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● ● ● ● ● ŁódźSeoul ● Berlin Railway Suitcase hotels ● TestCharity Tenerife auction ● Moscow Poker ● 4hrs Citroen in Delhi C4
NOVEMBER 2010
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6 EDITORIAL 39 DEALS 50 FITNESS 65 BUSINESSMAN Foksal Residence in Warsaw Taking care of your own fi tness is ON HOLIDAY 8 ON TOP not that diffi cult Isla Margarita – a exotic trip Hotel and airline news 40 LOT POLISH with Exim Tours AIRLINES ■ ■ ■ DESTINATIONS 14 TRIED&TESTED The Polish air carrier in Star Alliance 66 TECHNO London – Sao Paulo, 52 PARIS Smartphones for everyone TAM Airlines, business class; 42 TESTS Ten interesting ethnic restaurants London – Manchester, London – Our editors advise on the best in France’s capital 69 TASTES OF THE Liverpool, Virgin Trains, fi rst class/ suitcases WORLD standard class; Litwor Zakopane; 56 TENERIFE Japanese cuisine Andel's Łódź; Metropol Warsaw; 46 ORBIS An excellent place to organize your Park Hyatt Macka Palas Istanbul; Echansons – wine specialists incentive trip 70 WINE Hilton Airport Copenhagen; Stary in Mercure hotels The secrets of a good vineyard Dom Restaurant Warsaw; ■ ■ ■ LIFESTYLE Avis Car Rental Warsaw 48 REZIDOR 72 MOTO The benefi ts of the loyalty 58 GOLF The new Citroen C4 ■ ■ ■ REPORTS programmeo We present golf courses around Buenos Aires 76 MOSCOW 28 BT AWARDS 4 hours in the Russian capita Awards presented by Business 60 BT INTERVIES Traveller Zbigniew Pszczulny, architect, 78 BT POLAND co-founder of JSK architect studio, IN ENGLISH 30 GUIDE which designed Warsaw’s National 101 pieces of advice to make Stadium 82 ASK PETER your business trip more pleasant We answer all your questions and trouble-free 62 CRUISE regarding travelling Prince Albert II – an exceptional 36 GUIDE expedition ship by an Italian cruise Two airports in Berlin line Silversea
4 | NOVEMBER 2010 PAŹDZIERNIK 2010 | 5 business trip is a part of our daily life and where other vessels can’t go, and the cruise has therefore seldom seems special, but if you always a character of a scientifi c expedition. A think longer about it, you will be able to Finally, we encourage you to read the results of the defi ne certain principles which determine whether latest edition of Business Traveller Awards which your trip is going to be successful and pleasura- are annually voted for by our readers. ble. That is why, we have made a list of 101 Let’s not forget about our health. A business trip pieces of advice which might improve the comfort can be an excellent opportunity to take some of your business trips. exercise, especially after long and tiring meetings, That’s not all. Even the best advice seems and these days well-equipped hotel fi tness centres pointless, if you are let down by the thing which are open even 24/7. As you will learn from our largely contributes to overall comfort of your article, you don’t really have to slog your guts out journey, especially during a transfer from one in a gym to stay fi t. How should we do it, then? plane to another. I’m talking here about the Enjoy your reading. luggage. Our editors did a great job (but it’s for you to decide), and tested various brands of suitcases. In this issue you can read a special report on their fi ndings. This month we also present Berlin’s airports, as well as hotels in Zakopane, Warsaw, Łódź, Copenhagen, and Istanbul. Add to this, a short stroll along the beautiful city of Moscow, and the charm of incentive trips in Tenerife. We invite you to take a truly remarkable trip aboard a luxurious Prince Albert II cruise ship which visits the places
Robert Grzybowski Wydawca BT Poland
Read more details! Visit businesstraveller.pl
Coordinator Wojciech Tymiński Business Traveller [email protected] Managing director Julian Gregory Advertising, sponsorship Perry Publications, Cardinal House, Wydawnictwo G+J Gruner+Jahr Polska 39-40 Albemarle Street, London, W1S 4TE tel. +44 (0)20 76 47 63 30 Sp. z o.o. & Co. Sp. Komandytowa www.businesstraveller.com Agnieszka Wierzbicka-Baxter Business Traveller Poland Sales and Business Development Manager / In the US, Business Traveler is published at 303 Fifth ul. Świętokrzyska 36, 00-116 Warszawa Project Manager Avenue, 1308, NY 10016, tel 1 212 725 3500. In Germany, tel. +48 22 455 38 14, +fax +48 22 455 38 13 [email protected] Business Traveller is published at Schulstrasse 34, 80634 www.businesstraveller.pl Elżbieta Hołubka Munich, tel 89 167 9971, fax 89 167 9937. In Denmark, Business Traveller is published at Rymarksvej 46, 2900 Editor-in-Chief Wojciech Chełchowski Advertising Director, G+J [email protected] Hellerup, tel 45 3311 4413, fax 45 3311 4414. In Hungary, [email protected] Business Traveller is published at 1074 Budapest, Deputy Editor-in-Chief / Editorial Assistant Małgorzata Pawłowska-Babut Munkas utca 9, tel 36 1266 5853. In Hong Kong, Advertising Director, Business Traveller Andrzej Czuba Business Traveller Asia-Pacific and China are published Poland [email protected] at Suite 405 4/F Chinachem Exchange Square, 1 Hoi [email protected] Wan Street, Quarry Bay, tel 852 2594 9300, fax 852 2519 Art Director Dejan Gospodarek Małgorzata Antoniewicz 6846. In the Middle East, Business Traveller Middle East [email protected] [email protected] is published jointly by Motivate Publishing, PO Box 2331, Dubai UAE, tel 9714 282 4060, and Perry Publications. DTP studio CARRY Sylwia Stochmiałek-Osękowska In Africa, Business Traveller Africa is published by Future [email protected] Wydawnictwo R & S Media Sp. z o.o. Publishing (Pty) Ltd, PO Box 3355, Rivonia 2128, South ul. Świętokrzyska 36, 00 -116 Warszawa Subscription Africa, tel 27 11 803 2040. tel. +48 22 455 38 33, fax+ 48 22 455 38 13 [email protected] © 2009 Perry Publications Ltd – Publisher Robert Grzybowski Printing house a subsidiary of Panacea Publishing [email protected] Drukarnia TINTA International Ltd, United Kingdom
6 | PAŹDZIERNIKNOVEMBER 2010 2010 Visit businesstraveller.com PRZYJEMNOŚĆ LATANIA “MADE IN ITALY”.
Odkryj całe Włochy z Alitalią – dzięki lotom do 28 włoskich miast zabierzemy Cię tam gdzie tylko chcesz.
alitalia.pl PAŹDZIERNIK 2010 | 7 ono top
LOT TELEGRAM LOT TELEGRAM LOT LOT Wins Awionetki 2010 Awards LOT Polish Airlines has been presented with Awionetki 2010 awards in category “Innovative Solution of the Year”, and
“The Event of the Year”. In the former AIRBUS category, the Polish airline received its award for launching a direct cargo A Phone on Board connection between Poland and North gypt Air has received its fi rst new Airbus 330-300, which allows pas- America on Hamilton-Katowice route. E sengers to use GSM, SMS and GPRS services from their mobile pro- The Chapter justifi ed its decision, by saying that “the idea shed a bright light viders, as well as use WIFI connection during their fl ight. The rates will be of innovation on Polish cargo market”. the same as the international calls rate of the passengers’ service provid- The award in the latter category was presented for launching a brand new ers. The new A330-300 features 301 seat, including 36 in Business class, route from Warsaw to Hanoi, which marks the airline’s return to Far East where passengers will be able to sleep on their 160 Flat Beds, or indulge destinations and decision to compete not only on the European market. The themselves in hundreds of entertainment options through the personal awards were presented to the acting President of the Management Board of entertainment system screened on 15.4” screens. PLL LOT, Zbigniew Mazur. “Awionetki” are the awards presented to the companies of the Polish avia- tion industry. This year’s edition was second. The prize-winners are chosen by a Chapter consisting of fi ve members. InterContinental Business Customers Promoted Is the Best Business Hotel The passengers travelling with LOT Polish Airlines who bought roundtrip otel InterContinental Warszawa be- business class tickets for October and November 2010 are entitled to a PLN H longing to InterContinental Hotels 200 voucher until the end of November. To claim your voucher, send an Group (IHG) - one of the world’s largest e-mail at [email protected] with the number of your ticket in business class. The hotel chains has been presented an in- voucher can be used in the fi rst half of 2011 when purchasing tickets for short ternational award for the best Polish ho- and long-haul fl ights of the airline in LOT’s ticket offi ces. tel in category “Poland’s Leading Hotel”, and “Poland’s Leading Business Hotel”. This was the 17th edition of World Trav- el Awards. This year over 180,000 peo- A NEW MODEL OF TRAVEL BY CSA ple representing the hospitality industry from all over the world voted for the best t the end of October Czech Airlines introduced a new fl ight products and services in their branch. A schedule. The schedule features numerous changes in com- The award was presented to the repre- parison to the previous one, as profi table destinations have now sentatives of the hotel during the World become more frequent, while the routes which didn’t turn out to be Travel Awards ceremony which took place in Rixos Premium Belek, in Turk- very successful are being limited. The fl ight network of CSA is very ish city of Antalya. wide: the airline offers fl ights to over 100 destinations in 44 coun- InterContinental Warszawa is a mod- tries worldwide. ern hotel located in the very centre of The new business model of CSA assumes that the Czech air carri- the Polish capital. It is located in one er will become a bridge between the East and the West. This means of Warsaw’s largest buildings. It offers that a less stress will be put on domestic routes and the airline will 326 guest rooms and 75 luxurious Res- expand its range of fl ights to holiday destinations. Another novelty idence Suites. The hotel guests may sa- vour the dishes of the Polish cuisine and is shifting the departure times to more convenient ones: e.g. launch- the world’s cuisine in a number of restau- ing morning fl ights to and from Hamburg, Bologna, or Cracow, as rants located in the hotel. Among them well as increasing the number of fl ights to Brussels, Paris, Athens, are Frida, +One Bar, and E.Wedel’s or Saint Petersburg. The changes will also include the in-fl ight serv- Chocolatery. Riverview Wellness Centre, ice. In summer, CSA introduced a wider choice of dishes and bev- located on the 43th and 44th fl oor offers erages in all the classes. the highest indoor swimming pool in the city, gym classes, sauna, and steam bath.
