www.standardhotels.com/high-line
Rate: Standard Queen from US$555 per
night. Deluxe King from US$645 per night.
Location
Room size
Room interior
Overall service level
Food & beverage
Business needs
Recreational facilities
Value for money
On the pulse –
NYC hip style.85%
to floaty heavenly scenes, all set to Jean
Michel Jarre-style music.
Entering the 82m2 guestroom, the
noticeable features include the floor-to-
ceiling windows over-looking the Husdon
River and the honey-coloured wood
paneling that runs up the wall behind the
bed and over the ceiling. The sitting area
is a welcome spot for afternoon drinks,
while resting the legs after an intense day
of shopping.
In a past life, with its location close to the
Hudson River, this area has been home to
heavy industry, lumber yards, turpentine
distilleries and in the early 1900s,
abattoirs and meat packing plants – hence
the name. The striking Standard High
Line building straddles the raised High
Line urban walkway, formally the central
railroad, which has been transformed into
a stunning structure that combines art
installations and magnificent planting.
There is a wide range of places to wine
and dine on the street level including the
relaxed Biergarten, The Standard Grill and
The Standard Plaza, for alfresco dining.
Heading up to the top floors, Le Bain is
a kitch rooftop bar and creperie complete
with astro-grass and pink air filled
cushions for lounging on while taking in
the truly spectacular panoramic view. As
the sun sets and the night slides in, Le
Bain’s discotheque down one level heats
up with DJ pumping tunes and a dance
floor that converts into a plunge pool!
The Standard High Line is also a popular
venue for trend-forward events like
fashion shows, as well as cocktail parties,
seated dinners, lectures and screenings.
And their own ice skating rink is a
highlight during the winter months. All in
all The Standard Highline is a great hotel
for when you really want to feel part of
the New York action.
The Standard Grill
44 45Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. For more information visit www.signaturestyle.co.nz
Leading Personal Stylist Jackie O’Fee from personal style consultancy,
Signature Style brings us her extensive fashion knowledge and expertise.
StyleFileLUXURY TAKES NEW YORKThe top trends at New York Fashion Week have everything to do with
luxurious textures, military details, and ‘90s references, all glammed
up with understated gold pieces and a touch of Vintage.
This genuine Mooi ‘Jem’ leather pouch with ‘hair-on’ is perfect as an evening clutch, or an iPad cover. RRP NZ$120www.mooi.co.nz
Take on a vintage look with Karen Walker’s ‘Northern Lights’ eyewear. RRP NZ$349 www.karenwalker.com
Turn heads on Fifth Ave with these stunning, hand-etched pieces from the Marco Bicego ‘Africa’ collection available from
Orsini. 18k gold necklace RRP NZ$7990 and double
drop earrings RRP NZ$995. www.orsini.co.nz
Inspired by the famous 007 Bond Girls OPI’s new Liquid Sand range has a matte-textured sparkle finish. Colour choices include: Honey Rider, Jinx, and Vesper. RRP NZ$24.90www.opi.com
Arrive in style with Adrienne Winkelmann’s luxury made-to-measure cashmere and fur jacket (RRP NZ$2399), velvet skirt (RRP NZ$899) and hand-made shoes by Luciano Padovan (RRP NZ$789), a popular choice for red carpet events. Vintage gloves and sunglasses are model’s own. www.adriennewinkelmann.com
Keep your eyes looking and feeling great with the latest Collagen Eye Roll-On from Thalgo. RRP NZ$79 www.thalgo.com
Professional Liquid Gloss from Sebastian will de-frizz and leave a luminous shine and finish to your tresses. RRP NZ$40www.sebastianprofessional.com
Sip on a classic Manhattan Cocktail
to complete the look.
46 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Touch of Spice Director Jacqui Spice
No one answered the phone. The local hospitality industry was
busy focusing on backpackers, skiing and bungee jumps.
I started Touch of Spice in September 2005 as a luxury travel
concierge service. The aim was to provide unique, tailored
experiences with 24/7 service all year round.
LUXURY: How would you define luxury?
JS: Luxury is about time and experiences. Our clients are busy
people so we give them the time to enjoy themselves without
being bothered about the details and mechanics of travel. Our
staff are available round the clock, 365 days of the year. Whatever
the request, “No” is never an answer. We use our imagination
and contacts to arrange the impossible.
LUXURY: So it’s not necessarily about the property?
JS: All our properties are world-class but Touch of Spice goes
further to provide that extra level of luxury. We find out what
our clients are interested in and create unique itineraries with
experiences you can’t find anywhere else. For example, it might
be arranging for Josh Emett to cook freshly caught crayfish for
you at the water’s edge of a luxury lodge.
LUXURY: How did Touch of Spice come about?
JS: I was working on the launch of a new hotel in Queenstown
and kept meeting wealthy international clients on holiday. Some of
them owned beautiful properties in Queenstown but they told me
they couldn’t get anything done after 5pm or on the weekends.
10 years working as a Chief Stewardess and Purser on superyachts around the world gave Jacqui Spice a real insight into the kind of experiences sought by high-end travellers. When she visited Queenstown on her holidays she couldn’t find anyone providing that kind of luxury service. So she started her own company – Touch of Spice – to provide it.
A word with Jacqui SpiceLuxury Insider
46 47Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
LUXURY: What’s one of the more unusual requests your
concierge service has dealt with?
JS: We had a client who wanted to propose to his girlfriend in
Queenstown. We set up everything with a beautiful property and
private chef, but then Queenstown was snowed in and the airport
was closed. So we arranged for a limousine in Christchurch to meet
their flight and drive them down to Queenstown. They arrived at
3am to a roaring fire, and the weekend went ahead as planned.
LUXURY: Tell us about the properties in your portfolio.
JS: We started as a personal concierge service and soon realised
that a lot of our clients in Queenstown owned magnificent
properties that were only being used for a few weeks or months
each year. They were interested in making their beautiful homes
available to selected guests. That was the start of our Private
Villa Collection. We have built up a portfolio of exclusive properties
around New Zealand, and we also work with partners who have
similar properties overseas. These are hidden gems that are not
available on the open market – you can only stay in them with
Touch of Spice.
LUXURY: What are your criteria for accepting a property
into your portfolio?
JS: It needs to be a very high-end home in an outstanding location
with views. Many of our properties have won architectural or
design awards. It can be a stylish modern home, or a character
property that’s been carefully modernised to the highest
standards. Basically, everything has to work like new and look
good all the time. Our clients will accept nothing less.
LUXURY: How do you guarantee the same high standards
at your overseas properties?
JS: We are very careful about who we work with. We always
work with someone we know and we need to be sure they will
provide a personalised service. We will arrange a trusted guide
or concierge to travel with the client and make sure everything
is taken care of.
LUXURY: Who is your typical client?
JS: Someone with high disposable income who’s interested in
travel and loves to visit new places with their family. They tend
to be time-poor so the whole experience has to be seamless.
View of Queenstown from Ekara House
48 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
They want something that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
A lot of our clients come from Australia and the United States as well
as expats based in Singapore or Hong Kong. We are also finding
that more and more New Zealanders are starting to travel this way.
At the same time, we cater for the corporate and incentive
market. This might be a group over from Australia, looking for a
travel experience that’s out of the ordinary.
LUXURY: What do your customers expect in terms of luxury?
JS: The expectation is that they shouldn’t want for anything.
Everything’s been thought of – that’s our job. We need to cover
all the bases and be on call at any time.
LUXURY: What’s the future of luxury travel?
JS: It’s a rapidly growing market with huge potential. Many people
see the opportunities developing with China, as wealthy people
start to travel more to our part of the world. Chinese customers
have a tremendous expectation of hotel accommodation with
the most expensive wines, the most valuable art, and so on.
New Zealand can’t always compete on these terms so we have
to focus on delivering outstanding service and making the most
of our natural assets.
LUXURY: Tell us about your sponsorship of the Millennium
Cup Regatta.
JS: Touch of Spice is a Gold Sponsor so we take care of all the event
management, gala dinners and dock parties. The next Regatta will
be in 2014 and we’re very excited about it. If Team New Zealand
could bring the America’s Cup back to Auckland, that would be
even more wonderful. Imagine the opportunities with all those
superyacht owners descending on New Zealand again!
LUXURY: Jacqui, what is true luxury for you?
JS: I have similar expectations to my clients – I want everything
to be smoothly organised and to enjoy something out of the
ordinary. Even though we’re in the travel business, I still love the
whole experience of travelling, whether it’s for work or play. I’m
always on the lookout for amazing new experiences. It could be
India or it could be a beach on the Coromandel.
