InsPiring you to reach your dreams #18 /JUNE 2010
GOING PLACES
TRAVEL BONANZA From Mauritius to New York and elsewhere, we’ve been there WALES WORLDWIDE We talk to the founder of Wikipedia BACK TO BLIGHTY 15 SeaFrance Calais-Dover crossings to be won EDITORIAL We’re going places – are you?
The theme for this edition is Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales. Our very own unmistakably travel oriented Gilly Maxim has also been doing her fair share of listening, as she enjoys a chat with Isabelle and, assuming that no further Netus, the owner of Brussels’ dynamic volcanoes erupt to spoil your fashion boutiques Village Verve. plans, Together is doing everything possible to make Elsewhere, on the gastronomic front, we have your summer swing. Alex Hewetson and co-editor James Drew enjoying a Bordeaux 1997 and fine food tasting ow many travel features? Well, session at La Femme du Sommelier it’s not my place to spoil all the restaurant, and our very own sommelier, Eric surprises here, but suffice it to Boschman, reviews two more eateries in the say that we take in New York Brussels vicinity. (Emma Portier Davis), Thailand (DavidH Griffiths), Mauritius (yours truly, David Mc All this, plus fashion, art, culture and more than Gowan) and Benidorm (Federico Grandesso, a little fun – we only hope that your holidays live yes him again). Now don’t say that we don’t spoil up to our expectations! you, eh?
John Sheridan, following his remarkably prescient analysis of the Liberal Democrats’ options with following a hung parliament in the UK general elections, returns with a trenchant, informative study of the problems that persist concerning the Belgian government (or lack thereof) while, on a more positive note, Natasha Abudarham is back with tips on reducing negativity in life via language. David Mc Gowan Publisher Competition wise, we’ve remained with the travel theme, teaming up with SeaFrance to offer 15 return Channel crossings and elsewhere, co-editor Colin Moors (as well as offering his customary take on the latest Must-Haves) has the chance to speak with none other than © Stephanie Cornfield
June 10 Together – 3 4 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 5 CONTENTs
24 38 3 EDITORIAL 10 COMPETITION We’re going places - sailing by are you? seaFrance 8 FORWARD TOGETHER 12 PEOPLE IN BRUSSELS sight seeing Famous faces
GOING 16 INTERVIEW 46 Temptations PLACES Lucky Jim? scents-sational 20 Going Places 48 MUST-HAVES ‘Thai-ed’ to his cycle A taste for travel 24 DRESS TO IMPRESS 50 Sensual secrets Natural beauty The elements of surprise summer style 52 GOING places 36 INTERVIEW Long Island nice spree Verve-acious! The New Forest: Always 38 GOING PLACES a discovery Mauritius: Clubs ‘Med’ in heaven Paradise found Benidorm – in style 44 GO GET IT! Three little words
REPORTAGES 70 POINT OF VIEW 86 The places to be BHV: ‘Bewildering’, ‘Hot’, star studded ‘Volatile’? Fresh openings 74 MONEY 88 Luxury – with and shops, dead gorgeous without lucre 90 FOR ARTS SAKE 78 Brussels on The move Bram-a-lam-a-ding-dong! share and share alike 94 DIARY 80 By the glass Together’s ‘To Do’ list 1997 Bordeaux: 98 LE CHAT ‘A drinkers’ year’ 84 Eat Together Wining, dining Voyage to Viage
6 – Together #18 FORWARD TOGETHER Sight seeing From a casino to Cannes, Armand-Richelet Kleinberg brings you sound and vision, par excellence.
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To check out these great videos and more, go to www.together-magazine.eu/videos.shtml
8 – Together #18 COMPETITION
Sailing by SeaFrance With Together’s emphasis very much on travel for this edition, we have teamed up with SeaFrance to offer 15 lucky readers the opportunity to cross the Channel to Blighty (that’s the United Kingdom, for the uninitiated) absolutely free.
eaFrance is the only French THE PRIZE maritime company to ply the Together has teamed up with Calais-Dover route – the SeaFrance SeaFrance to offer 15 return crossings fleet boasts three ships, the (each worth 150€), with a maximum of SeaFrance Berlioz, honoured in five people per car. All you have to do is 2003S as most innovative craft in maritime send us your answers to the two simple crossings, the SeaFrance Rodin and the questions below, along with your name, SeaFrance Molière, the first ferry of more than address and daytime telephone number, 200 metres to cross the Channel. With such to [email protected], labelling modern ferries, which feature resolutely your email SeaFrance Competition. The innovative design and guarantee absolute deadline for all entries is 30th June comfort, SeaFrance offers a warm welcome and 2010, when the winners will be selected all the charm of a cruise. Leave your car in the at random. Good luck! hold and stroll on the bridge to watch the Calais coast gradually disappear in the (i) How long is the SeaFrance Molière? distance, while the cliffs of Dover appear over a. 100 metres the bow and, of course, ferry crossings offer all b. 150 metres the advantages of classy bars and restaurants, c. More than 200 metres children’s play areas and shops featuring very attractive prices. (ii) Which ship is not part of SeaFrance’s fleet? SeaFrance does everything to fulfil its a. SeaFrance Molière passengers’ expectations, and we’re sure you’ll b. SeaFrance Rodin find that the 90-minute crossing passes far too c. SeaFrance Cézanne quickly. Competition organized under the supervision of So, why not enjoy a return trip with a bailiff. Full rules available on request. SeaFrance, and share your travel Organizer: Together Magazine, Boulevard experiences at www.seafrance.com? Saint-Michel 47, 1040 Brussels.
10 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 11 PEOPLE IN BRUSSELS
Famouswriter : federico grandesso faces
The stars shine in Europe’s capital.
FOOTBALL ITALIA The Italian football team faced Mexico in a friendly match on 3rd June in the Roi Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, following a 25th anniversary commemoration of the Heysel tragedy. The final score, perhaps surprisingly, was 1-2 to Mexico.
CHRISTOPHE WILLEM Appearing on 2nd June at the Forest National, singer Christophe Willem presented his second album Caféine – 19 songs for which, during the NRJ awards in January, he took home the Best Male Francophone Artist prize.
NORAH JONES Forest National will host diva Norah Jones on 29th June, where she will sing from her fourth album, The Fall, which is themed around pop, folk and country rhythms. The American singer is set to visit Belgium again on 7th July, during the Gent Jazz Festival.
CHARLOTTE GAINSBOURG Actor-turned-singer Charlotte Gainsbourg will take to the stage of the Cirque Royal De Bruxelles on 19th June – folllowing the album 5.55, which she created with Air and Jarvis Cocker, she will now present IRM, produced in collaboration with Beck. Her tour, which began in April in North America, will continue across Europe until the end of July.
12 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 13 “All travel has its advantages. If the passenger visits better countries, he may learn to improve his own. And if fortune carries him to worse, he may learn to enjoy it.” – Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English poet, essayist, moralist, literary critic, biographer, editor and lexicographer
“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” – Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) Irish writer and poet
“Of all the unbearable nuisances, the ignoramus that has travelled is the worst.” – Kin Hubbard (1868-1930) American cartoonist, humorist and journalist
“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by. And that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost (1874-1963) American poet, The Road Not Taken
“What you’ve done becomes the judge of what you’re going to do – especially in other people’s minds. When you’re travelling, you are what you are right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.” – William Least Heat-Moon (1939-) American travel writer, Blue Highways
GOING PLACES Interview
Lucky Jim? writer : COLIN MOORS
© Wikipedia Together talks to Jimmy content similar to what you might find in Wales, a man who is an Maxim magazine. Bomis provided the revenue (via advertising) and the server unqualified success in the space to host what was to be probably world of internet Jimmy’s biggest failure to date – but applications and who, also one that led to Wikipedia as we with the creation of know it today. Wikipedia, has changed the way people use the Nupedia was the name of his first free encyclopaedia, which was created by internet and what they professionals, paid for by advertising expect from it. and open to all. Having spent nearly a quarter of a million dollars and not even o you need to know the reaching twenty entries, he took the result of the English radical step of creating a new source of Football Association (FA) data. A free, open and peer-reviewed Cup Final in 1956? site that anyone could edit. He originally Information about the intended it as a source to feed his LochD Ness monster? A potted life Nupedia project, but this sat badly with history of Steve McQueen? If you run a the Nupedia professional contingent. A search on any of these topics in any separate domain was set up, based on major search engine, you will find that a new method of editing content called the most salient and readable content a ‘wiki’ (coming from the Hawaiian word will be on Jimmy’s baby – Wikipedia. It ‘wiki’, meaning ‘fast’). Nupedia was will be a top five listing too, such is the doomed from that day on. trust put in the product. Speaking to Tampa Bay Online, Jimmy FAILURE FIRST outlined his appreciation of failure: It may come as a surprise, then, to learn the secret of Jimmy’s success – failure. • Fail faster. If a project is doomed, Jimmy has failed at least three times to shut it down quickly. do what he set out to achieve. His story • Don’t tie your ego to any one project. If it began with success – his job stumbles, you’ll be unable to move forward. Jimmy has in finance, in a company • Real entrepreneurs fail. failed at least called Chicago Options • Fail a lot. But enjoy yourself along the way. Associates, led to him • If you handle these things well, you three times making enough money to will succeed. to do what plough into other projects. he set out to His next avenue was mildly Naturally, faced with a man who has failed achieve successful, a site called in such a successful way, Together was bomis.com – catering to the intrigued to find out a little more about young male market with him, Take it away, Jimmy.
16 – Together #1817 June 10 Together – 17 INTERVIEW EXPRESS expression – that is to say, it makes no Together: There is a raft of information sense to say that one person has the available on the web – and, indeed – in right to free speech, if others are not the world. Why you? Why Wikipedia? allowed to read or listen. As such, it is JW: Why not? One of the things that I impossible to participate or compromise always tell people is that I am a carpenter, in human rights violations. Currently not an architect. By this I mean that I believe Wikipedia is mostly available but – one reason for my success is that I’m willing outside our control – some pages are to sit down and start working on something filtered. We hope to continue to work without asking questions like “Why me?” with the Chinese government to encourage them to abandon those filters The working model of Wikipedia seems in due course. – if you will pardon the word – impossible. Yet, it works and works How many articles (in all languages) very well. Why do you think people does Wikipedia carry at the moment, don’t just log in and deface large and what’s the target? portions of others’ hard work? People There are around 15 million entries today. do it in public, why not ‘anonymously’? There is no target in terms of a number of The key is in the expression articles, though. The goal is stated in this ‘accountability, not gate keeping’. The way – to have a free encyclopedia for software keeps track of who every single person on the planet in their ‘It makes no is doing what, and makes it own language. One way of looking at that easy for us to block is to say I want us to have 250,000 entries sense to say troublemakers. Also, all past in every language spoken by at least 1 that one versions are kept, so it is easy million people. person has to restore to the proper state if the right to someone tries to cause harm. What is coming up in the next ten In a nutshell, the philosophy is years of Wikipedia? Are we likely free speech, if to abandon the concept of to see any radical changes? others are not ‘absolute security’ and instead We will see some big changes in the allowed to work to make it slightly more editing process – making it easier for new read or listen’ difficult to cause harm, and editors. But I think the end result – the slightly easier to do good. And look of Wikipedia when you visit it – will be the result follows. essentially the same. Perhaps up to date with the style of the times, but in terms of You refused to co-operate with China text plus pictures, it should be more or in anything less than a completely less the same. transparent way regarding the accessibility of Wikipedia in China. We ask this question of all our Was this a personally political or an high-profile interviewees – what are the egalitarian stance, or maybe a bit of keys to your success? both? What is the availability of I think it is more or less what I mentioned Wikipedia behind the ‘Great Firewall of above – I like to simply sit down and make China’ at present? things, to get things done, without waiting For me, access to knowledge is a human for permission or approval, without asking right – a corollary of the right to freedom of “why me?”. I just like to have fun.