8 | NOVEMBER 2010 wwwÝfhqwuxp orwrw so
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Centrum Lotów Discovery Sp. z o.o. ul. Świętokrzyska 36 00-116 Warszawa NOVEMBER 2010 | 9 ono top
5 MILIONS OF
|Club – a global loyalty programme by Accor group celebrates its 2nd birthday. Since 2008 the A programme has gained nearly 5 million mem- bers. Owners of A|Club cards earn points for their stays in over 2,000 hotels, services by the programme partners e.g. in Europcar, Club Méditerranée, and twelve larg- est airlines e.g. Air France, KLM, and British Airways.. Each 2,000 points can be redeemed for gift vouch- ers worth €40 or $60. They can also be used to pay for a stay in a hotel. It is expected that until the end of the year other airlines will join the programme, and soon A|Club cards will be accepted also at Shell petrol sta- tions across the world. A New Menu in ‘The Olive’ More Flights from Gdańsk he Olive restaurant, located in pork tenderloin escalopes, papardelle ufthansa is going to expand its present offer of fl ights on Warsaw’s Sheraton hotel, has with creamy chanterelle sauce, bacon L Gdańsk – Munich route by launching an additional daily T introduced a new lunch menu. and goose liver mousse, as well as connection. In its summer 2011 fl ight schedule the German Everyday the menu features other dish- salmon fi let with a salad of fennel and air carrier will offer 33 direct connections from Gdańsk to es made by Artur Grajber, the restau- chicory, ‘cremolata’ rice with citrus fruit three largest airports in Germany, i.e. Frankfurt, Munich, and rant’s chef. The lunch sets consists of and parsley. Dusseldorf. Having launched the direct connection between four options. Among the dishes you will The price of the set starts at PLN 55 Gdańsk and Dusseldorf in March 2010, Lufthansa’s connec- fi nd a watermelon and spinach salad, (€14) for two courses. tion to Munich seems a considerable addition to Gdańsk Lech Wałesa Airport. There will be as many as 86 seats avail- able on board a modern CRJ-900 Lufthansa City Line jet air- craft both in business and economy classes. Air France Expands Mobile Card rom May 9 next year, Air France will roster one of its su- Fperjumbos every day for fl ight AF346 (departing Par- ritish Airways has introduced a new ap- is CDG at 16.10, arriving Montreal 17.20) and AF347 (de- B plication for smartphone users which al- parting Montreal 1955 and arriving Paris CDG the next lows them to check-in via their phones. At morning at 0830). present, only members of British Airways’ Montreal, Canada, will be the fourth city on Air France’s free-to-join frequent fl yer programme, the Ex- A380 network after New York JFK (launched in November ecutive Club, can download mobile boarding 2009), Johannesburg (February 2010) and Tokyo Narita passes on their phones. These can then be (September 2010). With the A380, Air France can ration- scanned at check-in to speed up the board- alize its frequencies on these busy routes by combining two fl ights which leave at similar times while offering the ing process. The electronic boarding pass same seat capacity at a 20% reduction in operating will allow the passengers to board both do- costs. The main deck of the A380 boasts equiv- mestic and international fl ights. The applica- alent capacity of a Boeing 777-200 and the up- tion can also be used by owners of Black- per deck that of an Airbus A340-300. berry phones and other devices with Android operating system. Members can also access their Executive Club details using the app, see real-time fl ight information about their bookings and make amendments to their bookings directly from their phones.
10 | NOVEMBER 2010 0GFSVKFNZUZMLPTPOFD[OFOJFSVDIPNPyDJ
www.Fifthavenue.pl
FIFTH AVENUE Sp.j. ul.Nowy Świat 38/4 00-363 Warszawa tel. 22 828 63 63 NOVEMBER 2010 | 11 ono top
Lufthansa Reaches 100,000 on Facebook
ithin several months Lufthansa managed network with the airline, swap information and ma about the special A380 fl ight to Mallorca. W to gather 100,000 fans on Facebook. pick up special offers and promotions. Lufthan- In addition, fans could see exclusive, behind- The German air carrier started its fan page sa Facebook fans were, for example, the fi rst to the-scenes photos from a TV commercial shot in December 2009. The Lufthansa Facebook be informed about the chance to book a seat at Lufthansa Technik’s maintenance hangar in page is one of many opportunities in the grow- on the inaugural fl ights operated by the A380, Munich for the German TV entertainment show, ing social media space in which customers can or to obtain exclusive on-site coverage in Pal- “Wetten Dass” – hosted by Thomas Gottschalk. Finnair to Fly to Seoul and Nagoya he air traffi c within Finnair’s be- and to Nagoya five times per week T tween Poland and Japan as well from December this year. In January as Poland and China increased in the next year, the number of weekly fl ights third quarter of 2010 by 28 and 24 per to Osaka will be increased to six and cent respectively (in comparison to to Delhi seven. From 27 March, the the same period of 2009). The traffi c start of the summer traffi c season, Fin- on the route from Poland to Korea in- nair will fl y daily to Seoul, Nagoya and creased four times. Finnair responds, Osaka. increasing the number of connections In its offer Finnair has daily fl ights to Asia. From the end of the year, Fin- to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Osaka, Beijing, nair will fl y to Seoul six times per week Shanghai, and Bangkok.