For more information visit www.touchofspice.co.nz
48
foreign exchanges
Source: Communicaid International: Global Communication - www.communicaid.com
Each issue, we take a look at a foreign culture and point out a few pitfalls for the unwary.
SwitzerlandBefore you start
It is no coincidence that the Swiss are leaders in
manufacturing precise time-keeping technology. Businesses
are orderly and run with great precision. Appointments
should be arranged far in advance. Arrive before the
scheduled time and come prepared with detailed
information relating to the meeting’s objectives.
Never
Use high-pressure or aggressive sales tactics to reach a decision
with your Swiss counterparts. And best not to ask questions
about Switzerland’s military role in World War I or II.
Be aware that
Efficiency is highly valued in the professional setting.
Business meetings are generally formal in their structure
and discussion is restricted to predetermined topics. Stay
focussed throughout the meeting.
Swiss businesses operate with a clear leadership structure.
Although leaders tend to be modest, they emphasise the
importance of team consensus over independent decisions.
Watch out for
Keeping your relationship professional at all times. This is
common practice even among colleagues who have worked
closely together for many years.
The final word
Although Swiss professionals are task-oriented and direct
in their communication, decision-making is generally a slow
process, involving thorough discussion and reflection. Be
prepared to respond to detailed questions.
50 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
50 51Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
On the Tracks
in Thailand
Story: Fiona Harper
I feel as though I’ve landed smack in the middle of an Agatha Christie novel. Anticipating a bespectacled Hercule Poirot to pop out from behind a cut-glass lampshade at any moment, I can’t help but feel a sense of mystique about our pending journey. Devouring Murder on the Orient Express as a prelude to travelling onboard the Eastern Orient Express was perhaps not my smartest move. But that novel was set on the route between the former Constantinople and Paris, and I’m travelling through Thailand, so it’s hardly a fair comparison I reason.
52 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
52 53Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Stepping onto the platform I’m greeted by immaculately-uniformed
attendants, their heads elegantly bowed, palms clasped softly at
chest level in the traditional Thai greeting of ‘wai’. My luggage
remains unsighted since placing it in the carefully groomed hands
of my Butler as I checked out of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel hours
before. But I’m not concerned. Given the level of attention to detail
between hotel and train staff, I’m pretty confident my luggage and I
will become reacquainted once I’m shown to my compartment.
And so it is. A soft knock on the door is a welcome sound I’ll soon
recognise as the precursor to food or drinks, usually both, being
delivered to my cabin. Pratash steps inside introducing himself. But
not before he welcomes me onboard with a silver platter laden with
a chilled lemongrass scented washcloth, freshly squeezed juice, a
bowl of luscious fruit and chocolates in a be-ribboned box. Oh my.
A gentle softly spoken man with a wide-mouthed smile, Pratash
guides me through the idiosyncrasies of my home for the next seven
days. Which admittedly doesn’t take long as the room is tiny. But it’s
far from stuffy – quite the opposite. In fact it is gorgeous, all inlaid
timber wall panels, polished brass and muted furnishings dominated
by two large tinted windows framed by heavy drapes. I don’t need
to bother with most of its secrets as Pratash proves to be a master at
transforming the cabin from day to night and vice versa during my
absence. Bulgari toiletries, oodles of fluffy monogrammed towels,
bathrobe and slippers along with room service on call and I’m set. I
may not ever leave this cabin.
With a gentle nudge our journey begins, rolling slowly out of
Bangkok’s Hualampong Railway Station. I make my way down the
slender corridor towards the rear of the train where the Observation
Car is hitched. An intimate lounge with timber floor, plush sofas and
a central bar inside, the rear section is the only part of the train that
is open to the elements. Propped up against the lounge that runs
down the middle of the open-sided carriage, Champagne in hand,
with the sights, sounds and aromas of Thailand washing over me,
the Observation Car becomes my favourite haunt. While the air-
conditioning is welcome in the stifling heat, being indoors I feel little
connection with the ever-changing landscape we’re passing through.
A Bangkok taxi driver told me there are over 7 million cars in the city,
which goes some way to explain the smog-filled air that catches in
the back of my throat. However the air clears as we leave the city
behind, heading north east into the Isan (sometimes spelt Esan)
region little visited by all but the most intrepid of foreign travellers.
Known for its own distinct food, culture and traditions our first stop
after breakfast on day two is at Ban Maichamuak village.
Villagers have been expecting us as we are welcomed with a
traditional ceremony known as bai si. Freshly spun silk thread is tied
around my wrist by a round-shouldered lady whose eyes crinkle
deeply at the corners, wide gaps in her mouth where teeth used to
be. This sacred thread, possibly spun with her own hands from a
silkworm farm at her house offers protection for a journey as well
as symbolising lasting friendship. This raw silk bracelet remains on
my wrist for months afterwards as a reminder of a wizened woman
whose name I never knew.
54 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
MICRO-CLIMATE,MAXIMUMFLAVOUR.
PODERI CRISCI VINEYARD,WINERY AND RESTAURANT
205 AWAAWAROA RD, WAIHEKE ISLAND
TELEPHONE 3722148 WWW.PODERICRISCI.CO.NZ
PODERI CRISCI VVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAIHIHIHIHHHHEKEKEKKKKEKKKEEEEE
TETETETETETTTEETET LELLEL PPPPPODODODDODODDODODERERERERERERRERRE ICICICICCCCCICI RRR
54 55Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
MICRO-CLIMATE,MAXIMUMFLAVOUR.
PODERI CRISCI VINEYARD,WINERY AND RESTAURANT
205 AWAAWAROA RD, WAIHEKE ISLAND
TELEPHONE 3722148 WWW.PODERICRISCI.CO.NZ
PODERI CRISCI VVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAIHIHIHIHHHHEKEKEKKKKEKKKEEEEE
TETETETETETTTEETET LELLEL PPPPPODODODDODODDODODERERERERERERRERRE ICICICICCCCCICI RRR
56 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
After wandering through the village, chatting to kids on bikes
and picking up a mat from a weaver plying her trade in her
front yard, we reboard the train. We’re bound for the town of
Sikhoraphum for evening cocktails and canapés in the grounds
of an ancient Khmer Hindu temple. While gin and tonics go
down a treat and bite-sized nibbles served on banana leaf
plates are delightful, with an elephant and elegant dancers to
entertain us, the real star is the 12th Century ruins backdrop.
Five prangs, or pagodas, are arranged in the same sacred
pattern as Angkor Wat, a rarity outside of Cambodia. In the
early evening light, life-sized carvings depicting the dances
of Lord Shiva seem to radiate warmth from the setting sun.
Back onboard, Pratash has worked his magic, turning down
monogrammed sheets, leaving notes about the next day’s
adventures along with delicate chocolate treats on my bed.
I find the rhythm of a moving train immensely soothing so
that I sleep deep and long. Perhaps the gin and tonics helped,
but it seems only minutes later, though it’s actually well
after dawn, when Pratash reappears with a gentle knock.
Bearing a silver tray draped with starched linen and laden
with warm pastries, tea in an elegant silver urn (it’s far too
elaborate to be called a teapot), squeezed juice, fruit, yoghurt
and muesli, breakfast in bed has rarely been so indulgent.
Train travel is quite voyeuristic, allowing a fleeting glimpse of lives
lived beside the track as our train rolls through backyards and
backwaters. Slowing down to pass through a village I watch a
mother washing her child in a plastic tub beside a ramshackle
hut. Smoke radiates skywards from an unseen fire behind her
while the flickering light of a television lights the doorway. A
man in a tattered singlet over pants held up by rope stoops to
pick through a pile of rubble. Other men sprawl lethargically,
cigarettes dangling between silenced lips, on a raised platform
between the tracks and highway. Ponytailed school girls giggle
behind their hands when I smile and wave, younger boys in crisp
white button-up shirts run cheekily beside the track laughing.
We cross paths with countless passenger trains heading in
opposing directions, transporting men, women, their families
and belongings to who knows where. Mostly these local trains
provide a stark contrast to our own uber-luxe carriages. Faded
paintwork concealed beneath dirt and grunge, square holes
where glazing once was are filled with bored-looking faces
staring out of poorly lit carriages. At some point between the
junctions of Ban Pachi and Thanon Chira, abandoned carriages
on a disused track have become homes for squatter communities.
