YTL

Issue Ni ne 2 0 1 0

T h e

Y T L

L u x u r y

T h e
Y T L
L u x u r y
M a g a z i n e

Deep Blue Allure
10 great reasons to visit
Pangkor Laut Resort

Muse HÔtel
de Luxe

Sizzling and sunnyin St Tropez

NisekoPP 15585/10/2010(025760)

Adventure forall seasons

All Shook Up!
Shanghai’s
newest hotspot

M a g a z i n e

Contents

54 Niseko

The snowiest resort in the world emerges as the ultimate year-round destination

Contents

22Life on the Cover

12 St Tropez’s new Muse
Hotel de Luxe gives
another very compelling
reason to visit

20Life Bites

Hot happenings at YTLHotels

22Life Events

Legendary tenor Andrea
Bocelli delivers a magical
performance at YTL Concert
of Celebration 2010

26

Life Style

Starstruck: the timeless lureof perfectly-cut diamonds

48
Life Features

32 YTL celebrates thefascinating lives and loves
of France’s greatest artists

60 French perfume: a headystory of sophisticatedseduction

40 How the remote Bishnoi
community of nature
worshippers has paid theultimate sacrifice to protect
the wildlife of Rajasthan

66 Supermodel turned
businesswoman Elle
Macpherson shares her
secrets to health, beauty,
style, success and what
it takes to be Britain’s
Next Top Model

48 Tanjong Jara Resort
emerges as the ultimate‘lost in paradise’ experience
for the discerning scuba
diver
54 Niseko: one of the snowiest
resorts in the world emerges
as the ultimate year-rounddestination

Designer Life

72 Endless summer: thebreeziest statement
pieces in a palette oftropical hues meet thetropical glamour of
Tanjong Jara Resort

Contents

80
Life Time

80 The timeless appeal of
BaselWorld watch fair

Beautiful Life

84 A passion for nostalgiatranslates into enduring
style
86 More than a century
and a half on, Louis
Vuitton continues towoo with its faultlessartisanal handcraft
92 Eau so good: hit thehigh notes with thissummer’s refreshingly
delicious fragrances
94 Bare essentials: Life’s
summer skincare
and fragrance news

110
Spa Life

96 The timeless art of Malay
natural healing is enjoying awell-deserved renaissanceLife Cuisine

102 Inspired creations by
MUSE’s executive chef
109 The best ingredients for theperfect gourmet experience

Entertaining Life

110 Meet the artists as
Shanghai’s Grand Damecelebrates the rebirth ofcontemporary style

Life of Luxury

112 YTL’s music guru Gavin
Aldred’s inspired top

picks for summer will keep
you entranced all year long
114 Objets of desire: modern
designs set the scene forsleek sophistication

Life’s Moments

116 A photographer’s journey
to Pangkor Laut Resort

Portfolio of Life

122 Quiet, luxurious, discreet –three perfect excuses tovisit a YTL resort

My Life

128 Celebrated British actress Anna
Friel talks about the people,
faces, tastes and experiencesthat make her world

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the pages of the new look YTL. In line with thecompany’s vision to create unique and memorable experiences, this issue of YTL
extends beyond the hotels and resorts that have made YTL renowned, to embracea wider world of travel, food, music, fashion, celebrity and the environment which wecall home.

Editorial Team
Editorial Director
Sarah Cairns

With a renewed focus on highlighting some of the world’s greatest destinations andcultures, YTL’s
magazine is just one of several enhancements, with the latest
properties reflecting a growing desire to capture the authentic spirit of the destinationand to respect its environment.

Editorial Assistant Director                     Lisa Low
Editor-at-Large
Kate O’Brien

With this new look we have created what we firmly
believe is an avant-garde lifestyle magazine. And what
better location than YTL’s latest addition, Muse Hôtel
de Luxe, in the immortal St Tropez for our inauguralissue. Muse is not just another luxury hotel. Museis different; a rare, preserved gem in the heart of an
ecological garden, where a few elegant suites lie hidden, where the ultimate
Tropezian experience comes to life and where the smallest details weave into
simply perfect moments. In fact Muse fits perfectly with YTL’s heady mix offabulous resorts in truly irresistible locations.

From the Editor….

Managing Editor
Aster Lim
Associate Editor
Mark Lean
Sub Editor
Catherine Shaw              

Art
T h e

Y T L

L u x u r y

M a g a z i n e

Creative Director
Eireen Ooi

YTLcelebrates the fresh vibrant cuisine, relaxed ambience and joie
de vivre of the French Riviera – the home of Matisse, Cézanne and many
more celebrated artists and their muses. We explore the baffling lives andloves of these artists, and others who are all united by their endearing
love of the South of France. No visit to the South of France would becomplete without experiencing Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
We explore the heady world of fragrance – at once sexy, sophisticated,complex and always imbued with the mystery that has for centuries
attracted us to scent.

Art Director
Ng Geok Mei

Published By
YTL Hotels
11th Floor, Yeoh Tiong Lay Plaza, 55,
Jalan Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Produced By
Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd(Company No. 7408-K)
Lot 7, Jalan Bersatu 13/4, Section 13,46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Tel: +603 7952 7000
Fax: +603 7960 0151
E-mail: ytllife@bluinc.com.my

Colour Separation By
Digiscan Services Sdn Bhd
No. 26, Jalan 4/62A, Bandar Manjalara,
52220 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Senior Graphic Designer
Kong Shier Lee

Sales
Account Managers
Joyce Lee, Jojo Wong,
Robert Lee

YTLvisits another recent addition to its growing family, theNiseko Village, a picturesque village in rural southwest Hokkaido,
Japan to uncover the eclectic menu of summer adventures thatcome to life once the last snows have melted and the skiers have
moved on.

Production
Production Manager
Lim Kian Heng

Contributors
Ed Peters, Catherine Shaw,
Michael D’Oliveiro, Ed Soon,
Jennifer Choo, Subhash
SharmaElle Macpherson graces our pages from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in
Kuala Lumpur and shows why she possesses much more thanjust ‘the Body’ as she shares her secrets to health, beauty,
style, success and what it takes to be Britain’s Next Top
Model. And in the first of our new back page ‘My Life’ insiders,
actress Anna Friel reveals the tastes, people, places andmemorable moments that make her world so special.

Printed By
Percetakan Zanders Sdn Bhd
No.16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara,
47180 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia

We hope you get as much pleasure and inspiration fromreading YTL
as we have in bringing it all together…..
Salut!

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of YTL Corporation. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in YTL LIFE
are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by YTL Corporation and/or Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd. They are not responsible or liable in any way for thecontent in any of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. Editorial enquiries and enquiries concerning
advertising and circulation should be addressed to Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd. YTL Corporation and Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd accept no responsibility for
unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and any other such materials. The Editorial Team reserves the right to edit and/or re-write all materials
according to the needs of the publication upon usage. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by suficient return postage.

YTL Supports
A Healthy Planet

Kate O’ Brien
Kate O’ Brien
Editor-at-Large

life on the cover //life on the cover //Essenceof MuseSleek, stylish and intimate,Muse Hôtel de Luxe evokes
timeless French glamour witha very modern twist.
Text by Kate O’Brien

It all began with Brigitte Bardot: once St
Tropez became her favourite beach haunt
after the memorable And God Created
Woman, the chic seaside town vaulted
into the glamour stratosphere. Now Muse
Hotel adds yet another tantalizing excuse
to visit this extraordinary paradise.

Image from Getty Images

An exceptional location and high-end
design combine to make Muse thenewest, chicest and hottest property intown. Situated on the Ramatuelle ‘routede plages’ road and nestled within analluring landscape of terraced gardens,
the elegant retreat comprises 15 luxurious
suites (10 with pools), overlooking themagnificent landscaped gardens. The
dreamscape is also just minutes from St
Tropez Place de Lices, arguably the moststylish epicenter in the world.

12

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEMuse marks the first of YTL Hotels’ global
expansion outside of Asia and is dedicatedexclusively to true lovers of luxury, comfort,
sophistication, quality and the very
essence of French glamour. Behind its
fabulous exterior, this überchic property is
led by General Manager, Celia Gumbau.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

13

life on the cover //YTL Hotels is the hospitality arm
of YTL Corporation Berhad. The
Company owns and manages
a prestigious award-winningcollection of unique resorts, hotels
and spas including the multi-award
winning Pangkor Laut Resort in
Malaysia. With their recent global
expansion in St. Tropez, Shanghai,
Niseko and Borneo, YTL brings
a natural essence of culture,
character and tradition to each
destination embracing a range oftruly luxurious experiences.

The Provence Cézanne painted andCamus wrote of with such passion
remains resplendent to this day with tallcypress trees, shimmering meadows,
quaint meandering villages, vineyards,
remote valleys, fresh food markets andfields of lavender. The spirits of these
artists and the world that inspired themand many others, are at the core of Muse,making it a haven of inspiration, intimacy
and celebration.

Each of the 15 impressive suites is designed
as a private residence, complete with asecluded garden. Ten suites also enjoy private
swimming pools

14

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

life on the cover //With this in mind it was only natural thatcreating Muse would be a magnificent
collaboration of some of the world's mostnotable talents: the renowned landscapearchitect Sophie Agata Ambroise; Alexis
Mabille – the darling of the Paris fashion
scene; Clément Bruno, the king of truffles;
and the highly talented Chef Nicolas Le
Toumelin. It is a result of the inspiration andnurturing of these dedicated artists that theultimate Muse experience came to life.

Ambroise’s previous project was theenchanting gardens of the Bulgari
Hotel in Milan. With Muse she set uponan environmental and almost poetic
adventure completely in tune withthe environment, with luxury living inharmony with nature. “At first, imagining
Muse meant dreaming of a spacefinding its rightful place in the tropezianlandscape. I never conceived Muse as
an enclosed garden. The surrounding
land has a history and meaning with its
footpaths braided with Bormes stones,
its olive groves and a beautiful pine
forest crowning the gently sloping land”,
says Ambrose. “Water is as necessary
and precious to the land as blood is tothe human body. I envisioned guests
circulating harmoniously at Muse, so
in designing the gardens I retraced thecourse of the original water torrent, fromthe pine forest to the sea to maintainthis melodious flow.”

By meticulously managing the water
resources, Ambroise has created asustainable masterpiece of 160 different
plant species, some of which are fastdisappearing from the French landscape.
Biodiversity is maintained, with a rich
palette of Mediterranean colours in
intriguing shades of white, purple and grey
to excite the eyes and maintain a senseof peace and harmony throughout.

Muse Suites

Each of the 15 impressive suites,
designed as a private residence hasa landscaped garden. Ten suites also
enjoy swimming pools, allowing guests toenjoy precious private time in seclusion.
Warm, creamy off-white and beige tones,
subdued lighting and in-suite massage
tables set the perfect ambiance for themost restful therapies. The spacious
suites can also be transformed into party
areas for guests to entertain friends andindulge in the fine wines from the in-suite
private wine cabinet while relaxing by theirprivate pool.
Each suite is named after the muses towhom the hotel is dedicated, such as‘Edith’ (Piaf) ‘Catherine’ (Deneuve) and‘Lauren’ (Bacall). While each is undeniably
individual in their décor and ambience, allshare cool French stone floors, mamorino
wall finishes and stylish cool finishings.
Exclusive retro-chic furniture made-toorder and carved by the Henryot Company,
is reminiscent of the elegant exuberanceof the Art Deco period, but softened withfine, sensuous materials like linen, cottonand silk fabrics, all by Pierre Frey.
The luxurious bed linen, robes and towels
are custom-designed by Christof Stranos
using the softest, most luxurious Egyptian
cotton, with subtle shades of ivory, cream
and white which blend seamlessly withTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

15

life on the cover //“M”
Image from Hevea

The Muse restaurant, simply named“M”, celebrates all things French with thevery best of fresh, local mouth-watering
cuisine. With the talented Nicolas leToumelin at the helm, ( formerly of One O
One at the Sheraton, Knightsbridge andthe Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai ) an eclectic
blend of ocean flavours and vibrantseasonal produce is assured. Add to thisChef Clement Bruno’s tantalizing menu of
truffle delights and the result is the freshestof food, perfectly cooked and presented
with the most exacting attention to detail(see page 103).

Muse Spa

Left: Hevea body oils are used in Muse Hôtel deLuxe’s massage therapies and body rituals
Top: Sophie Agata Ambroise, responsible for thedesign of Muse’s eco-friendly landscape
Next page: Myriad views of the hotel

16

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

The spa could not find a better homethan Muse. In fact, its very concept was
the basis for Sophie Agata Ambroise’s
environmental project: a wholly ecologicalterrace garden with its own watersupply leading to a perfectly integrated
spa. Under the guardianship of Karine
Rousselle’s wealth of hands-on spa

Image from Alex Schneideman

the understated surrounds. The verylatest in Wii, playstation and audio-visualequipment with an endless supply ofDVDs and music is on hand to entertain
even the most discerning experts.
Each guest receives their personal iPadon arrival, complete with an eclectic
selection of music, games and Muse
contact numbers – all at the touch of avery chic button.

life on the cover //experience, the philosophy is simple- nothing but the power of touch andnatural essences to create the mostheavenly health and beauty rituals. So
much so that the only visible signs of ourhigh-tech world are the iPod and Bang &Olufsen speakers for guests to choose
their preferred music.
True to this mission, the divine Amala
range of skincare essentials is the
product of choice. Completely natural,
the range is created from organic wildcrafted ingredients blissfully free fromany harsh chemicals to deliver clean,
radiant skin every time.The striking ethicalpackaging alone is reason enough to use
the products. Each facial is customized
to guest’s skin concerns and includes thebest hydrating and nourishing therapies
for dry, windswept or ageing skins.
Hevea is another range of natural
nourishing body oils that is used in Muse
massage therapies and body rituals.
The signature ‘Bougie de Massage’experience is a clear winner. Using a
special reduced melting point candle, thewarm oil from the candle is gently poured
over the body and massaged with longdeep penetrating strokes to instantly
relieve tension and invigorate all over.
All treatments can be carried out in theintimacy of suites so guests will not be
disturbed once the treatment completes.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

17

life on the cover //Image from Getty Images

life on the cover //Muse Fashion

Having worked with famed fashion houses
Ungaro, Nina Ricci and Christian Dior,
designer Alexis Mabille’s unconventional
but supremely elegant style proved anatural fit for Muse. “To create uniforms
in a ‘couture’ state-of-mind seemed soinnovative I could not resist,” said Mabille
who designed a Croisière collection of light,
fresh and somewhat avant-garde uniforms
for the hotel. The collection is a flawless
fusion of elegance and comfort, beautyand function, modernity and tradition, withperfectly cut fabrics that wrap and movewith the body, making them extremely
comfortable yet undeniably chic. Bardot
would surely approve.

La Piscine

It was in St Tropez, just minutes fromMuse that Jacques Deray shot his cult film
La Piscine (The Swimming Pool) in 1969
during which the most glamorous couple ofthe times, Alain Delon and Romy Schneider,
From its glamorous swimming pool to bespoke
candles, Muse exudes sleek sophistication

18

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

found true love. With such a rich romantic
prelude, the 100 sq meters of ultramarine
water nestled in the heart of the Musegardens, is a not-to-be-missed experience.
Light and refined cabanas veiled withdiaphanous hangings are dotted aroundthe pool providing a touch of intimacy andspace to indulge in a heavenly massage,a manicure or to simply relax alone or withfriends.
The stylish poolside bar has wonderfulviews over the gardens and surrounds andserves up comprehensive range of drinks
from detox juices and smoothies and nonalcoholic cocktails to signature cocktails,
wines and, of course, champagne. Thisis France, after all. Deliciously creative
canapés add the pièce de résistance.
Butlers are on hand, forever discreet andalways available to ensure the perfect guest
experience – be it sun-cream, a favourite
hard-to-find magazine, some refreshingskewered fresh fruits, house-made sorbets
or adventurous cocktails. Other novel Muse
touches include Bentley shuttles to nearby
beaches, private helicopter on demand to
local airports or other preferred destination
and access to the most exclusive
restaurants and beach clubs acquired by
the hotel’s exceptionally well connectedconcierge team.
And so the legend lives on as St Tropez
continues to exert its inimitable magnetismon all who visit – from stars and celebrities
to renowned yachtsmen, fashionistas,
gourmands and the simply curious. Muse
Hotel epitomizes the spirit of the South, aunique mix of luxury, conviviality, intimacy
and celebration and the ideal starting point
for exploring the magic that is the Southof France.

Scents of Muse

What do designer clothing, sunglasses,
celebrity stylists, haute epicerie, spas andresorts have in common? Customised
scents, according to Parfum Cosmetic
World renowned for their exquisite candles
and other fragranced products createdfor high-profile clients such as l’Hôtel deParis in Monaco, Fekkai, Vuarnet and mostrecently Muse Hôtel de Luxe. Last year
alone 200,000 candles were made in thishighly efficient factory outside Grasse, theperfume capital of France.
While candle-making seems relatively
simple – basically blending base oils withwax – there is far more to the process thanmeets the eye says Angélique Klein of
Parfum Cosmetic World. “A quality candle
should not smoke, it should burn in its
entirety (a small 75gm candle should burnfor up to 20 hours) and the aroma should
permeate the area,” she says. And this,according to the expert, is the very reason
that quality candles can cost up to 100 Euro
each. What’s more, the choice of wick is
key too as some more delicate ingredients

may require a metal element in the wickto burn effectively. In simple terms, you
get what you pay for. “To make the mostfrom your candle,” adds Klein, “let it burnfor no more than two hours. Then cut thewick back before relighting.”
The four scents created exclusively forMuse are; Mer, reminiscent of a breezy
day yachting on the Med with the wind inyour hair and the taste of the sea brushingyour face; the deliciously sugary aromasemanating from Gourmande, comprising
the sweet oils of vanilla and orange
blossom with a zest of sugar; the cleansing
notes of eucalyptus, lavender, geranium
and tea tree in Spa au Naturel; and the
dry herbaceous Jardin d’Eté, with notesof pine, thyme and myrtle amongst otherwoody ingredients. Whether guests areenjoying the water, the spa and gardens,
the hotel’s delicious dining options or simply
being with their Muse, these aromas assure
warm, cosseting and glorious moments.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

19

life bites //The latest events, attractions and experiences at YTL Hotels.
01

06

04
03

05

02

01

02

03

04

05

06

For the third consecutive year, Starhill
Galler y Midsummer Nights’ Feast
takes place from 2 – 9 July 2010. An
annual “Starhill Gallery experience”,
the event brings together the art ofgood food and wine, paired with musicand entertainment, to engage boththe senses and intellect. Featuring
world class dining experiences by YTLCorporate Executive Chef Kevin Cape
as well as an all-star cast of renowned
celebrity chefs including John BurtonRace, Stephen Mercer and Massimo
Martina, this amazing culinary journey
will tempt the palates of gourmands bothin Kuala Lumpur and around the region.
www.starhillgallery.com

Tanjong Jara Resort’s new ‘Women’s
Getaway Programme’ introduces a
traditional Malay healing-themed stayfor women. Activities revolve around aseries of bespoke lectures, soothing
spa programmes, informative beauty
workshops and leisure activities.The
exclusive itinerary also reveals ancient
health and beauty secrets. Uniquenatural ingredients found in indigenous
herbs and plants are used by resident
Malay healers to deliver an unforgettable
health and beauty experience with longlasting benefits. Available from 8 – 12November, priced at USD$1,900++ and
USD$3,300++ for single and double
occupancy respectively.

Cameron Highlands Resort pays tributeto legendary Thai silk king Jim Thompson
whose mysterious disappearance in1967 remains unsolved. The Americanarchitect, revered for reinvigorating
Thailand’s modern silk industry, had akeen eye for beauty and a deep loveof nature, 2 key elements that form
the foundation of the ‘Jim Thompson
Mystery Trail’, a trek led by the resort’s
resident botanist. Departing daily at
10am and 3pm (to coincide with the hourof Thompson’s last known walk), it lasts
two hours introducing guests to a range
of fascinating indigenous plants suchas wild orchids, vibrant rhododendrons,
pitcher and exotic lipstick plants.