12 | NOVEMBER 2010 BUSINESS CLUB IN IBERIA beria Airlines formally launched its Inew Business Club class for busi- ness travellers on the airline’s longest medium-haul flights on October 21. The new seats will also be offered on fl ights between Spain and Lagos, Mos- cow, Tel Aviv, and Cairo. The 14 seat Business Club section has 2 seats on each side as well as 1.27 metres of separation between rows. The extra-large, 55-cm-wide seats are of totally new design, with adjustable backs, head rests, leg rests W biznesie and foot rests. Each Business Club passenger may use the latest Play Station Portable (PSP), with an LCD * : ) screen, to watch late-release high-def- inition fi lms or television series, or to listen to the ten audio channels. The passengers will also enjoy new com- fort-enhancing services such as spe- cial access and „Fast track” movement through security controls, the exten- sion of boarding by cell phone options to more destinations, and the upgrad- !"" # ing of Iberia’s VIP lounges. $ % & ' ( )
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radissonblu.com NOVEMBER 2010 | 13 FLIGHT CHECK: LONDON – SÃO PAULO TAM Airlines B777-300ER Business class
BACKGROUND TAM fl ies daily from and I was offered a glass of champagne, lence but having already belted up over Heathrow Terminal 1 to Sao Paulo, de- orange juice or water. the blanket I was left undisturbed. There parting at 2205 with fl ight JJ8085 and ar- THE SEAT There is a dividing wall were no fl ight announcements to inter- riving at 0535 the next day into Guarul- between first class and the front busi- rupt sleep, which was welcome. hos International’s Terminal 1. The ness cabin, which has three rows of 2-3- WHICH SEAT TO CHOOSE? The carrier introduced its B777-300ER air- 2 seating (A-C, D-F-G, H-K). There front business cabin is quieter than craft to this route in 2008 and in Febru- is then a galley and washrooms, and the second one, and row five has ad- ary it reconfi gured the premium cabin to a larger business cabin with five rows vantages because there is little footfall introduce four fi rst class seats, with 56 in (see seat plan, right). At fi rst glance, row past you into the fi rst class cabin. That business and 302 in economy. eight seemed to have more legroom, but said, I would personally go for row six, CHECK-IN The airline offers a chauf- this may be because the other rows ex- and any seat apart from F, in the mid- feur service for both business and fi rst tend forwards under the seat in front, dle. With the seats fully reclined it can class passengers in the UK. I was picked which is not possible for row eight since be diffi cult to access the aisle across your up from central London at 1900 and, it is the bulkhead. Economy is mainly sleeping neighbour, but then again if you amazingly, arrived at T1 in only 35 min- confi gured 3-4-3. are in the aisle seat you are the one being utes. The check-in area was empty for Business seats have a width of 20 inch- climbed over. In the main business cab- both business and fi rst. I added my Bmi es (51cm), a pitch of 63 inches (160cm) in, avoid row 12 as economy class may Diamond Club membership number to and when fully reclined are 70 inches disturb, and possibly row eight since the the booking now that TAM is a member (178cm) in length. The IFE screen is au- washroom and galley are in front. of Star Alliance, then went through fast- dio-video on-demand in all cabins. The THE FLIGHT Appetizers were green track security. I was quickly airside. overall colour scheme is taupe, with the leaves served with bresaola and tomato THE LOUNGE TAM uses the Star Al- seat surround a pale olive green, and cov- and mozzarella terrine (fairly bland) or liance lounge (for facilities see “50 top ers and amenity kits a deep red (for a vid- with smoked tuna fi llet with black pep- airport lounges”, businesstraveller.com/ eo of the product visit passiontofl yand- per crust, or a tartlet with crème frai- archive/2009/july-august-2009). Flights serve.com.br/pt). che and wasabi. There was also a choice aren’t called and when the screen showed The seat is similar to the angled lie- of bread and the option of mushroom mine as boarding I left immediately as fl at version on airlines such as Lufthan- soup. Mains were lamb with gratin po- Gate 48 is a long walk away. sa and Air France. I was in window tato and vegetables, chicken fi llet with BOARDING This was quick, with seat 6K. I found it very easy to sleep in, harissa sauce and orzo pasta, or ricotta a dedicated queue for premium passen- but then I am used to these seats and was cheese tortellini with tomato sauce. The gers. Once on board my jacket was taken tired. There was a fair amount of turbu- chicken was reasonably tender, the haris-
14 | NOVEMBER 2010 A K DG 1
AC DFG HK 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 ABC DEFG HJK 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 sa pasta not spicy and I left most of this. 34 There was also a selection of cheeses and 35 36 desserts. 37 38 The service was friendly, and while 39 40 at first it took a little time to attract 41 the flight attendant’s attention (they 42 43 seemed to see to the Brazilian nation- 44 45 als and Portuguese speakers first), it 46 was professional and well thought- out. After the meal I fell asleep for sev- eral hours. A few hours before landing breakfast was served, which was either a herb omelette with chicken sausage or a sandwich, along with pastries, yoghurt and fresh fruit. First class ARRIVAL Immigration took ten min- Business utes. I had no bags to wait for but a col- class league in business did and it was out Economy quickly. class VERDICT Excellent. The angled lie-fl at Kitchen seat is very comfortable and easy to sleep on, and the service is friendly if a little Toilet vague at times. Tom Otley
SEAT CONFIGURATION 2+3+2 SEAT LENGTH 178 cm SEAT WIDTH 51 cm PRICE Internet rates for a return business class fl ight from London to Sao Paulo in September started from £2,671. CONTACT tamairlines.com
NOVEMBER 2010 | 15 RAIL CHECK: W POCIĄGU: LONDON - LIVERPOOL LONDON – MANCHESTER Virgin Trains Virgin Trains First class Standard class
BACKGROUND Virgin’s 200km/ BACKGROUND I arrived at Euston ph Pendolino trains run from London 15 minutes before my 1620 departure to Euston to Liverpool, Manchester, Bir- Manchester. I was heading for an evening mingham and Glasgow. From Euston event and the train was due to arrive to Liverpool Lime Street, the fi rst train First Class at 1828. For those aiming for a morning departs on weekdays at 0527 (arriving meeting, the 0617 gets into Manchester at 0801), followed by 0707 and then an Piccadilly at 0828. From 0800, trains de- hourly service (with extra trains during part every 20 minutes, with the last one the evening rush hour) until 2107. The leaving at 2200 and arriving in Manches- fi rst service from Liverpool also leaves ter at 0035. at 0527 (arriving at 0750), followed by THE SEAT I had pre-booked my tick- trains at 0605 and 0700, and then hour- et and was allocated coach C, seat 28A, ly at 48 minutes past the hour until 2048. so had to walk quite a way down the THE LOUNGE Virgin’s first class platform after queueing up to show the lounge is located above Marks and Spen- guard my ticket. The carriage was confi g- cer. It was packed when I arrived at 1700, ured 2-2, a mixture of groups of four seats and I ended up on a stool by a TV show- Standard Class with a table between them, and pairs of ing BBC News 24. The main seating area seats with small, pull-down tray tables. has a sofa, coffee table and stools, while Mine was a window seat at a table, travel- a business centre has desks, sockets and ling backwards. Someone was sitting in it, a printer – wifi is free. There is also a qui- despite it being reserved, but I was hap- eter room with departure boards, and py to be by the aisle. I put my wheelie bag phone charging facilities. Free refresh- on a luggage rack halfway down the car- ments included coffee and orange juice, riage. There are also racks by the doors, apples and a rather dry chocolate cake, but you should keep an eye out, as Brit- while alcoholic drinks were available ish Transport Police has warned of peo- from a bar, at £2 for a beer, glass of wine ple getting on just before the train leaves or spirit (mixers are free). The lounge and taking them. was adequate, but felt tired and had it THE JOURNEY The train was busy and been any busier, I would have gone to sit THE JOURNEY We left on time and left on time. I did some work on my lap- in the main concourse. I left the lounge soon after departure I was offered an top (there was a spotlight above the seat at 1715, allowing plenty of time to board evening meal (available 5pm-7pm). and plugs at the table). Wifi costs 75p for my 1733 train. The choice was a tasty venison stew or ten minutes, £5 for an hour, or £10 for 24 THE SEAT The fi rst class section was a chicken dish (a vegetarian option is hours. An onboard shop sells snacks and located in the front two carriages and available on request, or you can have drinks – a meal deal including a sand- was arranged in groups of four or two a sandwich), and either a chocolate des- wich, crisps and a drink costs £4. The train forward- and backward-facing seats, sert or cheese and biscuits. was far too hot and I was relieved I was not with a table between each pair or quar- A full breakfast is served until 10am, sitting near the window, where a vent was tet. The storage space overhead was big with “light bites” between 10am and 4pm, pumping out stifling air. This was also enough to hold the carry-on case I use and after 7pm. Virgin offers weekend fi rst the case on the return journey, and I over- for fl ights. I had been allocated seat 27 class upgrades for £15, which includes heard other people saying they had ex- in coach J – a forward-facing aisle seat lounge access, although there is no meal perienced it before. We arrived on time. in a group of four. The three other pas- service at the weekend – fi rst class passen- OCENA A punctual service but the sengers all knew each other and at gers receive free tea, coffee, water, crisps, train was uncomfortably hot. fi rst I wished I had been sat in one of the biscuits and fruit instead. We arrived on Felicity Cousins pairs, but they turned out to be friendly. time at 1955, and I walked past the new- There is free wifi in fi rst class, provided looking fi rst class lounge at Lime Street. PRICE Internet rates for a fi rst class midweek day-return fare by T-Mobile Hotspot, as well as individ- VERDICT A good meal service and com- from London to Liverpool booked one week in advance star- ual seat power. The seat was comforta- fortable seating. The lounge is ade- ted from £79.50/ from London to Manchester booked one we- ble and there was a lamp on the table, al- quate if very busy at peak hours. ek in advance started from £27. CONTACT virgintrains.co.uk though the carriage was amply lit. Mark Caswell