Before backtracking slightly to head northwards to Chiang Mai
we visit Phanom Rung. It’s hard to comprehend that a shrine so
grand was built by hand from sandstone and laterite between the
10th and 13th Centuries. A Khmer temple complex perched on
the rim of an extinct volcano, far across the plains in the distance
lies Cambodia. Restored over the past 17 years, Phanom Rung is
significant enough to be nominated for UNESCO World Heritage
status. It’s easy to understand why. Enclosed within a walled
compound, intricate carvings adorn the exterior. Internal floors
are weathered and worn with the footsteps of pilgrims over
the past ten centuries. There’s a distinct atmosphere of tranquil
calm oozing through ancient sacred walls. I linger behind our
group, reluctant to share such immense splendour with others.
Which is one of the downsides, but so too the upside, of such a
journey. Venturing to these parts is usually the domain of intrepid
travellers, backpacks slung across young shoulders, feet encased
in sturdy hiking boots, bedding down in dubious digs each night.
As Pratash greets me back onboard with a cool scented towel and
chilled Champagne, I realise Eastern Orient Express indulgence
is rather easy to succumb to. Did Ms Christie have any inkling,
when concocting Monsieur Poirot’s adventures, of this ever-
growing rail travel trend she has undisputedly contributed to?
6 Night Trip: Epic Thailand route through Thailand from Bangkok starts
at US$9600 per person including 2 nights stay at the
Mandarin Oriental Hotel (Superior Room).
56 57Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
58 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Our Top 5New Hotel Suites
There’s a subtle but crucial difference between
staying in a luxury room and staying in a luxury
suite. In the first, you are basically confined to a
large bedsit, albeit one with exquisite fittings. In the
second, you are residing in a beautifully appointed
home-away-from-home. You can return from your
daily adventures – or invite some guests to visit –
and relax in a proper lounge, with your bedroom
discreetly tucked away behind closed doors.
Of course, not all suites are equal. We’ve taken a
look at the finest new suites from top-end hotels
around the world, and chosen five that are simply
outstanding. It’s no surprise that four of the five
can be found in the great European cities. What a
tempting opportunity to experience the apogee of
civilised living.
5
58 59Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
St. Regis New York, Bentley Suite
60 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
60 61Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
St. Regis New York, Bentley SuiteSt. Regis and Bentley – now, there are two names to conjure with! Designed
as a collaboration between St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and Bentley Motors, this
New York suite delivers the style associated with both legendary international
brands. The black leather tile floor contrasts with a linen coloured, perforated
diamond leather wall, stitched with one of the 42 custom Bentley leathers. A
metallic silver mirror, inspired by a carbon fibre wheel rim sits above an accent
table. But it’s not just for car enthusiasts. The Bentley Suite evokes a sense
of grandeur with its entryway foyer, expansive dining room and living room
complete with floor to ceiling windows on the 15th floor. Views of Central
Park, Fifth Avenue and 55th Street complete the experience.
For more info: www.stregisnewyork.com
62 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris, Private SuiteLuxury aficionados know that the highest degrees of opulence are sometimes found behind
relatively discreet doors. That’s certainly the case with Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris. One
commentator calls this hotel on the chic Avenue Hoche, “the best private address in Paris”, and
we wouldn’t disagree. Original architectural features are brilliantly blended with contemporary
French design and individual character, the end result of a two-year transformation by Philippe
Starck. The suites are designed as luxurious private residences spread over five spacious floors,
with service as impressive as the furnishings. There’s a supremely skilled florist in attendance,
not to mention a chef who will cater to your every gastronomic whim.
For more info: www.leroyalmonceau.com
62 63Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
64 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Four Seasons, Florence, Royal Suite
64 65Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
St. Regis Rome, Couture SuiteWhen in Rome, do as the Romans. That’s not to
say they all live at the St. Regis, but they do tend to
embody a sense of style. The St. Regis Rome Couture
Suite perfectly captures that ambience. Drawing
inspiration from the city’s renowned couture houses,
the Couture Suite is a showcase of furnishings and
accessories that celebrate the best of Italian style.
The design carefully incorporates the spirit of Italian
fashion, with an emphasis on flowing shapes and
meticulous attention to detail. An expansive 150m2,
all rooms of the suite are furnished with an inspired
mix of pieces from the Bottega Veneta furniture
collection and traditional pieces. You’ll be moved to a
one-word response: Bella!
For more info: www.stregisrome.com
Waldorf Astoria, Berlin, Presidential SuiteWaldorf Astoria is one of the grand old names of
high-class hospitality but this all-new Berlin Suite
offers a very modern take on luxury. Occupying the
entire 31st floor, the 280m2 suite delivers 360-degree
views of Berlin courtesy of its panoramic windows.
The floor plan features two bedrooms, each equipped
with ensuite bathroom and plush beauty amenities
by Salvatore Ferragamo. A grand piano, open fire
and two loggias complete the fit-out. If you can stir
yourself to leave such magnificence, you won’t have
to travel far for a memorable meal. The hotel’s chef,
Pierre Gagnaire, boasts no fewer than 12 Michelin
Stars from his various restaurants around the globe.
For more info: www.waldorfastoriaberlin.com
Four Seasons, Florence, Royal SuiteUnlike the other suites featured here, this one is not
brand new – but we couldn’t resist adding it to our
list. It’s that good. Located in the nobles’ quarters of
the Palazzo della Gherardesca, every room of the Royal
Suite boasts fine art on the vaulted ceilings, beautiful
frescoes and inspired stuccos. A very palatial 234m2 in
size, the Royal Suite offers ample room for guests. The
bathroom is classically beautiful in marble and there’s
an elegant dining room that seats eight. Breath-taking
views of the park complete the effect. It’s rumoured
to be Europe’s most expensive hotel suite, and it’s
certainly one you won’t forget for a while.
For more info: www.fourseasons.com/florence Waldorf Astoria Berlin, Guerlain Pool
St. Regis Rome, Couture Suite
66 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
66 67Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
The train travels an amazing 4352 kilometres from the Indian
Ocean in the West to the Pacific Ocean in the East. Unlike many
other world-renowned train journeys, the Indian Pacific spends
the majority of its time removed from civilisation. From the
barren Nullarbor Plains, where the uniquely Australian outback
landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, to the lush green
beauty of the Blue Mountains, the journey traverses some of
Australia’s most spectacular scenery.
During the epic journey a diversity of wildlife will be encountered.
It is not uncommon to spot dingoes, kangaroos and a variety
of birdlife including the Wedge-tailed Eagle, the Indian Pacific’s
emblem. The most likely spots to catch sight of this awesome
bird are around Broken Hill and out on the Nullarbor Plain.
Vastly different landscapes will be seen with no less than ten
major landscape changes including the Darling Ranges, salt
lakes and sand dunes of South Australia, the Barrier Ranges,
the Darling River Plain and the Great Dividing Range. It is while
crossing the harsh landscape of the Nullarbor Plain that the train
travels the longest straight stretch of track in the world (478km).
The train is a self-contained miniature city, featuring restaurants,
accommodation and bars. All meals, refreshments including
soft drinks, beers, high-quality standard wines and base spirits
throughout the journey are included in the fare. There’s also
optional ‘Explore and Discover’ tours to enable you to learn a
little more of the towns and cities you are passing through.
‘Gold Service’ guests can choose from twin or single sleeper
cabins. Twin cabins have a comfortable three-seater lounge for
relaxing during the day that converts to an upper and lower
sleeping berth at night. Each twin cabin has a private ensuite
with its own toilet, wash basin and shower.
Travelling aboard the Indian Pacific is a truly relaxing and unique
way to see Australia.
There is no better way to see and feel the magic of the Australian continent than on the world famous Indian Pacific. The journey aboard the Indian Pacific, spans three days and three nights and gives guests the chance to witness parts of Australia that cannot be seen any other way.
Onboard the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth An epic journey
6868 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Story: Philip Tetley-Jones
68 69Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 68
Fiji Airways arrives in style
70 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
If you haven’t heard of Fiji Airways, that’s because you already
know it as Air Pacific. That’s right – one of the region’s leading
carriers is proudly re-branding with the identity of its original
heartland. The Fiji Airways name simply represents a return to the
airline’s roots, harking back to its first commercial flights in 1951.
The friendly in-flight service and regional network will remain as
before, but there are some exciting changes to look forward to.
For a start, the airline is taking delivery of three Airbus A330-
200s. These are the first brand new wide-body aircraft it has
ever purchased, and they come with a list price tag of US$600
million. The new aircraft are powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent
772 engines – a first for Air Pacific. Such a sizeable investment
speaks of serious optimism regarding travel volumes across the
wide blue expanses of the Pacific.
Auckland received a “sneak peak” on 2nd April 2013 when
the first of the A330’s flew into town. The airline offered
New Zealanders an early preview of just the plane at this point,
since the remainder of the new branding and new service model
will not be revealed until June 2013.