Experience the romance of an exclusive
destination wedding with YTL Weddings,
now available in 4 stunning settings:
Pangkor Laut Resort, Tanjong Jara
Resort, Cameron Highlands Resort, andSpa Village Resort Tembok, Bali. “We
are very excited about our new microwebsite that introduces four inspirational
wedding themes at different locations,each with its own unique style that draws
from the location,” says Sarah Cairns,
YTL Hotels Executive Vice President
for Marketing and Communications.
“We understand the needs of every
bride to be special, so each and every
wedding is individually crafted, making
the experience completely yours.”

Discover your inner artist with Spa
Village Resort Tembok, Bali’s Guest
Artist in Residence Programme. Local
and international artists provide expert
guidance on a range of creative activities
including painting, woodcarving, basket
weaving, yoga, Qi Gong and lifestylecard reading. Performing arts such as
drama, music and dance nurture creative
expression and discovery through thebeauty and colours of the Balinese arts. In
this ongoing programme, artistic mastersof their trades take up a month-longresidency at the resort and provide theirexpertise in the daytime either in the art
studio or the resort’s stunning gardens,
depending on the art form.

Japan’s most northerly island Hokkaido isrenowned for its wide variety of volcanic
hot springs set in stunning mountain andforest locations. Devotees of the mineralrich waters head for the Hilton Niseko
Village resort’s iconic outdoor onsen to
enjoy its uninterrupted views of Mt. Yotei.
A Koi pond immediately adjacent to the
traditional hot spring bath adds a serene
touch to this ancient form of relaxation.
The naturally heated thermal waters
are reportedly therapeutic for skin andmuscle aches.

Summer Feasts

20

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Women Only

Jim Thompson MysteryTrail

Say “I do”

At the Heart of Art

Hot Spring Heaven

For more information on YTL Hotels’
events and promotions, log on to www.
ytlhotels.com

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

21

life events //Classic Command
Legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli delivers
a stirring performance at YTL Concert ofCelebration 2010.
Text by Mark Lean

The lush Singapore Botanic Gardens
proved the perfect al fresco venue for
YTL’s recent Concert of Celebration
2010, an evening of spectacular
music under the stars with acclaimed
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli as themain attraction. In honour of YTLConcert of Celebration at the Botanic
Gardens, Vanda YTL and Vanda
Andrea Bocelli became the latest
additions to a splendid showcaseof VIP orchids, which are traditionallynamed after distinguished statesmen,
dignitaries and celebrities. This isin celebration of YTL’s flourishingfriendship with Singapore and Bocelli
being one of the most exciting voices
in contemporary opera.

Accompanied by special guest
performers Slovenian soprano
Sabina Cvilak, world-renowned
flautist Andrea Griminelli, the popular
Australian chanteuse Delta Goodrem,and the Singapore Philharmonic
Orchestra and Philharmonic Chamber
Choir (conducted by Eugene Kohn),
Bocelli worked his vocal masteryon the 12,000-strong audienceand guest-of-honour, Singapore’s
President, S.R. Nathan.
Given Bocelli’s rare performancein the island republic, it was no
surprise that tickets, obtained

22

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

23

life events //through an online balloting
system, were overwhelmingly
oversubscribed. The Italian star
performed an inspiring selection ofsongs from Puccini in addition to theevening’s crowd pleaser, “Brindisi”
from La Traviata. Bocelli opened thesecond set with a glorious tribute tomothers, with the song “Mamma”.
His contemporary renditions ofsongs such as “Con Te Partiro” andthe duet with Goodrem, “Can’t Help
Falling in Love”, were particularly
well received, as was his triumphantfinale, a pitch-perfect rendition of“Nessun Dorma”, from the opera
Turandot. The tenor became blindat the age of 12 and was only
discovered as an international star aslate as 1992 when his unique talent
was recognised by the late Luciano
Pavarotti.
To cap off a perfect evening, YTL
hosted an exclusive post-concert
dinner where singers Stephen

Rahman Hughes, Wayne Perrey
and Oliver Tompsett performed “CanYou Feel The Love Tonight”. Bocelli
was clearly pleased to have lead theconcert saying: “I love my friend (TanSri) Francis Yeoh very much and so
I’m doing this for him. I can feel thelove of Francis for me and the love of
the people of Singapore, and it wasa pleasure to sing for them ... Francis
is a genius!”
YTL has staged free concerts for the
public since 1994 in support of thearts. The series of concerts, staged
in various international cities, hasfeatured some of the world’s mostprominent artists, including Russell
Watson, Jose Carreras, Placido
Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti.

24

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

25

life style //life style //1

Starstruck

1

The glitter of perfectly-cut diamonds is artfully
showcased against a variety of precious metals,
luxurious leathers and unique finishes.
Photography Soon Lau/Show Up Pictures Studio Styling & Coordination Sarah Saw
All watches and jewellery available at Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur

Clockwise from top:
1. Carrera y Carrera Gardenia yellow
gold ring with crystal centrepiece,
RM18,700. 2. Bedat & Co. No. 2
bracelet watch with rose gold case,diamond bezel and mother-of-pearl
dial, RM126,200. 3. Jaeger Le-Coultre
Master Twinkling Marqueterie pink gold
watch with satin strap, RM169,000

3

2

2

3

Luxurious Gold
Clockwise from top:
1. 18-carat rose gold chain andpendant with diamonds from theOmega Griffes Collection, RM5,850
and RM5,200. 2. Rado Sintra Gold
Jubile bracelet watch with diamonds,
RM11,310. 3. Omega Constellation
pink gold watch with white dial,diamond index and bezel, and leather
strap, RM68,300

life style //life style //Ivory Tales
Clockwise from top:
1. Armand Nicolet watch with
TL7 complication stainless steel,
diamond bezel and white leather
strap, RM68,640. 2. Jaeger
Le-Coultre Reverso Squadra
Lady Duetto pink gold watch withdiamonds and white leather strap,
RM128,000. 3. Korloff square dialladies’ watch with diamonds andwhite satin strap, RM14,600

1

1

3
2

3

2

Opposite page
(clockwise from top):
1. Lady Korloff white gold ringwith diamonds, RM27,700.
2. Roger Dubuis watch withsquare dial, rose gold bezel andwhite leather strap, RM118,000.
3. Bedat & Co. No.2 watch withstainless steel case, diamondbezel, mother-of-pearl dial andwhite leather strap, RM65,400.
4. White gold diamond linkrings from the Omega Griffes
Collection, RM7,800 and
RM17,250. 5. Lady Korloff
pendant with white gold anddiamonds, RM43,700

54life style //life style //1
Clockwise from top:
1. Van Cleef & Arpels A Day in Parisring in pure gold and diamonds withblack lacquered finishing, RM20,100.
2. Corum Admiral’s Cup Chronograph
40 Diamonds watch with diamondbezel and black rubber strap,
RM42,700. 3. Richard Mille whitegold watch with diamond bezel andblack leather strap, RM313,000. 4.
Armand Nicolet S05 Titanium D.L.C.
Black Treatment Chronograph watchwith complete calendar and blackleather strap, RM24,288. 5. Van Cleef& Arpels Vintage Alhambra yellow gold
long chain necklace with Onyx 20
motives, RM36,850

The Darkest Hour
Clockwise from top:
1. Carrera y Carrera Gardenia
white gold ring with onyx,
RM14,400. 2. Rado Sintra
Skeleton automatic black bracelet
watch, RM23,680. 3. Omega
Seamaster Co-Axial Planet Ocean
watch with diamond bezel andblack leather strap, RM58,650.
4. Carrera y Carrera Gardenia
white gold earrings with onyx,
RM16,500. 5. Davidoff Lady
Quartz watch in rose gold withblack dial, diamonds and satin
strap, RM35,500

1

2

2

4
5

3

3

4
5

life feature //

h
c
n
e
r
F
A Very
r
i
a
f
f
A
Love

m e t h in g
o
s
is
e
r
The
s s ib ly
o
p
–
e
c
an
about Fra ir, t h e
e
r
u
p
e
th
n t r y s id e ,
u
o
c
d
e
charm
t - g a rd e
t h e a v a n o f li f e
the ways o c ie t y,c a t a ly s t
e
h
t
s
a
– that w
s p ir a t io n
in
d
n
a
e
f o r lo vof theemosta m o n g s r t is t s o f t h eagreatest
a n d t h e ir
,
ld
r
o
w
srs.
ete
EdsPe
We s t e r n
t byu
Texm

It was, of course, Salvador Domingo Felipe
Jacinto Dalí i Domènech – surrealist artist,
filmmaker, photographer, sculptor andconsummate show-off – who declared:“Ever y morning upon awakening, I
experience a supreme pleasure: that ofbeing Salvador Dalí.”Lesser mortals can experience a similar
thrill – that of waking up in the Southof France, where the light of dawn isendowed with an exceptional clarity that
has inspired artists through the ages.
And beyond the confines of their studios,painters, photographers – indeed, artistsof all stripes – have found the sunny
ambience of their surrounds as conducive
to love as to work, though the two were
often practically indistinguishable.
The French artist Paul Cézanne is often
credited with providing the bridge between
the Impressionism of the late 1900s andCubism, which took the art world bystorm in the early 20th century. Both Henri
Matisse and Pablo Picasso avowed that
Cézanne “is the father of us all”. Equallysignificant, it was a move to the South ofFrance, specifically to the family manor
house at Jas de Bouffan, that brought
Cezanne out of a dark period that had
been characterised by painting subjects
such as rape and murder.
Cliché though it is, Cézanne truly
blossomed under the southern skies,
financially stable thanks to his late father’s
legacy and having married his long-time
mistress, Marie-Hortense Fiquet, who
was also the mother of his only son. The

relationship was not to last, but the years
spent in Provence marked Cezanne’s
most productive period when he painted
a range of still-lifes and landscapes,
employing his trademark planes ofcolour and small brushstrokes to build
up complex fields of vision. His chief
legacy was his exploration of geometricsimplification and optical phenomena,
which eventually led to the developmentof Modern Art. But it is possible that noneof this would have happened had he not
moved to Provence with his inamorata.
Just as Cézanne fled Paris for sunnierclimes, so too did his student, Matisse,
who set up on the Riviera at Cimiez
outside Nice in 1917 and spent muchof the rest of his life there. Matisse hadcome to painting by chance some two
decades earlier, while convalescing fromappendicitis, and promptly classified it “akind of paradise”. Once established in
the South of France, Matisse flourished.
One of his former models, the Russian
Lydia Delektorskaya, nursed him when
he fell into ill health, while another – who
had since become a Dominican nun –collaborated with him in designing theinterior, windows and decorations of theChapelle du Rosaire in the small townof Vence. And it was in the South ofFrance that Matisse embarked on hisseries of blue nudes, cut-outs that hedubbed “painting with scissors”, whichmore than anything else, showcased his
ability to combine an eye for colour andgeometry.

The magic of Matisse who made hisname in the South of France

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

33

life
lifefeaturefeature ////There’s probably no single answer tothe question of why artists have suchcomplicated love lives, and all the more
so in France. Perhaps it’s something
subliminal – waving that brush tippedwith paint about the place; or maybe it’shaving a legitimate excuse for getting the
opposite sex to take all their clothes off
in the course of a day’s work; or possibly
they just have better chat-up lines. Try
and come up with a better suggestion forromance than Picasso’s heroic dictumthat “love is the greatest refreshment
in life.”Rarely has a man followed his own advice
more assiduously, nor helped himself toa reviving tonic more frequently. Born in
Spain, Picasso first visited Paris – thenthe capital of European arts – in 1900,
and France was to become a second
home for the rest of his tempestuous
life. He managed to father (at least) fourchildren with three different women,laughed in the face of marital fidelity, andskipped from one woman to another withthe facility and insouciance of a childplaying hopscotch.

Enter the world of Picasso andhis muse Dora Maar

Once two rival mistresses, MarieTherese Walter and Dora Maar (herself
a photographer and painter) met
accidentally in Picasso’s studio while hewas working on his Cubist masterpiece
Guernica, which depicted a Nazi air
raid during the Spanish Civil War.
Picasso remarked later that he had beenunperturbed by the situation and thatwhen they had insisted that he choose

life feature //between them, he told them they would
have to fight it out between themselves.
The two women promptly began to
wrestle. That Picasso described this“as one of his choicest memories” says
more about the man than many of his
paintings.
Picasso may have been a prolific lover,
but he matched his efforts in that
direction with an output that totalled
more than 1,800 paintings, 1,200
sculptures, 2,800 ceramics, 12,000
drawings, and myriad prints, tapestries
and rugs. His final words “drink to me,
drink to my health, you know I can’t drink
anymore” – uttered to friends at a dinnerparty at his home outside Cannes – wereenshrined in song by Paul McCartney,
and provided a fitting tribute to someone
who had transmogrified the world of art,
and broken a few hearts in the process.
His legacy lives on, not least in thestunning sums his works still command,
rating them among the most valuable in
the world. His 1932 painting of MarieTherese – Nude, Green Leaves and Bust
– was auctioned for US$106.5 million
in New York in May 2010. A few weeks
later his Le Pigeon aux Petits-Pois was
one of five masterpieces lifted from theMusee d’Art Moderne de la Ville deParis, demonstrating that if nothing else,
France’s love affair with Picasso is asstrong as ever.
Posterity has dealt less kindly with Dora
Maar, sometime lover of Picasso – wholeft her a house in Provence in his will –but was an important artist in her own

34

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

35

life
life featurefeature //life feature //right. Of Croatian Jewish descent, Dora
was born in France and in the interwar period developed her skills as acommercial photographer while making
a name for herself in the avant-garde art
and photography circles in Paris.
She had a genius for granting themost ordinary subjects – a beggar
or poverty-stricken children – with ahaunting dignity, and shone at devising
Surrealist collages with distinctive clarityand emotional directness. But it wasafter she became Picasso’s lover that
she achieved her real fame, specificallywith photographs of Guernica as it was
being painted, together with portraits of
the artist himself. Sadly for Maar, she isstill best remembered as the subject ofPicasso’s Dora Maar au Chat, which,incidentally, sold for US$95 million at
auction in 2006.
Maar met Picasso in 1936 on the terraceof the celebrated Cafe les Deux Magots
in Paris, when they were introduced by
the poet Paul Eluard – one half of yet
another pair of Gallic and artistic lovers.
To add to the web of intrigue, his firstwife, Gala, left him for Salvador Dali.
Eluard, already an established poet andleading light of the Surrealist movement,
found salvation and solace in the form ofMaria Benz, who had been nicknamed“Nusch” by her father.
The phrase “chequered history” barely
describes Nusch’s life pre-1930 and hermeeting with Eluard. Born in Germany,
she had come to France as a smalltime actress and show girl, variously
performing as an acrobat and hypnotist’s
assistant. Within four years she andEluard, who was bewitched by herdelicately sensual charm, and transported
by her ethereal grace, had married, butmore importantly she was modelling for
him as well as for Picasso. She worked
with Eluard on photomontages, and was

36

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

the subject of a collection of his poetry,
Facile, which was illustrated with nudephotographs of her by Man Ray.
Tragically, Nusch died young of a brain
haemorrhage in the street in Paris, but
remains one of the prime muses of the
Surrealist movement.
Visitors seeking out one of the more
distinctive graves in the main cemetery inMontparnasse in Paris will be confronted
with the epitaph “Unconcerned, but
not indifferent”. Here lies Man Ray, orEmmanuel Radnitzky, an American
photographer with a heart that was solidly
French and a mind that embraced theworld. He is buried with his wife, Juliet
Browner, but in the heady days of the
1930s, Ray’s name was more closely
linked with that of Lee Miller, a fellow
American who had travelled to Paris
specifically to become his apprentice.
Ray’s first reaction was to state he didn’t
want an apprentice. However, Miller
soon persuaded him, progressing rapidly
from photographic assistant to lover tomuse. Miller had soon mastered his art,
to the extent that many photographs
credited to Ray were actually taken byher, and together they reinvigorated thephotographic technique of solarisation,
turning light areas on a negative dark,
and dark areas light. Such a device could
have been tailor-made for Surrealists,
and the pair remained leading lights ofthe movement for many years.
Ray experimented with other art forms,
including directing a number of shortavant-garde films, before dying in Parisin 1976 at the age of 86. It could be said
that a more fitting epitaph was provided
by his niece and protégé, the artist
and photographer Naomi Savage, who
said: “With him you could try anything– there was nothing you were told not
to do, except spill the chemicals. With

Clockwise: Dora Maar; Paul Eluard and Maria
Benz; Lee Miller; and Man Ray

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

37

life
lifefeaturefeature ////life feature // art muses

life feature //Man Ray, you were free to do what yourimagination conjured, and that kind of
encouragement was wonderful.”
But perhaps one of the most startling
relationships between artist and museexisted between a young fashion model
called Amanda Lear and Salvador “How
Marvellous to Wake Up and Be Me” Dalí.
In the mid-1960s Le Castel was one of
the hottest nightspots in Paris, and it
was to its raucous, Stygian depths thatthe 20-something French model Lear
repaired one winter’s evening with herthen boyfriend Tara Browne and Rolling
Stones guitarist Brian Jones. Here she
was introduced to Dalí. The age gap
was around four decades, the attraction-both lustful and a meeting of the minds– instantaneous, and the resulting affair
was to last more than 15 years andfascinate and horrify society in equalmeasure.
Dalí took on the role of mentor to Lear,and she accompanied him on trips
across Europe and to New York, as well
as spending every summer at his house in
Catalonia. That Dalí’s wife, Gala, was also
in attendance speaks volumes about theprovenance of the relationship. All threeseem to have benefited: Dalí, from having
a pliant pupil as well as a much younger
lover; Lear from the intellectual and social
opportunities that her association withthe art world’s veteran enfant terrible
automatically granted; and Gala, as
Dalí’s more mischievous energies were
now absorbed by someone who she felt
could never be a true rival.
Lear wrote extensively about what she
described as her “spiritual marriage” with
Dalí. With him, she explored the great
museums of Europe, Parisian salons andrestaurants, the wilder aspects of New
York society as well as his homeland, andin particular the Catalan culture. In return,
she led Dalí on a merry dance among theSalvador Dali; his wife, Gala; andhis muse, Amanda Lear

38

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

younger generation of the counterculture
in art, fashion, photography and musicthat was then making London – in theparlance of the day – “swing”. In her
memoir, My Life with Dalí, Lear wrote:“I knew nothing when I first met him.
He taught me to see things through hiseyes. Dalí was my teacher. He let me use
his brushes, his paint and his canvas, sothat I could play around while he waspainting for hours and hours in the samestudio. Surrealism was a good school forme. Listening to Dalí talk was better thangoing to any art school.”
The affair had an interesting – andunique – denouement. Lear had pursued
other romantic attachments during her
association with Dalí, and in 1979 she
married the somewhat dissolute French
aristocrat Alain-Philippe Malagnac
d’Argens de Villele, three weeks after
meeting him in a discotheque. Both Dalíand his wife were horrified, an unusual
state of mind for either of them, andattempted, in vain, to persuade Learto have the marriage annulled. But thepupil had outgrown her mentor, and Learand her upper-class husband enjoyedprofessionally successful lives andcareers together until his death in 2000.
Dalí and his muse met just once more
before he died, the final act in a fabledromance that had been drawn out overtwo decades.
The lives and loves of French artists,
and artists who have fallen in love withFrance, or come to France and fallen inlove, are many-layered and sometimes
almostbaffling
in sequisnum
their complexity.
Ovelesse
quamcorveliquisi Yet
despitetheirdisparate
existences
andtionsequam, velesse quamcor sequis Raestrud
dolore theydelis autat,
consenibh
dolobornibh
talents,
are unified
by eroshavingfound
eros
doloborerit
il in hendrer
sum deliquis
at.
their
muse
in France.
As eventhat rather
Wis adipsustrud del dit et aliquisUd delit aut
gloomymega-moustachioed
Germandel dit et aliquis. adipsustrud del dit et aliquisUd
philosopher
delit aut del Friedrichdit et aliquis.Nietzsche
adipsustrudhad
erit il toinadmit:“Asanartist,
a
man
has
no
home
hendrer sum delud del dit et aliquisUd delit
aut
del dit et savealiquis.inadipsustrudin Europe
Paris.” del dit et aliquisUd
delit aut del dit edipsustrudt aliquis.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

39

life feature //life feature //On the Wild SideIn a remote area of India’s Rajasthan, a small communityof women has willingly paid the ultimate sacrifice in theireffort to save wildlife.
Text and photography Subhash Sharma/TCS

As an injured baby deer writhes in pain, it is gently lifted by an
old Bishnoi woman who comforts it, stroking it maternally andfeeding it by hand with a milk bottle. The hungry deer gulps
mouthfuls, and soon starts wagging its tail in excitement, to thecheers of everyone gathered around.
This is the village of Jajiwal Dhora, near Jodhpur in Rajasthanwherelocal villagers had brought the deer to the Bishnoi Ashram
and Temple complex. Here, injured animals are treated, nursed
back to health, and released again into the wild thanks to theefforts of local women who voluntarily arrive each day to tend to
the injured creatures. They bring milk bottles, feed and dress thewounded, and clean the sheds.
Swami Vishudanand, Ashram administrator and priest, is fullof praise for the selfless dedication of the women. “There wasa similar incident about a year back,” he says. “Another baby
deer, now named Pooja (‘prayer’) was born here when its injured
mother was rushed here by the locals. They had rescued herfrom the wild dogs that were mauling her. It was soon foundthat she was pregnant, but after delivering the baby she did notsurvive, and since then Pooja has been cared for by the local
Bishnoi women.