16 | NOVEMBER 2010
celebrity.indd 1 9/17/09 1:29:47 PM • Najpiękniejsze statki • SPA na pokładzie • Pole golfowe z naturalną trawą • Uczty kulinarne • Wycieczki
LISTOPAD 2010 | 17 tel. 022 455 38 48, www.rccl.pl
celebrity.indd 1 9/17/09 1:29:47 PM HOTEL: ZAKOPANE Litwor
WHAT’S IT LIKE? A few weeks ago the of 53 rooms to choose from. They were di- hotel underwent a renovation, thanks to vided into a few categories – double ones which it received additional conference with a single bed and a sofa, or two twin rooms. The building, tucked away in the beds. The business offer includes double main street of Zakopane, is of tradition- rooms with an additional bed and 5 suites. al, stylish design – sloping roofs, glass The standard room is not too big towers with bay windows and balconies – about 20 sq m. The rooms are fur- overlooking Giewont. Inside, you will see nished in a traditional way, with no spe- an unusual, for this type of interior, re- cial amenities. Dark furniture contrasts ception desk. It is an enormous, massive with pastel-hued walls and light orna- desk with a computer screen hidden un- ments. In each room the air condition- der the glass top. On the right-hand side ing is adjusted manually (a requirement there is a culinary section, and next to it to be granted 5 stars, although the aver- there is a lift. The decor alludes to the lo- age annual temperature in the area is no You may order the specialty of the chef cal tradition and contributes to the bou- more than 4 degrees Celsius), a work- – Dariusz Siciarz, which is a set consist- tique character of the hotel. desk, a safe, a mini bar and Pay TV. The ing of roasted lobster fl ambéed in cognac The five-star Litwor (the first hotel bathrooms come with showers, under- with avocado dip, artichoke cappuccino with such a number of stars in Zako- fl oor heating and a tower heater. Some of or beef wellington with aged wine sauce pane) belongs to TRIP Group, which is the rooms also feature stylish fi replaces. and smoked mushrooms. the owner of two more hotels in the city, A suite consists of two rooms, a lounge The adjacent Lobby bar is a place, as well as a hotel&convention centre in with a bathroom for guests and a sepa- where you can have an informal busi- the town of Ossa between Warsaw and rate bedroom with a private black and ness meeting over a glass of something Łódź. What’s new is the recently intro- white bathroom. stronger. duced option to rent the whole hotel for The rooms have access to wifi , but the LEISURE Guests have access to a fi t- your sole own needs. The programme service is charged extra. ness room with Technogym equip- is called “exclusive use” and it is aimed BUSINESS FACILITIES After the ren- ment, a 11-metre long countercurrent mostly at business people. ovation the hotel received a new confer- swimming machine, a Jacuzzi, a sauna, WHERE IS IT? Krupówki is the most ence room with club decor, which can a Turkish bath and a Spa centre, which frequently visited street in Zakopane – hold up to 60 people. The other room, uses the Comfort Zone cosmetics. the main promenade in the city full of intended for smaller meetings, will VERDICT Good location and friendly stalls and local attractions. It takes a cou- hold up to 15 participants. Both rooms atmosphere are the biggest advantages ple of minutes to get there from the rail- are equipped with essential conference of this hotel, situated in the centre of Po- way station, and over 2 hours – from the facilities. land’s mountainous capital. Balice airport in Cracow. Motorists can BARS AND RESTAURANTS A place Wojciech Chełchowski expect an underground car park with 9 well known in the city is the hotel Kone- parking spaces and another car park out- ser restaurant, which seats up to 120 peo- side the hotel. ple. It serves Polish and international PRICE Internet rates for a standard room started at PLN 297. CONTACT Hotel Litwor; Krupówki 40, 34-500 Zakopane, ROOM FACILITIES The check in time cuisine – I especially recommend horse- Tel. +48 18 20 202 22; litwor.pl starts at 4.00 pm and you have a range radish soup and a duck.
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PAŹDZIERNIK 2010 | 19 HOTEL: ŁÓDŹ Andel’s
WHAT IS IT LIKE? Andel’s is a 4-star industrial feel which is additionally em- The large reception area is situated on hotel named after the Anděl district of phasised by glass elements. There are the right side of the main entrance and Prague (Anděl means “angel” in Czech), many paintings on display throughout there is the Lobby hotel bar nearby.. where its design concept was fi rst real- the hotel, but its private gallery particu- ROOM AMENITIES The hotel com- ised. Even though it may be of no appeal larly seems to be an interesting solution, prises 278 air-conditioned rooms locat- to some that the hotel is situated on the with a number of artworks by contempo- ed on the four fl oors, including 216 dou- vast grounds of the Manufaktura com- rary artists from around the world. ble rooms (63 of them feature two single mercial centre, the hotel’s location in the WHERE IS IT? The property of Manu- beds), 53 suites with kitchenettes desig- very heart of the city makes up for all the faktura is located on Ogrodowa Street, in nated for those who are planning a long- inconveniences. the city centre. It takes about an hour to er stay, 4 two-level Maisonette Suites, 1 The history behind the edifi ce is tru- get there from Warsaw by car. Władysław two-level Maisonette Deluxe Suit which ly amazing – located in the district that Reymont Airport is 10km away, and if features a large terrace, and there are al- was established in the second half of you want to get to the train station, you so 4 disabled rooms. the 19th century by Izrael Kalmanow- need to cover the distance of 5km. Decorated by the British designers icz Poznaski, (a multimillionaire with Car owners have an underground car from Jestico&Whiles, Andel’s is a quality powerful vision, also considered one park at their disposal, although its con- hotel with a modern feel. Standard room of the three “kings of cotton” of Łódź) struction does not appear to be a well- (over 25sqm) features light-coloured the building originally housed a spin- considered design – you really need to walls and beige wall-to-wall carpeting ning factory. During the period of pros- rack your brain when driving in a maze which brighten up the room and com- perity, the number of people employed of narrow passages if you want to avoid plement the contrasting furniture and at the factories and those who lived the inevitable consequences that are of- the rest of the room amenities. When you on the Poznański’s housing estates ten seen in the form of marks on some walk out of the bathroom that is decorat- exceeded 6,000. of the pillars. ed in shades of beige and equipped with Andel’s is a truly contemporary hotel, The lobby area is of a fair size and a separate bath tub and shower cubicle, and red brick that is a characteristic fea- gives you the idea of what to expect from the short corridor leads to a spacious liv- ture of the entire property gives it a cool, the rest of the establishment. ing area where you can fi nd a large, com-
20 | NOVEMBER 2010 fortable bed, a bedside table, and a desk of the rooms can be divided into two es which would make a business meeting with a thick glass top and a comfortable smaller ones and they all feature state- more intimate and productive. armchair. Other amenities include a fl at- of-the-art equipment. LEISURE FACILITIES The hotel screen TV on the wall (some of the rooms With a view over the city, there is the boasts a large, glazed swimming pool feature a recess in the wall that has been spacious Lounge Room on the last fl oor which is situated on the highest fl oor of specially made for this purpose), a lap- of the hotel – it features a large terrace the building, where you can also fi nd fi t- top size self deposit box, a minibar, tea/ and is strictly designated for the special ness rooms with modern equipment and coffee making facilities and a CD play- wishes of the business guests. the skySPAce centre offering a variety of er. All the guests may enjoy WIFI high- BARS AND RESTAURANTS Locat- beauty treatments (including massages speed Internet access. ed in the lobby area, Delight is the main and revitalising treatments). Guests may BUSINESS FACILITIES With 7 con- restaurant that occupies 4 rooms and can also take the advantage of the compli- ference rooms, Andel’s boasts the most seat up to 300 people. mentary sauna (2 rooms available) and extensive of all the hotels in the region At 6.30 (7.00 at weekends) it serves the Wellness Bar. congress centre. Each room (2300 sq m breakfast, and from 5.00 pm till 10.00 VERDICT A quality hotel located in altogether) offers natural daylight. The pm you can order meals from a la carte the very centre of the Łódź city, with an Ballroom is the largest (together with menu. amazing décor and staff that provides foyer, where coffee breaks are organised, The main chef, Mirosław Jabłoński, a high-quality service. it has 1298 sq m and can be divided in- treats the guests to a spicy coconut soup, Jakub Olgiewicz to two smaller rooms). The names of the coriander chicken cooked with shiitake rest of the rooms are connected with tex- mushroom, pork loin wrapped in bacon CONTACT The Andel’s Hotel, tiles – there is the Satin Room (272 sq m), on the mushroom toast with asparagus ul. Ogrodowa 17, 91-065 Łódź; the Silk Room (90 sq m), the Damask and truffl e sautéed with rosemary. tel.: +48 42 279 10 00; Room (87 sq m), the Velour Room (83 Operating till 1.00 am the Oscar’s Bar andelslodz.com sq m), the Cotton Room (82 sq m), and is situated behind the reception area and RATES A rate for a standard room the two sister rooms: the Velvet and the it invites guests for a proper coffee and booked for the beginning of November Cashmere Rooms (80 sq m each). Most a wide range of quality alcoholic beverag- was €80 (breakfast included).