18 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 19 GOING PLACES ‘Thai-ed’
towriter: DAVID GRIFFITHS his cycle
Had a little too much the Charity Rallies website of the UK charity chocolate? Need to shift a Go Help which, among other events, few kilos and take in some organizes the Mongolia Charity Rally. The scenery? Our writer, a laptop was an essential piece of kit. trustee of the ‘Go Help’ Mid-June found me cycling along palm charity, did – so he cycled tree-lined seashores with regular stops on the length of Thailand. Be deserted beaches, interspersed with the odd warned – this method is not kickboxing session and more banana shakes without occasional than I could shake a stick at. problems. BIKES OUT, SCOOTERS IN bolt of lightning streaks Thailand isn’t a cycling nation any more and I through the dark sky, hardly saw anyone else on a bike; the locals illuminating a solitary, tend to favour smart scooters. A farang (the sodden figure cycling generic Thai word for westerner) on a through a thunderstorm. bicycle drew smiles and waves the length of AI wonder why I even considered cycling the country, particularly from people on across Thailand in the first place. At this mopeds that regularly overtook me. moment, I don’t have an answer. The roads are fantastic – Route 4 runs down Earlier, lying on a beach in Phuket, the final the centre of the country from Bangkok past destination of a 1,000-kilometre cycle trip Phuket and is as good as any road in from Bangkok, I had a call from the Royal Europe. Palm trees frame the turquoise Thai Police requesting me to appear in court crystal water bordering the boulevards of in Surat Thani – 200km back the way I had coastal towns, the mountains of Burma to come – to give evidence against a thief who my right, the Gulf of Thailand to my left had stolen my laptop. – scenery more than worth the pain that radiated from my posterior as a result of ‘TWIX-TING’ AND TURNING cycling eight hours a day. After an arduous 12 months in London, I had decided that I needed to shape up before The thunderstorm abated as I finally made it to being transferred to the New York City office. the 200 baht ($4) per night Queen Hotel in What better way to shed the results of Surat Thani. Soaking wet, I walked into the 300-odd Twix bars consumed in the past year bright green lobby lit by a weak neon strip than a cycling adventure in south-east Asia? light. The clerk barely gave me a second look – I stayed here last week. “Same room,” he The trip was also a means of road-testing the said, handing me the key, and within minutes blogging and remote uploading capabilities of of reaching it I was out for the count.
20 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 21 The prosecutor walked me through my witness statement, and Sanny translated all of the questions. By now, he knew the case as well as I did; when I misunderstood his question and gave the wrong answer, he corrected me, told me what the right answer was and translated a corrected version to the judge who dictated a summary into a microphone.
The inspector who prepared the case was also in the courtroom, the only person in the public gallery behind me. Wearing full The next day I was ushered into a Thai Thai Police regalia, it was fascinating to courtroom, relieved to be on the right side witness his change in demeanour as he of the law – this can’t be fun for a farang entered the court. People quake in their who has been accused of drug smuggling. boots when this guy walks into a room The wheels of justice turn faster in Thailand anywhere in Thailand. In this court, before than they do in the West and the system this judge, he knows his place – his body appears to be fairly efficient. language is deferential, his shoulders are Although an arrest warrant was Thailand isn’t hunched and he snaps to attention out for the thief and they knew a cycling whenever the judge speaks to him, bowing his identity, the Royal Thai his head repeatedly. nation any Police had yet to arrest him but were content to hold a hearing more and I The prosecutor presented the case with in his absence within a week hardly saw gusto and followed his question and of the theft having occurred to anyone else answer session with a presentation of get my evidence before I left various exhibits – photos of the laptop thief on a bike; the the country. This particular and photos of me in the ticket shop locals tend to pirate had a long rap sheet, pointing to where my bags once sat. There but most of the tourists he had favour smart was a hand-drawn map with ‘X’ marking stolen from were long gone scooters the spot, scene of the crime. before the police could start building a case against him. After an hour the court adjourned and I was paid a 200 baht witness fee. It was A HAND FROM SANNY time to head for the airport and a flight to I took my place in the witness box, directly Bangkok, where I picked up my connection facing a fairly young-looking Thai judge to London. who wore black robes and sat at a raised, wood-panelled desk. Behind the judge sat I got the laptop back and cycling that the omnipresent portrait of the Thai King distance helped me shed the cumulative and two sets of the scales of justice. effects of Twix over-indulgence. If I learned one thing, it is that, when planning a long The defence bench was, unsurprisingly, journey that involves physical effort, it is empty. I was assisted by Sanny, a Thai best not to assume that north to south Tourist Police interpreter who asked me to means downhill all the way. take an oath, handing me a laminated sheet in Thai. I didn’t have a clue what it David Griffiths is a bankruptcy and said but decided to take the initiative: “I restructuring attorney for a US law firm swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and and a trustee of the UK registered nothing but the truth, so help me Buddha.” charity Go Help, which runs Charity Sanny nodded approvingly, and recited the Rallies www.chartyrallies.org . He can be actual oath to the judge. reached by email at [email protected]
22 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 23 DRESS TO IMPRESS
Natural
Bphotography MAeaXIME BOCKEN, www.maximebocutyken.com beauty SABRINA RINALDI at Judy Inc, www.judyinc.com styling DWAYNE KENNEDY at Plutino Group, www.plutinogroup.com model CHLOE GOSSELIN at Dominique Models, www.dominiquemodels.be first photo. assistant MARK BINKS second photo. assistant NOAH VARDON shoot on location at Musha Cay, www.mushacay.com Chained top: FOREVER XXI Chain necklaces, first and last row: BIKO DESIGN Rose-gold bracelet,Central rose-gold silver and and crystal topaz jewellery: earrings: Brass chain-mail necklace: CLUBPOMELLATO MONACO FRENCH CONNECTION Hat and leopard fur: Black lingerie: Skin cream: FABIENNE DELVIGNE VICTORIA’s SECRET EMBRYOLISSE Oil free tinted moisturiser: CreamGlasses: for lips: 24LAURA – Together MERCIER #18 JuneELIZABETH 10 TogetherLAFONT ARDEN – 25 Gold bracelet: CLUB MONACO Gold chain and quartz necklace: Grey tank-top: GUESS URBAN OUTFITTERS Black bra: Eye make-up: VICTORIA’s SECRET MAC Kaleidoscope and Mascara: copper bolt necklaces: LANCOME BIKO DESIGN Shimmer bronzer: Perfume: 26CARGO – Together #18 June F10lora Together by GUCCI – 27 White linen dress: EVAN BIDDELL Metal necklace: White jersey dress: FRENCH CONNECTION EVAN BIDDELL Silver necklace: Hair mousse and expansion spray: FRENCH CONNECTION KERASTASE Brilliant glossing cream: Eye shadow: 28FREDERIC – Together FEKKAI #18 CHANEL
DRESS TO IMPRESS
Summer Style
Spring-Summer Collection: vivienne westwood
30 – Together #18 © Yvan Barbera Spring-Summer Collection: Spring-Summer Collection: yohji yamamoto Costume national
32© Yohji – Together Yamamoto #18 Press Office © Yvan Barbera Spring-Summer Collection: Spring-Summer Collection: Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton
34© Louis – Together Vuitton # Press18 Office © LouisJune Vuitton 10 Together Press Office – 35 INTERVIEW
Verve-acious! writer : GILLY MAXIM
Village Verve is a new, dynamic fashion boutique which, within five months of opening its first shop in Brussels, is already set to open a second outlet during summer. Together talks to the owner, Isabelle Netus.
he boutique has the feel of a Village Verve promotes many young, New York loft conversion, and lesser-known talents. How do you stocks designer labels that choose the designers with which to range from street chic to collaborate? high-end glamour. The Having lived in the US, I was very familiar boutique’sT owner, Isabelle Netus, was born with American contemporary women’s in Sweden, moved to Belgium, was fashion and I knew of some very strong © Yvan Barbera collection is one who is very aware of of the fabrics used but also the quality of educated in Paris, worked in America and brands that were accessibly priced and had fashion, who knows what’s going on, enjoys the design. We have a wide price range, then returned to Brussels and with her original design ideas but that weren’t sold in things that are different, is very keen on because to go into a store and to know that husband launched Village Verve. Belgium. In fact there is only one designer style and who doesn’t want to go with the you are completely priced-out of everything that we currently carry that is sold mainstream. Someone who is energetic is such a disappointment. So I want there to INTERVIEW EXPRESS elsewhere in Belgium, the others are unique and socially engaged. be a little bit for everyone – so I can spread Together: Tell me about your experience to Village Verve. We like to promote those some consumer happiness! before opening Village Verve? brands that have very little exposure in What are your plans for the future? IN: My previous experience was as far Europe because that is what makes it Firstly, we are opening the second store in And what is the secret of removed from owning a fashion store as exciting for us, that we are introducing a couple of months which, because of its your success? you could possibly imagine. My husband something new. A lot of my time is spent location, we anticipate will attract a lot more It’s really a matter of opportunities. When a and I are computer programmers and going to fashion fairs and researching on exposure. Secondly we are still very focused very good opportunity presents itself you worked in Washington DC for three years. the internet for new designers and we have on the launch of the online store at the need to jump on it. I am not recklessly But when we moved back to Brussels we some new lines coming out which I am very beginning of 2011. We have already had lots spontaneous, but sometimes you just have had the idea of launching an online fashion excited about. of interest online from people from other to go for it. You have to make things boutique. The online shopping business is European countries that don’t sell our brands, change, make things happen for yourself. very big in the US but has no strong Where did you get the inspiration for the but to really maximize on the business of equivalents in Europe, and with our name, ‘Village Verve’? online selling is a lot of hard work. But, luckily Village Verve knowledge of IT and my life long passion for On the one hand, it is a bit of a wink to the for me, my husband is the IT guy. Rue Van Artevelde, 46 fashion, we thought this would be a fun ‘Village’ in New York as we promote 1000 Brussels project to do together. American brands and on the other hand it is What is the secret to the success of T. +32 (0)2 207 11 11 also a bit tongue-in-cheek because for a Village Verve? Having had the idea of creating an online while a lot of brands were using names like What puts us on the map is that we sell (Opening Soon) shopping experience, how did you come Cosmopolitan or International, very global things that are different. We always stay on Village Verve to open Village Verve the shop? words. So we thought it was kind of funny top of the trends of new designers and Rue du Marché au Charbon, 64 We felt that we needed a physical location to bring the brand back to the village. what clothing lines are coming out. Our 1000 Brussels first, to gain consumer confidence and to collection is very dynamic and we introduce www.villageverve.be communicate our branding and what we What kind of woman shops at new collections, on average every month. are about, before launching the Village Village Verve? We have a keen sense of ‘price to quality’ Follow Village Verve on Facebook Verve online shopping boutique. The woman we think of when preparing a – and by quality I mean not only the quality and Twitter.
36 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 37 GOING PLACES Mauritius: Paradise found writer : DAVID MC GOWAN
A stay at the Dinarobin Hotel in Mauritius is well worth even the longest journey.