The first aircraft, which has been designed exclusively for Fiji’s
national carrier, is named after one of Fiji’s 333 beautiful islands,
the Island of Taveuni, also known as The Garden Island. Along
with the new aircraft livery, the airline will be rolling out new
service, new product, and new crew uniforms that are distinctive
and true to the friendly Fijian culture and heritage. The whole
package sounds very impressive and will be sure to make an
impact when the midwinter Fiji holiday rush kicks off.
Highlights of the new aircraft’s features include Makareta
Matemosi’s memorable Masi artwork and “Fiji” proudly outlined
on the sides and bottom of the fuselage. Dramatically new
interiors, mood lighting, lie-flat beds and a state-of-the-art in-flight
entertainment system will ensure time flies while you’re in mid air.
Modern technology has also been used to address something
that’s deeply important to Pacific nations: the natural
environment. The impressive, environmentally friendly Trent 772
engines will reduce the airline’s carbon footprint by 40% over its
current Boeing 747s.
As for the destinations – while the Auckland to Nadi run will
remain central to their business, it would be a mistake to think of
Fiji Airways as simply a conveyor belt to the tropics. New Zealand
travellers would be well advised to check out the airline’s routes
further afield.
“Air Pacific punches well above its weight for a relatively small
airline,” says Dave Pflieger, Air Pacific’s Managing Director
and CEO. “It is one of only seven airlines to operate multiple
international routes from New Zealand, and is the only airline
70 71Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
More Info: There are three direct flight options from New Zealand –
Auckland to Nadi, Auckland to Suva and Christchurch
to Nadi. With a daily Business Class service between
New Zealand and Fiji. For more information visit
www.fijiairways.com
Business Class travellers already benefit from lounges in Auckland
and Fiji. The airline is making a serious play for the business
and upscale leisure market with its full Business Class service in
short and long haul. They even offer discounted rates for child
travellers in Business Class – this is a definite point of difference.
Did you know Fiji Airways offers no fewer than 13 flights every
week from New Zealand, with the bonus of convenient midday
departure times? Neither did we. If that’s not enough to entice
you on board, consider the fact that Fiji Airways offers one of the
fastest non-direct connections to Los Angeles from New Zealand.
The airline retains its alignment with Qantas, thanks to a 40%
ownership stake held by the Aussie giant, which means Qantas
Frequent Flyer miles are on offer. So whether you’re flying the
family to the islands for a week’s holiday or heading to Asia or
America on business, we think it all stacks up.
that offers a daily Business Class service from New Zealand to Fiji
and on to Los Angeles and Hong Kong.”
“We already pride ourselves on our ability to deliver world-class
service to our guests from New Zealand, Australia, the United
States and beyond, and we think we will have a truly winning
combination when we combine our superb people with fantastic
new wide-body aircraft,” added Pflieger.
72 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Not all connecting flights are equal – and some can involve tedious
waits and aircraft that are no longer in the first flush of youth. This
can take some of the polish off a luxury holiday. So if you want to
arrive in style, it pays to think about who’s getting you there.
Island Hoppers is Fiji’s premium air transport service, specialising
in efficient helicopter and fixed wing aeroplane transfers. The
airline boasts a modern fleet of seven helicopters (catering for
two to 14 passengers) and two brand new turbine-powered
aeroplanes with seating for nine passengers each.
The new planes are fast, reliable and comfortable. Island Hoppers
offers a dedicated service with leather seating, air conditioning,
large passenger windows and full airline baggage weight
allowances. A cargo pod that can store dive gear, fishing rods
and surfboards means you’ll arrive with everything you need to
start your dream holiday.
Whether you travel by helicopter or plane, the airline offers
seamless transfers in minimal time. The Resort Express service
meets and greets all passengers at Nadi International airport.
You’ll be driven to their private first class reception lounge less
than a minute from the terminal, where you can relax in air-
conditioned comfort and enjoy refreshments while soaking up
Island Hoppers legendary hospitality. Personalised check-in and
boarding will have you enjoying a breath-taking scenic flight
enroute to your island destination in the Mamanucas, Coral
Coast, Yasawas, Northern Islands and beyond, in no time.
It’s not just about getting there – it’s also about making the most
of Fiji by taking scenic helicopter flights over the beautiful islands,
resorts and reefs of the Mamanucas. Another scenic excursion
can take you into the highlands of the Mt. Evans Ranges, viewing
rainforests and waterfalls. Island Day Packages are available
for those who fancy a change of scene from the mainland or a
private picnic lunch on your own exclusive island. Heli golf and
other heli adventures are also available.
Life is short and holidays are shorter. Make the most of them
by choosing the right transfer service for your island getaway.
Maximise your island time
FijiIf the holiday begins with the journey, then it makes sense
to consider the final stage of travel. In Fiji, the normal routine is to transfer
at Nadi to a connecting flight that takes you on your last leg to the outlying
islands. This transfer service can be something of a lucky dip.
72 73Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
74 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Superyachts
It’s a fascinating fact that the richest people in the world –
the multi-billionaires who have almost unlimited resources to
pursue their passions – are drawn towards one of mankind’s
oldest maritime activities. As long as people have been
sailing, they have been racing. Today’s superyacht industry is
the result of that primal passion.
The technology has advanced somewhat since the days of
canvas sails and wooden hulls. For that, we have the sport of
oceangoing racing to thank. White-knuckle contests, such as
the Volvo Round the World Race and the America’s Cup, have
stimulated fresh thinking in design and the materials used.
Wing sails, carbon fibre rigging and in-boom furling systems have
revolutionised the sport of sailing and then gone on to shake
up the leisure market as well. It’s similar to the way Formula
One has provided a test bed for new technologies, which then
Story: Philip Tetley-Jones
filter on down to the cars we drive on the road. These days, the
superyacht owned by a wealthy individual can be equipped with
the very latest innovations of a racing yacht, and entered into
races as well as cruising the globe’s pleasure spots.
New Zealand may be some distance from the regular playgrounds
of nautically minded billionaires, but it does have one crucial
advantage. It’s one of the premier hubs for superyacht innovation,
with a maritime construction industry that’s known around
the world. As a result, customers seeking the ultimate in yacht
design have been lured to the industry hub around Auckland’s
Waitemata Harbour. There they can specify the latest innovations
in yacht technology and create the ultimate in luxury.
Local companies such as Southern Spars, North Sails, Alloy
Yachts and Fitzroy are behind many of the superyachts winning
global plaudits. World-leading technology that was developed in
The leading edge of luxury
74 75Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
New Zealand drives today’s boats and adds an extra edge to the
competition between their owners.
For instance, Southern Spars has developed the only proven
carbon-fibre continuous rigging system on the market. EC6
rigging is constructed from a bundled of pultruded carbon rods
and has captured all the performance factors into one form,
including aerodynamics, longevity, durability, strength and
weight. Small wonder then, that Southern Spars-rigged yachts
have dominated the World Superyacht awards in recent years,
with S.Y. Vertigo taking top spot as the 2012 sailing superyacht
of the year.
Once you’ve had the experience of helming one of these
40-metre racing machines in the open sea you’ll understand why
it’s worth every penny.
Clockwise from top left: S.Y. Vertigo; The New Zealand Millennium Cup 2013; Camper in the
Volvo Ocean Race; S.Y. Zefira
76 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
InterviewPaul McDonald, Southern Spars Director, has sailed the world on global races and now helps bring the latest refinements in yacht technology to the luxury superyacht market. We caught up with Paul recently and asked him what lies behind the sleek exterior of these magnificent vessels.
Photo credit: Chris Cameron
76 77Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Roam the world like never before.Real life travel experiences in unique locations.
0800 66 68 88 UnitedTravel.co.nz See us in store Like us
J002346-UT UE Ad for Luxury v3.indd 2 24/04/13 6:26 PM
TRAVEL ACCESSORIESFOR THE LUXURY TRAVELLER
Gold & Co Solid Gold iPhone What is it? A limited edition, custom made, hand-delivered
24-karat iphone.
What makes it so special? It features a solid T304 aircraft grade
laser-cut stainless steel housing with multi-layered gold outer to
ensure durability. Individually numbered and presented with a
certificate of authenticity to assure premium quality.
Where can you get it?
www.goldandco.co.uk
Price: Price on application.
Twelve South PlugBug WorldWhat is it? A set of five snap-on plugs in an
adapter system that has your international
charging needs covered.
What makes it so special? It has dual charging
convenience for Mac users, which means you’re
able to charge your MacBook and iPad or iPhone
simultaneously. Plus, it charges your ipad up
to 4x faster than your Macbook will.