The Bishnoi women are renowned for theircompassion for the local wildlife

40

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE“Over time Pooja has become so attached to the Ashram thatevery now and then it returns from the wild and can be seen
lingering in the compound as if it was its home,” he adds.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

41

life feature //life feature //Bishnoi women are known for their love for theenvironment and nature in the Indian state ofRajasthan, and in neighbouring states. The Bishnoi
sect was founded by Guru Jambheshwar (born1451) after a drought in the region. According tolegend, Jambhaji (as he was known) had a strong
bond with nature, and the prolonged dry spell
encouraged him to seek protection for all animals
and plants. He had a vision the drought had beencaused by people’s interference with nature.
Over time Jambhaji formulated 29 principles ofmorality and conduct, which stipulated that no trees
were to be felled and no animals could be hunted, as
both were considered sacred. The Bishnoi name (‘bish’– twenty - and ‘noi’ - nine) refers directly to the rules
he laid out. Foremost among them is the protectionof nature, but followers must have compassion for all
living things, adhere to a strict vegetarian diet, give up
all intoxicants, and swear by the joint tenets of ahimsa(non-violence) and satya (truth). Though they worship
Hindu gods, they have adopted the practice of burying
their dead, and they are unable to fell trees to collectwood for funeral pyres.
The Bishnoi are zealous protectors of the trees andwildlife, and have even been known to die for the cause,
as well as kill hunters and poachers. A popular saying inRajasthan goes: “If you are a hunter, the worst thing that
can happen to you is to be caught by a Bishnoi.”Thanks to their stance, today wild animals like deer, Chinkara,
blue bulls and black bucks graze peacefully in the fields
around Bishnoi villages in the middle of the arid Thar Desert.
Despite the fact Rajasthan faces severe water shortages
throughout the year, these villages are like green oases.
Ironically however, the abundance of wildlife is precisely
what attracts many hunters and poachers. Historically, theBishnoi community seems constantly at war with the Bhilcommunity, because the latter are a poor landless tribe who
depend on hunting to make a living. This conflict of interests
has lead to many bloody battles over the years, and there aremany popular tales of valour and sacrifice in which the Bishnoi
have laid down their lives to protect animal and trees. Stories
about their relentless dedication are widely circulated.
Gangaram Bishnoi was one such brave Bishnoi. He was killed
in a fight in 2007, while attempting to save a black buck from42

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

poachers. Undeterred, his mother and widow remain a pictureof strength and resolve. Wiping a tear off her cheek with theedge of her sari, his mother says: “If I had more sons I would stillencourage them to fight the cause of nature, even at the costof their own lives. This is our religion, our mission, and is what aBishnoi is born for.”
Scores of women like her derive their strength from the legendof Amritadevi, who laid down her life to stop trees from being
cut. Sir Santhe roonkh rahe, toh bhi sasto jaan - if one tree issaved, even at the cost of one’s head, it is worth it. So said
Amrita Devi as she offered up her head to be chopped off inorder to protect a Khejadi tree from being cut down. One after
another, 363 Bishnoi followed suit, in what become known as
the Khejarli massacre of 1730.
Devi had been at home with her three daughters when she heard
soldiers had arrived in her village. The soldiers, from the army ofMaharaja Abhay Singh, ruler of Jodhpur, had come to fell trees
to burn lime for the construction of the Maharaja’s new palace.
Devi protested as cutting trees was an insult to her religion. She
said she would rather give her life than see the tree die. And thesoldiers obliged. They used the axes they’d brought to cut thetrees to sever her head.
News of this soon spread. Bishnoi from the entire region gathered
to decide on the best course of action. It was decided that forevery green tree to be cut, one Bishnoi volunteer would sacrifice
their life. Soon there was pandemonium, and the soldiers wereforced to return to Jodhpur to relay the news to the Maharaja.
Realising his folly and honouring the Bishnoi’s courage, theMaharaja apologised, and issued a royal decree, engraved on
copper plate, henceforth prohibiting the cutting of green trees
and hunting of animals on Bishnoi land.

The Bishnoi are zealous protectors of trees andwildlife, and have been known to die for thecause, as well as kill hunters and poachers

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

43

life feature //life feature //At half past eight in the evening, Dolaram
Beniwal is at home having dinner with his wifeand two children when a ruckus sets the whole
neighbourhood into action. Vehicle lights havebeen seen in the jungle, and that probably means
there are hunters on the prowl around their village.
As soon as he hears the rumour, Dolaram reaches
for this torch, his wife helps him wash his hands,
and in the blink of an eye he disappears into thedarkness looking for the hunters. Twenty minutes
later he returns and says it was ordinary tourists
who had lost their way. The family breathes a sigh ofrelief, and everybody settles down for dinner again.
It is this constant vigilance that has helped keep thehunters at bay.
“If we don’t protect nature, who will?” Dolaram asks
matter-of-factly, as his wife nods in agreement. She
has been a staunch supporter of her husband in his
cause for protecting wildlife. She makes all efforts toteach her two children the importance of conserving
nature and the environment, as preached by Guru
Jambheshwar.
Over the years Dolaram Beniwal has single-handedly
and successfully saved many animals from being
hunted, and caught many hunters which he turns overto the forest department for legal action. Recognising his
service to the community and the environment, he has
been decorated many times and awarded certificatesand medals by the government.
His is not an isolated case. In Rajasthan scores of Bishnoi
wage a war against the poachers. It’s a deadly game andmany, like Gangaram Bishnoi, are less lucky than Dolaram.
And every time the Bishnoi women have stood up to thechallenge, either with encouragement or with the resolve tosupport their family if a man is killed in action.

YTL’s Commitment to the environment
As the fragile ecosystems supporting the world’s coral reefs
face growing pressure from pollution, many islands havetaken proactive steps to restore and protect their delicate
natural habitats.
Widely considered one of Asia’s best kept secrets andthe aquatic destination of choice among the world’s mostexperienced divers, Tenggol, a stunning island off the coast of
Terengganu on Malaysia’s east coast and a short motorboat
ride from Tanjong Jara Resort, happily remains a flourishing
marine paradise thanks to the dedication of the resort andluxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen. Both organisations
have a proven track record and deep commitment toensuring the environment in and around Tenggol remains
pristine. Ongoing efforts that involve the community include
underwater clean-up by removing fishing nets, used tyres,cans, batteries and plastic from the coral reefs while nondivers comb the beach on Pulau Tenggol and collect wastefrom the sands. This year, the annual clean-up takes placefrom 1 - 3 October.

Bishnoi women also work hand-in-hand with the men in
the fields. Traditionally the Bishnoi are farmers who till theland. As opposed to other communities in Rajasthan, where
women mostly stay indoors, Bishnoi women help out withsowing, tending the crops and harvesting.

A day in the life of Dolaram Beniwal who singlehandedly saved many animals from being hunted

44

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Even Mahatma Gandhi is said to have been deeply influenced
by this philosophy of protecting nature. The Bishnoi have
proved that even a human life is a small price to pay toprotect the wildlife and the forests around them. It is for thisenvironmental awareness and commitment that they standapart from so many other communities, not only in India, but
throughout the entire world.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

45

life feature //life feature //Reef Encounter

Tanjong Jara Resort offers the discerning scuba
diver the ultimate ‘lost in paradise’ experience in
one of Asia’s best kept dive secrets
By Michael D’Oliveiro Photography by Aaron Kwok

Never has there been a better excuse to escape to a tropical haven: Terengganu’s
Tanjong Jara Resort, the perfect gateway to nearby Tenggol Island, now offers thediscerning scuba diver the best of both worlds: a private diving experience accompanied
by your own personal dive master in one of the world’s most breathtaking underwaterlandscapes.
Happily this tropical haven is perfectly placed for quick access making it equallyconvenient for a short get-away or indulgent longer stay. Just an hour’s flight or leisurely
four hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, the luxury resort tucked away on the east coast ofPeninsular Malaysia embodies the relaxed, authentic charm of traditional Malay interiors
with all the stylish creature comforts today’s sophisticated traveller expects. Add crystal
clear waters and an abundance of stunning coral reefs and you have diving heaven atits best.
If you can bear to leave your room – all elegantly decorated as befits royalty withthe warm tones of local timber and rich textiles matched by views of the South
China cobalt blue waters – the PADI-registered diving school (PADI stands for theProfessional Association of Diving Instructors) awaits a short stroll away across exotic
landscaped gardens. Equipped with the very latest diving equipment for rental, thecentre offers a rapid speedboat service that departs for Tenggol Island each morning,some 60 minutes away, with no more than eight people per trip. There you’ll find someof Malaysia’s best dive sites and astonishing aquatic life amid pristine corals – without
the throng of a crowd.

46

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

47

life feature //Paradise Found: 5 of the Best Dive Sites

Tanjung Api is renowned among experienced divers for its strong and smooth currents
matched by steep slopes and sheer underwater walls adorned with splashes of brightly
coloured soft and hard corals. At the base, vibrant purple sea-fans sway in the powerfulcurrents while trevallies, turtles and jacks can be spotted too.
Another excitement-packed option is Tokong Timur, a rocky outcrop complete withlighthouse. Although currents are not usual here, the nutrient-rich waters that schoolingfish love attracts a stunning array of marine life such as barracudas, batfish, large manta
rays and turtles. Thanks to excellent visibility, the spectacular variety of corals andnatural rocky shelter, divers are also guaranteed to see a myriad of other small reef fish.
Batu Tokong Kamudi completes the ‘Great Wall’ trilogy with soft tree corals andstony corals. Sea anemones and nudibranchs garnish this bed of delights amidst
swirling schools of reef fish such as fusiliers, tunas and jacks. Turtle sightings are
not uncommon.
Even the most enthusiastic divers need to rest between dips in the tropical waters.
Unwrap a delicious picnic lunch from Tenggol Island’s main beach restaurant, slip into ahammock and indulge in some well-earned relaxation before your next encounter withthe deep. With 24 hour’s notice the resort’s chefs will even recreate your favourite à lacarte dish for your marine excursions.
In keeping with safe diving discipline, the second dive of the day is usually shallower than
the first. Here again, guests are spoilt for choice with their dive master’s extensive local
knowledge. Exploring Nyireh Point at a leisurely pace, with its proliferation of alluring
corals and colourful reef fish, is a firm favourite. The very large bumphead parrotfish

48

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

life feature //can be sighted here, along with the lovable pufferfish. In high season, divers may evenexperience whale sharks. Up to 18 metres in length, these gentle giants are often seen
languidly gliding near the surface around Tenggol. In 2009, several beauties spentalmost two months basking in the shallower parts of the surrounding waters, much to
the delight of snap-happy divers who indulged in this most rare of sightings in South
East Asia’s waters.
Alternatively, complete the day’s diving at Coral Garden which lies to the east of the island.
Living up to its name, the site is littered with an impressive array of soft and hard corals
including Christmas Tree worms, sponges and sea anemones which lie along a gently
sloping topography. The reef is home to all kinds of fish: occasionally even blue-spottedstingrays are spotted darting from under one ledge to another. With dives completed,anchor the boat at one of the nearby coves for a refreshing tropical afternoon tea by
the beach.
As any experienced diver knows, a good instructor is essential to the dive experience.
Tanjong Jara Resort’s level of professional diving service is legendary and draws on theconsiderable in-depth knowledge of the resort’s long-term resident instructor and divemasters. Importantly, this level of hospitality extends to the friendly boat crew who arealways ready to assist divers with equipment, towels at the ready and a steady streamof very welcome beverages The dive centre also offers a convenient full ‘concierge’service of returning and checking equipment – all of which magically re-appears thenext day, ready for another adventure.
If you’re travelling with a partner who doesn’t dive, or you prefer a day to relax, snorkellingalso offers an excellent underwater experience. The west coast of tiny Nyireh Island is
the place to go, especially the shallow part of an area called Amazing Grace with its

A stunning array of marine life such as
barracudas, batfish, large manta rays andturtles are not uncommon

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

49

life feature //life feature //excellent coral cover and numerous reef fish at an easy-to-reach shallow depth. A nearby
shark nursery may provide a bonus sighting, if the baby predators aren’t too shy.

Beyond the Beach

Each dive trip usually yields two dives - one in the morning and another in the afternoon.
The boat returns at about 4pm allowing ample opportunity to enjoy the resort’s portfolioof exclusive on-shore activities that include jungle trekking, river cruises, cycling or
nature discussions led by a resident naturalist.
But nothing beats a traditional spa session for relaxing after an energetic day at sea.
True to its theme, the award-winning Spa Village Tanjong Jara offers an experiencethat lightens the mind, body and soul using Sucimurni, a unique local philosophy that
underpins natural herbal-based treatments that have been passed down throughgenerations. The 3-hour ‘his and hers’ Traditional Malay Experience, a six-step luxury
treatment, is guaranteed to nourish and reinvigorate all over. Guests are also presented
with a beautiful Batik Sarong as a personal memento of their experience.
On Saturday evenings, the resort’s landscaped grounds are transformed into a temporary
kampung or village with demonstrations of traditional games that guests are encouraged
to join and delectable snacks sampled from traditional stalls.
For light dining, Nelayan is highly recommended with its simple but delicious local
cuisine served as you soak up the soothing views and sea breeze. Here, seafood isthe choice du jour with the catch, quite literally, brought in daily by the resort’s own
fishermen. Dine indoors or reserve the popular al fresco dinner while entertained by atroupe of musicians with a beguiling repertoire of traditional Malay music. Elsewhere, Di
Atas Sungei restaurant (meaning ‘atop the river’) offers authentic Malaysian cuisine in amore formal setting, while Teratai Terrace offers more of the renowned Tanjong Jara’s
attention to detail complete with charming views of the free-form pool on one side andthe South China Sea on the other.
In-house cooking classes with the resident chef are a popular choice for gourmands
who wish to recreate the delicious local cuisine at home. Simply make an appointment
and in no time, you will be learning the secrets of traditional east coast dishes.

For those looking to relax, nothing is more blissful than a hot shower or a soak in yourown private tub sprinkled with soothing bath salts. The Anjung Suite comes with an
outdoor bath set in its own private garden – the ideal way to unwind after a long day
communing with the underwater world and sampling the resort’s numerous attractions.

Sea, sun and sand complete
the ultimate getaway

50

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

And the best part? It all starts over again the next day, and the next. Even with just a few
days to spare, the most harried of guests will discover a whole new way to enjoy thismemorable getaway while indulging their passion for diving.

Image from Getty Images

At night, turtle-nesting walks are the perfect activity for guests of all ages. Remember,
turtles select their nesting spots carefully and must be respected at all times. On a
moonless night excursions to see the eerie glow of fireflies that light up trees along oneof the local rivers is a unique experience of the local ecosystem at its most fascinating.
Tanjong Jara is one of only two locales in Malaysia to offer such an experience.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

51

life feature //YTL Hotels
Goes to Japan

Niseko, sister city to glamorous St. Moritz,
emerges as the ultimate year-round destination.
Text by Catherine Shaw Images by Hilton Niseko Village and Catherine Shawlife feature //Just twenty years ago Niseko wasa picturesque but largely unknown
village in rural southwest Hokkaido,
Japan’s northernmost island. To the
local Japanese, predominantly dairy
and vegetable farmers, the stunning
mountains and long winters were moreof a challenge than celebration. Then theAustralians arrived….attracted by alluring
tales of deep pristine powdery snow, an
undiscovered mountainous landscapewith high octane snow potential and afriendly local community highly amusedby the foreigner’s obsession for throwing
themselves down mountain slopes.
Niseko has come a long way since then,luckily without losing its original charm.
Many of the Australians, like Ross Findlay
who first visited in 1990, stayed to open
small businesses kick-starting a resort

52

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

boom that has provided a lifeline to therural community. Findlay recalls Niseko as
having little more than a few basic guest
houses and anonymous-looking Japanesebusiness hotels. Eating out was limited toa couple of izakaya and the only activity
on offer was the decidedly inactive artof soaking in a traditional Japanese hotspring onsen. The tantalizing attraction
was the deep powdery snow – lots of it on some of the best untouched runs in
the country.

A New Wave

“Niseko offered far superior terrain thanother ski resorts near Sapporo and there
was also a fun group of local skiers,”
Findlay says. “Whereas at other Japanese
ski areas everyone would go home at theend of the day, Niseko has always beena place where there is a group of young
skiers to work, ski and play.”

The newly-elected and ebullient mayor,
Kenya Katayama, says he is particularly
keen to encourage new development ina responsible way protecting the natural
attributes and charm of the area whilebringing much needed investment to theagricultural economy. “It’s a challenge
because the area has become very popularMore recently Niseko has seen a new wave
of upgrading that has analysts predicting
the town will soon enjoy wider recognition
as a “Japanese-style” Vail or Aspen. A
clutch of stylish new or renovated hotels
and condominiums, a series of elegant
restaurants, hip cafes and new activities
from luxury spas to outdoor sports andcultural pursuits has transformed the once
sleepy village into Asia’s most desirable
year-round alpine travel destination.

Niseko’s picturesque beauty is fast-making ita “Japanese-style” Vail or Aspen

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

53

life feature //

1
3

2

5

4

but protecting the views of our mountains
is very important,” he says.
Despite Niseko’s transformation, the local
population remains predominately focusedon farming. At local farm shops displaysof fresh vegetables bear photographs andthe name of proud farmers. With goodreason: the excellent produce rivals thefamed Niseko snow. The region is justifiably
famous for its delicious carrots, asparagus
and potatoes. A visit to Milk Kobo for theircream puffs, milky ice cream and creamy
cheesecakes is already a must on any
gourmand’s travel itinerary. Proximity tosuch farming activities offers a unique
opportunity for visitors seeking a closer
experience of nature – happily combinedwith warm Japanese hospitality.