Paradise’ is probably not the first VIOLENT BEGINNINGS word you would choose to describe By the early 1800s, the British had taken Brussels – sure, our wonderful city Mauritius from France in the Napoleonic wars, is cosmopolitan, conveniently and continued to develop the island, while at located and has lots more going for the same time abolishing slavery; the French it as well but, for most, the capital of Europe is had used hundreds of slaves from probably not Nirvana. Madagascar and India. Today, Indo- Mauritians make up roughly two-thirds of the So, what does define paradise for you? Is it island’s diverse population. The island’s white sandy beaches? A turquoise blue diversity is one of its greatest attributes, with ocean? A brilliant golf course? Maybe a Mauritians well known for their warm relaxing spa inside a world-class hotel? How welcome for all cultures. about‘ all the above? Despite a violent beginning to the island’s DELICIOUS history, Mauritius has been peaceful for MAURITIUS nearly 200 years. Mauritius became Despite its Welcome to Mauritius – a independent of Great Britain in 1968 and the breathtaking beautiful island country island has continued to grow economically. beaches, located around 750 Of course, a huge area of that economy is stunning kilometres east of tourism, and there is no better place to be a golf courses Madagascar. Although it’s tourist in Mauritius than at the Dinarobin Hotel. and friendly smaller even than If Brussels doesn’t exactly fill your ‘paradise culture, Luxembourg, what it lacks requirements’, this five-star resort will. Mauritius in size it more than makes Located on a peninsula on the western shore, is still up for in beauty. Thankfully, the Dinarobin Hotel combines seemingly relatively despite its breathtaking endless white sands, crystal-clear oceans unknown beaches, stunning golf and views of the lush green mountains with a to many courses and friendly luxurious resort that is perfect both for a culture, Mauritius is still family holiday or a romantic getaway. travellers relatively unknown to many travellers. Whether you prefer to spend your afternoon on the 18-hole golf course (the most Dutch sailors first inhabited the island in the beautiful course I have ever played), relaxing early 17th century, but after failing to develop a at the spa or living the dream swimming with sustainable colony, the immigrants dolphins, one thing is sure – you won’t be abandoned the island a century later. disappointed.
38 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 39 40 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 41 SUMPTUOUS ELEGANCE Relaxation is easy at Dinarobin, and with a Every aspect of Dinarobin reflects elegance. top-class Clarins Spa offering a wide range of Its unusual architecture, spacious suites, different treatments sourced from around the 18-hole golf course and prime location on globe, awareness of space and time fade one of the island’s most beautiful beaches away as you focus on the moment. make it the best choice for the discerning traveller. It offers the perfect mix of Gentle, inviting waters make Mauritius – and facilities for the active with a peaceful especially the Dinarobin Hotel – a perfect atmosphere for those destination for water activities; water-skiing, Dinarobin looking to relax. windsurfing, sailing, snorkelling trips, kayaks Hotel If you have kids, a Mini and pedal boats which take place in the Club welcomes children sheltered lagoon located in front of your combines aged 3-12 from 9-21h, Hotel. You can see the huge waves of the seemingly seven days a week. The Indian Ocean crashing on the coral reef that’s endless clubs are run by qualified located just 100 metres from the beach, while white sands, professionals who enjoying a swim in a lagoon that can be crystal-clear provide fun and thought of as a giant swimming pool, with oceans and educational indoor and fresh sea water. views of the outdoor activities to keep lush green your little ones If you’re keen to get active on land, then mountains entertained and happy. volleyball, tennis or a session in the Paradis with a Baby-sitting services Sports Centre is ideal, and the Paradis Golf luxurious also available. Course is one of the most beautiful in the resort that is world, with breathtaking views. perfect both If you don’t have children for a family and don’t want to be Exceptional gastronomy can be found in holiday or distracted by the noise of the four Dinarobin restaurants, varying from a romantic others’ offspring playing, gourmet menus to light meals served on new relaxation areas the beach. Local food, spices and the getaway have been created, with catch of the day will give your taste buds no the addition of five 75 time to relax. square-metre pools. The pools’ rectangular lines create a strong Dinarobin’s peaceful surroundings, intimate visual impact with sleek glistening village setting and world-class service means surfaces stretching into the cool shade of your Mauritius holiday will remain with you for palm trees. Views from the pools look a lifetime. over the beach to one side and stunning Le Morne Mountain on the other. The Dinarobin unique settings of the pools, which differ Le Morne Peninsula from one another, create a unique feel Mauritius and charm. You will experience a new T. +230 401 4900 sense of intimacy. www.dinarobin-hotel.com
42 – Together #18 42 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 43 Go get it Three little words writer : NATASHA ABUDARHAM
Is your language positive DON’T enough? Our ‘Go Get It!’ Have you ever read a sign that says ‘do specialist investigates the not walk on the grass’ and all you want to words that can generate do is walk on the grass? Have you ever negativity. told someone ‘don’t forget’ and they’ve forgotten? Have you ever told a child ‘don’t run’ and the first thing they do ords are everywhere. is run? They come out of your mouth, they’re in your Statements starting with don’t can cause the head, you hear them, you opposite to occur even though you’ve said read them and you even exactly what you want. This is because the Wfeel them; you simply can’t do without them. part of your mind that takes action on the statement has to know what it is being told The words you use become even more not to do before it can do what it is CAN’T conscious effort to start your sentence important when you want to be understood, get supposed to. The moment you use the word, your mind again, this time saying it and generating a things done and achieve desired results. Would closes off to any ways in which you could positive feeling. it, therefore, be of value to you if you knew how To achieve a desired result, remove the word make a thing possible. Once the mind is to change three little words that are probably don’t and say exactly what you want the closed off it has nowhere to go. Statements starting with ‘no’ have the same generating unwanted or negative results person to do. For example, ‘do not walk on effect as statements starting with ‘don’t’ and whenever you utter them? the grass’ becomes ‘walk on the path’. ‘Don’t It’s a good idea to remove this word from can easily be reverted to using words that forget’ becomes ‘remember’ and ‘don’t run’ your vocabulary entirely and re-word your state exactly what you want, so the The words you I thought it would, so here becomes ‘walk’. sentences to allow your mind to open up to recipient knows exactly what you want them use become goes. Those three little the possibility of making it happen. to do. even more words are don’t, can’t important and no. The first thing to Your new sentence could become ‘even By being more aware of the impact your when you be aware of is that some though this seems difficult, I am going to find language has, you can consciously choose want to be words generate a feeling a way to make it happen’. Or ’ I am opening precise words to generate the results you understood, and can instantly make my mind to new ways of getting it done’. expect rather than be disappointed by the get things the speaker and the actions of the person to whom you done and listener feel good or bad NO are speaking. achieve just by saying and This word instinctively generates a negative desired hearing them. feeling within the speaker and listener, yet ‘Go Get It!’ specialist Natasha Abudarham results it is said over and over again. I’ve lives in Brussels and provides private To illustrate this, close particularly noticed in Europe, that many courses, group workshops and is a your eyes and say don’t, people start their sentences with ‘no‘ even motivational speaker. She is also the host of can’t and no out loud and notice how the when it doesn’t need to be used. Bring Europe’s Secret to Success internet radio words make you feel. Do they uplift you, your use of this word into your awareness show every Monday at 17h. For more empower you or motivate you, or do they and if you are using it more than information, go to drain you, disempower you or demotivate you? necessary, you may want to make a www.natashaabudarham.com
44 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 45 Temptations
1. sSatiocenntsal- A round-up of some the finest fragrances available.
1. TOMMY HILFIGER TOMMY 5. BVLGARI II EAU DE EAU DE TOILETTE LIMITED PARFUM FOR WOMEN 2. EDITION FOR MEN An evocative, intense and truly feminine Inspired by the freedom of the sea and the perfume. warmth of the sun. RRP: 30ml – 48€, 50ml 65€, 75 ml – 88€ RRP: 100ml – 42.70€ 6. BURBERRY SUMMER EAU 2. CHANEL HOMME SPORT DE TOILETTE FOR WOMEN EAU DE TOILETTE FOR MEN This limited edition is green, floral and perfect A woody, spicy fragrance with fruity top notes for warm days. in a bottle inspired by the Chanel J12 watch. RRP: 50ml – 44€, 100ml – 57€ 4. RRP: 50ml – 46€ 7. LOEWE AIRE LOCO EAU DE 3. BVLGARI EAU D’ÉTÉ FOR TOILETTE FOR WOMEN WOMEN Floral, with heart notes of jasmine, rose and 7. The new scent from Bvlgari that’s fresh and orange blossom. unique and designed for the woman who is RRP: 100ml – 89€ young at heart. 3. RRP: 30ml – 42€, 50ml – 58€ 5. 6. 4. BURBERRY SUMMER EAU DE TOILETTE FOR MEN A limited-edition citrus aquatic fragrance, new and fresh for summer. With thanks to Yvan Barbera for photos and RRP: 100ml – 50€ fragrances arrangement.
46 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 47 MUST-HAVES
NO STRINGS No kitchen would be complete without a mandoline. Music while you work? Not really. The mandoline is a flat-bedded food slicer. A taste The blade is set into the bed and the food slides across the blade, chopping in to even slices. Of course, there would always be the danger (as any chef will tell you) that for travel someone will engage you in conversation writer : COLIN MOORS while using it and that’ll be the last you see of your fingertips. The Zyliss Mandoline, 32£ You will not have failed to alf the fun of travelling is to THERE’S NOTHING IN IT (36€), does away with this problem and, if used according to the instructions, will sample the local If you are anything like me and a bit of a notice that our driving force safeguard your pinkies while slicing the delicacies, but in today’s sucker for TV cookery programmes, you will this month is travel, which perfect waxy potato for your gratin world, they can just as almost certainly have seen your favourite is great, and broadens the dauphinoise. Cleaning is easy, meaning you easily come to you. What chef cooking their food in a vacuum-sealed horizons. But what if, for don’t end up wasting the time you’ve saved youH need – apart from the odd Michelin pouch in a bath of heated water. The cleaning hundreds of small parts. Most of it some reason, you’d prefer to star – is some gadgets to help you rustle technique is known as ‘sous-vide’ (which is you can throw into the dishwasher and bring the experience to your up an authentic Uzbekistani meal in French for ‘under vacuum’). The idea is to forget. There are ten different blades for minutes. We can’t promise to make you a use the vacuum sealing to force the own home? Our co-editor, various cutting styles and thicknesses, and it better cook, but we can assure you that flavours of your seasoning into the meat, chef and gadgets expert all packs flat into its own wall-mountable you’ll have a lot of fun experimenting. fish or poultry, thereby intensifying the shows you how. container, meaning you don’t have to find yet overall taste. ORANGES ARE NOT more space for another gadget. THE ONLY FRUIT The process (sealing food in sterile plastic www.lakeland.co.uk How many times have you hosted a bags and cooking in water) was first cocktail party and thought: “I need a really thought of by an American inventor, Sir stand-out, drop-dead gorgeous juicer for Benjamin Thompson in 1799, but was only my Margaritas”? Never? Well, think again. rediscovered and refined in the 1970s by For the price of a fully automated Georges Pralus, while working for the electronic juicer, you can get what is famous Restaurant Troisgros. Previously essentially a big lump of metal you have to only available to Michelin-starred chefs or work by hand. Of course, this is not any experts in molecular gastronomy such as old juicer – oh no. This is presented by Heston Blumenthal of The Fat Duck, or El Alessi, world-famous for their kitchen Bulli’s Ferran Adrià, several versions utensils, and designed by none other than designed exclusively for the home market Philippe Starck. The ‘Juicy Salif’ is have seen the prices – and the size – somewhat reminiscent of an invasion by shrink. Sur la Table (www.surlatable.com) aliens from the 1950s, but has a wild will sell you one for 450$ (340€), so you visual appeal that will make you want to can try out your very own bacon-and-eggs keep it out on show, it’s just that cool. ice cream, or snail porridge (yes, they Hardly a bargain, considering you still exist). A piece of friendly advice: Sur la have to do all the work yourself, it’s very Table is dangerous for those of us who high on my list of ‘must have but no idea love cooking. With an array of gadgets and why’ at a mere 73€. Or you could just be cookware to tempt any cook on any boring and buy an electric one. budget, it’s like porn for foodies. You have been warned. www.alessi.com
48 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 49 SENSUAL SECRETS The elements of surprise writer : Kimberley Lovato
Whether you say it with flowers, rent a plane to write it in the sky or simply just do something sweet, our girl knows you can’t go far wrong with a nice surprise.