Where can you get it? www.ubertec.co.nz
Price: NZ$69
Google GlassWhat is it? A pair of glasses with an integrated prism display that sits
just above the eye-line and is activated by voice command.
What makes it so special? The voice commands allow you to do a range
of things like taking photos, recording videos, sending messages using
speech to text, getting directions from the built-in GPS or just ‘hanging
out’ with people. The information is then displayed in the prism.
Where can you get it? Still in prototype stage but you can get more
information at www.google.com/glass
Price: Likely to be around US$1500.
80 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Waiheke Island has long been a favourite of
mine, with its stunning beaches, world-class
vineyards, beautiful scenery and laidback
ambience – and all this just 45-minutes by
ferry from downtown Auckland.
A day trip is all very well but what are your
options if you want to stay a little longer
and make a proper holiday out of it?
While Waiheke has some enviable high-
end accommodation options, there are
none that combine this quality of property
with a private beachfront setting.
The vision of the well-travelled owners
was to create a luxury escape to rival the
finest resorts they had experienced around
the world. The design of this stunning
property maximises its remarkable
position and also pulls off a tricky double
act: it’s aesthetically beautiful while also
incredibly functional. The owners’ wealth
of experience shows in the painstaking
level of detail that has gone into this
project, located at Cable Bay.
Their philosophy is simple. Take the best
of a traditional lodge (but leave out the
stuffiness) and give guests the option to
take the property on an exclusive use basis
for the ultimate in privacy. Alternatively, if
you feel like the a little pampering, the
hosts will spoil you rotten with an itinerary
that includes as much or as little as you
would like.
You could choose an active holiday, with
your choice of kayaking, petanque, fishing,
golfing, scenic walks and cycle tours round
the local vineyards. Alternatively, you
could indulge your inner hedonist with
fine dining and wine tasting, capped by
a gourmet picnic hamper with transfer to
a deserted beach. Or, just stay put – the
private kitchen at Hei Matau impresses with
canapés from fresh local produce being a
particular highlight. If it’s the high life you
crave, why not let Hei Matau arrange a
helicopter sightseeing tour of Waiheke?
We opted to book the property for our
exclusive use and waited with eagerness
to see what Hei Matau would offer.
Our welcome included a platter of fresh
local oysters, quality local wines to drink
at our leisure, a wonderful selection of
cheeses, steaks for the barbeque, a fully
stocked kitchen and Fiona’s world-famous
homemade muesli for breakfast. As a self-
appointed muesli aficionado, I can confirm
that this was seriously good.
The thoughtfulness and attentive personal
touches don’t end with the food. We also
really appreciated how the flexible variety
of accommodation options provided
something for all tastes.
You could go as a couple and take a
suite (many choose to upgrade to the
owners’ luxurious Master Suite). Another
possibility is to go with friends or family,
and take multiple suites or even the whole
place. Every lodge room at Hei Matau is
Hei Matau LodgeA true luxury find on WaihekeStory: Phil Harrison
80 81Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Hei Matau, Waiheke Islandat a glance
Category: Boutique luxury lodge.
What’s great? Its stunning waterfront
location and serious attention to detail.
What’s not so great? Hard to fault.
Only wish we had more time to enjoy
the surroundings and more of Fiona’s
homemade muesli.
Editor’s tip: If going as a couple, book the
Master Suite and let Peter and Fiona pamper
you. With friends or family, reserve the Main
House – either way, allow at least a three
night stay. It really is one of those properties
that exceed all expectations and once you
arrive you won’t want to leave.
Website: www.heimatau.co.nz
Rate: Lodge rooms from NZ$645 per night
and include a gourmet breakfast for two,
pre-dinner drinks, canapés, non-alcoholic
drinks, a complimentary bottle of wine and
on-island transfers. Exclusive use of the
Main House from NZ$2000 per night and
the entire property from NZ$3500
per night.
Reservations: For more information
or enquiries contact Hei Matau on
+649 372 6554 or [email protected].
sea facing, with large panoramic windows
that let you take in as much of the view as
possible. The set-up is also ideal for that
special corporate retreat or meeting – and
if time is precious, the helicopter can land
directly on the lawn.
The design and fittings are in keeping
with the gorgeous setting. The interior is
elegant designer chic – imagine a bach re-
interpreted by Ralph Lauren. Whitewashed
timber walls and ceilings are complemented
with rich oak floors, sumptuous furnishings
and precious artworks.
The suites have a ‘Four Seasons’ feel,
with the fixtures and fittings being of an
exceptionally high standard. The layout
provides excellent indoor/outdoor flow
with floor-to-ceiling walls of glass that pull
right back to reveal the breathtaking views.
We loved the ‘Glass Box’ at the front
of the main house – a large and lavish
lounge and entertaining area enclosed
in glass with uninterrupted water views.
Relaxing there, we were just steps to the
perfectly placed infinity pool that seems
to merge with the waters of the secluded
bay below.
The Lodge boasts an array of luxurious
features, from the outside pizza oven to
the European-designed stainless steel
kitchen with everything to delight a
budding Masterchef. Cathedral ceilings
on the upper level create an atmosphere
of spacious magnificence while the
luxurious Master Suite (The Kowhai Suite)
comes with a four-poster super king-
sized bed, plus separate dressing room
and ensuite. Relaxation is a priority here,
so you’ll soon find yourself longing to sit
back and soak in the spa as the sun slowly
sinks in front of you at the end of the day.
It’s clear that Hei Matau has created a
level of luxury that lifts Waiheke above
the day trip or overnight stay category.
My recommendation is to not just go to
Hei Matau, but go for at least three days
– it really is that good. And after meeting
Peter and Fiona, I would recommend the
hosting option. They are gracious and
entertaining hosts who will ensure your
experience is memorable for all the right
reasons. My other suggestion is to do it
now – before this little secret is out.
8282 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 82Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Post completed form to: LUXURY, PO Box 559, Shortland Street, Auckland 1140, New Zealand
*Competition only available to subscribers with a New Zealand address. Competition closes 23 September 2013. The winner will be notified by email on 25 September 2013. Prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash.
Subscribe and WIN 1 of 3 bottles of Waiwera Spirit*
Limited edition, handcrafted boutique spirits from Waiwera
Spirit are distilled from New Zealand wine, blended with
Waiwera water and free from artificial additives.
Unequalled in their quality and purity,
these exclusive vodkas, gin and rum
are only available to buy online or
you can find them in New Zealand’s
best lodges, bars and restaurants.
RRP NZ$230 per bottle.
Visit www.waiweraspirit.co.nz
LUXURYHOLIDAYS & CORPORATE TRAVEL
Title: Name:
Company:
Billing Address:
City: Country: New Zealand Only
Phone:
Email:
Please charge my Credit Card for NZ$30.60:
Visa Mastercard
Card number:
3-Digit security code:
Expiry date:
Card holder:
Signature:
My cheque is enclosed for NZ$30.60, payable to: Travel Publications Limited.
I do not wish to receive related information and special offers from LUXURY in the future.
For more information on subscriptions to LUXURY, call: 0800 444 556.
Gift Subscription Details (if applicable)
Title: Name:
Address:
Phone:
#
NZ
Digital subscriptions available from: www.zinio.co.nz. Refer to Zinio for international pricing.
Australian subscriptions purchased online at: www.isubscribe.co.nz. 1 year (2 issues) NZ$42.60. Includes P&P.
New Zealand subscriptions can be purchased online at: www.isubscribe.co.nz or by filling in the form below.
Me Gift 1 year (2 issues) New Zealand NZ$30.60 (save NZ$9.30) Free P&P.
Subscribe and Save 25%
WAIWERASPIRIT
• 1845 •
82 83Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 82
LuxurySoar through the Skies in
Global Express XRS
84 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Korean Air’s Private Jet ServiceThe rising demand for a more flexible travel schedule and
pleasant travel experience has increasingly made the private jet
charter service a popular alternative for many luxury travellers.
Whether for business or vacation, passengers can enjoy
glamorous jet-set lifestyles like those led by celebrities or Heads
of State; you can enjoy a premium office or home experience on
the go for the best utilisation of your time.
Korean Air is regarded as one of the leading pioneer airlines in the
private jet market, credited for its unique offerings such as adding
the state-of-the-art Boeing Business Jet to its fleet in 2010.
In search of a comfortable and productive in-flight experience,
the demand for a private jet service is rapidly growing among
frequent travellers who would like to keep their travel experience
pleasant, flexible and private. Private jets have become the
favourite of many corporate and high-end travellers providing a
setting that perfectly feels like your home or office on the go.