Let It Snow
1. A golfer’s paradise. 2. Mountain biking
provides thrills for adventure-seekers. 3. Fly andlure fishing enthusiasts find home-from-homein Niseko. 4. A scenic view of the golfing green.
5. PURE adventure center has a wide range ofoutdoor activties for all ages

54

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

But back to skiing and that perfect snow,
courtesy of cold winds from Siberia thatsweep over the sea of Japan gatheringmoisture and creating snowfalls when it
hits the solid mass of Niseko’s mountains.
The ski season runs from December
through to mid-April with the very best

powder (between 20 and 30cm of snow
every day) usually between Christmas
and the first week of March. There isplenty to keep the novice, intermediateor professional skier entertained withan extraordinary landscape of varying
slopes, modern lifts and the most reliable
snowfalls in the world. While European
ski resorts wait anxiously for intermittent
snow falls, Niseko is blessed with snow
delivered with Japanese-like precision ona daily basis.
“I’ve skied all over the world but havenever seen snow of this quality”, says
Hilton Niseko Village Executive Sous Chef
Rob Shipman who arrived at the iconic
hotel in 2008 and is equally delighted by
the skiing as by the quality of produce
available. “It’s ideal for beginners as you
don’t get bruised when you fall. It’s sopowdery it’s actually difficult to make asnowball from it.”With a recent makeover from Yukio
Hashimoto Design Studio, the 506-room
Hilton Niseko Village is one of the mostpopular choices of accommodation in

the area with a multi-lingual staff andsophisticated modern interiors. In winterthe hotel is one of the few in the areawith ski-in and gondola-out facilities anda wide portfolio of family-friendly facilities
such as the Niseko Village Snow School,
Niseko Kids™, a custom designed allday childrens programme, a luxurious spa,
five restaurants and adventure activities foryoung guests. There are also two 18-holechampionship golf courses nearby (onedesigned by Arnold Palmer), a 23-court
tennis complex, an equestrian centre anda unique nature-based activity area called‘PURE’ complete with tree-trekking andbeginner’s golf (called SNAG)The Flame, a sophisticated bar and lounge
featuring a unique hanging fire place is the
go-to après-ski spot for locals and visitors
alike. The rooms, famed for their panoramic
unobstructed views, are decorated with an
elegant neutral palette with natural woodfinishes. Interesting Japanese additions likethe sleek black ceramic tea pot and matchingcups and yukata robes bring a welcome
local touch. English, Chinese, and Korean
language television channels are available as

is a full Video On Demand program.

Redefining Alpine Luxury

Meanwhile all eyes are on Niseko’s latest
luxury offering. Slated for completion intime for this year’s ski season, the 200room Green Leaf Hotel with its unbeatableon-piste location at the base of Mt.
Annupuri and a short walk from Hilton
Niseko, is the first part of a multi-million yen
improvement plan guaranteed to redefine
alpine luxury. The interiors, by New York’saward-winning Champalimaud, bring a
super-chic contemporary mountain lodge
style. Think wood burning fireplaces
mixed with a youthful residential aesthetic
and contemporary technology, overlaid
upon more familiar notions of Japaneseservices and amenities.
The sleek new rooms include eight stunningcorner suites with coveted views of the ski
mountain and of the iconic Mt. Yotei (theMt. Fuji of Japan’s north). A large numberof the rooms are inter-connecting making
them ideal for families. Catering to theexperienced traveler’s taste for authenticity
and experience the hotel features all derigueur modern finishes and gadgetry,a modern ski services center (with step
into piste facilities), Spa services and a
traditional outdoor rotenburo onsen witha secluded forest setting and unbeatableviews of Mt. Yotei. All-day dining in therelaxed luxury of a distinctive new modern
dining-room is another key attraction.

The Great Outdoors

Outdoors, skiers enjoy an efficient lift
system, an abundance of tree runs andlow altitude (meaning the altitude problems
at other higher altitude North American orEuropean resorts simply do not exist). For
beginners there are beautifully groomed
slopes at the base of the mountain.
The longest run is about 5.6 km, annual
snowfall ranges between 12 and 16
meters and experts rate the slopes in thearea as approximately 30% beginner, 40%intermediate and 30% advanced.
There are 38 lifts including 3 express
gondolas: all within one of the snowiest
resorts in the world with the deserved
reputation as the finest off-piste dry powder
snow in the world. Niseko Village also

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

55

life feature //life feature //Getting There

CultureThe nearest airport to Niseko is the New
Chitose Airport with direct flights between
most major domestic and international
airports. The flight from Tokyo (Haneda)
is around 90 minutes. Niseko is about 2hours by car and 3.5 hours by train from
New Chitose Airport.

There are plenty of interesting culturalactivities on offer. Experience traditional
Niseko sake, sweets, the tea ceremony,Japanese taiko drums and learn how
to cook Japanese food. Indoor classes
include cooking classes (ice cream
and jam), pottery and silver and hemp
accessory classes. Alternatively join
renowned local glass artist Tsuneo
Kitajima to design and make your own
glassware pattern at Glass Gallery Doumu
as a memento of your visit.

A Summer Retreat
Thanks to its northerly location, Hokkaido
happily avoids the fate of the rest ofJapan’s soaring summer temperatures,
stifling humidity and prolonged rainyseason. Instead, Hokkaido’s summer
re v e a l s b l i s s f u l s u n n y s k i e s , l o w
humidity and cool evenings. Daytime temperatures rarely rise above 27
degrees Celsius.

boasts Japan’s finest ski school offeringexpert instruction in several languages forevery skill from novice to advanced. Thereis also an avalanche awareness course
for those keen to experience Japan’s
most advanced terrain, the newly opened
Mizuno-no-Sawa basin beneath the
Niseko Gondola. This area has been off
limits since the resort opened but throughadvanced avalanche control techniques
is now available to advanced skiers
through a customized guided programme.
Fans of the destination point to Niseko’s
ungroomed powder bowls as a key featureof the area, but skiers and boarders of allabilities will enjoy every moment of thissnowy paradise.

Just Add Hot Water

Niseko sets the scene for actionpacked outdoor activities

56

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Thanks to its volcanic geology Niseko
is also blessed with many hot springs
ranging from simple stone baths to vast
luxurious pools. The sulphur-rich waters ofthe Hilton Niseko Village’s traditional indoor
and outdoor onsens offer exceptionalviews towards Mount Yotei. The outdoor
bath overflows into a large ‘eternity’ pondthat is home to sleek carp creating a Zenlike atmosphere while the sulphur-richwaters are said to be excellent for joint
pain. A soak in the tranquil hot springwaters promises a blissful reprieve for skiweary muscles and a unique experienceof Japan’s favorite past-time.

Off-piste Attractions

In the summer, Niseko Village Pure Action,a huge outdoor nature and adventure
park ideal for children and adults, is at theheart of off-piste activities. Bounce onto
an inflated landing pad, trampoline or
joust with your opponents on an elevatedcylinder. Tree trekking, suitable even for
the very young (suitably attired in safety
harnesses), gives a different view of theworld as participants walk along hanging
bridges and ropes and fly through the air ona zip line. Alternatively there is horse riding,hand-gliding, paragliding, abseiling, motorcross, paint ball, and rock climbing. Less
active pursuits such as hot air ballooning
offer an effort-free way to enjoy Niseko’s
natural charms.

The first sport to emerge as the winterski season ends is white river rafting.
The Shiribetsu River swells dramaticallywith fast-melting snow guaranteeing
thrilling rides through its pure icy
waters. There are courses for different
levels of expertise, including beginners,
but the adventurous will be happy
to know the river offers Grade 4 and 5
rafting experiences (Grade 6 is extreme
whitewater).Other water sports for
all ages include kayaking and canoeing.
Fishing also begins in earnest during
the summer months. Shiribetsu River’s
Rainbow trout, Red-spotted masu
salmon and Japanese char draw fly
and lure fishing enthusiasts from allover Asia.

Obon
Although summer in Niseko is relatively
uncrowded, book well ahead during theObon holiday (usually in mid-August) as
harried Tokyoites stream north to escapethe city summer.

Useful Links
Niseko Adventure Center:
www.nac-web.com
Niseko Town Official Website:
www.town.niseko.hokkaido.jp
Niseko Village Resort:www.niseko-village.com
Hilton Niseko Village:
www.niseko-village.com
Green Leaf Hotel:
www.greenleafnv.com
www.nisekotourism.com
For further information about travel to andin Japan visit the Japan National Touristorganization’s website at www.jnto.go.jp

in Japan’s archipelago; Hokkaido, thecountry’s largest island, has it all withstunning natural beauty, four distinct
seasons, exceptionally clean air, pristinewaters, beaches, mountains, forests, lakes
and rivers. Niseko itself lies in a gently
sloping basin with Mount Yotei in a nationalpark to the east and Mount NisekoAnnupuri to the north. Local residents(around 4,654 at the last official count),
happily admit the pace of life is slow….very
slow, but that’s how they like it.
Mount Yotei, the most prominent mountain,
is a dormant 1,898m volcano, often referred
to as Hokkaido’s Mount Fuji thanks to
its distinctive triangular shape. This andthe other spectacular mountains aroundNiseko sport hundreds of natural trails ideal
for snow-related activities, not to mention
summer-time walkers, hikers and cyclists.
Mountain biking tracks vary from cruising
to technical downhill courses through someof the most spectacular scenery in Japan.

A quick guide to onsen
etiquette

It’s almost unfair to other tourist destinations

Following traditional hot spring bathing
etiquette is important: disrobe (no swim
suits are allowed in Japanese onsens), siton the stool and wash in the shower withthe body soap and shampoo provided.
Once all the soapy residue is completely
rinsed away, step carefully into thesteaming, mineral-rich waters. Place yourtowel on your head or on the side of thebath to avoid getting it in the bathwater, amajor faux pas in Japan. Relax and enjoy
the therapeutic experience.

Hokkaido’s sake(rice wine)

Milk Kobo’s delicious ice-cream is
made from fresh Hokkaido milk

HOKKAIDO

Meanwhile, Niseko pioneer Ross Findlay,
now managing director of the popular
Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC), has
introduced a range of activities andexcursions for the adventurous including
indoor rock climbing, river rafting, mountainbiking and trekking.
As Mayor Katayama says, “It won’t belong before the secret is out. Niseko reallyis the best place to visit at any time of
the year.”Niseko’s stunning alpine landscape isan enticing antidote to urban living

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

57

life feature //life feature //Challenge
the Senses

As synonymous with the South ofFrance as the great French works
of art, the world’s finest perfumes
have been used to seduce, adorn,enhance and heal since theearliest of times.
Text by Kate O’ Brien

A rare flower with an exquisite perfume, a freshly picked fruit,
an exotic spice from the other side of the world, these living
scents are inimitable, ephemeral and in the sybaritic worldof perfumery, once a sample is chosen, its odor is captured
forever in the world’s finest perfumes.
Egyptian priests were the first perfumers developing incense,
aromatic oils and scented unguents for use in their temples.
While they endeavored to restrict this to the exclusive
worship of the deities (with the rising smoke from the incense
symbolizing the ascent to the heavens of the supplicationsof the faithful), it wasn’t long before royalty, nobility (and anyothers who could afford it) were indulging in the vanity ofself-adornment with extravagant fragrance rituals.

Image from Corbis

It could well be argued that perfume is an indispensable
aspect of history as its use through the centuries wasoften associated with great historical events. Today,
Chanel No 5, arguably the most iconic fragrance of
all time, continues to seduce almost 90 years after its
launch in 1921. Created by master perfumer Ernest
Beaux, legend has it that he presented Coco Chanel
with 10 fragrances to choose from. She chose
perfume number 5. So celebrated is the fragrance
that its authorised biography ‘Story of Chanel No. 5,
A Timeless Number’ was recently released.

58

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Like the best sommelier, fragrance creators or‘Noses’ have traditionally been held in the highest
esteem throughout the perfume world. These great
artists have the final say as to whether or not a

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

59

life feature //life feature //he severely burned his arm in a laboratory accident.
fragrance is ultimately accepted. It is not enough for the perfumer
to be able to distinguish blindfolded between the fragrance ofa rose and a tulip, their sense of smell must be so acute thatthey detect in a mixture of 100 or more ingredients the precise
amount of various substances used. They must be able torecognize abundant raw materials and blend them artistically andharmoniously, all in a day’s work.

materials, the perfume creator has several hundred synthetic
substances both nature-identical and artificial at his disposal,
allowing the creation of a variety of characters that the use ofnatural products alone could not possibly bring, and without
which most modern fragrances could never have been realised.
Indeed it was the addition of aldehydes that added a certain je nesais quoi to Chanel No.5’s natural rose and jasmine ingredients.

While many of the medicinal properties of lavender involve theuse of lavender oil or dried lavender flowers, the stems or ‘straw’that remains after the flower is stripped have been used for
centuries (when burned like incense) to deodorise and disinfectsick rooms.

These experts can decipher whether the oil of ylang-ylang comesfrom Madagascar or Manila highlighting the subtle difference
between oils of the same species cultivated in different countries.
Lavender oil, for example, can have a top note that is floral, balsamic,
sharp, sweet, green or nut-like. A fine Nose will easily differentiate
between these important nuances.

Many of these synthetic materials draw their inspiration fromnature. Like musk, for instance - once exclusive to the glands ofa particular family of deer that was being hunted to extinction –scientists can now replicate exactly the molecules that make thenatural essence of this popular fixative.

Lavender has stood the test of time and remains one of today’s
most respected essential oils with the French town of Grasse
playing a decisive role in its long history. It is here that the fourth
generation family owned fragrance house, Mane, is one of theleading producers of lavender oil from freshly cut plants (amongst
many other flowers, plants and herbs) that are used to create themost intensely perfumed and refined essential oils and fragrances.

While today’s mass-produced celebrity-endorsed fragrances areoften blended from a standard formula in a short time, a truly
great perfume often takes years to accomplish. When a great
Nose has a picture in mind that he wishes to translate into scent,he can spend many months dipping long slender blotters, calledmouilettes into a myriad of bottles, vials and jars, each filledwith precious essential oils and other ingredients. Sniffing thesestrips, his nose determines what should be added to complete
the perfect fragrance. And just as a painter spreads paint over
his canvas before stepping back to view it critically, so does theperfume artist, adding perhaps a minute quantity of jasmine togive smoothness or a slightly heavier note to add character.
Many of the raw ingredients used in perfumery are extracted
directly from nature (termed natural raw materials) like citrus peel,for instance, and the petals, stems and roots of certain flowers,
herbs and spices. In addition to the oils from these natural

60

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Like the very best artists, the perfumer’s palette must be kept
in scrupulous order, for even the minutest quantity of a highly
concentrated raw material can forever change a formula if a
trace was present through even the slightest carelessness.

Lavender: From Purple Haze to Sensual Oil

Lavender is a native of the western Mediterranean and theeastern coast of Spain, France, Switzerland, northern Italy andAfrica. The plant’s cultivation dates back to 1371 in Burgundy.
Written records of the medicinal uses of lavender date backto the writings of Dioscorides in 60AD. And this is not merely
anecdotal, as many of the plant’s purported medicinal uses
have, upon modern scientific research, proven to be legitimate.
Lavender oil has antibiotic activity that effectively kills many
common bacteria and was used extensively during the twoworld wars to prevent infection and relieve pain. During the1920s, French scientist René Gatefossé, (who coined the term
‘aromatherapy’) discovered lavender’s healing properties when

Lavender oil is created by steam distillation of the freshly
cut lavender flowering tops and stalks. Here, the traditional
enfleurage practice has been replaced by a less time consuming
and more yield productive steam distillation technique using
volatile solvents (like ethanol, methanol or carbon dioxide) to
extract the fragrant parts of the plant. When a solvent comesin contact with plant material, it absorbs the odoriferous
substances. These solvents are heated before being eliminatedthrough evaporation. What is left is a waxy substance calleda ‘concrete’. Through a further ethanol extraction stage theresidual plant matter and waxes are removed from the concrete.
Then, after a final evaporation, all that remains is the delightfullyaromatic extract or ‘absolute.’

The technique of enfleurage is the oldest and most delicate
extraction process known and was once routinely used
to extract the oils from fragile flowers. Today, however, it
has been almost completely abandoned for more modern
technical procedures. Enfleurage can be applied only
to flowers (like orange blossom, jasmine and tuberose
amongst others) which continue to manufacture and releaseessential oils for many hours after they have been picked,
otherwise the amount of oil collected would be negligible.
The flowers are hand-picked at dawn before their petals
open and deposited in a single layer on a pane of glasscalled a “chassis” that is covered with a thick layer of highly
purified animal fat. After up to 48 hours (more for tuberose),the spent petals are carefully removed. This process isrepeated several times until the fat is fully saturated withthe floral oils and the enfleurage pommade has developed
a magnificently intense fragrance. The pomade is thensufficiently warmed to melt and repeatedly extracted withalcohol. Finally, after gentle distillation the alcohol separates,
leaving a residue of absolute, known simply as enfleurage.
While this laborious procedure is rarely used today, there
are signs of a renewed emphasis on natural essences witha select group of today’s perfumers working with preserved
samples and original records to reinvent many of the very
beautiful perfumes of the past.

Images from Hevea

Image from Getty Images

Image from Getty Images

Enfleurage: the fine art of oil
extraction

Some information and photographs are courtesy of Mane,route de Grasse, Le Bar Sur Loup, France (http://www.mane.
com)

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

61

life feature //life feature //“Classics never die.
Every year at least 600 new perfumes are launched. Few survive
They have a very specificmore than a few months and fewer still become much loved
classics. In this cutthroat world of perfumery only the real stars
personality, which is nothave hope. Frédéric Malle is one.
connected to time. They
This comes as no real surprise when one considers Malle
was born into an intensely creative family, His grandfather,are beautiful works of art
Serge Heftler, founded Parfums Christian Dior, his mother was
the creative director of Christina Dior perfumes and his uncle
that people can connect
was renowned film director Louis Malle. Malle himself grew up
immersed in perfume working at Roure Bertrand Dupont wherewith whatever the time,
many modern classics like Opium and Obsession were created.
like they connect to a
However, rather than replicating this trend, Malle embarked
on an ingenious approach asking some of the worlds greatest
Picasso.”
perfumers to create a scent from their hearts. ‘Perfumes withoutcompromise’ is his slogan: a unique, yet simple concept. In
2000, Editions de Parfums, was born. A range of exclusive,
creative and undeniably beautiful fragrances composed by theworld’s greatest “noses” and sold under their creators’ names– Jean-Claude Ellena, Dominique Ropion, Edmond Roudnitska,
Michel Roudnitska and Ralf Schwieger, to mention a few. Eachperfume is distinctly labelled with its own name and that of the‘nose’ behind it. ‘Editions de Parfums’ is directly translated fromthe French as ‘Perfume Publishing House’ and this was exactly
the arrangement Malle had in mind: 9 Perfumers, 9 different
styles and 18 Compositions.