NOVEMBER 2010 | 21 HOTEL: WARSAW mately 20 sq m) and feature either one BARS AND RESTAURANTS Locat- king size bed (110 rooms) or two single ed in the lobby area, Metro Jazz&Bistro Metropol beds (44 rooms). Decorated in shades of can seat up to 80 people. Here you can re- salmon and yellow, this type of accom- lax with some live Jazz music (concerts modation is equipped with a relatively are played 3 times a week) while enjoying WHAT IS IT LIKE? With the smell small work desk, mirror, cable TV, tel- your breakfast, business lunch or evening of fresh paint still lingering inside the ephone and a rack where you can place meal – the orders are taken till 23.00 and rooms, the conversion of the hotel came your luggage. Wireless Internet access is the restaurant itself operates till mid- to an end several weeks ago and it in- charged extra. night. Several plasma screens on the walls volved the entire façade and the 9th fl oor, Small bathrooms and lack of air con- indicate that clearly it is a place of gather- where in place of previous offi ces you can ditioning may prove to be a bit inconven- ing for the sports fans. fi nd now some additional rooms. ient – even though the windows in the The items on the menu vary from If you enter the building from the rooms can be opened. This may, howev- plain burger or grilled chuck steak to Marszałkowska Street, you will find er, leave you struggling with the noise a roast duck, trout or medallions of yourself in a relatively small in size, yet which seems inevitable in a centrally lo- pork loin served with roast potatoes. Al- cosy lobby that retains the air of under- cated hotel. Nevertheless, the windows though I myself have not tried the local stated elegance thanks to its maroon perfectly block noise and feature black- dishes, the former guests of the hotel, walls and floor with columns that are out curtains. including internet users, would recom- both made of stone. Moreover, the in- Metropol has also air-conditioned mend them. triguing sculptures of human bodies and rooms of a higher standard – these in- VERDICT Truly convenient location faces made of thin metal net are present clude Superior King Room (approxi- in the heart of the capital. I highly rec- throughout the hotel. The reception ar- mately 25 sq m), Executive Room, Jun- ommend booking one of the new Exec- ea is located opposite the entrance, with ior Suite and Suite (up to 50 sq m), with utive Rooms located on the 9th fl oor of the hotel restaurant, staircase leading to the suites amenities being adequately the hotel. the 2 lifts and the casino entrance on the extensive. Olga Chełchowska left side. Thanks to the renovation Metropol can WHERE IS IT? Located in the very now offer its “9th fl oor” – 18 Executive heart of the capital, near the Centrum Rooms and 2 Suites, that have nothing to metro station, Metropol is half an hour do with the standard we would normally drive from the Warsaw Chopin Airport expect from a 3-star hotel. Not only colour (Okęcie district), and several hundred scheme of the rooms (shades of violet and metres away from the train station which green) but also their amenities are com- has also been undergoing a rejuvenation pletely different – here you can fi nd a lap- treatment. Since parking a car in the area top size safety deposit box, minibar, cof- may prove to be of some inconvenience, fee/tea making facilities, fl at-screen TV’s the hotel offers its very own car park for and free Internet access. Naturally, each PLN 45 a day. room is air-conditioned and there is also ROOM AMENITIES Thanks to its a bathroom with shower cubicle, where convenient location and competitive a range of toiletries and slippers await the CONTACT The Metropol Hotel; rates Metropol is the favourite choice guests – all these features actually meet Marszałkowska 99a, 00-693 Warszawa; mainly among foreigners. It compris- the standard of a 4-star hotel, which is al- tel.: 48 22 32 53 100; hotelmetropol.com.pl es 191 rooms, including standard rooms so the case when it comes to the 2 Suits sit- RATES The Executive Room for the beginning which are of the smallest size (approxi- uated on the very same fl oor. of the November could be booked online for €95.
22 | NOVEMBER 2010 POŁĄCZ
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POŁĄCZ Z ZESTAWEM TRZECH DAŃ W CENIE 79 ZŁ*.
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Z NAJLEPSZYMI MANIERAMI W WARSZAWIE ...
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KLUB POLSKIEJ RADY BIZNESU, ALEJE UJAZDOWSKIE 13, 00-567 WARSZAWA +48 22 523 66 64 WWW.KPRB.PL/AMBER
*3-DANIOWY BIZNES LUNCH (PRZYSTAWKA, DANIE GŁÓWNE I DESER) 79PLN. OD PONIEDZIAŁKU DO PIĄTKU OD 12.00 DO 15.00. NOVEMBER 2010 | 23 HOTEL: ISTANBUL Park Hyatt Macka Palas Istanbul
WHAT’S IT LIKE? This boutique fi ve- ble and a dish of fresh fruit. There was star property opened in November 2008 a large workdesk with a reading lamp, in what was once a 1920s society resi- power sockets, UK adaptors and wired in- dence. Although the interior is largely ternet cables. An ice bucket was refi lled modern minimalist, art nouveau-style nightly at turn-down. The bathroom was light fi ttings and chandeliers, black and exceptional, with twin sinks – one for fi l- white jazz prints, vintage mirrors and tered tap water – Blaise Mautin toiletries, wooden fl oors add warmth and charac- a heated fl oor, a freestanding bath with ter. After going through a metal detector coloured mood lighting above, a separate past a security guard, you enter via sliding toilet and bidet, and a combined steam frosted glass doors. Staff are highly pro- room and rainshower. fessional and welcoming, with doormen Although on the whole the room was outside to call taxis and manage luggage. great, there were a few downsides. The There is an extensive wine list and a live WHERE IS IT? In the new part of the housekeeping was a little too thorough – cooking station, with set one-hour busi- city on the European side, tucked away one morning it took me nearly fi ve min- ness lunches available for TL45 (£19) on a discreet street with a side entrance to utes to find my shoes, which had been for two courses and TL55 (£24) for three its restaurant on the corner of Macka Cad- placed under the bench at the foot of the courses. It’s open Mon-Sat 12pm-3pm desi, one of the main high-end shopping bed. There was quite a lot of noise from and 7pm-11pm. avenues. The Istanbul Convention and the street at night when I had the win- BUSINESS AND MEETING FACIL- Exhibition Centre (icec.org) is nearby. dows open (ask for one at the back if this ITIES There are two boardrooms, one Traffi c permitting, it’s about a 25-minute is a concern), and I had difficulty stay- for eight delegates and the other for 12. drive to Ataturk airport on the same side, ing connected to the wifi when using my A small 24-hour business centre be- or 50 minutes to Sabiha Gokcen airport iPhone. Iron and ironing boards and tea hind reception has two laptops and free on the Asian side. I found that a lot of the and coffee-making facilities are not sup- internet. time taxi drivers were unsure of where the plied so you need to call reception for LEISURE FACILITIES The heated out- hotel was, so it’s a good idea to note down these. door pool is open May-October from 8am the address or carry a map. RESTAURANTS AND BARS The to 7pm. Accessed by a separate lift in the ROOM FACILITIES Half the bedrooms Lounge is part of the lobby and is lobby, the spa is in the basement and fea- face the street while the others overlook open 6.30am-12am daily for breakfast, tures a sleek gym with Life Fitness ma- the pool. They differ in size depending all-day dining and afternoon tea. There is chines, three treatment rooms, steam on category but the décor and layout is a bar with a glass-fronted wall of wine op- rooms, saunas and a relaxation area. In- the same. Spa rooms have 20 sqm bath- posite, and by the pool is the Terrace, open room treatments are also available, and rooms. Wired and wifi internet access May to September, where a buffet and à la those staying in Spa rooms can enjoy a full costs €18 for 24 hours and rooms all come carte breakfast is served along with lunch Turkish hammam experience. with fl atscreen TVs measuring at least 25 and dinner. The deck is fringed with pot- VERDICT A superb top-end boutique inches, DVD players, safes with laptop ted orange trees, flowers and bamboo, business hotel with elegant bedrooms fi t- chargers, air conditioning, 24-hour room and there are comfy cream sofas. I en- ed with all you need for both work and re- service, combined clock radio/iPod docks, joyed a beautifully presented meal here laxation. The restaurant and staff were al- robes and slippers, blackout blinds and one evening beneath the stars. so commendable. daily newspapers. The minibar is expen- The Terrace shares its menu with the Jenny Southan sive – a small bottle of Coke is TL12 (£5) hotel’s signature restaurant, the Prime, while an Efes Pilsen lager is TL16 (£7). which is adjacent. It specialises in grilled CONTACT Park Hyatt Istanbul Macka Palas, Tesvikiye, My Deluxe corner room was on the meat and seafood so there is not much Bronz Sokak No 4, Sisli; tel +90 212 315 1234; fourth fl oor. It had a high ceiling and was in the way of vegetarian options, but istanbul.park.hyatt.com of a good size, with a generous entry hall when I was there the chef was happy to PRICE Internet rates for a midweek stay in November star- and separate seating area with a coffee ta- accommodate my dietary requirements. ted from €216 for a Queen room.