Korean Air is one of the few full-service carriers tapping into
this niche market with a wide range of premium aircraft and
84 85Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
More Info: Visit bizjet.koreanair.com for more information on the
tailored services on offer.
services that have been catering to different travellers’ needs
since 2007. The notable Korean Air fleet includes the state-of-
the-art Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), which carries the distinctive
luxury and spacious features of a customised version of the B737,
with a total capacity of sixteen to twenty-eight passengers for
long-distance flights under 12 hours. If you are planning for a
cost-effective long-distance trip with a smaller team, then the
Global Express XRS is equipped with wireless Internet, iPads and
comfortable sofa-beds and is a good choice for journeys up to
six thousand miles non-stop from an Asian hub to Europe or the
United States. Alternatively, a Sikorsky 76C+ can empower you
with high mobility for travel within South Korea.
The personalised jet charter service effectively reduces transit time
allowing you to enjoy ultimate privacy to long-haul destinations
where direct flights are not available.
Furthermore, Korean Air’s Flexjet Connect Service significantly
increases customer travel flexibility and reduces flight distances by
connecting passengers from Korean Air’s 115 weekly transpacific
flights with a private jet service, and more than 5000 jet terminals
in the United States, Central America and South America.
Known as one of the world’s top 20 airlines, Korean Air has
differentiated itself by integrating the best practices of its
renowned premium service into its private jet service offering.
Passengers of its private jet charter service are well served by
a dedicated crew and care service from departure to landing.
They also receive a privileged flexible travel schedule, exclusive
terminals that allow access to more airports and VIP lounges
for ultimate privacy and comfort. You can also expect premium
services such as earning First Class mileage points and a Mercury
Award-winning dining experience in the comfortable and
spacious seats during meetings or when relaxing.
The exclusive experience provided by Korean Air’s private jet
service puts a high premium on mobility when you travel. Enjoy
a premium in-flight journey as good as it gets with numerous
personal and business amenities at your fingertips.
Global Express XRS
86 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
From the 13th to the 16th Century, the Western part of Peru was part of the
Inca Empire. The Incas were a highly civilized people, with a complex religion,
sophisticated building techniques, and a rigidly structured society.
The arrival of the Spanish in South America in the 1530s wiped out the Inca
civilization with many of the Incas being massacred by the Spaniards, who
wanted to steal the vast amounts of gold and silver jewellery that the Incas
treasured. Those who survived died of diseases brought by the invaders.
However, many fascinating relics of the powerful Inca Empire still survive in
Peru today. Huge numbers of tourists come to Peru every year to explore
these enchanting sites and learn about the history of South America.
Story: Hannah Whiteoak
PeruInca Sites of
Machu Picchu
86 87Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Machu PicchuClinging to a mountain ridge high in the Peruvian Andes, the
ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu draws in adventurous tourists
from around the world. Having originally been built in the 15th
Century for an unknown purpose, Machu Picchu was abandoned
in 1572 as its inhabitants fled from the conquering Spaniards or
died of the diseases they carried.
Machu Picchu is sometimes referred to as the ‘Lost City of the
Incas’ because it is extremely well-preserved but completely
deserted by its original inhabitants. Since Machu Picchu’s
discovery by the American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911,
archeologists have struggled to understand how the Incas could
have brought stones to this site, which is almost 8000 feet above
sea level, and used them to construct the various buildings that
are still standing today.
Despite its remote location, thousands of visitors flock to Machu
Picchu every year. Some of the buildings have been reconstructed,
but there are also many originals that have survived through the
centuries. The Temple of the Sun is one of the main attractions
of the site due to its amazingly intricate stonework. A sundial is
carved into a stone close to the temple; its design is primitive but
still effective even today.
Visitors can reach Machu Picchu by taking a train to the nearby
town of Aguas Calientes, and then hiking or taking a bus up the
steep slope to reach the site. However, some adventurous visitors
choose to forgo modern transportation and instead reach Machu
Picchu by hiking along the Inca Trail. These visitors are rewarded
by fabulous views of the entire site as they enter through the
sacred Sun Gate.
The views from Machu Picchu are breathtaking, particularly from
the Moon Temple, which can only be reached by hiking up from
the main site through thick forest. From this dizzying vantage
point, visitors can look down over the ancient Inca city and into
the deep valleys beneath.
Despite having survived through the centuries relatively
unscathed, Machu Picchu is now in danger. The high footfall of
visitors through the site is eroding the land that the city stands
on at an alarming pace. In the 1980s, Machu Picchu was granted
UNESCO World Heritage Site status to prevent development in
the area, and strict limits have been placed on the number of
visitors who are allowed into the site each day.
Winay WaynaVisitors hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will encounter the
Inca village of Winay Wayna during their journey. Although the
site is not as well-preserved as Machu Picchu, some of the village’s
stone houses and public baths have survived as a monument to
the Incas who once lived here.
Winay Wayna was built on the steep side of a hill overlooking
the Urubamba River. Terraces were cut into the sloping ground,
where crops would have been planted. The use of terraces was a
common Inca technique, as they reduce soil erosion by stopping
water from running down the steep Andean hillsides.
The name Winay Wayna means ’forever young’. This name was
given to the town by the Peruvian archaeologist who discovered
it in 1942. Winay Wayna is thought to have been an important
town in the Inca Empire, which means that this site still gets a
lot of attention from archeologists who are keen to learn more
about its history.
PikimachayPikimachay is one of the oldest archeological sites in Peru.
Its name translates into English as ‘flea cave’. Archeologists
have found evidence of human habitation in this cave from
as early as 12,000 BC, which makes it South America’s oldest
known settlement.
Pikimachay is a multi-level cave where ancient hunter-gatherers
once lived. Later, the Incas farmed the surrounding area and
practiced their religion. Evidence of sophisticated agricultural
techniques has been found in the cave, including seeds for
planting and ancient stone tools.
Pikimachay is located approximately 24km from the city of
Ayacucho, in the valley of Lauricocha. Visitors can access Pikimachay
from Ayacucho by travelling along the road toward Huanta.
Getting There: LAN Airlines flies six days a week from Auckland
to Santiago, Chile with onward flights to over 120
destinations throughout South America on the LATAM
Airlines Group network. For more information or to make
a booking, please visit www.lan.com
Winay Wayna
88 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
LATAM Airlines Group formed by LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines serves over 145 destinations in 22 countries. LAN Airlines flies non-stop six times per week from Auckland to Santiago, Chile, From Santiago LAN offers onwards connections to Peru.
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF PERUWITH LAN AIRLINES
Machu Picchu, Peru
LAN.com LAN 09 3083352 Travel Agents 1800 558 129 CONTACT US:
88 89Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
LATAM Airlines Group formed by LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines serves over 145 destinations in 22 countries. LAN Airlines flies non-stop six times per week from Auckland to Santiago, Chile, From Santiago LAN offers onwards connections to Peru.
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF PERUWITH LAN AIRLINES
Machu Picchu, Peru
LAN.com LAN 09 3083352 Travel Agents 1800 558 129 CONTACT US:
A brief historyCacao is a bean that grows encased in the pod-like fruit of the
Theobroma Cacao tree – ‘food of the gods’. Cacao grew wild
in the Amazon from as early as 1000BC and was cultivated by
both the Maya and Aztec civilisations. In these days, the precious
beans were dried, ground and mixed with water to produce a
coveted drink.
Following Spanish colonisation of the Americas, chocolate
made its way to Spain, and a love affair with chocolate spread
throughout Europe during the 1600s-1700s. Chocolate was
consumed as a beverage by the wealthy and merchant classes,
often in dedicated chocolate houses or ‘clubs’.
The 1800s brought the industrial revolution and a turning point
in chocolate consumption. Solid dark chocolate was invented in
1847 by Joseph Fry by adding cocoa butter back to dry cocoa
powder and sugar. In 1875 milk chocolate was invented, and in
1894 Hershey made the first mass-produced affordable chocolate
bar, sparking a revolution.
Meanwhile in Europe, the great chocolate houses of Belgium,
Switzerland, France and Spain were born – these famous brands
remain among the royalty of chocolate today. However it was
only in the 1980s that producers of elite chocolate began to
focus on cocoa content and the quality and origin of beans. It is
these trends that are now at the forefront of chocolate culture.
Food of
the GodsFrom bean to bar the makings of fine chocolate
Story: Gemma O’Sullivan
With the renaissance of artisan food culture, chocolate is following in the footsteps of wine, coffee
and olive oil to become the stuff of foodies. ‘Vintage’ and ‘Grand Cru’ are the new cocoa lingo. And a
multitude of health benefits are reported by the press. But antioxidants aside, how is this divine treat
conjured into being? And what sets fine chocolate apart from the mediocre – or worse, the Mars Bar?