e are all so busy with life, or handcuffs and leather chaps (I have some it’s often hard to kinky friends), but in my unofficial poll what remember to tell, and 95 per cent of people cited were simple and more importantly to considerate gestures like flowers for no show, our husbands, reason, taking charge of dinner, or even One of the funniest surprise stories I have arrived home from work, my girlfriend had all Wwives, and lovers just how much they mean vacuuming the house. Here are a few other ever heard, and definitely not for the faint of the toppings for an ice cream sundae to us. It wasn’t always that way. Remember notable mentions. Names have been heart, came from a good friend of mine ‘L’ in (cherries, whipping cream, hot chocolate the beginning? It was easy then. Romantic changed to protect the innocent, and guilty. Florida. She surprised her husband ‘S’… sauce) set up on a tray with a note asking dates, love notes scrolled in the steamed up with their wedding! She said: “He thought me to bring it to the bedroom. Needless to bathroom mirror; generous courtesies POINTS OF VIEW we were attending a client open-house at a say, there was no ice cream and we had performed without threat of breakup or bodily ‘C’ from Brussels said: “While out for restored mansion. You should have seen his one hot and sticky night.” harm. Ah, those were the days. dinner with a girlfriend, my boyfriend sent face when he saw his parents and a priest.” me a text message that said, ‘I miss you and ‘S’ responds: “Man that was a big surprise. PIVOTAL GESTURES LUST, THEN LOVE love you and want you to have fun with your We’ve been married 17 years this I’ve been married 15 years and my husband Slowly, life, career and kids turned that friend tonight’. It made me smile and actually September. I remember after it was over and I still hold hands, say I love you multiple nubile infatuation phase into something made me want to be home with him instead. someone asked if I had had thoughts of times a day, and call each other every day fuelled by respect, love, and a need for Perhaps this was his intention all along!” running. I replied: “With her father coming we are away from one another. Still, I can’t more sleep. I don’t mean this negatively. down the stairs behind me and 150 people recall the last time we surprised one another. While I warmly recall those lustful days of ‘F’ from Los Angeles said: “My husband in front of me – where was I going to go?” He reminded me that once when he was yore, I also love being with someone who drove my car to take our daughter to the bus packing for a long business trip, I had really knows me, and loves me exactly that stop. When I got into the car next, I realized While most surprises are sweet, some can tucked little love notes and sexy suggestions way. Still, there’s no harm in injecting a little he had not only filled the car with petrol, but be sour. ‘L’ in Florida had this to say: “My into his luggage, into his socks, and his spice into the relationship had also changed my clock (daylight saving husband won a cruise, a sales incentive shoes, so he’d find them over several days. I ‘You should now and again, and the was quite some time ago). Both made me from his office. He asked me to come along reminded him of the time I came home to have seen his element of surprise itself remember how kind he is, and why I married but since we had school-aged children, I felt find a hand-written clue on the door, which can be a strong him in the first place.” I should stay behind. A day later, friends all led to another clue, and another, all through face when aphrodisiac. pitched in to help me with the kids. So I the house, finally ending with a little silver he saw his I polled some friends – ‘T’ from London said: “I had just (reluctantly) boarded a plane to surprise my husband at heart necklace that I had spotted one day. parents and a married and single, men given my boyfriend the key to my apartment his first port of call. The surprise was on me Maybe the biggest surprise of all for me was priest’ and women – and asked when I had to leave for a business trip. when I discovered he had invited another to realize how pivotal these small gestures, them about surprises in When I got home, he had assembled a woman in my absence. No wonder he didn’t sexy or simple, can be and how little time it their relationships, what ceiling fan I had purchased that came in protest when I offered to stay behind!” actually takes to sneak them back into your stuck with them the most, and why. The about 30 different pieces, set up my TV, and love life. results were surprisingly non-sexual. I had all my bath towels and dishes put away. And of course, sexy surprises are always expected stories of French maid costumes I’m glad I gave him the key!” saucy. ‘P’ of Brussels told me: “When I www.kimberleylovato.com
50 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 51 Going places Long Island
nicewriter : EMMA PORTIER DAVIS spree
A round-up of our correspondent’s favourite things to do in New York – in particular, those off the tourist trail, which a first-time visitor might just miss.
’ve done the Empire State Building, shopping Mecca. But I’ve collected plenty of I’ve skated in Central Park. Fifth Bloomingdale’s brown bags in my time and a Avenue? Check. Metropolitan Art girl can have too much of a good thing. Museum? Check. Statue of Liberty? Check. Wandering off the beaten Anyone with the slightest interest in Itrack though, I’ve come across a host of other photography should head to B&H Photo. This treats which are just too good to keep to is the ultimate in camera shops and I defy you myself. to come out gadget-less. Having challenged the staff several times, I can confirm this BAGEL OR BOOGIE? place has everything to meet your celluloid or I should do as New Yorkers do and breakfast digital needs. on a bagel but if, like me, you fancy something that doesn’t look like For vintage artworks, and boutiques (a Sneak down it would bounce on the floor, welcome break from the city’s superstores), the road to head to the trendy but chilled head to Soho. With its narrow streets and the Magnolia Vynl. Their waffles and short buildings, it’s a world away from Bakery if smoothies are the perfect way Midtown and reminiscent of the London you’re still to start the day. district from which it got its name. feeling Some of you may have heard of peckish. Yes, Ellen’s Stardust Diner on this is where Broadway. Here, ‘resting actors’, you find the dressed in 1950s get-ups, will cupcakes deliver your pancakes and made famous suddenly burst into song, by the Sex sending you on a near- and the City hallucinogenic trip back in time. girls but they Most definitely avoid if you have are divine a hangover or jetlag but if you’re feeling brave and you are the kind of person who enjoyed watching Andrew Lloyd Webber’s search for a Dorothy for his forthcoming Wizard of Oz production, it’s worth it for the laugh.
SHOPPING Some of you may be wondering how you could find time to do anything but wander up and down Fifth Avenue, the main axis of this 52 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 53 WINE AND DINE Baltazar Foodies need look no further than 80 Spring Street Grammercy Tavern. Start out with a www.balthazarny.com Maine crab, tuck into some venison and polish off a cherry brown butter cake. If Spotted Pig you can’t find a wine to suit your palate 314 West 11th Street here, well then you’re just too darn picky. www.thespottedpig.com
My absolute favourite though has to be Magnolia Bakery Italian restaurant Barolo. Eat everything on 401 Bleecker Street the menu if you can and happily accept www.magnoliabakery.com the wine waiters’ recommendations. These guys know what they are talking about. Barney Greengrass 541 Amsterdam Avenue at 86th Street Shun the ubiquitous hotel bars and keep it www.barneygreengrass.com real with a trip to New York’s meat-packing GRAB A BITE SEE THE SIGHTS district. Sip a cocktail in Pastis or head for Zabar’s th Stick around in Soho and take a leisurely The cutesy movie Sleepless in Seattle (1993) late-night drinks and a bar-top boogie in Broadway, 80 Street lunch at ‘Balthazar‘. It’s a French-style bistro ruined the whole Empire State Building the Hogs and Heifers Saloon. Behind the www.zabars.com with a large terrace, fabulous wines and experience for me; well, that and the crowds, bar is a pile of bras, including a black one, steak and fries just how we like them on the queues and manic security. For panoramic sized-34B, flung there by actor Julia Brooklyn Museum European continent. Indulge in some oysters views of the city, head to the much calmer Roberts. 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn and watch the bohemians go by. and altogether far more civilized Top of the www.brooklynmuseum.org Rock Observation Deck. This is the old SLEEP If high-end pub grub is more your thing, try The Rockefeller building, the one you see on Sleep? Sleep? Hayden Planetarium Spotted Pig. The chef, who used to work at picture postcards with an ice rink out front Central Park West, 79 Street River Café, produces British and Italian seasonal and a huge Christmas tree. It’s also the one ADDRESS BOOK www.amnh.org food, accompanied by a wide selection of wine, featured in the vertiginous picture of workmen a traditional British ale or a Spotted Pig bitter. sitting high up on scaffolding eating their Vynl Grammercy Tavern th lunch. A shade pricier than the Empire State, Hell’s Kitchen and Chelsea 42 East 20 Sneak down the road to the Magnolia it’s worth it. www.vynl-nyc.com www.grammercytavern.com Bakery if you’re still feeling peckish. Yes, this is where you find the cupcakes made If the weather sucks, Brooklyn Museum Ellen’s Stardust Diner Barolo famous by the Sex and the City girls but (almost in Manhattan but don’t tell that to folks Broadway/51st Street 398 West Broadway they are divine and worth the queuing time. there) offers a less crowded and more www.ellensstardust.com www.nybarolo.com charming alternative to the Met. Collections Further uptown is Barney Greengrass range from ancient to contemporary. B&H Pastis The Sturgeon King, serving New Yorkers 9th Avenue, 34th Street 9 Ninth Avenue since 1908. Feast on an omelette with a For an alternative theatre experience, journey www.bhphotovideo.com www.pastisny.com side of sturgeon or really push the boat through space and time at the Hayden out with a 399$ plate of Beluga caviar. Still Planetarium, part of the American Natural Top of the Rock Hogs & Heifers Saloon not stuffed? Head close by to gourmet History Museum. Sit back and enjoy a stellar 50th Street, between 5th and 6th avenue 859 Washington Street food shop Zabar’s. tour narrated by US actor Whoopi Goldberg. www.topoftherocknyc.com www.hogsandheifers.com
54 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 55 GOING PLACES The New Forest: Always a discovery writer : JAMES DREW
It is perhaps the UK’s most beautiful region – and being a guest brings more than a few privileges. Let Together tell you more.