24 | NOVEMBER 2010 HOTEL: COPENHAGEN presidential suite (160 sq m). The rooms Nordic restaurant opens at 6.00 pm and come with manually-adjusted air condi- offers Scandinavian dishes à la carte. The Hilton tioning, the Internet access, Pay TV, a mini Axis Bar is open from 10.00 am to 1.00 am, bar, an ironing set, a laptop safe, coffee and and offers a wide selection of cocktails and tea making facilities, Bang & Olufsen TV snacks. WHAT’S IT LIKE? For the past couple sets, and a separate bathtub and a shower LEISURE The hotel offers its guests the of years the Hilton Copenhagen Airport in the bathrooms. Guests can ask for one access to the Ni’mat Spa salon – and its has been awarded the fi rst position in the double or two single beds. The rooms are Thai name translates to English as “lux- rankings of the best business hotels in Den- furnished with a comfortable workdesk, ury”. The place is decorated in a typical- mark. Not without a reason. Open in 2001, and there are huge floor-to-ceiling win- ly Asian fashion. There are six massage it has become an obvious choice for busi- dows thanks to which the rooms natural- rooms, a steam bath, a salt water pool, a fi t- nesspeople coming to Denmark on busi- ly-lit. The windows are absolutely sound- ness centre, and the hotel’s special offer: ness. The interior is very spacious and in proof, an important detail, given the fact “The Golden Egg” – an egg-shaped room, the centre there is an atrium with glass roof that the hotel is located near the airport. where you lie on a bed and indulge your- – 45 metres high – thanks to which the ho- The eleventh and twelfth fl oors are busi- self with a series of electrically-adjusted tel is fi lled with natural light throughout ness-oriented with Executive and Exec- massages. the day. The atrium connects four tow- utive Plus rooms. Besides bigger space, VERDICT The best business-oriented ers – each comprising 12 floors – where the guests can expect here the access to Danish hotel: comfort, convenience, com- guestrooms are located. This original ar- the Executive Lounge – a business lounge prehensive service. chitectural idea makes the Copenhagen with a separate check in and check out op- Ryszard Bandziewicz Hilton stand out of the crowd. Besides, it tion. In the lounge the guests can also have can also boasts its comfortable rooms and breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, use excellent service. As for the decor, you can the lounge bar, read international news- say it is very Scandinavian – which means papers and have a rest by the fi replace. It that the main material is wood – both dark is a highly luxurious place, ideal for infor- and light. It contributes to nice, family at- mal business meetings. mosphere and balances the modern fur- BUSINESS FACILITIES As for business nishing like The Egg chair or the Swan facilities, the hotel has prepared an offer chair by the famous designer Arne Jacob- called Hilton Meetings. It is about provid- sen. One of the Egg chairs was used for the ing the guests with the maximum number “Charity of fame” project. The chair was of places equipped with modern amenities, placed in the lobby, so that the celebrities as well as high quality service connected could sign their autographs on it. It is go- with organizing business events. The ho- ing to be put up for auction in 2012, and tel’s second fl oor has been arranged to ca- the proceeds will support the Red Cross. ter for such purposes. There are 29 con- WHERE IS IT? It couldn’t have a better ference rooms of the area from 9-107 sq location, especially if you are pressed for m – ideal to organize both small meet- time and have a lot to do. Hilton is close in ings and large conferences. There is also CONTACT Hilton Copenhagen Airport Ellehammersvej 20, proximity to Kastrup airport, opposite Ter- the Business Centre, which serves as a re- Copenhagen, Denmark 2770Tel: 45 32 501 501, hilton.com minal 3, from where you can get to the re- ception area on the second fl oor, but also PRICE An internet rate for a stay in a standard room was ception area by using a comfortable roofed provides the guests with a photocopier, 2,195 DKK (about € 294). passageway. All business matters can be a printer, a fax, a scanner and computers. done on the spot, and if you need to get Next to it, there is a lobby, often used for to the centre (Copenhagen is really worth coffee breaks. Apart from this, there is the visiting), you will probably be pleased to Ellehammer ballroom on the ground fl oor know that you can do it by using the un- which is 404 sq m and holds up to 450 peo- derground or a train – the stations are lo- ple. There are also 14 conference rooms lo- cated in the airport’s underground. It takes cated in the Terminal 3 of the airport. only a couple of minutes to get to the fa- BARS AND RESTAURANTS There are mous Tivoli gardens. It is also a short dis- two restaurants and one bar in the hotel. tance from the 16-kilometre bridge over All of them are situated on the lobby lev- the Øresund strait which connects Den- el and designed as an open space, which mark with Sweden. gives the guests an easy access. The Hori- ROOM FACILITIES The Copenhagen zon All Day restaurant is open from 5.30 Hilton is a real conglomerate. It has 382 am till 10.30 pm and offers meals in rooms, including 222 standard ones a form of buffet. It specializes in interna- (the biggest in the city, starting from 33 tional cuisine with Danish fl avour (the fa- sq m), 70 Deluxe rooms, 61 Executive mous smorebrod sandwiches are especial- rooms, 28 Executive Plus suites and one ly worth recommendation). The Hamlet
NOVEMBER 2010 | 25 RESTAURANT: WARSAW Stary Dom
INFO Warsaw’s Mokotów is slowly be- THE INTERIOR The interior is dec- grated horseradish, de Volaille, cod fi let, coming a restaurant district, as there orated in brown colours with old pho- or roasted duck and rabbit. There is also are more and more top-class gastro- tographs alluding to family traditions, pork knuckle and ribs. Stary Dom also of- nomic outlets which can easily compete which makes it look very cosy – just like fers a wide selection of salads and vegeta- with restaurants in the Old Town. One the owners wanted it. Wooden panelling bles. Among Desserts you will fi nd apple of them is Stary Dom, founded by Mar- and other accessories like wall-mount- pie, mazurek, cheesecake and meringue iusz Diakowski – the owner of the Papu ed sideboards, shelves fi lled with old bot- torte. The local patisserie makes the des- restaurant and Zielnik Cafe, Dariusz Za- tles and wooden beams under the ceiling serts to order, so the high quality and good remba, and a well-known actor, Piotr Ad- contribute to the feeling of warmth. The taste are guaranteed. amczyk. You can easily say that the name lighting plays an important part in it – PRICES Cold buffet starters cost be- speaks for itself – the founders wanted to stylish chandeliers make the place look tween PLN16 – 25, only the chefs plat- refer back to the best traditions of Polish mysterious. ter costs PLN 55, but it is a dish for at cuisine and create a welcoming atmos- MENU The food – the most important least 2 people. Broth with noodles costs phere. The guests have access to three thing in a restaurant – in Stary Dom was PLN 14, and sour soup – PLN 19. Bigos rooms, including a conservatory, a VIP divided into several sections. In Cold Buf- soused in red wine costs PLN 21, kidneys room and a mezzanine. The restaurant fet you will fi nd, among many, Quiche en- – PLN 23, and cabbage rolls with toma- offers 250 covers. amoured chef (mushroom, leek or spin- to sauce cost PLN 24. For PLN 24 you LOCATION Stary Dom is situated ach), herring under the duvet with grated will get a composition of green salad and in one of the Warsaw’s longest streets apple, chopped onions and salted gher- lots of vitamins. Pork chop costs PLN 23, – Puławska, in a frequently visited ar- kins, as well as steak tartare – expertly beef with grated horseradish – PLN 24, ea, because of the proximity of Warsza- chopped at your table by a senior chef – cod fi llet – PLN 26, and Beef Stroganoff wianka – the only aqua park in the cap- one of the local specialties. The chefs plat- – PLN 33. Prices of desserts vary between ital. The offices of Polish Radio and ter of Polish specialties for 2 persons will PLN 15-21. Television are not far away from here, so also catch your attention: slices of baked Tomasz Kacperski you can expect to meet here quite a lot bacon, wild boar plate with wild mush- of people with known faces and voic- rooms, liver sausage and black pudding. CONTACT Stary Dom es. The restaurant is located in a build- Soups include broth, tripe, and sour soup ul. Puławska 104/106 ing with a long history of good cuisine. – each of them truly delicious. Hot Start- 02-620 Warszawa In the 1950’s the then Słowiańska res- ers include bigos (hunter stew), fried kid- tel. +48 22 646 42 08 taurant was a favourite with jockeys neys in garlic and parsley, a selection of restauracjastarydom.pl and fans of horse racing. In later years dumplings or gołąbki (cabbage rolls) “as VERDICT An interesting place with an interesting guiding idea. Peaceful the Gościniec Opolski served delicacies mum makes them”. Among Hot Buffet atmosphere, good cuisine. from Silesia. you will fi nd: pork chop, famous beef with