90 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Once harvested, the beans are removed from the pods. The
pulpy mass is fermented to release the beans from the pulp
and to kill germination. At this stage the beans have high
moisture content and need to be dried. They are often dried
out in the sun where the climate permits – this method is
associated with optimal flavour.
Once the beans are received by the chocolate manufacturer,
it’s time for roasting. This brings out the chocolate’s unique
colour and flavour. The roasted beans are put through a
winnowing machine to remove the shells and leave behind
‘nibs’ – which are milled to create cocoa ‘liquor’, a paste.
Other ingredients are added to this paste including sugar,
milk and spices, and the paste is put into a machine for
conching. For quality chocolate, conching will take up to
several days; kneading and smoothing the chocolate to
heighten flavour and improve texture.
Finally, chocolate is tempered by heating the chocolate
mass and then cooling it to enable stable crystallisation of
the cocoa butter. This produces a ready-to-eat chocolate
product that is shiny, has a consistent texture, a good ‘snap’
and is resistant to spoiling. And so fine chocolate is born.
Chocolate todayToday the term ‘chocolate’ is synonymous with cheap
‘candy’ with very little actual cacao content; and yet it also
represents the finest, most flavourful dark chocolate.
There is a growing trend towards quality, with a rising
number of chocolate lovers looking for cocoa content, origin
of beans, reputation for quality, and ethical production.
Health benefits are also a hot topic, bringing demand for
cacao into new territory.
Around the world, new artisan chocolate producers and
chocolatiers are emerging. In New Zealand new ‘bean-to-
bar’ chocolate maker White Rabbit Cacao creates single
origin chocolate to reflect the diversity in the delicate
flavour of beans sourced from around the world.
With innovative brands pioneering a brave new chocolate
world and flavours becoming bolder, don’t be surprised to
see wasabi feature in a ganache!
It begins with the beanCacao trees bear fruit in humid, rainy regions within 20oN
and 20oS of the Equator. West Africa supplies about 70%
of the world’s cocoa production. Other major producers
include Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela, Ecuador,
Columbia, Madagascar, Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
There are three main varietals of the cacao tree – Forastero,
Criollo and Trinitario.
The prized Ciollo bean is famed as being the most fragrant,
yet is the most difficult tree to grow. These beans account
for just 1% of the world’s cocoa today and Criollo is rarely
found in its pure form.
Forastero trees are hardy and have a high yield, yet the bean
often has a harsh bitterness and acidity. Forastero beans
account for approximately 92% of cocoa production.
Trinitario cacao is a hybrid of the Forastero and Criollo
types. It shares some of the beautiful qualities of the Criollo
bean, yet is more hardy, thanks to its Forastero parent.
Like wine, location also influences flavour. The most
sought-after origin of cacao is the remote region of Chuao
in Venezuela.
Perfecting the processHumans play an important role in determining the quality of
chocolate through processing techniques. Key steps include
fermentation, drying, roasting, conching and tempering.
90 91Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
A taste of luxury on vacationTravel is a great source of inspiration for food lovers.
Why not sweeten up your next adventure, by indulging
in an unforgettable chocolate tour?
Caribbean
Stay at the Boucan by Hotel Chocolat on Saint Lucia
and visit their Rabot Estate for a tree to bar experience.
www.hotelchocolat.com
France
Experience the city of love through cocoa-tinted glasses.
World-renowned chocolate expert Chloe Doutre-Roussel
provides walking tours of the best chocolate shops in Paris as
well as educational workshops. www.chloe-chocolat.com
Italy
Located in Tuscany, Amedei is today one of the most lauded
chocolate brands in the world. They have recently opened
their doors for tours. www.amedei.com
A simple tasting guide For tasting, ensure your chocolate is at room temperature.
Sample small squares of plain chocolate and start with the
lightest variety. Cleanse the pallet with water.
1. Observe the chocolate
Look at the texture, consistency, and colour. Note that
intensity of colour does not necessarily indicate intensity
of flavour.
2. Listen to it
By snapping the chocolate in two. Does it have a crisp snap,
indicating a good balance between cocoa and butter?
3. Smell it
Take a small piece and let it melt between your thumb and
forefinger to release the full aromas.
4. Taste the chocolate
Put a piece in your mouth and pinch your nose. The tastes
your tongue can detect are salt, sweet, sour, bitter and
umami (savoury); the sensations include astringency and the
cooling effect of the cocoa butter. Next, stop pinching your
nose and breathe in deeply to experience the full aromas.
5. Taste again
By allowing the chocolate to melt slowly on the tongue to
experience development of flavours.
Flavours of chocolate can be as broad as ‘fruity’ or as
specific as ‘toast’. For beginners, focus on the category of
flavour – i.e. floral, fruity, roasted, nutty, spicy, vegetable or
miscellaneous. As you become more accustomed to tasting,
try to identify more specific flavours.
Boucan by Hotel Chocolat
92 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Story: Toni Gillan
With its faultless location, in the heart of the KL’s Golden Triangle shopping and
entertainment district, next to Kuala Lumpur City Central Park and Convention Centre
and within walking distance of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, this is a Hyatt top tier
brand hotel. Architects and designers have been allowed free reign using cutting edge
technology to bring us this latest state-of-the-art five-star choice in Kuala Lumpur.
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
92 93Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
94 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
I’d flown direct from New Zealand so my
eyes are drawn to the sumptuous king-sized
bed waiting for me. But before I can settle
in, my enthusiastic escort is keen to advise
me of the bathroom’s unique feature – a
liquid crystal glass (LCG) enclosed privacy
cube around the bathroom’s tub and rain
shower that I might have overlooked. Flick
the light switch for instant opaque privacy.
Flick it again and the glass becomes
translucent. In the marble bath later I was
able to continue to enjoy the outside vista.
The hotel has three dining options. With its
360-degree views, Thirty8 is their defining
signature-dish restaurant space, wine bar
and lounge located on the top floor. I had
already eaten generously prepared canapés
in the Grand Club Lounge so I settled for a
simply grilled Wagyu steak with asparagus.
In the lounge afterwards, captivatingly
sung Blues melodies managed to keep me
much later than I intended.
The Grand Club Lounge is a great place to
eat breakfast over a newspaper and coffee.
Later in the day after walking in the park
and partaking in some light shopping, it
naturally became my headquarters. Much
later, Italian sparkling wine, a generously
dry Prosecco, refreshed me after my
early evening body and soul revitalisation
experience at the hotel’s Essa Spa.
First impressions are decisive especially
in a newly opened property such as the
city centre Grand Hyatt, Kuala Lumpur.
I’m saying right now to pause, take a
moment if you can to get your bearings.
You might even like to appreciate the calm
and serene ground floor water-featured
lobby, extravagantly decked out with three
specially commissioned art pieces.
In a reversal of the usual ground level
check-in process. On entering the hotel,
you are smilingly encouraged to board the
express lift up to the sky lobby reception.
Rapid ascension and get ready to re-
adjust your senses to assimilate sweeping
panoramic views of the city’s skyline as you
disembark your ride thirty-eight floors up.
The sky lobby is strategically positioned at
the highest level of the building and you’ll
find your vision continually, sometimes
unnervingly, stretching to accommodate
the panorama; even as you check in it
continues to dominate your impression.
I’m staying overnight in a Grand Deluxe
View Room. The focus on views extends
to the room’s instant wow factor, that is
the floor to ceiling windows. Sky-high, all
guests have this advantage in their rooms.
My extravagantly roomy 65m2 corner
guestroom comes with an earth-toned
décor, wood floors and handmade rugs.
Modern amenities – wireless Internet, MP3
docking stations, data ports, oversized
work desk and a 42-inch LED TV plus all
the usual things you would expect for
a five-star property, including delicious
sugar-level raising snacks.
With so much to do and so little time to
do it in I was told JP Teres, located on the
ground floor, is a definite lunch must-visit.
I was not prepared for the tantalising,
engaging show kitchens I discovered
there. With chefs working the satay grills,
tandoori ovens, roti hot plates and wok
stations, they spoil you for choice, working
up your appetite. Back at the table it’s
surprisingly difficult to relate back to the
menu as to which kitchen produced a
specific dish. Eventually, taking advice
from the waiter and knowing I had a spa
appointment that would only work on
a light lunch, I opted for a Malaysian roti
canai from a selection of dishes such as
beef rendang, chicken rice, ais kacang and
teh tarik.