he last time your correspondent Managed and cultivated by the Forestry was in the New Forest, prior to Commission, the area is a perfect example my trip earlier this year, Old Shep of people and nature co-existing was very much a pup and I was harmoniously – from the careful still accompanying my mum, preservation, cultivation and management Tdad and two sisters on enjoyable camping of the local deer population, to the locally trips. Yet, such is the sense of tranquility that produced food (just wait until you try a real pervades the region, one almost has the New Forest Breakfast, sense of time standing still here, coupled with www.newforestproduce.co.uk). the entirely pleasurable feeling of being lost in a So, where was your man fortunate The East Close somehow enough to stay, you might ask? Both is… a hotel ‘undiscovered’ locations have had extensive and that combines Mediterranean locale. expensive renovations. Stay at either of history the hotels (or both, if you are as fortunate with cool, “A little background as I was), and you will see and feel contemporary information, first, on the exactly where the money has New Forest – England’s been spent. © The East The Grade II-listed original Georgian mansion fellow hacks from Belgium, with manager flair and Close Country newest National Park, Hotel has been superbly refurbished, without Stuart also joining us at table. relaxed, which is to be found in THE EAST CLOSE undermining the understated elegance that is informal Hampshire between COUNTRY HOTEL reminiscent of an Alice in Wonderland-esque There are 11 boutique styled bedrooms and comfort in Southampton on the The young, focused and very attentive era and, curiously enough, one Alice Liddell suites, with all rooms including high ceilings, a beautiful East coast and Stuart Van Dam is general manager at (the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s classic) is sash windows and original-feature fireplaces. In parkland Bournemouth on the The East Close Country Hotel and, in buried in a nearby church. addition, The Conqueror Inn has a further four South, was first presiding over an establishment that double bedrooms, and ‘The Cottage’ is also ‘claimed’ as his own by blends the very best of the new with a History is also very much a part of The available, which can sleep up to six. William the Conqueror rich Georgian heritage, he declares it to Conqueror Inn, the hotel’s adjoining ‘gastro My stay, unquestionably, had begun in style. more than 900 years ago, and was originally be his personal mission to ensure that pub’ (which, along with great local food, also set aside as a royal ‘playground’ where the every guest leaves with abiding serves excellent local ale), named after The East Close Country Hotel newly crowned king and his privileged memories of “the timeless splendour” of William the Conqueror, who has strong links Lyndhurst Road courtiers could hunt deer and enjoy the a hotel that combines history with cool, to the local area. Featuring an extensive bar Hinton surroundings to their hearts’ content.” This is contemporary flair and relaxed, informal area and filled with comfortable leather sofas Christchurch, Dorset way too long to be a sentence. comfort in a beautiful parkland setting. and a wood-burning fire, it was the perfect T. +44 (0)1425 672 404 location for my first night’s socializing with my www.eastclose.com
56 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 57 Director of Cuisine, Luke Holder, who loves THE STANWELL using local produce, presides over two HOUSE HOTEL restaurants; ‘The Dining Room by Luke I couldn’t possibly sign off without offering Holder’, a glamorous, elegant eatery and appreciation to the Stanwell House Hotel ‘The Scullery’, which offers a more informal in Lymington, which brightened my country house kitchen feel. The menus somewhat melancholic (I didn’t want to proudly adhere to hand-reared delicious leave) last day in the New Forest ‘forest food’ traditions, including wild enormously with a delicious meal, mushrooms, garlic, local venison and selected from the modern European and home-reared beef and lamb. In short, seafood menu that is this charming hearty, homely, delicious and creative. And Georgian hotel’s speciality. there are more joys en route – in summer, Lime Wood is set to open a state-of-the-art A wonderful way to finish a marvellous spa, which will include a swimming and weekend break – and Together’s heartfelt hydrotherapy pool, eight treatment rooms, thanks go out to everyone who made saunas, hammam, a steam room and a fully it possible. equipped gym. Seriously, what are you waiting for? This is the very, very best. The Stanwell House Hotel High Street, Lymington The Lime Wood Hotel Hampshire Beaulieu Rd, Lyndhurst T. +44 (0)1590 677 123 Hampshire www.stanwellhouse.com T. +44 (0)23 8028 7177 www.limewoodhotel.co.uk www.thenewforest.co.uk
THE LIME WOOD HOTEL My room? Well, according to the charming After the following day was spent enjoying the young lady who showed me to my quarters, forest, which included a spell of deer-watching everyone would be jealous of me. She and, it must be said, deer-eating at a splendid wasn’t wrong – a simply gorgeous, venison barbecue (sorry, but free-standing bath forms the centerpiece of A simply I can’t be guilty), we arrived a chamber that is all about calming colours, gorgeous, at the simply stunning Lime fine lines, free-flowing comfort and a sense free- Wood Hotel, to enjoy the of utter seclusion – first rate. standing bath sublime hospitality of forms the manager Robin Hutson, Describing itself as a “luxury country centerpiece co-founder of the Hotel du house hotel with a difference” Lime Wood, of a chamber Vin group, and his excellent too, has real sense of being blessed with that is team, which includes the spirit of its past – designed by Charles all about Michelin-starred chef Alex Morris and Ben Pentreath, it is the only calming Aitken (in whose care we five-star luxury hotel in the New Forest colours, enjoyed a stunning meal) National Park. fine lines, and Jamie Cullum, who free-flowing chose the grand piano and Ben Pentreath of Working Group Design comfort is, apparently, the only restored the main house and its extensions, and a sense person permitted to play it. comprising 16 bedrooms, a series of classically designed sitting rooms, library, of utter With 29 rooms on which dining room, informal eatery, bar, cellar and seclusion – 30£ million has been spent billiards room (where I was only too happy to first rate by billionaire industrialist Jim narrowly beat a dining companion in a Ratcliffe in the past five late-night game). Meanwhile Charles Morris, years, Lime Wood is housed who worked previously on the Orchard in a Regency building, which, thanks to the Room at nearby Highgrove, designed the investment of funds, now houses magnificent additional buildings, which feature a further antique furniture and state-of-the-art, erm, art. 11 suites and two guest rooms.
58 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 59 GOING PLACES Clubs ‘Med’ in heaven writer : JAMES DREW
Our co-editor shares some of his own first Club Med adventure, and offers a sneak preview of the latest (and greatest?) addition to the holiday experience.
CLUB MED DA BALAIA those seeking for a highly social holiday I was obviously delighted to be invited to my first experience, but there are also various oases Club Med experience – upon arrival at Club of calm around the resort, be they a spell in Med Da Balaia, which is to be found in the spa or wonderful, enlightening trip up southern Portugal’s Albufeira region (think into the hills, as was enjoyed immensely by decidedly rustic, beautiful coastline – bliss, quite this writer. Let’s keep it simple, shall we? frankly), you are immediately arrested by the Three days was really, really not enough – resort’s view, standing as it does on an ochre cliff, I’ll be back. overlooking a magnificent white sand beach that’s alternately lapped and crashed by the Atlantic. Club Med Da Balaia Praia Maria Luisa, 8200-854 Straight away, you have the sense that this a Albufeira 8200-925, Portugal place to unwind – and my three-day break www.clubmed.com more than confirmed this. It matters not whether you arrive en famille (the child- CLUB MED SINAI BAY care facilities are first class, by the way), Sinai Bay is in the cultural heart of the Sinai – and as a couple and/or with this Club Med resort will provide exceptional Let’s keep golf/spa enthusiasm, opportunities to discover the region’s famous there is something for sites, such as St Catherine’s Monastery and the it simple, everyone here. troglodyte city of Petra in Jordan. A unique shall we? resort, divided between Club Med’s ‘Four Three days Take the food – never Trident’ and ‘Five Trident’ areas in a beautifully was really, before or since (well, this preserved bay covering 27 hectares, flanked by really not is Portugal), have I enjoyed a long stretch of private beach, this is the ideal enough – I’ll fresh fish with such site for exploring the fabulous underwater life of be back enthusiasm and, as the the Red Sea – there’s even a Scuba Diving cuisine and drinks are all Academy, so you’ll have no excuse! included in the price of your stay, the temptation to over-indulge The resort is located near to historical jewels departs fairly quickly, or at least it did as far such as Petra in Jordan, has a Golf Academy as this gourmand is concerned, and that truly and Training Centre, golf course and, of is saying something. course, a CINQ MONDES Spa. You get the picture – this will be Club Med, and then As far as the entertainment on offer is some. The resort opens at the end of October concerned, you can take as little or as much – a pity you have to wait that long, but some
of it as you wish – the universally friendly, things are worth waiting for, right? multilingual and welcoming staff really do band together to offer ‘interactive’ fun for www.clubmed.co.za
60 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 61 Going places Benidorm – in style writer : FEDERICO GRANDESSO
Together’s king of the road takes in the more sophisticated side of a well-loved resort.
rriving in Benidorm by Real de Villaitana, the resort numbers 25 helicopter may well be buildings that are replicas of the region’s the best way to get the monuments. The resort also offers two best first impression of luxury hotels, two golf courses, an this ancient village turned outdoor pool, ten restaurants and bars, toweringA paradise – there are now ten five swimming pools, an indoor games buildings above 100 metres, with the room, Kids Club, artificial beach and a highest, the Grand Hotel Bali (the tallest brand new health centre and spa featuring hotel in Europe), at 186m and the second treatment rooms and a gym. The golf at highest, the Lugano Tower, at 158m. And Villaitana is serious, with two 18-hole that’s not all – renowned architect Roberto courses designed by none other than Perez Guerras is hard at work on the next Jack Nicklaus. skyscraper, the ‘In Tempo’, which, at 200m and 52 floors is set to be the tallest in town.
On the paseo de levante, there are further innovative projects, such as the city-park by Riccardo Boffil or the colourful paseo de Poniente, considered as one of the best in Spain. There is heavy investment afoot in the city’s design, and also to upgrade the tourist trade (with hotels, bars After a day’s and discos) to attract clients golf, check with high spending power. out the best relaxation HOTEL VILLAITANA money can Sometimes, sophisticated visitors need a ‘shelter de luxe’ buy, in its – an oasis of calm after a day 1,200 square- on the noisy beach. Head a metre Spa few kilometres into the hills Villaitana surrounding the city, and you will find the unique Hotel Villaitana. Designed as a Mediterranean pueblo, complete with its own church and village square, the Plaza
62 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 63 The facilities include an elegant Clubhouse steam and sauna rooms, lounge areas and with cafeteria, pro shop, golf store, changing a fitness centre. rooms, guest services, driving ranges and a golf academy, which holds private classes To eat? Try the Indigo restaurant, which offers and group classes. The north course is an Mediterranean specialties such as exquisite 18-hole par 72, at more than 6,612 metres, rice and fish dishes. The resort also includes while the south course is an 18-hole par 62 at an on-site convention centre, with 3,858 metres in length, suitable for all player approximately 2,300 square metres of proficiency levels. meeting space divided into five rooms and a main hall that can host up to 1,300 guests – After a day’s golf, check out the best the centre recently hosted events organized relaxation that money can buy, in the 1,200 by important brands such as Puma and square-metre Spa Villaitana, a state-of-the- Mercedes, and was also the headquarters of art facility with treatment rooms, the Spanish Davis Cup team guided by hydrotherapy and massage suites, Jacuzzis, Rafael Nadal.