Frédéric Malle:
The Perfume Publisher

62

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Malle is modest. He doesn’t consider himself a nose (as thesecreators are known as in the trade), and prefers rather to beviewed a perfume publisher with his noses as the authors. This
stands in stark contrast to the norm in today’s highly commercial
world of perfumery where the nose gets little credit and creation
becomes more a marketing exercise from the perfume house,rather than a creative force behind the fragrance. In an era inwhich most companies attach more importance to brand names
and marketing campaigns, Malle has refreshingly insisted thatwhat matters most is the perfume itself. And his perfumes speak
for themselves - arousing intense passion and pleasure andin essence becoming part of the wearer – like the best classic
fragrances.
For Malle a classic is ‘a fragrance that has enough personality
to embody a person’s character.’ Another important feature isthat they are made to become one with the wearer by mingling
with their skin. “Classics never die,” he says. “They have a very
specific personality, which is not connected to time. They are

beautiful works of art that people can connect with whatever
the time, like they connect to a Picasso. I am proud to say thatmost of the fragrances that we launched 10 years ago are stillamongst our bestsellers. It is probably because we have apurely artistic approach to fragrances. Working with the best
noses and giving them total freedom is almost a guarantee
to have a timeless fragrance. I imagine that Chanel 5 wasmade with that sort of spirit.”
Ten years on, Editions de Parfums is now a byword for
meticulously created, exquisite olfactory experiences
and Malle is one of the most respected creators in thebusiness. Mention his name in sophisticated circles
where perfume is truly understood and a certain air ofreverence permeates.
Malle lives in New York with his wife and four children.
His sublime scents are sold in small selective
boutiques around the world, through his website(www.editionsdeparfums.com) and in a few exclusive
stores that offer personalised consultations withhighly trained sales staff who initiate an honest,
straightforward exchange with customers. Each of
the perfumers’ creations is presented in the samerefined, cylindrical bottle with each bottle priced
according to its content.
By simply including the name of the creatoron the perfume bottle Malle has changed theface of the perfume industry, reminding us allthat truly fine perfumes are created by people
with real passion.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

63

life feature //The Evolutionof Elle Macpherson
From gracing magazine covers as an ingénue
to helming a bestselling lingerie brand, Elle
Macpherson has shown she possesses much
more than just ‘the Body’. In Malaysia for Britain’s
Next Top Model, Macpherson – who serves as
the show’s executive producer and host – shares
her secrets to health, beauty, style, success andwhat it takes to be the next Top Model.
Text by Kenneth Tan Photography by Chuan Looi Styling Wee Chee
Shot on location at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

64

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

65

life feature //“Style is more important to me
than fashion. Style is aboutwearing what works for you,and not trying to copy otherpeople. Style is also simple
and timeless and in many
ways has a sense of humourthat helps express the kind of
person you are. Often, people
don’t talk about my clothes;
they talk about who I am.”Britain’s Next Top Model, Cycle Six, is
hot on the lips of everyone. The place?
The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton in
Kuala Lumpur. The function rooms of thisswanky hotel, have been transformed into
an oriental pavilion and catwalk, where thedreaded elimination process also takes
place. And today, another girl must go.
Macpherson speaks passionately of theshow’s profound impact on the girls, which
she has, on some level, also managed toaffect. “I don’t believe in judging people
on the way they look, so I was a little bit
worried in the beginning that the show
would be about if the girl is pretty or not,because that’s not what I’m about,” shesays. “Most importantly, it’s mentoring the
girls. Finding young girls and then inspiringthem along their journey. So, I just feel thiswhole project, as long as I’m executively

66

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

producing it and not just hosting it, allows
me to use all the skills I’ve developed over
30 years in the business.”
Macpherson’s strongest skill would no
doubt be the ability to juggle her different
business interests with devoting time
to family. With two children (which sheraises on her own, having gone withouta nanny for the past five years), she has
still managed to open 300 doors of her
lingerie line, Elle Macpherson Intimates, in
11 countries around Europe in the past
two months, which is quite phenomenal
considering the parlous state of the global
economy. She smiles, almost nonchalantly,
when asked about her amazing multitasking
abilities, saying: “I believe one doesn’t haveto be either a mother or a career woman.
I’m a mother and a career woman. My
children see me as a working mother, but

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

67

life feature //they also see me as a very present, loving
and guiding parent.
This wisdom also helps her embrace allthat life has to offer: “Obviously, I’m 46
now, I have two children, I work a lot andI don’t look the same as when I was 20,”
she adds matter-of-factly. “I’ve had tochange my mindset and try to not look
like I’m 20 – I think that’s the biggest
thing, to not hang on to this ideal of 20,
but understanding that I’m 46, I have twochildren, I travel, I’m interested in manythings, I make the best of what I have, but
I don’t long for who I used to be.”Macpherson exudes this authenticity ofwanting to see the positive in life and ofbeing honest with her self – in her own
words, “staying connected to my heart.”
Her February foray down the catwalk for
Marc Jacob’s Louis Vuitton collection in
Paris was an example of the self-honesty
she relies upon. “I just felt that I was asked
to walk for the woman I am and not thegirl I used to be.”And, just like the catwalk, Macpherson
has shown her strengths again with
Britain’s Next Top Model. “Britain’s Next
Top Model is very important for me. It’s
taken a lot of time out of my year, andenergy, but, hopefully, the outcome will
be something new and interesting for the
public to watch.”
Already, she’s taken the novel approach ofchoosing Malaysia to film the cycle’s last
five episodes. “Some of the production
people were here and we just decided
that the people were so beautiful, so

68

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE“Beauty comes from within;it’s who you are and not what
you look like.”
helpful. Malaysian Tourism was great and(Dato) Jimmy Choo (who’s also a friend)
was great. The YTL Hotels have been
fantastic. You have all these different
cultures living together. And we felt it was
exotic, interesting, varied and a place wereally wanted to show the girls.”
The private island of Pangkor Laut isfamiliar territory for Macpherson. “It
was so beautiful and the service wassomething I’ve never seen before. The
villas on the sea and the mountains were
just incredible,” she says. It’s easy to getdrawn into her stream of consciousness
because she speaks so vividly, using herdelicate facial expressions to emphasisea point and flashing a captivating smile
on a fond recall. “I saw plenty of wildlife;
peacocks, otters, lizards, monkeys, andI woke up to birds every morning. The
water was soft and warm and so were
the people. I loved the spa, the Japanesebaths and the whole atmosphere is justso spiritual.”
Regardless of the location, though, theaspiring models under Macpherson’s
tutelage will receive a great deal of honest
wisdom about managing their futures.
She advises them all to finish school. For
someone who once was a key part of thebrightest constellation of supermodels
ever in history, she has not lost sight oflife’s fundamentals. Her down-to-earth
sensibilities coupled with immeasurable
charisma and that legendary body are anirresistible part of her appeal.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

69

The sunny skies and glistening
waters of idyllic Tanjung Jara
Resort call for summer’s
breeziest statement pieces ina palette of tropical hues.
Photography Soon Lau Styling Victor Goh
Hair & makeup Sheng Saw Model Irena/Andrews Models
Shot on location at Tanjung Jara Resort

Cool Crisp LinenAs the mercury starts torise, shimmy suntannedlimbs into this airy linen
jumpsuit with billowy
sleeves in oh so coolbeige, summer’s mostversatile shade.This perfecttransitional piece is a stapleof any fashionista’s holiday
wardrobe. Linen jumpsuit,
Fendi. Aviator sunglasses
and hat, stylist’s own.

Colonial Appeal

This classic belted white
shirtdress with its feminine,voluminous skirt comes witha decidedly on-trend pop of
hot green at the collar. The
season’s most sought-after
dress is the perfect way toachieve that put-together
look with minimal fuss.
Cotton shirtdress andshoes, Bottega Veneta.
Hat, stylist’s own.

Short Story

Summer’s smouldering
off-the-shoulder cotton top
gives the stylish excuse toshow off toned and tannedlimbs. Pair with a bright
picture hat and wide belt
and you’ll be paparazziready. One-shoulder top,
tailored shorts and sandals,
Bottega Veneta.

Breezy EleganceBe the belle of the island in
this elegant hand-draped
wisp of a dress that’s solight, it almost whispers
against your skin. The
wearable shape takes you
from day to evening withstylish ease. Silk dress,
Khoon Hooi

Going For Bold

Ditch the fussy details forthis simple, eye-popping
dress – perfect for theserious statement-maker.
The sophisticated,
minimalistic shift in a curvehugging jersey reflects theexotic shade of wild orchid.
Jersey dress, Khoon Hooi.

Batik Fusion

This flowing floor-length kaftan
was painstakingly printed byhand on the softest, mostdelicate of silks. The result
is artistic and glamorous
style and a light-as-awhisper experience. Long
batik kaftan, Jendela KL.
Accessories, stylist’s own.

Hot Glamour

Bedazzle and bewitch withthis vibrant tangerine dressthat is just perfect for the
fashionable nomad. The
voluminous batwing sleevesand classically elegant
draping offer a modern takeon the luxurious silk robes
worn by ‘30s-era Hollywood
stars. Move over Jean
Harlow. Silk dress, Khoon
Hooi. Sandals, Jendela KL.

life
life time
time //

life time //Best ofBaselWorld2010

Even the most cautious of exhibitors at the world’s
premier watch and jewellery exhibition held in theancient city of Basel, celebrated a return to better
times with markets showing every indication of asustained upturn in demand.
Text by Kenneth Tan

80

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

81

life time //The news of an upsurge in Swiss watch
exports of 2.7 per cent from January thisyear reinvigorated the watch and jewellery
industry who had come to display theirwares inside the six giant halls that coveran exhibition area of 160,000 sqm,.
With more than 2,000 booths representing
45 countries, an insider’s guide to thebest finds is invaluable: here is what ourexpert found captured the attention of
the exhibition’s 100,000 visitors: Luxury
jeweler Carrera y Carrera returned to its
Spanish roots at BaselWorld with its newcollection, Palacios del Sur (Palaces of
the South). Tapping its exotic culture andsouthern Spain’s rich Moorish architectural
heritage, this inspirational range features
gold and precious stones in strong,
distinctive pieces that will undoubtedly
appeal to discerning watch aficionados.
In its haute joaillerie range, the Bamboo
pieces combine white gold and diamondswith elegant simplicity. A menagerie ofbracelets, necklaces and rings sculpted
into animal forms completes a memorable
2010 collection that cleverly combines
daring and classic chic elements.
Meanwhile artisanal style has always
been at the very heart of the Zino Davidoff
legacy and this year’s collection proved
no exception. The male-oriented Very Zino
range features automatic chronographswith dials of gunmetal, or silver and black.
A red-gold version is also available. The
ladies’ range features 72 diamonds on thewatch face with the option of a mother-ofpearl or black dial and satin strap. Other82

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

items on exhibit included Very Zino leather
goods including a stylish messenger bag
and ornate writing instruments that makethe perfect gift for him or her.
The increasing appetite for watches fromthe Chinese market has seen Omega,
the top performing brand from the Swatch
Group, enjoy much success in recent
years. This year’s release is sure to whetthe appetites of the Chinese nouveau
riche thanks to a celebrity-led advertising
campaign featuring Chinese actress
Zhang Ziyi. Other international stars, suchas George Clooney and Nicole Kidman,have also helped lead the charge of
Omega’s superior movements. For thetime conscious, the precision of Omega’s
Co-Axial calibre, in particular the improved
8601/8611 model, are housed in the new
Seamaster Aqua Terra Annual Calendar
for men and the Aqua Terra for women.
Space enthusiasts have long prized theremarkable history of the Speedmaster,used on US space missions since 1965.
They will almost certainly be looking topick up the 35th anniversary edition ofthis classic watch that was worn by boththe commanders of the joint Apollo-Soyuz
rendezvous mission. The Constellation
series offers a choice of black or whitesupernova dials for women while theConstellation Double Eagle Co-Axial
4-Counters display complex subdials thatshow seconds, seven-day, 12-hour and30-minute counters.
As always, the Rolex booth attracted ahigh-powered clientele eagerly anticipating

the latest style innovation from this classic
brand. This year, the 40mm Oyster
Perpetual Submariner Date sports afacelift with a new rotatable bezel and ascratchproof black Cerachrom insert. The
watch’s Chromalight also provides effective
illumination of the dial, perfect for telling thetime in murky ocean depths.
Looking to the “roof of the world”, the2010 Oyster Perpetual recalls the firstconquest of Mt Everest by Sir Edmund
Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, both of whomwere equipped with a Rolex Oyster on theirsuccessful summit. The case of 904L steel
with anti-corrosion properties protects aself-winding mechanical movement.The
31mm Datejust Lady comes in yellow, whiteand Everose Rolesor. Sticklers for details

will also notice the intricate floral motifs on
the dial.
Handcrafted mobile phones have long
been Vertu’s tour de force, with thecompany creatively sculpting blocks ofaluminium and a myriad of exotic materials
to produce sensational objets d’art. The
Constellation Ayxta, the only fold phone in
its range, proved to be this year’s showcasewith durable keys in midnight blue andplum, identically matching the leather ofthe phone’s elegant casing. Other striking
combinations include silver and blue
ceramic, stainless steel, aluminium and
18K yellow gold. Each Signature phone
is assembled by a single craftsman andfeatures a titanium carbide coating that is
almost impossible to scratch.

New favourites: Omega’s Constellation series
offers a choice of black or white supernova dials
for women

Davidoff’s Lady Quartz watch from the Very
Zino collection, with its red gold finishing and
72 diamonds on its watch case, is a study inelegance
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

83

beautiful life //Pretty Baubles“My years at Louis Vuitton were a turning point in my life. Marc Jacobs gave me theopportunity to express my creativity through jewels and accessories. I have always
had a profound admiration and attraction for the house of Dior, whose history, creativity
and modernity are symbols of elegance.” – Camille Miceli, Artistic Director of CostumeJewellery, Christian Dior and creator of the Diorose, Devore Dior, Mise en Dior, Diorchester,and Chri Chri collections of costume jewellery.

Hop to It

Watching Fashion
A passion for nostalgia translates into enduring style.
Florence on Her Mind

Several decades ago, when Carla Fendi spent her honeymoon in Florence shemarked the occasion with a uniquely crafted doctor bag. Today, Fendi recaptures thememories and nostalgia of that trip with the Firenze, an elegant handbag created by
the city’s Selleria craftsmen renowned for their inimitable fatto a mano (made by hand)
techniques. Available at the Fendi Boutique, Starhill Gallery.

84

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Striking Poses

If a picture speaks a thousand words, then it’s fair to assume that with the lens ofacclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz, it might speak many thousand more. For the
first time in her three-year collaboration with Louis Vuitton’s Core Values advertising
campaign featuring iconic personalities, Leibovitz appears in a self-portrait with her
long-time friend, the legendary dancer and choreographer Mikhail Baryshnikov. The
fascinating image captures the superstar in a decidedly relaxed and intimate setting in
Leibovitz’s New York studio. Subtle lighting highlights Leibovitz, reclining with camera
in hand and a Louis Vuitton Neverfull holdall brimming with books by her side, as sheshares a private moment with Baryshnikov who is standing on a box in a simple black
t-shirt and trousers, a spotlight falling on his muscular feet.

In Boucheron’s Frog Ronde Seconde
Folle watch collection, the amphibian’s
journey from leaf-sitter to prince isimmortalised in an extraordinary
timepiece framed by a white gold dial, asurface filled with blue chalcedony, anda grey gold water lily, set with diamonds,
sapphires and tsavorites (a semiprecious stone from the garnet family).
They seamlessly combine in this fairytale
watch complete with Girard-Perregaux
self-winding mechanical movement.
Surely a winning combination for watch
aficionados who enjoy a whimsical touchin their haute horology.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

85

beautiful life //Traveller’s Tale
More than a century and a halfon, Louis Vuitton maintains its cachet,continuing to woo a new generationof luxury consumers .
By Jennifer Choo Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton

beautiful life //The laws of economics are logical – when price goes up, supply increases
and demand goes down. The exception it seems is luxury goods, where
demand spikes when prices rise, and ironically, the higher the price, themore the demand. Not all luxury goods are created equal, however, andwhen a label reports double-digit growth in the wake of the worst recessionof this generation, it says a lot about the brand. This remarkable label is Louis
Vuitton, or LV to those in the know. The secret of its success lies in its 150year provenance, which has weathered changing economies , world wars
and recessions.
So, how did a 14-year-old odd jobber spark a global brand, producing someof the world’s most prized luggage, handbags and accessories? Poetically,
the story begins with a journey: in the nineteenth century the teenage Louis
Vuitton apparently walked from his hometown of Jura to Paris in search ofgreener pastures.
The trek took two years and covered 400km as Vuitton took odd jobs along
the way to survive. On reaching Paris in 1835, he became an apprenticelayetier-emballeur, a maker and packer of trunks, to prominent households.
Vuitton quickly distinguished himself and was soon appointed by Napoleon
III of France as layetier to his wife, Empress Eugénie de Montijo. This royalendorsement exposed him to the demands of the wealthy traveller and hestarted to design his own luggage.
In 1854, he opened Louis Vuitton Malletieron at 4 Rue Neuve des Capucines(the present day Rue des Capucines). And in 1858, Vuitton captured thehearts of customers with his groundbreaking trunks, with flat lids and a
poplar wood structure covered in high-quality grey Trianon canvas. They
were lightweight and airtight, and, unlike the round-topped trunks of that era,
could be neatly stacked.

86

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

The model totes the Noé bag in monogram
canvas while she waits on the station platform
reserved for the Mistral – a luxury traintransporting passengers from Paris to the
Riviera
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

87

beautiful life //From left to right:
1. The luxurious Louis Vuitton Monogram
Canvas wardrobe. 2. An advertisementfrom the thirties. 3. Sixties icon Twiggy
with the era’s bag du jour, the Papillon.
4.Jane Fonda (with Roger Vadim),checking in the popular Speedy bag at
the Orly airport in Paris. 5. Supermodel
Eva Herzigova in a Louis Vuitton Fall/
Winter 2002 advertising campaign
carrying the classic Papillon.
6. The Alma bag, designed in 1934, isknown for its unique shape. This version
is in Damier canvas

5
2
3

1

4

6

The Trianon soon became synonymous with gracious travel.
Feeding the enthusiasm for faraway places and new modes oftransportation, Louis Vuitton began to etch its place in history,
meeting the needs of explorers, voyagers and vacationers.
During this time, two highly recognisable symbols of LV debuted:
1888 saw the first-ever LV Damier Canvas, whose quiet elegance
remains remarkably modern today, and in 1896, the Monogram,with its quatrefoil, flower and LV initials, was introduced. This
often imitated emblem remains LV’s most recognisable signature.
Both were designed by Vuitton’s son, Georges, who took overthe management of the company in 1880.
Georges also created the company’s signature five-tumbler lock.
The locks could not be picked, and each had its own number andenabled the owner to open an entire collection of luggage with asingle key. To this day, all the suitcases and trunks produced by
the company use this technology.

reputation, Georges harboured international ambitions with plans
to expand into the United States. With this in mind, he chaired
the jury for the 1904 St Louis World Fair, where he showcased
many new products, including the Excelsior trunk, the Idèale
trunk and bags designed for carrying specific items, including
perfume, makeup, hats and shoes.
By 1914, LV was not only synonymous with fine luggage, it wasalso well on its way to becoming a household name aroundthe world. As World War One consumed Europe, Louis Vuitton
opened its flagship store on the Champs Elysees, the largest
travel items store in the world at the time. By then, there were
LV stores in London, New York, Washington D.C., Bombay,
Alexandria, Buenos Aires and Paris.

The Golden Age

When Georges passed away in 1931, he bequeathed to his son,
Gaston-Louis, an international icon with a dedicated followingof celebrities including Charles Lindbergh, Marthe Chenal(the soprano and “most beautiful woman in Paris”) and Prince
Borghese.

Where Louis honed the craft that established the Louis Vuitton

When LV celebrated its centenary, Gaston-Louis was confronted
with an increasingly mobile society. As air travel became
commonplace, the demand was for more practical and lighter
luggage, and the previously overlooked soft canvas bags
became a staple. Gaston-Louis continued his father’s legacy ofinnovation and, in 1959, perfected a new method that allowed
linen and soft canvas to be coated. This technique, still used

At the 1900 Paris World Fair, Georges was given the honour ofsetting up the Travel Items and Leather Goods section. A year
later, the Steamer Bag was introduced. Originally conceived asa laundry bag to be kept inside LV trunks, this ancestor of the LV
handbag became something of a cult favourite and was one of
the company’s most sought-after items.

88

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

today, imparts strength and impermeability, while allowing the
fabric to maintain its suppleness and beauty.
By 1978, LV’s influence had reached the Far East and stores
were opened in Tokyo and Osaka. The company rapidly
continued its international expansion in Seoul, Beijing, London,
New York, Marrakech, Moscow and New Delhi. LV’s influence
was so entrenched that in 1985, the company dared to breakfrom the traditional monogram with a new range called the Epiline - exquisitely textured leather in vibrant colours that change
from year to year, with the LV logo discreetly embossed.

Louis Vuitton Incorporated

In an extraordinarily strategic move in 1987, Louis Vuitton mergedwith Moet-Hennessy, the famous champagne producer, to create
one of the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerates. Bolsteredby the merging of the two companies, Louis Vuitton intensified its
international expansion, opening more than 200 stores worldwide
and extending its range of products. This merger reflected wellon the bottom line as profits leapt almost 50 per cent in the firstyear alone.
Almost a decade later, in a bid to refresh its image, LVMH
appointed fashion maverick Marc Jacobs to create the company’s
first prêt-a-porter collection. Jacobs is responsible for giving
this classic brand an attitude and imbuing it with an irresistible
youthfulness. Jacobs introduced several new lines of bags,
including the Cuir Sauvage – a precious leather line imprinted

with a diminutive damier motif honouring the nobility of natural
fur – and the unabashedly high-gloss, instantly-recognisable
Monogram Vernis and Monogram Glace ranges. In 2001, Louis
Vuitton kicked off the new millennium with its first jewellery line.