Leaving Essa Spa I wandered out to the
freeform outdoor pool thinking I would
check out the 24-hour fitness centre for
later. Then feeling the exhaustion of long
distance flying and all relaxed after my spa
experience, I just chilled watching children
play while enjoying an iced tea ordered
from the hotel’s third restaurant, Poolside.
The Grand Hyatt Kula Lumpur has 412
guestrooms, including 42 suites. They
provide sophisticated global business
and leisure travellers with upscale
accommodation, innovative dining, spa,
health and fitness options, state-of the-art
technology and comprehensive business
and meeting facilities.
This hotel has gone a long way in
dramatically underscoring Kuala Lumpur’s
evolution into a world-class city.
“...get ready to re-adjust your senses to assimilate sweeping panoramic views”
JP Teres’ Private Room
94 95Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpurat a glance
Category: City hotel.
Room reviewed: Grand Deluxe View Room.
What’s great? The sky lobby views, the
city centre location and the light changing
‘eureka’ moments in the bathroom.
What’s not so great? The entry lifts whisk
you up directly to the sky lobby. You are
then directed past the check-in lobby to
separate lifts that take you back down to
all rooms and recreational facilities. It’s
confusing if you’re jet lagged but you get
used to it. Plus the views make up for it!
Editor’s tip: Use the concierges who will do
anything within their power to improve
your Hyatt experience.
Website: www.kualalumpur.grand.hyatt.com
Rate: Grand King Room from US$185 per
night. Grand Deluxe View Room from
US$285 per night.
Location
Room size
Room interior
Overall service
Food & beverage
Hotel pool
Business needs
Recreational facilities
Spa facilities
Value for money
88% Sky-high luxury.
Thirty8 Restaurant and Lounge
96 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
One of the nicest feelings in the world is when you get more
than you bargained for. It’s like receiving a free gift or something
for nothing. This is why airline upgrades can have even jaded
corporate travellers wagging their tails like happy puppies. They
just got an unexpected bonus from the airline!
This review isn’t about an upgrade, but the ‘something-for-
nothing’ sensation certainly applies to our experience on a recent
trip from Auckland to Los Angeles. Flying Premium Economy
with Air New Zealand felt far closer to Business Premier than we
expected. It was an experience that transcended expectations.
We departed on an overnight flight with the aim of sleeping
soundly and arriving ready to hit the sights of Los Angeles in the
morning. An ambitious goal, you might feel. This was a 12-hour
flight after all, and who plans on getting a serious amount of
shut-eye on a plane? But that was our intention.
The first relaxing moment came when dinner was served. Put
away all thoughts of a generic meat or chicken choice – the
Premium Economy menu was definitely a class above the norm.
We enjoyed a soft herb and sourdough baked New Zealand
salmon with fennel risotto, courgettes, tomato caper broth and
lemon butter. The flavours were light and delicate – perfect for
mid-air dining. Consultant Chef Peter Gordon is certainly making
his presence felt.
Naturally, there was a fine selection of New Zealand wines on
offer to complement the meal. You’d expect nothing less from
the national carrier.
As the hours ticked by, the cabin lights were dimmed and the
mood became somewhat more somnolent. This was the moment
of truth. Would we be able to slip into a comfortable state of
slumber for the remainder of the night? What level of comfort
could we expect from a Premium Economy ‘Spaceseat’?
Our centre seats slid forward into their own space to create a
pleasantly cocooned environment. It was like having your own
private cubicle, with no awkward space invasion from reclining
Air New Zealand
Premium Economy
96 97Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
seats in the next row. Head resting on a soft full-sized pillow and
feet propped on a soft ottoman helped with the comfort. We
didn’t have a tape measure on hand to confirm it, but the seats
felt wide and there was room to properly stretch out.
The result was a solid sleep lasting many hours. Having a proper
rest, with the requisite REM deep sleep, is absolutely essential if
you want to arrive fresh and ready to enjoy your holiday or head
into a business meeting. We were so comfortable in our Premium
Economy seats that we could have dozed for longer. It’s not
often that you find yourself saying that about a long-haul flight.
The extra room and seats are central to the appeal of Premium
Economy, but they’re not the only smart feature on board. Air
New Zealand’s Boeing 777-300s come with a superb in-seat
entertainment system that serves up to 580 hours of content,
from movies to video games. There’s even a dedicated kids’
section and YouTube Channel accessible from the 10.8” touch
screen. Plus, there’s the USB and iPod connections to plug into.
You’ll also enjoy some special privileges before you board.
Air New Zealand Premium Economy travellers use the Premium
check-in at the airport. Avoiding the snaking queues, being
whisked through the check-in process and utilising the dedicated
Customs area is always a great way to start your journey.
Overall, we were impressed by the Premium Economy package.
Air New Zealand has put real thought into making long-haul
much more enjoyable for those who want that little bit extra
space and a higher standard of service, without paying full price
for Business Premier.
Having travelled widely in a number of airline classes, we can
confirm that Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy product more
than holds its own. You’ll pay more than standard economy but
you get a surprisingly high standard of service. Plus a seat that
turns long-haul overnight travel into a decent night’s sleep.
For more information visit www.airnewzealand.co.nz
9898 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.
San Francisco24 Hours in:
Midnight. The airport is modern, clean and complete and I
sailed through to get my taxi to Fisherman’s Wharf in Downtown
San Francisco. Passing the stadium of the San Francisco Giants
baseball team right on the waterfront I’m told that the boaties
catch the over hit balls on a good day! The city was still
humming, full of light and life as I checked in to my hotel.
6.00am. Like all good jet lag, you never wake up when you
expect and despite the late night, I was awake early. The hotel
was quiet so I decided to go for a walking tour of the city, which
I had heard was pretty spectacular. It was a typical cold morning
as I headed down to the dock where the guys were washing
down the crab stands ready for another busy day of sales.
I bumped into an English lady also out on the streets early. She
was heading along to the booking kiosk for the famous Alcatraz
prison island in the centre of San Francisco Bay. She told me most
of the slots on the daily trips to Alcatraz are pre-booked by tour
groups, so if you want to do an adhoc visit, you need to get there
early to secure one of the 50 or so daily release tickets.
7.30am. I was walking past the large old wharf buildings along
the waterfront and back towards the city. For a City renowned
for its hills, this was an easy, flat amble, albeit I still needed my
sweater on at that time of the morning. I went past Pier 39 and
the cruise ship wharf down at the Embarcadero, with the steely
looking Bay on my left and Alcatraz in the distance.
Just before the Bay Bridge I went through the financial district
and then turned right uphill into Union Square and near to the
Frank Lloyd Wright building. By this time I was peckish and
looking for a classic American diner. Lori’s on Sutter Street fitted
the bill and served an excellent Corned Beef Hash.
9.00am. The sun was beginning to warm me up or maybe it was
just that I had found San Francisco’s famed hills at last as I walked
off my breakfast indulgence. I went up up up and over the top.
Past Lombard Street, famous for its tight twists and turns.
10.30am. A quick coffee refresh and I walked on down to the
Marina Green Park, just near the San Francisco Yacht Club and
a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. By now getting a bit tired,
but pleased to be in warm spring sunshine I negotiated a group
of joggers in pink tights and worked my way back around to the
Fisherman’s Wharf shops past the Maritime Museum. I went back
to my room (late checkout organised) and slept though lunch
with weary limbs.
2.00pm. Refreshed, I picked up a cab outside my hotel and
made my way to Yerba Buena Gardens where I found a jazz band
playing and had a late lunch at the Samovar Tea Lounge perched
on the Moscone Convention Centre rooftop. An interesting place
for extreme sports tea drinking.
I had one more visit in mind before my early evening flight.
SFMOMA (San Fran Museum of Modern Art) is right over the
road from Yerba Buena and given the city’s creative past, had
to be on my list. It didn’t disappoint. It has a great roof top
garden – and a high level mesh walkway – guaranteed to get the
vertigo going. Highlights though were paintings by Mark Rothko,
Jackson Pollack and Jasper Johns. Also being cool San Fran, the
museum shop was one of the very best I have ever been into.
It was more trendy and with more quirky and cool household
appliances than you could imagine.
I took a cab back to the airport from there. The cabby asked me
if I had been at the conference. What conference I enquired?
– the one with 50,000 people for a tech company. It was only
then it struck me that San Fran has so many things to do that
even with 50,000 extra ‘tourists’ in town, the city absorbed them
easily. Like the airport, a smooth operation.
Primed and ready for an influx of the boating elite from around the world,
Richard Lott checks out the golden city before the America’s Cup fever really hits town.
America’s Cup racing with Alcatraz in background
98 99Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource. 98
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
210x285_path.ai 1 4/18/13 10:46 AM
100 Your ultimate luxury and corporate travel resource.