26 | NOVEMBER 2010 CAR RENTAL: WARSAW Avis
INFO Warren Avis opened his fi rst small will defi nitely fi nd something which will lowing morning returned to Warsaw. car rental station at Willow Run Airport suit your needs. I didn’t have any doubt This time the trip took me two hours in Detroit in 1946 with only three cars to as to which car I was going to choose, due to terrible traffi c jams in Warsaw. rent. He probably didn’t expect that this as Avis has recently introduced to their That is why I decided to return the ve- idea will bring about such remarkable ef- stations the newest Volvo S60 – mod- hicle directly to the station at Okęcie fects. Over a period of few years it became el 2011. I couldn’t resist the occasion. airport. The whole procedure took less the second largest car rental company and The driver brought my car on time. He time than the day before. The member in 1956 opened its fi rst international of- then checked my driver’s license, present- of staff asked me about the impressions fi ces. The expansion was successful and ed the documents to sign, and asked me to on the car’s handling, took the keys and today the cars featuring the characteris- follow him to the car park in order to in- documents, and I was free to go. You tic red logo of the company can be seen at spect the vehicle (this is a standard pro- can feel that the company is used to any airport all over the world. In Poland cedure where the customer checks if the fast work. For returning customers Avis Avis has been present for almost 20 years, car is in an appropriate condition, doesn’t has prepared a service called Avis Pre- with over a dozen of rental stations and have any scratches etc.). ferred, which guarantees that you will re- nearly 1,000 cars to rent. THE CAR Outside there was a black, ceive your car within 3 minutes – other- FORMALITIES I was going to Łódź for beautiful, and brand new Volvo waiting wise you will be entitled to receive a €30 a quite important meeting, so I asked the for me. I took my keys and documents, voucher. company to bring the vehicle to our War- then put my bag into the boot and set off. PRICES In Poland Avis offers a large saw offi ce, as I found out that the com- The odometer displayed 30 kilometres number of vehicles in several groups pany offers such a service. It really saves of mileage, so I concluded that I was the marked with letters. Group A includes your time and helps you better plan your fi rst customer who was able to test the the smallest cars (e.g. Opel Corsa), while day and the trip itself. car. The two litre engine is a real mon- the following letters mean larger vehicles I arranged the pick up time for the ster and the 165 HP it produces, makes with better equipment (e.g. in group D noon. The formalities are quite similar it extremely safe, as there is no problem you will find Volvo S40, and in group to those which are necessary when pick- at all with dynamic acceleration dur- F Audi Q5). The company also offers ing up a car from the company’s station. ing overtaking and other manoeuvres. trucks and campers. The prices depend The reservation must be done a few The automatic transmission is perfect- on the type of a vehicle, the date of rent- days in advance in the reservations of- ly aligned with the engine. Add to this al, and bonuses – so it’s worth checking fi ce of the company or in the rental sta- the fuel consumption which only slight- all the details on the phone or at the com- tion at Okęcie airport. You must pro- ly exceeded 6 litres of diesel fuel per 100 pany’s website. vide your personal details: name, date, kilometres on extra-urban roads. In oth- VERDICT A good car, attractive rent- time and of course the address at which er words, the whole trip was extremely al conditions, and procedures which are the car is to be brought. You will also be pleasant. The only shortcoming I found kept to a minimum. Before you return asked about the method of payment (in- was probably an inappropriate design the car, remember to top up its fuel tank. dividual customers provide their cred- of the seat which, at the end of my trip, If you forget to do so, you must prepare it card details, but in case of a business slightly bothered my back.. to bear additional costs. you can ask for a different method). You RETURNING THE CAR After the ■ Avis; reservations offi ce 22 572 65 65 will choose your car from the catalogue. meeting I drove to the hotel. I left the or 0 801 120 010; avis.pl They are classifi ed into groups and you car at an attended car park, and the fol- Tomasz Kacperski
NOVEMBER 2010 | 27 AWARDS 2010
TRAVELL S ER S A E W N A N I R
S D Business
U S
B
Traveller 2010 Awards 2010 Announced e are presenting you with the results of the vot- many years. We are glad to know that our Polish air carrier has ing by the readers of the British Business Trav- for many years been recognized as the best in our part of Europe. eller magazine, announced at a big ceremony The British BT Awards are not the only ones. The awards grant- at the London Royal Garden Hotel. Receiv- ed by the Asian edition of our magazine enjoy equal popularity. ing such an award has for many years been Soon the Polish edition of Business Traveller will join in and grant considered W an honour. They are granted to airlines, hotel groups, its own awards. Go to page 5 of this issue and fi ll in a survey. You car rental companies, airports, but also to railway companies and can also do it online at our website businesstraveller.pl luggage manufacturers. The main advantage of the Business Traveller Awards is the fact The prestige of the award has been built for many years. Today that they for years they have been voted for by the strictest as well the awards are recognised as a benchmark for excellence within as most objective panel of judges – the magazine’s readers. Sever- the business travel and hospitality sector. Some of the winners, al categories, hard competition, some obvious winners, and sever- like for example the airport in Singapore, have been unbeaten for al surprises. Who won in 2010? Here are the results.
The representati- ves of LOT Polish Airlines are being presented another Business Traveller Award for the best Eastern European airline.
Amsterdam Schiphol – best airport in Europie.
Singapore Airlines – best cabin staff. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Heathrow – best lounge.
28 | NOVEMBER 2010 AWARDS 2010
AIRLINES BEST AIRLINE ALLIANCE BEST LUXURY HOTEL CHAIN 1 Star Alliance 1 Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts BEST AIRLINE 2 Oneworld 2 Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts 1 Singapore Airlines 3 Skyteam 3 InterContinental 2 Emirates 4 Mandarin Oriental 3 British Airways BEST LOW-COST AIRLINE 4 Cathay Pacifi c 1 Easyjet BEST HOTEL LOYALTY SCHEME 1 Starwood Preferred Guest 5 Virgin Atlantic 2 Air Asia 3 Air Berlin 2 Hilton HHonors BEST SHORT-HAUL CARRIER 4 Flybe 3 Intercontinental Priority Club 1 British Airways 4 Marriott Rewards 2 Swiss International Air Lines BEST 3 Eurostar AIRPORTS BUSINESS HOTEL WORLDWIDE 4 Bmi 1 Shangri-La, Singapur BEST AIRPORT IN THE WORLD BBESTEST LONG-HAULLONG-HAUL CARRIERCARRIER 2 The Peninsula, Hong Kong 1 Singapore Changi Airport 1 Singapore Airlines 3 Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok 2 Hong Kong International Airport 2 British Airways 4 The Peninsula, Bangkok 3 Dubai International Airport 3 Emirates 4 London Heathrow Airport BEST BUSINESS HOTEL 4 Virgin Atlantic IN WESTERN EUROPE BEST AIRPORT LOUNGE BEST FREQUENT FLYER 1 Four Seasons George V, Paryż 1 Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Londyn PROGRAMME 2 Hilton Arc de Triomphe, Paryż Heathrow 1 British Airways Executive Club 3 InterContinental, Paryż 2 British Airways, 2 Lufthansa Miles & More 4 InterContinental, Frankfurt Londyn Heathrow T5 3 Bmi Diamond Club 3 Cathay Pacifi c, Hong Kong BEST BUSINESS HOTEL 4 Virgin Atlantic Flying Club IN EASTERN EUROPE 4 Singapore Airlines SilverKris 1 Hilton, Praga BEST FIRST CLASS Lounge, Singapur 2 Four Seasons, Praga 1 Emirates BEST AIRPORT 3 Four Seasons, Budapeszt 2 Singapore Airlines FOR TAX-FREE SHOPPING 4 JW Marriott, Bukareszt 3 British Airways 1 Londyn Heathrow Airport 4 Etihad Airways 2 Singapur Changi Airport BEST AIRPORT HOTEL BEST BUSINESS CLASS 3 Dubai International Airport 1 Regal Airport Hotel, Hong Kong 2 Sofi tel London Heathrow 1 Singapore Airlines 4 Hong Kong International Airport 3 Crowne Plaza, Singapur 2 British Airways BEST AIRPORT IN EUROPE 4 Hilton London Heathrow 3 Qatar Airways 1 Amsterdam Schiphol 4 Emirates 2 Londyn Heathrow 5 Virgin Atlantic 3 Monachium CAR RENTAL BEST 4 Zurych COMPANY’S PREMIUM ECONOMY CLASS 1 Virgin Atlantic BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY 2 Air New Zealand HOTELS WORLDWIDE 1 Avis 3 Qantas BEST BUSINESS HOTEL CHAIN 4 British Airways 2 Hertz WORLDWIDE 3 Europcar BEST ECONOMY CLASS 1 Hilton 4 Budget 1 Singapore Airlines 2 Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY 2 Emirates 3 InterContinental IN EUROPE 3 British Airways 4 Marriott 1 Avis 4 Air New Zealand 5 Sheraton 2 Hertz BEST BEST BUSINESS HOTEL CHAIN 3 Europcar EASTERN EUROPEAN AIRLINE IN EUROPE 4 Sixt 1 PLL LOT 1 Hilton 2 CSA Czech Airlines 2 InterContinental 3 Malev Hungarian Airlines 3 Sheraton OTHER 4 Wizz Air 4 Sofi tel CATEGORIES BEST CABIN STAFF BEST BUDGET HOTEL CHAIN FAVOURITE LUGGAGE BRAND 1 Singapore Airlines 1 Holiday Inn Express 1 Samsonite 2 Cathay Pacifi c 2 Premier Inn 2 Tumi 3 British Airways 3 Ibis 3 Delsey 4 Virgin Atlantic 4 Travelodge 4 Antler