Duets

Collaborating with an intriguing line-up of artists in recent years, LV
has produced some highly coveted collectibles. In the first successful
duet, Jacobs and Stephen Sprouse collaborated to produce limitededition Graffiti bags. These iconic LV bags were daubed with theunmistakable Sprouse tagging and described as a tribute to boththe artist’s pop art sensibilities and the brand’s illustrious heritage.
Jacobs later designed a collection to commemorate the untimely
death of this street art maestro in 2004.
Another memorable partnership was with Japanese artist Takashi
Murakami, where the pair played mischievously with the Monogram
canvas. Cherries bloomed on the familiar material and the traditional
brown and gold was reinterpreted in sweet candy colours. This
kitschy collection was an instant sensation and was snapped up
not only by loyal fans, but also a much younger demographic.
Recently, Jacobs chose to work with another artist, Richard
Prince, renowned for appropriating popular culture (such as
the advertisement photographs of the Marlboro Man) into his
paintings. This collection featured splashy, colourful handbags,
some of which included the LV logo silk-screened on canvas
along with vaudeville-style jokes. On others, cartoons created

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

89

beautiful life //1. A model shows off the Alma bag inmonogram grafitti canvas (a collaboration
between LV and artist Stephen Sprouse)at the Spring/Summer 2001 fashion
show. 2. The Speedy bag in Monogram
Multicolore Franges – a collaboration
between Takashi Murakami and Louis
Vuitton. 3. Alma Voyage bag in Monogram
canvas
4. Models with bags in the Monogram
Multicolore range

by Prince were hand-embroidered on bold, colourful bags. His
influence reached the runway too, where models trooped down
the spring/summer 08 show dressed as nurses, echoing Prince’s“Nurse” paintings.

2

A Good Sport

Dedication to luxury and excellence is a Louis Vuitton hallmark. In
keeping with this, the brand has a history of involvement in someof the world’s most prestigious sporting events. In 1983, the Louis
Vuitton Cup challenger series was created as a pre-qualifier for theworld’s most famous sailing race, the America’s Cup.

1

While only two yachts compete in the America’s Cup, several
take part in the LV Cup, which has been a rite of passage foryachtsmen looking to challenge the defending champion of theAmerica’s Cup. Louis Vuitton’s ties to the world of yachting goback much further, of course. In addition to countlewss trunks
created for ocean voyages during the 1930s, Gaston-Louis
Vuitton developed a unique model boat division, and in 1935, forexample, LV was selling scale models of Cornelius Vanderbilt’s
famous steam yacht, the North Star.

3

4

In 1988, Louis Vuitton presented the Automobiles Classiques
Concours d’Elégance in the Park of Bagatelle in Paris. This annualcompetition for elegant cars has run for more than two decades.
In the same year, Louis Vuitton organised the first international
grand vintage car rally in China. This event resuscitated vintage
car races on a grand scale with an exhilarating rally from Dalian
to Beijing.
For the 2010 Football World Cup, the solid 18-carat gold trophy
will be cradled in a custom-made Louis Vuitton trunk before itis presented to the winning team in South Africa. The special
case will be handmade by one of its craftsmen from the Asnières

workshop. LV’s new World Cup advertising campaign also
features soccer legends including Zidane, Maradona and Pele.

The Fame Game

From its royal patronage beginnings during the 19th century, therich and famous have made Louis Vuitton the go-to place for theirluggage needs. Coco Chanel carried an Alma bag exclusively
designed by Gaston-Louis Vuitton. Style icon Audrey Hepburn
carried a Speedy in Charade, which was resized on her request
to a dainty 25cm length.
Advertising campaigns have also featured a pantheon ofsuperstars, including models and actresses such as Kate
Moss, Gisele Bündchen, Uma Thurman, Scarlett Johansen,
Jennifer Lopez and, most recently, Madonna. A testament to
LV’s immense clout, the luxury label managed to get less likely
celebrities, such as former USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev, Steffi
Graf, Andre Agassi, Sofia Coppola and Francis Ford Coppola, tostar in campaigns.
Popular culture, more specifically music, has often referenced
Louis Vuitton as a status symbol. Mariah Carey, Usher, Oxford
Comma and Kanye West, to name but a few, have paid homage
to the brand in their songs. In a touch of role reversal, LV
collaborated with rapper and record producer Kanye West on aline of shoes for men in 2009.

Super FutureOver 150 years have passed and Louis Vuitton remains a
global force boasting a range encompassing trunks, luggage,
handbags, clothing and jewellery. It maintains a perfect balance
between luxury and cutting-edge design. Louis Vuitton has
dominated the world of luxury during the 20th century; needlessto say, this winning streak will continue well into the future.

Kiwi Polish
For the second successive year, TeamNew Zealand has won an America’s Cupclass regatta on home waters. Making themost of its home ground advantage, theEmirates Team New Zealand won the Louis
Vuitton Trophy Auckland regatta in March
this year. The team was cheered on bylegions of local fans during every leg of thechallenging five-mile race on the Hauraki
Gulf, just off Auckland. Its closest opponent
was Italy’s Mascalzone Latino Audi teamrepresenting Club Nauticodi Roma, whichis the Challenger of Record for the 34th
America’s Cup.

90

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Although the final was scheduled to bea “best of five” race series, it was cut
to three at the start because of lightwinds. Despite this, Team NZ started
and finished strongly, with a half boatlength lead halfway up the course.
On its way to the finals, Emirates
survived a heart-stopping last-minutepenalty turn in its race gainst Azzurra
In a flashback to the glory days of theAmerica’s Cups of 2000 and 2003,
crowds thronged the quayside in the
Viaduct Basin and spectators crowded
every vantage point on the mooredboats and surrounding balconies.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

91

4081

look of life //160VC-2(From left to right) CKIn2U Heat for Her,
Burberry Summer for Men Limited Edition,
Prada Infusion de Tubéreuse EDP, Marc
Jacobs Splash Summer 2010 Collection– Biscotti, Chloe Eau de Fleurs – Neroli,
Eternity Summer for Men by Calvin Klein

Summer’s
Hottest Scents
Eau so good: hit the high notes with thissummer’s refreshingly delicious fragrances.

Kodak

The most exciting of the latest arrivals is the refreshingly uncomplicatedBiscotti from Marc Jacob’s Splash Summer 2010 Collection. Inspired by
Italy’s favourite biscuit, this utterly modern fragrance hits the spot with sparkling
top notes of bergamot, freesia and orange flower, combined with a hint ofpistachio blossom and creamy vanilla to add rich tones and harmony .
Part of a trio of enigmatic fragrances, Chloe Eau de Fleurs Neroli is aneclectic cocktail of clary sage, tonka bean, white musk and amber, working
in unison with notes of mandarin, orange, rosemary, neroli, peony, and cedar.
The juice looks like liquid gold in a chic minimalistic bottle – a feat of cubist
artistry that is sure to become a cult item in its own right.
Burberry’s limited edition Summer For Men is a modern take on traditional
cologne with refreshingly crisp and clean top notes of yuzu leaves, mandarin
and mint. A heady mix of juniper berries, thyme and woody notes add warmth,
depth and undeniably, a touch of summery sex appeal.
With fruity notes of apricot, guava and raspberry and accents of creamy
magnolia and jasmine, CK In2U Heat for Her is the perfect modern fragrance
for hot summer nights. Presented in a chic brightly-coloured bottle, theinvigorating cocktail of scents is an instant summer classic.
From the artistically-inspired bottle to the surprisingly complex fragrance,
Prada’s Infusion de Tubéreuse EDP is a sparkling celebration of
womanhood. The Indian tuberose top notes renders this superbly-craftedfragrance florally classic at first whiff. Then, the citrus notes of blood orange
and the crisp scent of petitgrain bigarade (a citrusy essential oil) introduce afresh, invorating and lasting element .
Eternity Summer for Men by Calvin Klein is a fresh and finely balanced
combination of kumquat, pineapple, bergamot and cardamom, with bamboo,
cedar leaf, teak wood and Guaiac wood. This complex composition may
sound overly exotic, but tempered with Klein’s predilection for freshness andsporty scents, it is surprisingly wearable and just ever so slightly delicious.

92

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

beautiful life //Shine On!

Image from Getty Images

Inspired by the irresistible colours of John
Galliano’s runway shows, the Dior Addict
Ultra Gloss range of Shine On!products
creates instant glowing radiance. The
must-have star performer, Addicted toDior, together with the designer’s limited
edition products for lips, eyes andcomplexion are fuelled with vibrant andtangy hues, perfectly timed for a sunkissed summer look.

Caviar@ YTL

Beauty on DemandGear up for a sensational summer with the following
scents, skincare products and pampering therapies.
Groovy Baby

MAC’s In the Groove colour collection is an instant hit with its flattering vibrant hues andopulent textures. Inspired by the ethnic batik fashions of the 70s and the 80’s modern tiedye styles, the collection whispers of exotic locales infused with Boho charm and runway
chic. The collection comprises 9 new Mineralize Eye Shadows, 6 Cremesheen Lipsticks,
6 Cremesheen Glass, 4 Mineralize Skinfinish Powders, and our personal favourite, 5 newMineralize Blush Duos, all of which are welcome additions to any make-up palette.

94

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

The ultimate skin therapy for dull, ageing skin is now available at Spa Village Kuala
Lumpur and it is undoubtedly good enough to eat. Overflowing with protein-rich caviar
and powerful antioxidants, the Ultimate Caviar Facial by cult Swedish brand Kerstin
Florian is the perfect therapy for stressed city skins as it firms, tones, refines anddeeply nourishes with immediate effect. During this luxurious and deeply-penetrating
facial, caviar works in tandem with specialised AcuLift Massage techniques to visibly
renew the skin and smooth fine lines. Then, an innovative Marine Biomatrix Sheetthat nourishes and moisturises from deep within is applied to dramatically calm skin,leaving it radiantly gorgeous. This highly-effective anti-ageing therapy is also perfectfor hands, feet and décolleté.
The Ultimate Caviar Facial is available at YTL Spa Village Kuala Lumpur (Tel: (603)2782 9090 or Email: spavillagekl@ytlhotels.com.my). Also by Kerstin Florian, theRehydrating Caviar Facial and Caviar Eye & Lip Care therapies are available at YTLSpa Village Kuala Lumpur and the Starhill Spa at JW Marriott.

The Light Years

Summer is here and so too are lazy beachafternoons. While those in the know would
never leave home without sun block,
sadly preventative measures like this do
not erase skin damage from a previously
less-enlightened time. Specially patented
formulations such as DIORSNOW D-NA
REVERSE and DIORSNOW Transparency
Enhancing Complex (T.E.C)™ repair
damaged skin cells at night, work hard
to reduce skin pigmentation, and reveal a
new luminosity the very next morning.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

95

spa life //spa life //The stunning Tanjong Jara Resort with its wealthof traditional healing modalities

Traditionally Malay
Lyrical in its beauty, profound in its age-old
wisdom, the natural art of Malay healing andrelaxation is enjoying a renaissance.
Text by Kate O’Brien Images from YTL Hotels

Malaysia is home to a myriad of ethnic groups that live cohesively
in this lush tropical land. The indigenous Malays, Chinese,
Indians and Arabs imparted a diverse richness of healing culturesthat is now being capitalised on in spas worldwide, with age-old
Ayurvedic beauty regimens working in synergy with reflexology,
acupuncture, Malay baths, scrubs and medicinal potions.
Central to this cornucopia of healing is traditional Malay medicine,the roots of which combine the wisdom and practices of early96

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Orang Asli (or ‘original people’) with those of the culturally moreadvanced Malay voyagers who first began to settle in the region
from as early as 1000BC. Being an essential part of the ancient
Spice Route meant that traders from India, China and the Arabworld added their indigenous medical philosophies to this multicultural melting pot. Combine this cultural diversity with the richbounty of the world’s most biologically-diverse tropical forests,
and the result is a truly unique and diverse system of therapeutic
herbalism that deeply nurtures mind, body and spirit.
As with other ancient Eastern healing philosophies, traditional
Malay medicine believes that balance within the universe andthe body is the foundation of health and wellbeing. This balanceis achieved specifically through strategically realigning the four
elements of Wind, Water, Fire and Earth within the body, using
herbal medicines (ramuan) and targeted therapies formulatedusing the best of nature’s tropical ingredients. Maintenance ofgood health and prevention of illness are emphasised in dayto-day life, with native healers (also called bomoh or pawang)
advocating a diet packed with an essential balance of foods,
herbs and the best of nature’s healing goodness from the tropicalverdant forests.

In many cases, traditional remedies were closely guarded
secrets held by these healers who, depending on their skills,
were medicine men, surgeons, bonesetters or exorcists – inother words, a heady mix of the medical and the spiritual. Certain
recipes were kept within families and handed down throughgenerations, with most of them being put to great use both in thehome and local community. Replicating these age-old therapies
as authentically as possible in the modern spa environment isthe best way of paying homage to these mystic masseurs andmedicine men and honouring their profound knowledge.
Following is a taste of traditional Malay therapies…..
Tungku Batu or heated stone therapy has long been practiced
by the native Malay and Orang Asli cultures to increase strengthand vitality in addition to other wide-ranging benefits. River or claystones are first wrapped with selected spices and herbs including
fenugreek, black seed and leaves such as betel and morinda
leaves. These are then tied together into a pouch using a cotton
cloth. Medicated ointment is applied onto the affected areasof the body before the hot pouch is applied as part of a deeppressure massage to completely loosen muscles, alleviate pain,
reduce inflammation and deeply relax the body. The technique

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

97

spa life //Spa Village Tanjong Jara
Indelibly anchored in its milieu with about 90 percent of its
staff coming from nearby villages, the Spa Village Tanjong
Jara on Malaysia’s east coast is a rich tapestry of Malay
culture and heritage. Inspired by the Malay concept ofsucimurni that roughly translates as wellness through purityof mind, body and spirit, Spa Village fuses the rich bounty
from surrounding forests with age-old therapeutic recipes
to deliver some extraordinarily powerful healing remedies
to all who visit.
As befits its location, the focus rests primarily on restorative
Malay rituals that have been used in the countryside for
centuries. From freshly prepared staples like Kaffir lime leaf,
galangal and fenugreek and indigenous flowers, to a native
quinone-producing bark that is used to counteract malaria,
Asia’s forests reveal their secrets in a host of therapeutic steams,
scrubs, baths, massages, tonics and beautifying masks.

is still widely practiced by women in confinement after childbirth
as it helps improve the circulation of blood and the functioning of
the uterus, while also helping to restore a firmer figure after birth.
The technique is also used to enhance agility in men.
Rendam-Rendam (or Sitz Bath) has been used by Malay womenfor generations to keep their genital organs and vaginal muscles
firm and healthy especially as the body ages. The natural antiseptic
properties of piper betel and black seed combine to relieve andsoothe irritation, infection and heavy discharge as the body isimmersed in a specially prepared herbal bath. This medicinal bathis highly recommended for piles and genital discomfort and also
helps to strengthen the uterus after childbirth and menstruation.

Ancient Malay spa rituals deliver extraordinarily
powerful healing remedies

98

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Tuam Pasir (Heated Sea Sand Therapy) is a time-tested healing
massage that gives immediate relief from joint pain and inflammationand is excellent therapy for mothers in confinement. A mixture ofsand, fenugreek and black seeds are heated in a pan to make a
medicated paste that is wrapped in a cotton cloth and made intoa pouch. This hot herbal pouch is then massaged deeply over
the affected areas of the body to relieve discomfort and leave thebody feeling refreshed and energized.
Mandi: A variety of Malay Baths (or Mandi), often taken asa prelude or finale to another treatment, are widely offered in
Malaysian spas. An eclectic mix of fruits, roots, leaves and flowers
are added to the soothing waters to relax and heal the body.
For example, in the Mandi Bunga or floral bath, exotic flowers
like roses, jasmine, cempaka, kenanga and medicinal-aromatic
woods such as sandalwood and gaharu combine to cleanse,
scent and thoroughly refresh.
Ikal-Ikal or Malay scalp therapy uses specially-brewed herbal oil
prepared from coconut oil, citronella and clove that is first applied
to the hair. Then, a paste, comprising henna, betel leaves andhibiscus, renowned for treating hair loss, scalp irritation andmigraine, is generously applied and tenderly massaged into thescalp to soothe, nourish and revive both the scalp and hair.

Dandan Puteri Tujuh or Princess treatment epitomizes
traditional Malay body rituals. After the soothing essencesof the mandatory Mandi Bunga or floral bath, the body
gently succumbs to the healing powers of the traditional
Malay deep tissue massage or Urutan Gamelan guaranteed
to loosen and warm the muscles in preparation for the Ikal
Mayang or Malay hair treatment ritual. Originally practised
by royal princesses, a nourishing blend of coconut oil, rice
paddy stalks and pandanus leaves is deeply massaged
into the head to ease the mind and leave the hair feelingsmooth, strong and radiant. Then the Boros Puteri (face andbody scrub) uses a healing blend of herbs such as turmericand galangal to completely cleanse the skin, promoting the
growth of fresh cells and leaving a healthy radiant glow.
Finally, a fragrant floral milk bath (or Bersiram) and scented
body steam (Ukup Wangi) of jasmine and rose water combine
to leave the entire body feeling fresh, fragrant and radiant.

Ramuan describes a carefully-selected blend of medicinal plants andplant parts that is taken regularly to promote health, beauty and balancein daily life.The overall aim is the optimisation of mind, body and spirit:
whether the overall aim is fitness, beauty, rejuvenation, longevity, relaxation,
stress reduction or a combination of all, a variety of plant parts, includingroots, rhizomes, barks, stems, fruits, flowers and seeds is consumed asboth medicine and food to optimise general wellbeing and health.
For example, ubat periuk is a daily detoxifying and anti-aging herbal
drink, comprising senna leaves, betel leaves, galangal, ginger, temu
lawak, pegaga, cekur and lempoyang. Purging excess heat andwaste, it deeply cleanses internally for a radiant all-over glow.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

99

spa life //The Legacy Lives On

Spa Village Tanjong Jara’s award-winning resident healer,
Yahaya Mamat, or Pak Yahya (being a term of respect for anolder wiser man) as he is more affectionately known, is no
newcomer to healing. Born in a small village in Terengganu,
Malaysia, into a family where traditional healing arts werepracticed daily, he learned his unique massage skills from his
grandmother at the tender age of 13. By the time he was 20,
the people in his village were turning to him for his powerfulhealing touch.
Pak Yahya is a big, jovial man with a very soft heart. He specialises
in traditional Malay massage and his expertise is legendary. The
perfect mix of the innate sense of touch and years of practice,
Pak Yahya is able to identify blocked veins, tightness in themuscles and broken or twisted joints both by touch and instinct.
With his large, wide hands and physical strength, his long,kneading strokes using thumb and palm pressure (combinedwith elbow, feet and arms where appropriate) deeply massage
the tissues, improving blood flow through the veins, relieving
tension and invigorating the body. A deeply-penetrating head andscalp massage completes a typical session. As well as being ahealer and midwife for the surrounding villages, Pak Yahya is afisherman and a grandfather of nine with an enviable knowledgeof indigenous remedies, herbs and plants.
This gentle man is traditional Malay massage at its very best
and, as he readily admits, experience is indeed the best teacher.
While no doubt hundreds more will continue to benefit greatly
from his healing hands, we can rest assured that his legacy will
live on in his youngest daughter, 19-year-old Yaslina Yahya, who
is earnestly perfecting the age-old techniques just as her father
did all those years ago.