64 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 65 THE VILLA VENECIA 260 exhibits on loan from the Besançon The sophisticated client will also appreciate Museum of Fine Art and Archaeology, the another new five-star hotel, The Villa Louvre, the French National Library, the Venecia. Overlooking the sea and perfect for Granet Museum in Aix-en-Provence, the romantic getaways, the restaurant offers Picardie Museum in Amiens, and the fantastic views and renowned fish dishes. If Georges Labit Museum in Toulouse – until you are not romantically inclined but still 17th October, sculptures and bas-reliefs will adventurous, why not check out the Terra occupy the three temporary exhibition rooms Mitica, Spain’s largest theme park which, at the MARQ, including two complete with its great rides, shows, restaurants and mummies of the priests Seramon and shops, is fantastic fun for all the family. Ankhpakhered, together with their sarcophagi. Or why not take a sub-aquatic catamaran trip to Benidorm Island, 2 kilometres out to sea, Benidorm – be it old or new, you will
with its underwater deck, from where you fall in love. can see a wonderful variety of marine life? And just a few kilometres outside Benidorm, www.villaitana.com you are sure to fall in love with Altea, an www.hotelvillavenecia.com antiquated Spanish village with little white www.marqalicante.com houses, medieval cobbled streets and a marvellous church. Another trip not to miss is to Alicante, the province’s capital city – and the starting point for a visit to the city centre should be the Santa Mount Benacantil. Its palm-tree lined promenade, Explanada de España, consists of 6.5 million marble stones and is quite lovely – for the Just a few people of Alicante, it is the kilometres evening meeting point and outside many concerts take place Benidorm, here. Alicante’s main you are sure church and the bishop’s seat is Concatedral de San to fall in Nicolás de Bari, which love with dates from the XVII Altea, an century. Might we also antiquated suggest a little walk on the Spanish Barrio de la Cruz, which is village with full of beautiful, quaint little white white houses? houses, Another interesting spot to medieval visit is the provincial cobbled archaeological museum streets and a MARQ, which was marvellous awarded the Best church European Museum Award in 2004, and is notable for its modern, didactic touches, which appeal particularly to its younger guests. Its latest exhibition reveals the secrets of Egyptian civilization through
66 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 67 FACT: PASS THE ASH – FOR CHARITY As reported by AFP, an Icelandic internet firm has turned the volcanic ash cloud that has wreaked havoc with the holiday plans of millions of travellers into a charity money-spinner. The website, nammi.is, is now offering jars containing 160 grammes of the ash from Iceland’s Eyjafjpoll volcano for 23.80€, with all proceeds being donated to charity. “The response has been enormous since we started this 10 days ago,” chief executive Sofus Gustavsson told AFP, adding that the ash had already been sold to customers in 60 countries, 133 countries had made inquiries and almost a million visitors had visited the website since the offer began.
FIGURE: 2.5€ billion That’s how much European Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas recently estimated that the volcanic ash crisis has cost, with the cancellation of more than 100,000 flights and 10 million passengers being stranded.
REPORTAGE POINT OF VIEW
Belgian former defence minister André Flahaut: ‘We need to find a balanced solution.’ BHV: © SP.A ‘Bewildering’, ‘Hot’, ‘Volatile’? writer : JOHN SHERIDAN
The merry-go-round that is Belgian politics has begun spinning again – what the outcome will be is anyone’s guess and the duration of the next parliament, once formed, is also a matter of no little concern. Our correspondent examines the ‘Belgian problem’.
ny gambler would find it But, if the international community took a hard to find a bookmaker real look at the history of this small willing to take odds on country, they would see that the anything to do with problems occurring within the nation’s Belgian politics – the borders were not the fault of the mostA recent collapse and all previous Wallonian nor the Flemish peoples, but failures to form a stable government have date back to the way that states were been met with anguish and borderline originally formed without due care and ridicule by the international community. attention paid to the people who were set to live in them. For centuries, the A ‘NON-COUNTRY’? country has been at the heart of wars However, the question should not be ‘why being waged by other countries, such as can’t the Belgians get it right’ but France, Netherlands and the former For ‘how it is that a country so Prussian empire. In 1830, following centuries, diverse in ethnicity manages to repeated to-ing and fro-ing between the the country keep the peace enough to powers, the area we now know as has been at ensure the political problems Belgium rebelled and declared its the heart stay in government offices and independence from the Dutch, who were of wars don’t spill over into civil war?’ in power at the time. The people felt they Considering the old adage that if had not been properly represented, being waged you treat a man like a criminal he much the same as when the French by other will act as such, it is remarkable had ruled. countries, that the Belgians have achieved such as this relatively peaceful – if at UNEASY EMPOWERMENT France, times disturbed – status, Empowerment is not a new problem but Netherlands particularly considering some of rather is centuries old – the result of the and the the opinions expressed in the revolution depended on recognition from former media concerning the country, the major powers in Europe at the time, Prussian exemplified recently by former that is Great Britain and France, who empire UKIP leader Nigel Farage who supported the independence of Belgium, described Belgium as a but such support was lacking from “non-country”. Prussia and Austria.
70 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 71 As can be seen historically, there have Belgium would still be left with the communities, especially if that would finally be made by opposition parties in other always been problems leading to problem of Brussels expanding. It would allow the country to deal with its most countries – perhaps a lesson can be language barriers, depending on which then become a recognized international pressing needs, such as the economic learned from Belgium and its foreign nation held power over which problem, as neither side would be willing crisis faced by citizens and workers. ”This succession of failures to form lasting area. What differentiates Belgium from to give up their capital city. So it is good interest forces politicians to act in the governments coupled with its ability, other countries within the EU is its news that the Belgians have come to best interest of the electorate, even if it nevertheless, to function adequately. language barrier, and this has led to a some sort of compromise – no other means tearing down the government range of issues, such as the Brussels- country in the EU has to deal with these and beginning again. Accommodating However, the people of Belgium do Halle-Vilvoorde municipality’s insistence problems, and nowhere is there a cultural the wishes of the people is their function not have to put up with governments that speaking Dutch is obligatory before divide as blatant as it is in Belgium. It and, unlike other countries, Belgian that don’t meet their needs – in other anyone may take up residence, or would not be remiss to compare it to the politicians seem to be aware of this. An countries, it usually takes a scandal French speakers’ fears of not being former Yugoslavia, a country thrown example of Belgian enterprise to solving to overthrow an executive. At least treated fairly in a Flemish commune. together by outside influences and based political problems can be seen by the the Belgians are motivated by policies According to John Vande Lanotte, former on geographical location of boundaries – measures in place to deal with the and attempts to change the leader of SP.A, the Flemish socialist much the same as Belgium – with no forthcoming presidency of Europe. As constitution – it may frequently be party: “The federal government can’t be recognition of culture, and we are all Lanotte explained to Together: “When chaos, but can any other national paralyzed again by a discussion over this aware what tribal, linguistic and cultural starting the new presidency, if there government claim that they would do problem. A solution for BHV is a must for divisions wrought in that country. hasn’t been a new government elected any better, taking the immense making politics stable again. We should the resigning government will take the differences in the country into split the election region, and in our BEST INTERESTS presidency. Formally we can go on, account? Good luck to the next set of opinion the best way is into Vlaams- From 1958-1999, there were consecutive even when the formation of a new policymakers – we at Together look Brabant and Brussels election regions.” Christian Democrat-operated coalition government is still ongoing.” It is unlikely forward with cautious optimism to governments. Different coalitions managed whether such an accommodation would future developments. Meanwhile, his Francophone socialist to push through policies that were mostly counterpart, Belgian former Defence approved internationally, such as same-sex Minister André Flahaut, takes a more marriage and labour-market reform. In measured, diplomatic response to the same addition, until just before the global crisis, question. As he told Together: Belgium managed to maintain a balanced ‘When “We need a balanced solution, budget in line with the rest of the EU. Voting starting which takes into account the is compulsory and there is an above the new interests of all parties. We say average turnout of more than 92.5 per cent presidency, if that we are ready to negotiate in (1945-2002), which is well in excess of there hasn’t good faith, without provocations countries such as the UK, which had an and without capitulation, in average of 75.2 per cent for the same been a new order to reach an agreement period. Such figures would suggest that government that will benefit the whole Belgians, whether Fleming or Walloon, care elected the country.” Add to this the about their politics and what their resigning expansion of mainly French- representatives in government are able to government speaking Brussels and its achieve. And the split between the will take the encroachment on the communities may not be as wide as some presidency’ historically Dutch-speaking media outlets would have us believe. When suburbs, plus the already asked whether he believed his supporters complicated system of would be able to accept an alliance of the governance in this small country, and the two parties in an attempt to reconcile problems faced by the member state differences throughout both communities, quickly become apparent. Flahaut responded: “I believe that our supporters and voters would not only Brussels is not exempt from the modern- accept but actually welcome the common day trends of urbanization and expansion. work and commitment of the French- If the country was divided, as some speaking and Flemish socialists, which politicians and commentators suggest, would reconcile differences between
72 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 73 MONEY Luxury – with and without lucre writer : DAVE DERRUYTER
If luxury goods companies want to make money in today’s globalized economy, they are having to look increasingly towards BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries for sales growth, but domestic competition is building up there too. Our writer examines whether the West’s leading companies should therefore go it alone, partner with the locals, or a mixture of both.
he luxury goods market is billion souls. The BRIC economies are obviously suffering difficult very differently sized, too – China is the © L’Oréal ‘REST OF ASIA’ Suntory Group was also a latecomer to the times during the economic giant, with a larger nominal GDP than the So how well is the luxury goods Chinese boom. Only as late as November crisis. Though there are three others combined, having recently industry prepared for such changes? 2009 did it buy the Orangina Schweppes signs that things are looking overtaken Japan as the world’s second- Well, even the flagship group LVMH Group to diversify its sales out of Japan betterT in 2010, the world economy has largest economy, and likely to become the only began to divide its Asian sales and perhaps enter the Chinese market not yet fully recovered and still badly biggest in the not-too distant future, between ‘Japan’ and the ‘rest of Asia’ in without too much focus on its Japanese needs different government stimuli. perhaps even as soon as by 2025. 2006, with the latter being largely origins – its website is in Japanese, However, the crisis is not dominated by China. In 2006, 13 per English, Chinese and Russian however, Japanese evenly spread around the cent of LVMH’s worldwide sales were in which shows that an understanding of luxury goods globe. China is booming, Japan and 17 per cent in the rest of current and future markets. companies notwithstanding the economic Asia. By 2009, this had changed to 10 are catastrophe in the developed per cent sales in Japan and 23 per However, not all Japanese companies are handicapped world, while India, the Asian cent in the rest of Asia. laggards to Chinese growth – Shiseido when tiger, is roaring alongside. has had a manufacturing base in Beijing BIG IN JAPAN? since 1991 and, in December 2001, it investing in SIZE MATTERS Japanese luxury goods companies are established a China Strategy Department mainland The two other BRIC countries handicapped when investing in at its Tokyo HQ. In April 2002, the China, tell a different story – mainland China, because of the two Shiseido China Research Centre followed. because economic growth is slower in countries’ poor historical relations. The results were spectacular – in 2004, of the two both Brazil and Russia and Onward Holdings Company, for Shiseido had 6.9 per cent of its sales from countries’ their populations are much example, has almost no exposure to the ‘Other Asia/Oceania’ (ex-Japan) and 11.6 poor smaller, with Brazil’s 190 Chinese market and suffered large per cent in operational income. By 2009, historical million citizens and Russia’s losses in the fiscal year to February five years later, it had acquired 15.9 per relations 142 million far fewer than 2009 partly because of this and its cent in global sales from ‘Other Asia/ China and India’s combined almost exclusive reliance on Japanese Oceania’ (ex-Japan) and a hefty 35.9 per populations of more than 2 and European markets. cent of global operational income. © Kenzo
74 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 75 © Shiseido AND THE FUTURE? Chinese, and later Indian, markets. A Blue Paper by the Chinese Academy of Once these are larger than western Social Sciences predicts that China will markets, trends and fashion dictats will be the world’s biggest market for luxury originate in Asia, and it will then be goods in five years. Local (and still essential to conduct ventures with unknown) Chinese companies are Chinese players in luxury goods as entering the low end of the market on the local content gains importance, be it in mainland and, to attract buyers’ interest, design or components. This could be they are establishing laboratories near achieved via the takeover of a local Paris to gain credibility. They have a long luxury goods manufacturer, as LVMH way to go, but one should never and L’Oreal have done previously in underestimate the competition – and the Japan. But in China, perhaps further local authorities appear to be lending partnerships will be required, since them a hand. there are only few local luxury goods makers, and their prices may be too Recently, Chinese officials have attacked high. To go it alone in China in five the quality of foreign luxury goods years’ time may however be a recipe available in China. By changing their for failure, even if western luxury designs according to Chinese consumers’ juggernauts are still able to sell tastes, European luxury brands are risking Asian-style goods in the West better their ‘quality aura’ and perhaps also than their Chinese future competitors. It alienating western shoppers. will become ever more important to be locally rooted in the Chinese luxury The biggest future challenge for LVMH goods industry and to keep an
and its peers lays in the sheer size of the R&D edge.