Healing Heritage
In the first of a new YTL Life Healing
Heritage series, YTL trainer andconsultant on Malay traditional
therapies, Sairani Mohd Saadcaptures the essence of ancient
Malay healing from her childhood
memories to the present. Sairani
lives in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Most healers will attest that their initiation
into healing was sparked as they assisted
their grandparents in gathering fresh herbs
from the garden and grinding them into
various unctuous remedies. Mine wassomewhat different. One grandmotherlectured me on the Quranic verses while
the other taught me more about thebenefits of cow dung for her bougainvilleas.
Despite this, some of my fondest childhood
memories revolve around the breathtakingly
colourful Malay garden resplendent withkenanga (ylang-ylang), mawar (roses),melur (jasmine), cempaka (magnolia) andan herbal apothecary overflowing withamazingly therapeutic natural remedies.
As a child I cried almost every night fromsevere pain in both legs. Coupled withserious childhood eczema and scalp
problems, my mother resorted to the village
Makcik Urut or massage ladies who withdeeply penetrating strokes using thumbs
and palms, manipulated my urat (bundles

100

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

of arteries) to completely relieve tension
throughout my muscles and stimulate
blood flow through my small fragile body.
I later discovered that the massage oils
used (most of which are routinely used
today) are powerful healers themselves
being used to relieve a range of problems
from head and muscle aches to blurredvision, persistent cough, insect bites, dryskin and fever.
Although Malay massage was all I knew
throughout my teenage years, thischanged dramatically when I was 20 as
my future mother-in-law had inherited thewisdom of her grandmother concerning
age-old pre-wedding Malay beauty
regimes – knowledge that been passed
through her family for many generations(over 1400 years to be more specific).
Bridal grooming or Andaman Pengantin
as it was called, traditionally starts 44
days before the wedding ceremony.

However it has been shortened to
up to 7 days to keep pace with themodern world. Seven days before mywedding, an entourage of ladies arrived
at my home. From the hair on my headto the tips of my toes I was exfoliated,scrubbed, deeply nourished andpampered until glowing with a heavenly
range of oils, creams and floral baths.
What intrigued me most about thisbridal grooming (or Dandan Putri Tujuh
at Spa Village Tanjong Jara) however
was that the very same flowers that had
captivated my mind as a small girl wereonce again reappearing in my life.
As a new wife my mother-in-law cameto the rescue yet again, teaching me
important health lessons that remain
with me today when, approachingmenopause, I am experiencing few ofthe problems that affect many women myage, including endometriosis, fibroids andcysts, amongst others.

Within 12 months of marriage I became
a mother (the eldest of my 5 children is
now 22). Having gained 18 kgs throughout
my pregnancy, my mother-in-law guided
me through the traditional Malay postnatal regime – a torturous programme thatis best appreciated years later when, as
an older woman, you are still looking andfeeling vibrantly healthy inside and out. My
saviour throughout all of this was Tungku
Batu as the heat from the river or claystones relaxed me completely, relieving
tension while also helping to break down
stubborn fat, shrink my enlarged uterus
and basically trim my body all over.
Although this regime was hard going attimes, the results spoke for themselves
as within three months I had regained mypre-pregnancy figure and strength (wombintact).
These treatments and many more
traditional healing rituals are available at
YTL Spa Village.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

101

life cuisine //life cuisine //Tastes of Muse
Taste, scents and textures are at the core ofMuse cuisine as chefs Nicolas Le Toumelin
and Clément Bruno explore new horizons whileremaining true to the very best of French cuisine.
Text by Kate O’Brien Images from Getty Images and Corbis

In a country where buying, preparing and enjoying food is synonymous with life itself,
Mediterranean cuisine has emerged as the clear winner. As far back as the late
1900s, Impressionist artists traded their now celebrated works for food in some of
today’s most sought-after restaurants dotted throughout the South of France. Such arich artistic heritage explains the buzz around the new Muse restaurant, simply named“M”, celebrating all things French with the very best of fresh, local and absolutely
delicious food.
As with all things Muse, “M” sets the imagination flying and breaks new grounds. Terre etMer (land and sea) is at the core of its philosophy – the perfect marriage between trufflesfrom deep within the earth and the freshest produce from the salt-scented Mediterranean
coast – and the result is new, different and lighter than much of what is currently on offer
in the region.

102

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

103

life cuisine //life cuisine //Chef Nicolas Le Toumelin“M” Cuisine

Image from Alex Schneideman

Le petit déjeuner: freshlypressed juices, cheeses,
cold cuts, salads, eggs
cooked to order, honeyselection, forgasse andbreads,croissants andpain au chocolat from thebest bakers in town.

The Chef’s MuseWith the talented Nicolas le Toumelin at
the helm, a highly eclectic mix of ocean
flavours and vibrant fresh produce isassured: think fresh native fish preparedwith the lightest, most fragrant herbs
and seasonal vegetables; typically
Mediterranean red-mullet tarts adorned
with aubergine caviar and a touchof pesto, royal king crab thermidorstyle, sea bass flambéed with thyme;
lobsters surreptitiously appearing in
one-of-a kind, luxury club sandwiches;
Corabinero prawns from Andalusia in
Southern Spain (simply because they
are the best); duck breast – typically
French and always delicious; classic
dancing prawns with a St Tropez twist;
snail caviar – very French and very
beautiful; and the freshest lightest
Gazpacho imaginable. Add to this Chef
Bruno’s perfectly balanced menu of
truffle delights featuring signature dishes
like truffle feuillete and baked potato with
truffle cream. This is real food, served
up straight from the sea, the earth or themarket to the plate. But “M” isn’t only
about food. It’s a complete experience.
Clichéd as it sounds, it is simply the
freshest of food, perfectly cooked and104

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

presented with the most exacting attention
to detail - and the warmest of smiles.

The Muse Market

Muse is located just a few minutes fromSt Tropez’s celebrated Place des Lices,
home to the mouth-watering scents,
tastes and aromas of the twice-weekly
Provencal market. A place to relish theglorious hues of freshly cut flowers, to feelthe ripeness of the local sun-drenched
fruits and admire the sweet, full vibranttomatoes, asparagus, peppers, garlic,
spring onions, not to mention taste
the most delicious Forgasse breads
overflowing with olive oil, tomato, basil,rosemary and garlic.
A highlight of every Muse stay is a morningmarket adventure with chef Nicolas. Rich
discussions and memorable moments
are assured with the fishermen, market
gardeners, spice merchants, beekeepers from the Garrigues, and thecheese makers and wine growers fromthe surrounding hills who together produce
some of France’s finest produce.
Back in the kitchen, the amicable guidemorphs into an exacting chef, as heleads guests in creating the finest dishes
from the morning’s offerings. Chic
picnics and cooking displays are part of
his usual working day to ensure the fineart of cooking is indelibly sown into every
guest’s stay at Muse.
Throughout the day, freshly squeezed
juices are on hand as a reviving antidote
to the tropezian heat. As the sun begins toset, culinary adventures continue poolsidewith the sommelier’s signature cocktails,rosé or champagne accompanied withchef’s delicious kemia. Although theseseasonal nibbles (think the freshest minifinger sandwiches, piquillo of prawns, egg
albufera or mouclade of mussels) are verymuch part of the sundowner experience in
St Tropez, at Muse they have a suitably
exotic flair.
Naturally, the very best wines are stored inMuse cellars. Sommelier Roxane Gosse
has unearthed some hidden gems fromlocal wine producers from the finest roséand classics to the grandest grand crus
chosen specifically to guarantee the mostmemorable of moments at Muse.

Born in 1978 in Perros Guirec, a tiny
fishing village in Brittany, Nicolas Le
Toumelin has always been passionate
about food. At the age of 10 he whiled
away his afternoons chopping vegetables
for his neighbour who was a native
chef; by 15 he was cooking seafood ina local restaurant. Three years later, Le
Toumelin was in London seconded torestaurant ONE-O-ONE in the Sheraton
Park Tower in Knightsbridge, working withworld-renowned chef Pascal Proyart.
“Everything in the restaurant exuded
freshness, quality and simplicity,” hesaid of his 6 year tenure at ONE-OONE, during which time the restaurant
was awarded London’s best seafood
restaurant four years in a row.
Seeking inspiration from other cornersof the world, Le Toumelin accepted
the position of head chef of theMediterranean-inspired restaurant (oneof 40) at the Madinat Jumeirah resort in
Dubai. “I quickly realized that my cooking
style would be something unique andspecial for Dubai. My focus remained thesame: quality, freshness of product andsimplicity of preparation.” It was during thistime that Le Toumelin really mastered theuse of spices in cooking giving his dishes
an exotic twist.
A chance meeting with Adrian Jossa(Muse Co-founder) in Dubai broughtchef Nicolas home to Muse. “Museencompasses the very essence of French
hospitality – chic, luxe and simplicity – andso is the perfect fit for my belief in fresh,seasonal foods cooked to perfection,” hesaid. “Being the executive chef of such
an amazing concept couldn’t have comeat a better time for me. Working with chef
Clément Bruno, undoubtedly the world’s
best truffle chef, I am learning a novel
way of cooking with truffles. Chef Bruno
has the best and most secret sources
and, as you can imagine, the quality issimply superb. His signature dishes liketruffle feuillete, baked potato with truffle
cream are the perfect complement to my
distinctive cooking style.”
The dedicated chef’s inspiration for “M”
is to work with the finest local produce
and cook it in the simplest way possible
to truly maximize flavor, often tracking
down the best (sometimes the smallest)
producers in Provence for his herbs, olive
oil, cheeses and honey amongst otherfoods. A wide selection of these (likelavender, acacia and forest honey etc.)
will be on offer at “M.”
Le Toumelin’s muse? Undoubtedly anadventurous mermaid with a maneof long flowing hair, the colour of thebeaches of Brittany and the inky eyes of aMediterranean woman.

Le déjeuner:a poolsideaffair with emphasis
on fresh light cuisinefeaturing a large
selection of seasonal
salads; club sandwiches
from the classic to theadventurous lobster
and truffle; Andalusia
gazpacho and iberico
ham; sumptuous seafood
platters featuring blue
lobster, rock lobsterand giant tiger prawns
and St Tropez favourite

dancing prawns

Le dîner: Sea bass
baked in crust of salt
or flambé with thyme;
paella of king prawns
with cappuccino ofchorizo; pan roasted
cod with black risotto
nero; fillet of brill
crepinette with lightanchovy and basilic;duck breast with morel;
Angus Aberdeen fillet
with red wine reduction
and, of course, Chef
Bruno’s best truffles.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

105

life cuisine //life cuisine //“The most learned men have beenquestioned as to the nature of this tuber, andafter two thousand years of argument anddiscussion their answer is the same as it wason the first day: we do not know. The truffles
themselves have been interrogated, and haveanswered simply: eat us and praise the Lord.”
Alexandre Dumas (1802-1870)

Clement Bruno is widely considered one of
the best chefs in the world. His signature
restaurant, Chez Bruno in Lorgues (about
50kms from Muse) is home to the mostcoveted tables in the South of France – notto mention a celebrity clientele including
Leonardo Di Caprio and Robert de Niroand the world’s most discerning truffle
aficionados. Simply known as Bruno,
this large colourful chef brings his widely
adored style to Muse with an irresistible
menu of earthy aromatic delicacies.

Chef Clement Bruno and his exotic creations

106

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

While all of Bruno’s creative dishes
revolve around the freshest of seasonal
ingredients from local suppliers, what
captivates most is his creative genius withthis wildly expensive subterranean fungus.
For many years the truffle has been theobject of more lore and mystery than any
other single foodstuff in the world. It is thecenterpiece of most of Bruno’s dishes(Chez Bruno uses more than 1,000
kilograms of truffles annually). Whereas
other restaurateurs use truffles in minutequantities, to Bruno whole truffles are
the main ingredient. Indeed, sometimes
it is difficult to see the other ingredients
under the mound of exquisitely pungent
truffle slices with the flavors and textures
melding together in perfect harmony withthe other components of the dish.

At Muse, Bruno will work exclusively
alongside Nicolas Le Toumelin to
showcase the region’s finest cuisine
and the perfect marriage between terre
et mer.

Images from Muse Hôtel de Luxe

Muse Truffle King

Bruno embarks on this Muse adventurewith his legendary passion for the finest
ingredients and cuisine. His menu is atrue gastronomic adventure that revolves
around the four truffle seasons. From hisclassic truffle potato and truffle feuillete(whole truffle wrapped in smoked hamand pastry) to beef fillet rossini andmilk lamb options, “M” is every truffle
lover’s utopia.
“The concept of this one-of-a kind hotel
excited me because of its Tropezianroots,” says Bruno. “ The very name of St
Tropez radiates worldwide. I remember
the lovely way a friend of mine put it:‘St Tropez cemetery is so beautiful thateven the sea comes dying at its feet.’
A new restaurant is a new adventure
and I’ve always thought St Tropez did
not offer enough great tables to meet
its high-caliber clients’ rightful demands.
I’m therefore inventing a new and original
menu for Muse, associating truffles
with the sea. Naturally my muse has
black eyes and the salted scent of theMediterranean.”

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

107

life cuisine //life cuisine //Consuming
Passions

Cuisine that tempts from couture chocolate
to classic Sunday Roast.

YTL in South Africa
YTL Hotels’ first media event, the Glossy Media
Dinner, was held at the Tintswalo Atlantic in CapeTown, South Africa on Saturday, 22 May. The event,attended by top South African journalists and travel
writers, showcased the YTL collection of luxury
resorts, across Malaysia and on the Indonesian islandof Bali, including YTL’s branded Spa Village. Guests
were treated to a gorgeous and unique spread of
Malaysian cuisine specially prepared by executive
chefs Wai Look Chow and Johann Ong, both fromthe award-winning Pangkor Laut Resort in Malaysia. A
casual, yet chic cocktail party was also held Tintswalo
in Johannesburg for local travel agents.

Bottom left: Chef Wai
Look Chow andChef Johann Ong;
Bottom right: Sarah
Cairns, Executive Vice
President Marketing
Communications, YTL
Hotels, with guests

108

YTL’s Roving Ambassador, Andrew Shapland,
explains how this trip came about: “Having travelled
the world extensively I am privileged to have seen
so many beautiful destinations, yet I often wonder
why Malaysia captured my inner sense and why I
accepted a gracious invitation to tell the story of YTL
Hotels in the USA and South Africa. James McBride,
President of YTL Hotels, introduced me to theirworld and I left my home near Table Mountain, CapeTown, on January evening to visit Kuala Lumpur.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

From the moment I discovered Tanjong Jara
Resort on the secluded shores of the South
China Sea, I knew that Malaysia was going tomean a lot to me – it touched my inner sense
and I discovered a real sense of harmony fromwithin. From the magnificent Spa Village to thewelcoming service and beautiful views, a little
taste of paradise was unveiled. Pangkor LautResort was next. From the very beginning I
was completely taken aback: my own private
island in the Straits of Malacca with one of themost pristine beaches on earth and an amazing
jungle-like interior – so stunning. The signaturedish here is lemony dancing prawns, sodelicious I had to meet Chef Wai and invite him
to South Africa to share his fine cuisine. Bothhe, Chef Hooi and Sarah Cairns then brought
YTL’s story to our country. South African
Airways flew our Malaysian team to Cape Town
and from there to Johannesburg.
Now I understand the YTL catch line, ‘Treasured
places, treasured moments. The sights, sounds
and magic of YTL Hotels.’

Couture Chocolate

The art of chocolate connoisseurshipb l e n d s s e a m l e s s l y with the worldof couture in Giorgio Armani’s latest
confectionary range. The Armani/
Dolce pralines come in seductively
unusual blends such as dark chocolatewith green tea, and milk chocolate withlime and rum, presented in Armani’s
signature packaging. As the maestro
once said about his famous clothing,b u t e q u a l l y r e l e v a n t h e r e , “ I t ’s allabout good taste.” Now available at
Carlton Gourmet in The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur.

Life’s Simple Pleasures

Top Tips: The Perfect Sunday Roast

Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur Executive Sous Chef, Mohd Firdaous reveals his
top tips on how to roast meat perfectly, every time.
1. Chilling meat at around 5°C for 2 to 4 days before roasting locks inmoisture and keeps it tender, a process called ‘ageing’.
2. Add more fat to leaner cuts of meat to help infuse deeper flavours
during cooking.
3. Garlic, thyme and rosemary are aromatic flavours that infuse well withbeef marinades. Massage herbs gently into the meat and allow at least 24
hours(chilled at 5 degrees), for the delicious flavours to permeate.
4. Cooking temperature should initially be quite high to seal in the juices.
To cook a 4kg roast, start at 200°C for 20 min, and then reduce heat to
70°C for 3 hrs to achieve a better texture through slow cooking.
5. Once cooked, rest the roasted meat for at least 20 minutes before
carving to lock in the flavoursome juices and aromas.

Fresh Niseko asparagus has all therichness and colour of summer, says
Hilton Niseko Village Executive Sous Chef
Rob Shipman. “It’s so fresh and sweettasting it would be a sin to mask it with any
strong flavours!” Instead, he recommends
wrapping 12 asparagus spears, two
teaspoons each of butter, olive oil andwhite wine, with a little salt and pepper, ina snug tin foil parcel. Steam on a BBQ for
five minutes each side. Serve as an entréewith a crisp white wine. Feeds four.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

109

entertaining life //Shook!’, the Swatch Art Peace Hotel’s
exclusive bars and restaurant sets thescene for a glamorous gourmet dining
experience

Time to Shine

Shanghai’s Grand Dame celebrates her rebirth.
Text by Edward Soon

If wine is like art, there is no better home forthe world’s finest wines than at Shanghai’s
most famous icon – the soon-to-be-open
Swatch Art Peace Hotel. Located in prime
position at the intersection of Nanjing Road
and the Bund, the historic hotel has beentransformed under the creative leadershipof the Swatch Group into a dynamic anddesign-savvy retail environment and hotel
intended for invited artists who will live,
work and exhibit their creations there. The
Hotel Residence also extends its hospitality
to guests who can book one of the threeexquisitely themed suites or four artfully
designed rooms.
But there is more as the hotel’s exclusive
bar and dining scene – provocatively
named ‘Shook!’ (a successful YTL-owned
F&B brand originating from Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia) – and operated by YTL Hotels,
is set to become a magnet for Shanghai’schic and savvy residents with a series ofversatile spaces catering to different moods

110

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

and weathers.Three bars, a showcase
kitchen and private dining rooms offer
gourmet dining and one of the best wine
lists in town.
Take the intimate ‘Time Bar’, for example,
with its sophisticated and cosmopolitan
blend of Shanghai cool and Europeanclub, offering a neat line in unusual
cocktails like the ‘Shanghai Secret’,and fresh juices and smoothies with an
optional “hydro-protein supplement”.
Think timeless Shanghai style with a very
modern twist.
Feeling like some air ? Then head up to
the rooftop lounge cum bar, ‘Rootz on the
Bund’. Designed to impress, the lounge
boasts an exclusive atmosphere andhighly attentive staff. The panoramic viewof Shanghai city and the waterfront isbreathtaking. Guest DJs will spin the latest
tunes while you sip on champagne, stir
your martini and contemplate the good life.

Meanwhile, the chic rooftop lounge
seduces guests with stunning panoramic
views of the world’s most dynamic city andits dramatic waterfront: there are few places
that combine such spectacular views with
intimacy and old fashioned glamour. Enjoy
an aperitif and music selections before
slipping downstairs to the show kitchen to
feast on creative Chinese, Japanese andSouth East Asian cuisines.
And best of all, the wines. Lining bothwalls of the entrance hallway leading to
the restaurant are exquisitely designed
wine cellars showcasing some of thefinest wine collections in the world. You
will find yourself in a pleasurable dilemma
as you look through the stellar selectionof champagne. It will be difficult to decide
between celebrated labels such as
Armand de Brignac, which is rated number
one champagne in the world; Krug Closde Mesnil, which is favored by critics,
collectors and connoisseurs alike; Louis

Roederer Cristal and Dom Pérignon’s
Oenothèque Rosé.
The centerpiece of the wine cellar ismade up of two rare vertical collectionsof Bordeaux’s elite estates – Chateau
Cheval Blanc and Chateau d’Yquem. The
enigmatic Chateau Cheval Blanc is a
profound and poetic interpretation of
its unique terroir in Saint Emilion, often
irresistibly charming to many with its“cashmere tannins” as described by Mr.
Pierre Lurton, the estate’s Managing
Director. Chateau d’Yquem too, stands
out as a vision of mystique and eternal
grace, well known as the ‘liquid gold’of Bordeaux and a first growth of theSauternes appellation.
Each collection features one bottle ofeach vintage from 1945 to 2008; eacha treasured series containing hard-to-findold vintages that are much sought after byfine wine collectors all over the world.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

111

life feature //

1

1

2

3

Read &
ListenYTL’s music man Gavin
Aldred shares his top
picks for summer – andalll year round.

Gavin Aldred is the musical genius behindthe signature theme song playing on the
YTL Hotel website. His globetrotting career
as a retailer and management consultant
has seen him living in the South of France,
Kuwait, and Australia. Currently commuting
between London and Los Angeles, Aldred
spends much of his time in the air, often
citing the hum of Rolls Royce jet engines asa source of his creativity.

112

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEMy Favourite Books

1. A Small Treatise on the Great Virtues, by Andre Comte-Sponville – The author
is a professor of philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris, which for many will not bodewell for enjoyable reading! However, this book has become my bible, in my mostly vain
attempts to lead a better life. Packed with knowledge and wisdom from greatest minds
through the ages, plus Comte-Sponville’s acerbic wit and challenging thinking, this isthe book I constantly re-read anywhere and everywhere. He takes 18 virtues, such as
justice, charity, love, and generosity, and examines their meaning – not just as virtues
in themselves – but also how they relate to other ways of thinking and behaving. For
example, generosity linked with mercy becomes leniency; linked with gentleness theresult is kindness. Constantly surprising and beautifully written (especially as this is atranslation from the French original), this is the most inspirational book I have ever read.

My Favourite Music

2. Underworld by Don deLillo – Along with Philip Roth, Don deLillo is the best writer ofthe English language alive today. It’s not easy to describe this book. It’s definitely about
America, spanning the time of the Cuban missile crisis to the early 1990s. It’s about how
we suppress things such as thoughts, ideas, and emotions, only for them to rear up fromour own personal underworlds - like deLillo imagines buried nuclear waste might one day
arise from the earth. It is “non-linear” in that the story is constantly jumping between topics
and it is definitely too long! However, what I enjoy most is the wonderfully elegant writing
and the amazing powers of description. Like a pool with only a deep end – you can jumpin anywhere for an instant frisson.

2. J. S. Bach - The Goldberg Variations played by Glenn Gould – This 1981
piano version is simply sublime. Originally written for harpsichord (the sound of which
I loathe) in 1741, it is an aria plus 30 variations. Count Kaiserling, the former Russian
ambassador to Saxony, commissioned this piece to be played by an underling, a Mr
Goldberg, for the insomniac Count when he was ill or couldn’t sleep (which was often).
It is fiendishly difficult in parts, with Bach himself coaching Goldberg on how to play it.

3. Anything on Picasso – I simply love the man and his work. I also prefer looking at pictures
to reading words. His ability to master a style and then abandon it for something morechallenging, combined with his tremendous work rate (at times almost one masterpiece aday) is a constant inspiration. He said, “Action is the foundation key of all progress”. This is sotrue. I tried to be a painter myself once and know first-hand hand how difficult it is to work inoils. It remains a mystery to me how he could produce such breathtaking images so quickly
using such a difficult medium. Like a penitent at the Vatican, whenever I’m in Paris, I always
visit the Musee Picasso to see his handiwork close up. He also said “When we love a woman
we don’t start measuring her limbs”. Perhaps I should stop trying to measure and just love.

1. U2 - All That You Can’t Leave Behind – My favourite band. Constantly developing
and constantly inspirational, this album marked a real turning point for U2. Alreadyrock legends, they didn’t rest on their laurels and with this album set about (in theirown words) “to reapply for the job of the best band in the world”. It worked. The
album debuted at number one in 22 countries, with the opening track, “Beautiful
Day”, becoming a global anthem. The album and subsequent singles earned them
yet another fistful of Grammys (they have won more than any other band to date). I
particularly love the track “Kite”, most especially the lines, “Who’s to say where thewind will take you, who’s to know what it is will break you, I don’t know which way thewind will blow”. Life, eh?

23

3. The Beatles - The White Album – I can cite almost every Beatles album. They
inspire me to write better songs, yet at the same time almost make me want to giveup completely as I will probably never write anything as good. The first album I everbought was Sgt Pepper in 1967, when I was 11. The Beatles – The White Album wasreleased a year later and is creative genius at play. It is a simply breathtaking range ofmusical styles and arrangements across 30 tracks from pumping rock, e.g. “Back in
the USSR” (with McCartney on drums), lyrical ballads like “Blackbird”, to avant-gardewith “Revolution No .9”. Eric Clapton plays lead on “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”.
In many ways this album marked the start of the end for the band. Yoko was involved
and the band was not getting on. But if this album is the result, creative conflict may
not be such a bad thing after all!

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

113

life feature //life of luxury //Luxury on Demand

Our love affair with technology continues
with a new, rather compelling reason to
covet a Vertu phone: the Vertu Concierge– a wish-granting genie service accessibleat the push of one sleek button. As well
as offering assistance and advice throughthe day and night, the exceptionally welltrained staff are on-hand to arrange dinnerreservations, concert tickets and evendinner with Queen Elizabeth (forward
thinking Vertu staff recently arranged
for tickets to a charity dinner where
Her Majesty was present). A host ofother useful features on the latest Vertu
Signature make this a truly addictive blendof style and impeccable service.

Objets of Desire

Modern designs set the scene for sleek sophistication.
Design Winners

It was the kind of product positioning that most established furniture designers would killfor. At the recent Bottega Veneta 2010 Design Competition, the Italian fashion house
unveiled the results of a challenge presented to students of architecture at the Universityof Tokyo - to design a furniture piece that served a purpose for someone seated whilereflecting the luxury company’s tradition of handcraftsmanship. The stunning results,
infused with traditional Japanese aesthetics and an unmistakable modern craftsman’s
touch, were created by winners Fujimoto, Suzuki and Takada – and have alreadyappeared on the hot list of collectors world-wide.

114

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Lines of Beauty

When French product designer Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance and Ligne Roset firstcollaborated on a luxury hotel project in Marrakech, they discovered a common passion
for Moroccan design. The happy result of their endeavours is the striking Ottoman
range, widely described as the ‘zenitude’ in comfort and well being. The designer’s
playful vision and formidable expertise in quilting and colour proved a perfect fit to
the luxury furniture brand’s modern, progressive and quirky personality. Sporting a
blend of decidedly organic and oriental design characteristics, the pouffe, transformed
into a sumptuous contemporary sofa, would look equally perfect in an abode of thestaunchest minimalist.

World’s Best Dressed iPad

While the world waited impatiently for2010’s hottest tech product, the Apple
iPad, luxury fashion industry leader Louis
Vuitton launched its equally sleek musthave: the LV iPad case. Apple’s perfect
partner-in-style comes in signature
Monogram and Damier Graphite designs
combining functionality, desirability andundeniable tech-chic appeal completewith a water- and scratch-resistantsurface.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

115

NATURE’S BOUNTY

The state of Perak is
known for its Indian
temples. Maniam andI passed many before
I was compelled tostop and visit thisparticular temple --oneof the largest in thearea and renowned for
its intricate artwork

Renowned Malaysian photographer Nikt Wong embarks on an adventurefilled journey discovering the allure of Pangkor Laut Resort’s pristine beauty.
Fingers of light were just streaking the sky when Maniam ( the driverand companion for the day ) turned into the Guthrie highway towards ourultimate destination: Pangkor Laut Resort -- a richly verdant paradise
blessed with the most exotic flora and fauna imaginableMy destination -- Pangkor LautResort: I couldn't wait to feel the
fresh sea breeze against my skinand bask in the resort's signature
warmth and hospitality

Nasi lemak - a popular
local breakfast dish ofbeautifully fragrant
rice cooked in richcoconut milk,with sides
of fiery red sambal
and fried anchovies,
garnished with egg andcucumber slices. Simply
perfect!

The pungent dried salted fish
is a local specialty that is foundin abundance at the Pangkor
town marketplace

I saw these beautiful porcelain
blue and white tea cups at theentrance of the resort's spa. To
me,they symbolised the hospitality
and graciousness of a bygone era

Sarawak is known as the Landof the Hornbill. But Pangkor
Laut is home to the fruit-eating
Oriental Pied Hornbill -- a real
beauty that I was lucky enoughto glimpse while taking a walkalong the Resort's Royal Bay

These brightly colourful floral
arrangements are found all over the
resort -- they're a welcoming sight!

I was walking along the beautiful Spa Villas when thisview of Coral Bay captivated me...

Canapes aboard the teakwood
oriental Sunset Cruise junk
- a must for lovers andindeed everyone!

The c

ut-ou
walls t windows
that
resor
surro on theset eleg
undin
antly
g
breat
f
r
htakiname t the
he
g sce
nery

This mesmerizing sunset of violet and pink peppered with shades of gold
proved to me that Pangkor Laut Resort truly is paradise on earth

Inspired by traditional Malay architectural design,the resort's brightly lit
Sea Villas are built on stilts silhouetted against the velvety dusk sky

nw_100515_0526
nw_100515_0526

The wildly exotic two-toned
hibiscus on the shores of
Emerald Bay - a poignant
memento of a holiday
filled with exquisite beauty
and warmth - memories
of Pangkor Laut's
charming natural
treasuresportfolio of life //Quiet, luxurious, discreet – just three worthwhile reasons to visit YTL hotels.

1

1. Muse Hôtel de Luxe Savour thesun-drenched Provencal scenery in thisboutique hotel nestled minutes from St
Tropez, France. It features the authentic
rusticity of a traditional mill made of stone,
with just 15 suites, all with their own
private gardens; ten have pools. Muse
captures the very essence of the Frenchcountryside in a truly intimate setting.
2. Tanjong Jara Resort Located on
the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia,
Tanjong Jara is an oasis of luxury and wellbeing steeped in age-old Malay traditions.
Fronted by an emerald sea and shaded bytall palms rustling in the breeze, this is theperfect place to unwind, relax and simply
be at one with the unspoilt surrounds.

2
122

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

3

3. Pangkor Laut Resort is a privately
owned island located three miles off thewest coast of Peninsular Malaysia in
the Straits of Malacca. This little slice ofparadise has been two million years in
the making, and nestling in the shade offorest giants is Pangkor Laut, one of theworld’s premier resorts. The experienceis sublime – secluded bays curled aroundpristine beaches, sultry evening skies
woven with colour and a deep sense of
serenity reserved exclusively for guests.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

123

portfolio of life //portfolio of life //

4

5

7

6
4. The Majestic Malacca is an integral
part of this historical city’s colourful
past. The original mansion, dating backto the 1920s, remains at the heart of
the hotel, with a new building (mirroring
the original architecture) housing 54
spacious rooms and suites. The design
seamlessly integrates old with new, toensure an experience that is authentic yet
comfortable and luxurious.

this tranquil hideaway promises all the
splendour, romance and nostalgia of
its grand colonial heritage. Tall Frenchdoors, timber-beamed ceilings andplantation shutters are just a few of
the added design touches. This is theideal place to enjoy a refreshing roundof golf, a pink-cheeked ramble along
jungle trails, or a leisurely walk throughtea plantations and strawberry farms.

5. The Chedi, Phuket Surroundedby the azure waters of the Andaman
Sea and lush wooded hills, The Chedi
Phuket offers its guests a choice of 108
thatched cottages under a canopy ofcoconut palms. Its landscaped slopes
gently descend to meet a private stretchof sandy beach. The appeal of thespacious 89 one-bedroom and 19 twobedroom cottages is further enhanced byprivate verandahs, secluded sun decks,
and handcrafted teak floors.

7. Niseko Village Set at the foot of
the Niseko Annupuri Mountain, Japan’s
premier ski resort on Hokkaido Island,
Niseko Village is the perfect base fromwhich to enjoy a range of year roundoutdoor activities. Ski in possibly theworld’s best powder slopes during
winter, or golf, cycle, walk and enjoy thebreathtaking Japanese scenery during
the summer months. After a day ofactivity, relax with a soak in the natural hot
spring bath, or unwind with a massage inthe hotel’s spa before enjoying perfectly
prepared traditional teppanyaki in thestylish Japanese restaurant, Ren.

6. Cameron Highlands Resort Set
amid rolling hills and tea plantations,

124

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

8. Vistana Kuala Lumpur is a 364-room
hotel strategically located within the hubof Malaysia’s capital city. Convenience is
key here, with ready access to bustling
Kuala Lumpur, from the Ampang Rail Lineand KL Monorail to the hop-on, hop-off
site-seeing tour buses.
9. The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur
A stay at the exclusive Ritz-Carlton is
the perfect opportunity to experiencea modern city in which ancient rivers
converge and the sights, sounds andflavours of Malaysia are omnipresent.
Home to the magnificent Petronas Twin
Towers, Kuala Lumpur is rich in culture
and tradition. At The Ritz-Carlton, guests
can soothe both body and mind withexpertly delivered spa treatments, indulge
in award-winning cuisine and avail of themagic of this vibrant city.

8

9

10
10. A quarter of a mile in length, theEastern & Oriental Express luxury
train recaptures the golden age of rail
travel through one of the world’s mostbeautiful and exotic regions. Gourmet
cuisine, personal service and luxuriously
appointed cabins combine in delightful
harmony as the train gently rolls throughtropical forests close to the Equator.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

125

portfolio of life //portfolio of life //portfolio of life //

12

11

13

14
reservations and excursions to nearby
Windsor, river cruises, golf, horse-riding
and other pursuits can be arranged.

15

16
11. Spa Village Kuala Lumpur This
unique retreat offers the world’s mostsophisticated therapies integrated withtraditional healing practices of the region.
Paying tribute to Malaysia’s fascinating
cultural diversity and rich healing heritage,this most stylish of spas seamlessly
blends ancient and modern practices ,using natural local ingredients to deliver
blissful relaxation and rejuvenation.
12. Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali
Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali is ahaven of peace and calm, combining thenaturally therapeutic value of its beautiful
location with an ancient and rich cultural
heritage. Reflecting its innate spirituality,
the environment is soft and serene aspeople go about their day in a caring
manner that brings calm to the harried,and peace to the stressed. At Spa
Village Resort Tembok Bali it is possible torecapture one’s sense of self.
13. Spa Village Malacca The Spa Village
Malacca is the world’s only spa to base its

126

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

17

therapies on the healing heritage of theBaba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture - a
unique combination of Chinese and Malay
influences. The spa is spread acrossthe first two floors of the new wing andprovides a serene environment in which
one can rest, recuperate and rejuvenate
in the care of some of the world’s best
therapists.
14. Spa Village Tanjong Jara At Spa
Village Tanjong Jara time-tested health andbeauty traditions are revived in the most
comforting surrounds. Guests can benefit
from a comprehensive programme oftherapies created using unique ingredientsfrom indigenous herbs and plants, alongwith the skills of resident Malay healers.
15. Spa Village Pangkor Laut The
Spa Village at Pangkor Laut Resort is aunique ultra-exclusive retreat that extols
the healing cultures of Malaysia’s diverse
history of people and cultures and vast
abundance of exotic natural resources..
The abundance of Malay, Chinese, Indian18
and Thai practices makes this the ideal
tranquil setting for complete rejuvenationof body and soul.

19

20

16. Spa Village Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands Resort features thethird wellness centre of the award-winning
Spa Village brand with a wide range of
sophisticated treatments and healing
therapies inspired by the restorative
properties of tea. Each guest luxuriates
in a signature tea bath before every
treatment. Cameron Highlands Spa
Village offers tranquil indoor and outdoor
treatment rooms, tea bath rooms and afully-equipped gymnasium.
17. Bray House, England. A 17th
century manor turned boutique hotel
located in Berkshire, England is theundisputed jewel among YTL Hotels
featuring a masterful mix of eclectic artistic
decor and modern comfort. It is a private
residence offering a glamorous escape,bespoke service and accommodation with
the intimate comforts of home. Restaurant

18. JW Marriot Kuala Lumpur This
29-storey, 561-room hotel is ideallylocated for the modern traveller in theheart of Kuala Lumpur’s exciting “Golden
Triangle”, the city s prime business andshopping district, and adjoining to theprestigious Starhill Gallery. It is also
strategically located on “Bintang Walk”,
the lively and vibrant shopping strip where
luxury shopping centres house a highlysophisticated mix of brands, restaurants
and entertainment outlets.
19.Villa Tassana, Phuket Set amidst a
tropical forest on a craggy cliff overlooking
the beautiful emerald green Andaman Sea,
Villa Tassana offers the epitome of modern
sophistication married with signature
Thai hospitality. and gives a whole newmeaning to getting away from it all.
20. Swatch Art Peace Hotel
Residences Under the leadership of The
Swatch Group, the Swatch Art Peace
Hotel hosts a unique community ofinternational and Chinese artists. Locatedon the Bund, this urban oasis features
18 workshop-apartments, where invitedartists live and work and 7 guest suites
that comprise the Swatch Art Peace Hotel
Residence. Residence guests enjoy thecreative buzz of life among artists, theaward-winning ‘Shook!’ restaurant andshopping at exclusive Breguet, OMEGA,
Blancpain and Swatch boutiques.
Opening Summer 2010.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE127

my life // life cuisine

Clear
Favourites

In an exclusive interview, British actressAnna Friel shares the people, faces, tastes
and experiences that make her world.
An indulgence I would never forgo is... tea with sugar and full fat milk, dark
chocolate, cheese and wine, and beautiful holidays.
My favourite room is... my bedroom in Windsor. The walls are filled with preRaphaelite paintings and I have a beautiful bed with hearts carved into it; it’s oneof my favourite pieces of furniture. My windows overlook a long walk. There’s
nothing better than waking up on a spring morning and looking out over theGreat Park. But I do love waking up to the sound of water lapping around thestilts at the Sea Villas at Pangkor Laut in Malaysia. If there was a way of joining
the two together, I would be in my element.
The book(s) on my bedside table are... speak with Distinction, (a great bookon accents) by Edith Skinner .Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert . The Girl with
the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. The Late Hector Kipling, written by mypartner David Thewlis, which I am reading again and some scripts
In my fridge you will always find... pretty healthy things, to be honest, likechicken, eggs, greens, the odd Coke (for when I just need it), my daughter
Gracie’s school snacks and usually some sort of stew or soup, which I make inbulk so I don’t go for the naughty stuff.
My playlist includes... Oasis, Kasabian, Bonnie Prince Billy, Jay Z, Kanye
West, lots of classical, Desi Friel (my dad), Lady GaGa, Abba, Marina and the
Diamonds.
My most memorable spa treatment is... the week of Ayurvedic treatments I
enjoyed at Pangkor Laut. when oil was continually dripped on my head whilst I
was being massaged. I hadn’t been sleeping well after a long run in the theatre,
so my hours were all over the place. Gracie and I went to Pangkor Laut fora true break. The spa was like none I had ever visited. The treatments were
designed to fix my sleeping patterns. I slept like I used to as a child. I would goback again just for that
The most memorable place I have to been recently... Pangkor Laut was myfirst holiday in three years. It was totally private, quiet and new. Gracie and I weretreated like princesses by the most delightful staff I have ever come across. The
food was exceptional, the surroundings idyllic, and the Olympic-sized infinity
pool encouraged me to swim one kilometre a day. I have been spoiled for life.
What makes me smile? People who are funny and warm; my baby girl,
Gracie; getting a great job; eating good cheese and drinking a wonderful bottleof wine; and of course my family.
A lasting memory from my childhood is the trips to Ireland where my family
live; wonderful music and the beautiful countryside where we spent our holidays.