76 – Together #18 BRUSSELS ON THE MOVE
Share and share alike writer : PATRICIA KELLY
If you don’t want the expense and hassle of owning a car and are fed up with not being able to park anywhere if you do have one, Cambio would like to propose a solution.
hen the Belgian sharing 346 cars stationed at 142 government locations nationwide. Operational here resigned, the Greens since 2002, the company is adding new drove to the palace clients at the rate of 120 per month in to see the king in a Brussels alone and is opening new Wcar from Cambio, an increasingly popular stations and adding more cars every © Cambio.be ELECTRIC AVENUE them. Members are issued with a car-sharing scheme credited with month to meet demand – an extra 48 cars One of the keys to Cambio’s success, personal smart card to open the door. A removing thousands of cars and 17 stations in Brussels over a according to Van Kesteren, is its personal code gives access to keys and For city from Belgian roads. With 12-month period. partnership with public transport and the clients are urged to keep the car topped dwellers it Brussels top of the league in railroads with vast networks of potential up as a courtesy to the next driver – is difficult Europe for traffic jams The scheme is of no use to anyone in customers in need of a car for trips to included in the deal is a card, which pays to fault, according to a study by daily need of a car for work or business, places that are inconvenient to get to or for petrol. Every driver is given an the main satellite navigation provider or for long journeys and extended periods otherwise inaccessible. At the end of this induction course on how to use the attraction TomTom, and parking ever of time. But for city dwellers it is difficult to year, in a co-financing deal with the system; the beauty is not only in its for those more problematic in this fault, the main attraction for those driving Brussels government and the University of simplicity and affordability but also its already congested city, it fewer than around 12,000km a year being Brussels, Cambio plans to use flexibility – a car may be booked minutes driving makes economic sense for that it works out cheaper than running a fewer than Operational its car-sharing network to test before it is needed and returned earlier anyone driving fewer than car of their own. here since electric cars. than planned or kept for longer. around 1000 km per month to sign up. Parking is free anywhere in the City of 12,000km a There are several categories of 2002, the company is Cambio cars are kept on Brussels and the Brussels Region offers a year being CLICK AND DRIVE membership and deals and packages are public streets in permanently range of incentives to anyone getting rid that it works All it takes is a click of the also available for businesses, which make adding new reserved parking places to of their car in the form of free out cheaper mouse and there’s a choice of up a fifth of the membership and include clients at which they must be returned. subscriptions to Cambio, free public than running small city cars, vans, or large the Ministry of Justice and the Green Party the rate of Collapsible barriers prevent transport and money towards a bicycle. a car of their estate cars – most of them – Cambio founder and finance director 120 per month others from taking the places For every Cambio car that exists, Van own less than three years old David van Kesteren is delighted with in Brussels – only necessary in Belgium; Kesteren estimates between 7 and 11 – available for an hour, a day Cambio’s debut at the Palace. There is no alone in law-abiding Germany, a cars are taken off the road – between or a week at a time. They can age limit; clients must have held a valid signpost is enough. They are 2,400 and 3,800 vehicles throughout the be driven abroad and clients driving licence for two years before they fully insured, regularly serviced country to date. also have access to cars in Germany and may join, making this scheme available to and cleaned and drivers are encouraged the Irish city of Cork. At the end of March, students and young people who wouldn’t to keep them tidy and take rubbish with www.cambio.be there were 9,099 drivers in Belgium otherwise be able to afford a car.
78 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 79 BY THE GLASS 1997 Bordeaux: ‘A drinkers’ year’ writer : ALEX HEWETSON
Two of Together’s finest, the former a wine expert and the latter, well, an accomplished ‘diner’, were fortunate enough to be invited to a leading Brussels eatery recently – read on, to be wined and dined in style.
was lucky enough to be invited to discovery (and, as Stéphane was at pains La Femme du Sommelier to point out, the restaurant also offers an recently, where a few friends and excellent Maison JM Gobillard 100 per acquaintances of Stéphane cent Chardonnay blanc de blanc), its Penxten and his wife Marlène original approach in using 100 per cent wereI treated to some lovely Bordeaux Pinot Meunier went very well with the married with dishes created for each wine. prawn starter. Describing the food side, needless to say, will be handled by that champion of JD: Prawn starter? If by that, you mean troughing, James Drew (JD). So, without the queues de langoustines en jupes any further preamble let’s get into what de Jambon Pata Negra sur son canapé gurgled down the little red lane and de bruschetta, yes, I would have to agree delighted our palates. with you – a perfect ‘setter-upper’.
Champagne ‘EARLY-APPLE’ Dehours CHAMPAGNE Grande The 1997 vintage was called a Réserve ‘drinkers’ year’, meaning was very basically that it was a lighter crisp, with vintage and the wines needed to be drunk young, but some are fresh notes, quite lovely to quaff now. A very clean fruit warm February produced early and almost flowering, then there were rains early-apple in May, and June produced rot, flavours none of which helped, of course. However, a hot August came to the rescue, though the harvest was early.
We started the evening with Champagne Dehours Grande Réserve, a non-vintage made entirely from Pinot Meunier grapes. Very crisp, with fresh notes, clean fruit and almost early-apple flavours. A real
80 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 81 REDS ALERT Really not more to say. I was told by my The fi rst red was a châteaux haut-Bailly mother to never speak ill of the dead... Pessac Leognan (graves), and was for alors ainsi soit-il! me the wine of the evening, with lovely closed berry fruit, good length for a ‘97, Jd: Both wines were perfectly still very well knit with a hint of softness. complemented by the plat principal, a The next was a château Beauséjour wonderful agneau de sept heures de Bécot 1er gccB (st emillon), and I think Pauillac – a cuisine memory that lingers the large quantities of Merlot gave it long, for all the right reasons. softness, but to me it was not particularly defi ned and lacked real character. Now, Château Marquis de Léoville Las Cases, something that Stéphane did do, which chosen to accompany dessert, is another was a tremendous education, was to have of the Bordeaux ‘Super Seconds’ and two bottles of each wine in succession, was much more approachable than the which can show very clearly how bottles Ducru Beaucaillou, with its sweetness and from the same vintage can vary greatly – fruit depth going beautifully with the the second wine of the Beauséjour Bécot delicious chocolate mousse [Jd: the was much shorter and the softness had reason why dessert was invented!]. given away to fl abbiness, with a taste of Another example of how the ‘97s have anchovies that is not really what you want, lasted and are much fi ner than people unless you’re addicted to salade Niçoise. originally thought. I don’t suppose you have a spare bottle fl oating around, do Jd: Well, while I fi nd myself siding with you Stéphane?! Alex here, there was no doubting the delight of the aiguillette de bœuf limousin In short, a tremendous evening, hosted by au beurre tiède that was served alongside a real expert, with a great love for his the second wine – sweet, succulent and subject – Stéphane and Marlène were entirely appetizing. A winner! incredibly hospitable and generous. Many thanks for a cracking dinner! The third actor on the wine stage was a château ducru Beaucaillou (st Jd: Couldn’t say it better myself – and M. Julien-medoc), this is one of the super Hewetson rarely, if ever, hears those seconds and reckoned to be one of the words from yours truly. Bordeaux greats. Whether it is just me or the vintages I have imbibed, it has never and marlène & stéphane are proud to rocked my world or made me see stars. It announce that, in addition to the fi nest is a wine that says “I am not easy to get to food and wines just waiting to be know” and this one was no exception; it discovered chez eux, they have also had a steely aristocratic edge and the fi rst recently begun displaying the work of glass didn’t really reveal much. However, young Polish artist Justina mikla – so, Stéphane’s second bottle strategy saved let your eyes be as ravished as your
the day, and then for the fi rst time I got palate and appetite! hints of the greatness. It was tight but then, out came the tobacco, blackcurrant La Femme du sommelier leaves, and it suddenly got length and all Marlène & Stéphane at once revealed its class. Rue de l’association, 9 1000 Brussels The next wine, château evangile T. +32 (0)476 450 210 (Pomerol), is again predominantly Merlot and this was basically shot, it had a cooked nose and almost no fruit, a pity because it can be a very great wine.
82 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 83 EAT TOGETHER EAT TOGETHER Wining, Voyage to dining Viage writer : ERIC BOSCHMAN writer : ANDREA NENOW
Our renowned sommelier returns with his thoughts on a wine Viage Brussels offers an bar with a difference and a ‘closely guarded secret’ restaurant. unforgettable night out. This unforgettable production comes from Chris Van Tongelen of the showbiz world. Noteworthy performers Jan Schepens, OENO TK VIVA M’BOMA Sasha Rosen and Fleur Brusselmans will Laurence Lardot and Grégory Castreuil This is the kind of restaurant that the real join Tongelen on stage each night, with launched this most refreshing ‘vinified’ aficionados keep among themselves like more than 20 additional singers, dancers adventure only a few years back – the decor Knights Templar – if you are daring enough and musicians completing the cast to create is very simple and original, but what counts to push open the door and meet Katia, the a memorable evening filled with top-notch here is what’s available over the counter and wonderful owner, you will be entering an music and dancing. Music will be drawn in the racks. Great fresh tapas snacks environment in which classic, simple decor from international classics such as Evita, combine with wines that are around 65 per and long tables combine with gastronomic Cats and Les Misérables, as well as the cent French, 20 per cent European and 15 hedonism, pure and simple. Viva M’Boma is LEISURE, PLEASURE Viage, located in the heart of Brussels, will more recent hits Mamma Mia! and per cent New World, including treats from the kind of restaurant that could only exist in provide you with the ideal night out no Hairspray, to name but a few. This Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Brussels, and which makes our capital the matter what your mood. Whether you are tailor-made experience is sure to please any Luxembourg, Austria, Portugal, Spain, envy of the cuisine world. Chef Olivier craving an elegant meal or just a quick drink, fan of fine food and good times. Morocco, Canada and even the US. And, Vanklemput certainly has his favourites both can be satisfied at Viage’s restaurant or on Thursdays, you can even bring along a which, at the time of our visit, included pork bar. If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at THE DETAILS beautiful discovery of your own, and pay 8€ trotters in salad, pan-fried veal braised with poker in the casino and if you’re searching Shows begin at 20h, running until midnight corkage, but only if you agree to share it woody mushrooms and fresh chorizo for a dining experience that’s out of the with coffee following each performance. with Laurence or Greg! served with fresh garden peas and sublime ordinary, may I suggest the musical dinner The cost of tickets is 125€ plus booking mashed potatoes. NOT a restaurant to visit show? fees and can be purchased through Sherpa Oeno TK with a friend who only wants a light salad
at www.sherpa.be, or the Viage Ticket Box Average cost per person: 25€ – your time would be wasted. The goal of the centre is in its name. Viage Office. For more information on all that Viage
Rue Africaine, 29-31 stems from Latin words such as the Italian has to offer and their unique dinner shows, 1060 Brussels Viva M’Boma viaggio and viaje in Spanish, which translate visit www.viage.be T. +32 (0)2 534 64 34 Average cost per person: 50€ as ‘journey’ or ‘voyage’. And visitors are Closed Sunday, open Monday and Rue de Flandre, 17 indeed treated to a journey, as they travel to Viage Brussels Tuesday 11-20h, Wednesday to Saturday 1000 Brussels each decadent floor of the complex, Anspach Boulevard, 30 11-22h30. Terrace dining available T . +32 (0)2 512 15 93 experiencing new thrills along the way. 1000 Brussels in summer. Open Monday to Saturday lunchtime, T. +32 (0)2 300 01 00 www.oenotk.be Thursday and Friday evenings. Viage is open every day from 10h to 5h. DINNER AND A SHOW © Viage The Viage Musical Dinner Show offers guests a unique dining experience on Thurstay nights, one that effortlessly combines great food with memorable entertainment. While enjoying a three- course meal that includes champagne and appetizers, participants are treated to musical numbers from more than 15 of the world’s most famous shows.
84 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 85 THE PLACES TO BE Star studded writer : FEDERICO GRANDESSO Out and about, around the globe.
1. 2.
3. 4.
1. It’s back to 14th April, when Jaeger- Chevalier of the Legion of Honour by LeCoultre CEO Jérome Lambert and French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Australian designer Marc Newson www.ralphlauren.com presented the new Jaeger-LeCoultre table watch ATMOS 566 during the Milan 3. The 9th Tribeca Film Festival, International Furniture Fair. Getty Images for presented by American Express, took Jaeger-LeCoultre. Photos by Tullio Puglia. place in Lower Manhattan from 21st April to 2nd May, and presented a diverse 2. American designer Ralph Lauren international film selection from emerging welcomed 100 of his closest friends to a and established directors. dinner on 15th April, to celebrate the opening of the new Ralph Lauren flagship 4. On 1st May, Scarlett Johansson and store in Paris. The unbelievably stylish Michael Douglas attended the guest list included Karl Lagerfeld, Bloomberg/Vanity Fair party following the Melanie Laurent and Sonia Rykiel. 2010 White House Correspondents’ Lauren’s family was also out in force to Association Dinner at the residence of the support the designer, and the world of French Ambassador in Washington. The cinema was also represented by actors VIP guests included Jessica Alba, Kevin Spacey, Michelle Yeoh, Jean Kathryn Bigelow, Donatella Versace, Reno and Isabelle Huppert. During the Colin Powell, Jon Bon Jovi and Rupert event, Lauren was also decorated as a Murdoch.
86 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 87 FRESH OPENINGS Shops, dead gorgeous Together ’s regular round-up of the classiest outlets to have opened their doors near you.
1. LEVI’S® STORE 3.WE FASHION STORE Antwerp, long recognized as a ‘fashion capital’ now WE Fashion has opened a new store in Brussels has a true denim heart, a place to shop and combining, as you would expect, fashion and the fine experience why Levi’s® is still number one after 137 art of living to give even more personality to the brand. years, proving that quality never goes out of style! The Based on a concept of ‘feelings’, developed by 250 square-metre store represents the largest famous Japanese architects, this is a true ‘fashion- recrafted outlet for the Levi’s® brand to date in shopping experience’. Benelux, and it shows. The ground floor is dedicated to women’s wear, while the upper floor is men’s, and WE Fashion Store both offer shoppers a strong selection of authentic Woluwe Shopping Center Levi’s® denim and non-denim products. Rue Saint Lambert, 202 1200 Brussels Levi’s® Store T. +32 (0)2 762 76 65 Meir 81-83 Open Monday to Thursday 10-19h, Friday 10-20h, 2000 Antwerp Saturday 10-19h T. +32 (0)3 233 53 35 www.wefashion.com Open Monday to Saturday 10-18h30 www.levi.com 4. CHRISTA RENIERS Since 1992, Belgium’s top jewellery designer, 2. SUPERDRY STORE Christa Reniers, has been creating masterpiece The renowned UK clothing brand opens yet another after masterpiece, and her flagship store opened in Belgian store – so now you know just where to go in Brussels’ Rue Dansaert in 1999, quickly followed Brussels to get the very latest must-have gear. by a second store in Antwerp. Now, her second Brussels boutique has opened its doors in Sablon Superdry Store – be among the first to see just how amazing Avenue Louise, 34-36 jewellery can be, in a stylish new location. 1000 Brussels T +32 2 540 81 12 Christa Reniers Open Monday to Saturday 10-18h Quartier Sablon www.superdry.com Rue Lebeau, 61 1000 Brussels T. +32 (0)2 514 91 54 Open Monday to Saturday 11-13h, 14h30-19h, Sunday 12-17h www.christareniers.com
88 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 89 For Art’s Sake
Bram-a- lam-a- ding-dong!
Together introduces a Belgian interior design artist, Bram Boo, whose work is all about challenging the concepts of what furniture should be, from both visual and functional perspectives.
or Bram Boo, it’s all about not Bram Boo following the rules, when it Basiliekstraat, 14 comes to what furniture should 3800 Sint-Truiden be about. The 39-year-old son T. +32 (0 )496 407 773 of Dutch parents, well-known www.bramboo.be abstractF painter Bram Bogart and artist mother Leni, Boo believes that it is his Bram Boo’s work will feature in the Fighting Belgian side that has inspired the surrealism The Box exhibition, which runs from 11th that informs many of his furniture designs, June to 4th October and tells the story of such as his Paparazzi (2007) chair and 20 Belgian designers. Overdose (2007) desk. www.brussels.be His stated goal? “To produce pieces that constantly surprise the user, with a focus on functionality and flexibility so that the object adapts itself to the surrounding space and to the need of the moment.”
However – and Boo is very clear on this – he is not about designing to fill a perceived ‘gap’ in the market. Spurred on by his emotion and own experience, it is fair to say that his work speaks for itself.
Why not judge for yourself? Peruse the examples that follow – are you sure you couldn’t find space for them, somewhere?
90 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 91 92 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 93 DIARY
Together’s ‘To Do’ list Summer begins in earnest – enjoy our selection of upcoming events.
1. 2. AVENTURE PARC® L’OFFSHORE To end of November 24.06, 08.07, 15.07, 22.07, Aventure Parc was first created in France 12 05.08, 19.08, 02.09, 16.09 years ago by Denis Payan, a former paratroop What better way to sail through summer? Take officer who wanted to open commando-style your pick from eight Thursday evenings for a obstacle courses to the public – the first trip on Genval Lake, with each evening adventure park was opened in Serre-Chevalier themed around a different sport that’s in the (France) and went on to be such a success news (be it tennis, cycling or, of course, that several other parks were set up in France football), and a DJ to take care of the soothing and Belgium. Why not spend a summer’s day sounds. And there will also be fine wines and in the forest with a difference? cocktails available to take away the stresses of your day – a wonderful way to unwind. Aventure Parc® Rue Sainte Anne, 152 www.loffshore.com B- 1300 Wavre T. +32 (0)10 223 387 BRUSSELS BEACH www.aventureparc.be July to August, dates TBC, 11-22h (except Mondays) BRUSSELS FILM FESTIVAL A seaside resort to be found in the heart of 23>30.06 Brussels every year, Brussels Beach Now celebrating its seventh edition, following its (Bruxelles Les Bains) delights visitors with a creation from the former Brussels International full kilometre of fine white sand, palm trees Film Festival in 2003, the Brussels Film Festival and waterfalls, as well as varied sports, is marked by its promotion of European relaxation and culture. There’s also live directors’ first and second films, its commitment music, DJs and shows, with food stalls and to quality and choice of its films, and its support beach bars offering the opportunity to try for emerging filmmaking talent. different flavours from around the world. The children will be kept happy too, with Flagey sandcastles, clowns and water games. Life, Place Sainte Croix truly, is a beach. 1000 Brussels T. +32 (0)2 762 08 98 Bassin Béco, Port de Bruxelles www.brusselsfilmfestival.be www.bruxelleslesbains.be
94 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 95 DIARY
ADDRESSES B F M Biko Design Forever XXI MAC www.bikodesigns.ca www.forever21.com www.maccosmetics.com Frederic Fekkai C www.fekkai.com U Cargo French Connection Urban Outfitters www.cargocosmetics.com www.frenchconnection.com www.urbanoutfitters.com
Chanel V www.chanel.com G Guess Victoria’s Secret Club Monaco www.victoriassecret.com www.clubmonaco.com www.guess.com Gucci Vivienne Westwood Costume National www.viviennewestwood.com www.costumenational.com www.gucci.com Y E K Kerastase Yohji Yamamoto Elizabeth Arden www.yohjiyamamoto.co.jp shop.elizabetharden.com www.kerastase.com Embryolisse L www.embryolisse.com Lancome Evan Biddell www.lancome-usa.com www.evanbiddell.ca Laura Mercier www.lauramercier.com Louis Vuitton www.louisvitton.com
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If you are interested in our advertising rates, Writers: Together please contact: Natasha Abudarham/Eric Boschman/Emma Portier magazine Davis/Dave Derruyter/James Drew/Federico Grandesso/ David Mc Gowan David Griffiths/Alex Hewetson/Patricia Kelly/ [email protected] or T. +32 (0)497 543 672 Kimberley Lovato/Gilly Maxim/David Mc Gowan/ Colin Moors/Andrea Nenow/Armand Richelet- Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in Kleinberg/John Sheridan whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher cannot be held Video director: BRUSSELS FLOWER CARPET BE.WELCOME responsible for the views and opinions expressed Armand Richelet-Kleinberg: in this magazine by contributors. Together is www.camera-man.weebly.com 13>15.08, 9-23h Runs until 31.08 neither responsible for nor endorses the content Once again, Grand’Place is set to be To coincide with the Belgian Presidency of of published advertisements, nor can the Photographer: magazine be held responsible for any errors or Yvan Barbera: www.reflexstar.com transformed into a dazzling carpet of fresh the EU, this audacious and challenging inaccuracies in the same. begonias, intricately worked into a themed exhibition presents a new perspective for all Design: Founder: Studio LetMeSee - Yves Reynaert pattern, with the best view of this multi- on migration, offering the chance for visitors Jérôme Stéfanski T. +32 (0)496 723 950 coloured tapestry available from the City Hall to experience this social phenomenon [email protected] - www.studioletmesee.be Publisher: balcony. interactively. David Mc Gowan Together Media Boulevard St Michel, 47 Managing Editors: B-1040 Brussels Grand’Place Atomium Square James Drew & Colin Moors: www.readright.be T. +32 (0)2 400 00 24 1000 Brussels 1020 Brussels [email protected]/T. +32 (0)473 951 137 [email protected] T. +32 (0)2 513 8940 www.atomium.be [email protected]/T. +32 (0)0475 351 505 www.flowercarpet.be Sales advisor: Gilly Maxim: [email protected]
96 – Together #18 June 10 Together – 97 Le Chat Travelling by himself Everyone needs a holiday...
98 – Together #18