NOVEMBER 2010 | 29 SMART TRAVELLER
101 TIPS …to make travelling easier
The Business Traveller team suggests tried and tested ways to improve your business trips
30 | NOVEMBER 2010 SMART TRAVELLER
Keep your bag partially packed Make sure your credit cards Use packing aids to organ- so you only have to add clean won’t be blocked for “unex- ise your suitcase (see “Pack 1 clothes for each trip. 10 pected activity” when us- 20 it in”, page 48). ing them abroad and that you know the Create a list of all the items you PINs. If you like a particular type will need so you can check them of tea, bring some with you 2 off each time you pack. Remem- If your destination country 21 in case the hotel doesn’t ber this should include things such as has a strong currency, it can have any. adaptors, chargers, toiletries and medi- 11 be better to change sterling cal supplies, as well as clothes. (if it is relatively strong) at a bank there. Ladies – re-pack your handbag before you go, Lay all your clothes out before If roaming calls are ex- 22 take out anything unnec- packing them as this will help pensive – for example, in essary and check for stray liquids such 3 you to avoid taking several items 12 the UAE – or you are in as lip gloss. You don’t want to empty away that are almost identical. a certain country for extended peri- the whole thing in front of everyone in ods of time, get an overseas SIM card security. Pack crease-free clothing to elim- or mobile. inate the need for ironing. Put Wherever possible, check 4 socks, chargers and other small Use whitening eye-drops in online and select your items inside your shoes – it cuts down for instant freshness dur- 23seat before you travel, con- on space and means they will be easy 13 ing long fl ights or nights in sulting seatplans.com beforehand to to fi nd. stuffy air conditioned rooms. see where the best place to sit is.
Limit yourself to basic col- Download mobile board- Your feet swell during long- ours that co-ordinate, such as ing passes where possi- haul fl ights so consider black, white or grey, then add ble to make the check- 5 14 packing a shoe horn in your 24 colour through your accessories to in and boarding process quicker, and hand luggage. change the look of your outfi ts. to cut down on extraneous paper documentation. Remove the credit and loy- Check your insurance, particu- alty cards you don’t need larly if you are combining a work Boots sells 100ml emp- from your wallet. Don’t 6 trip with leisure, visiting an un- 15 ty bottles to decant your carry your driving licence unless you usual destination or trying adventur- 25 favourite toiletries into if need to – if you lose this, it has your full ous activities. you are travelling with hand luggage name, date and place of birth, address only. Likewise, a Travalo perfume at- and photo on it. Perfect fodder for iden- The Identity and Passport Serv- omiser (about £8 from travalo.com) ice (IPS) advises you to make tity fraud. means you don’t have to pack a whole 7 two photocopies of your passport bottle of scent. It holds 50 sprays and – one to leave at home and one to keep Take your ethernet cable can be taken through security. with you when travelling. You should with you in case the hotel report a lost or stolen passport to the 16 doesn’t have wifi as some Invest in a Skype headset police and inform the British Consu- charge for providing one. (from £14, skype.com) to late when abroad, or the IPS and local 26talk for free from your ho- police when in the UK. Visit ips.gov.uk Pack painkillers, Beroc- tel room. ca energising tablets, vita- Put together a brief itinerary 17 min C, caffeine pills and The Powermonkey Ex- on one sheet of paper with your mints so you are fresh the next day even plorer (£65, powermon- 8 meeting times, locations and after a heavy night out with clients. 27 key-explorer.com) porta- contacts. Keep this on your person so ble charger has adaptors and USB ports if your phone battery runs out – taking Carry two travel plugs that for re-energising all your gadgets – and your diary and contacts with it – you have a USB adaptor to it’s solar powered so you won’t be left can refer to it easily. 18 charge phones and gadgets, stranded when out and about. and take a spare USB stick. Order some local currency in ad- Depending on your des- vance, including small denomi- Put a few plastic bags in tination, paramountzone. 9 nation notes in case you need to your suitcase for putting 28 com’s Wind Up Mobile get a taxi, tip a porter or buy a snack or dirty laundry in or wrap- Phone Charger (£4.99) could come in
19 ▲
DREAMSTIME/FOTOLIA/ISTOCKPHOTO drink on the way to your hotel. ping any bottles of liquids. handy.
NOVEMBER 2010 | 31 SMART TRAVELLER
Avoid excess baggage fi nes Before you go, print out the with a Flylight self-weigh- relevant Business Travel- 29 ing suitcase (£79.99, fl y- 37 ler Four-Hour Guide from lightluggage.co.uk). It can measure businesstraveller.com/city-guides to within 0.5kg of an airport weighing machine. Check the weather and currency exchange before Travelling can be hard on 38 departure at businesstrav- 101 your lips. Rehydrate them eller.com/plan-and-book 30 with Crème de La Mer’s Lip Balm (£30.60, cremedelamer.com) Travelling with hand lug- TIPS – it has a slight minty taste, and when gage only means you can …to make travelling easier you put it on it doesn’t look like you 39 avoid check-in charges. If are wearing lip gloss, so it is good for you are struggling to get everything in Charge your laptop ful- men as well. Clinique also has a travel your carry-on bag, wear a multi-pocket ly before you fl y. If you are pack of fi ve mini Superbalm glosses for jacket. Scottevest’s Travel Vest for Men (US$100, scottevest.com) has 22 pock- 46going long-haul, keep your women (£22.50, clinique.co.uk). ets – wear it to board and then place it charger in your hand luggage to power it on board. Carry a moisturiser – try Jo in the overhead locker. Malone’s Vitamin E Nour- Slide your business card In the lounge, ask whether 31 ishing Hand Treatment they will call your fl ight or (£32, jomalone.co.uk). Estée Laud- inside your luggage tag so that if your bag is lost, 47 if you need to keep an eye er’s Super Flight Crème comes in two 40 on the screens. Don’t leave it too late to types, for your face and eyes (£36, estee- it will be easier for the airline to reu- nite you with it. You could also consider board as gates can be a good walk away. lauder.co.uk). adding your hotel details, although per- haps not your home address if you are Take a large bottle of min- Cleanse your face before worried about theft. eral water with you if you a fl ight and avoid very hot 48are travelling long-haul in 32 water as it will dry your economy class. Use a coloured luggage skin out even further. tag – it will make your bag 41more easily identifi able on Join Worldpoints loyalty Use the Stylus clip-on the conveyor belt. scheme to make the most Book Light (£14, think- 49of airport shopping. With inggifts.com) to avoid dis- 33 If you want to move to Worldpoints (baaworldpoints.com) you turbing your fellow passengers on night a better seat, politely ask can earn a point for every pound you fl ights. 42check-in staff if the plane spend at Heathrow, Stansted, South- is fully booked. ampton, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Ab- Log on to wifi -enabled erdeen to redeem on things such as fre- gadgets such as the iPad Don’t board the plane quent fl yer miles and parking. 34 with the Novatel Mi- hungry – if take-off is de- fi Wireless Intelligent Mobile Hotspot 43layed, it could be a while Sign up for airport fast- device. Up to fi ve people can synch to before you get fed. Either eat in the air- track immigration scheme the “connectivity cloud” at any time. It port lounge or buy something to take 50 IRIS, which is available at costs £200 and there are monthly pack- on board. Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and ages. Visit novatelwireless.com Birmingham – and look out for the new Flying budget? Buy digital biometric passport scanning Check out No 1 Traveller a snack at the airport or machines at border control at Heath- (no1traveller.com), which 44pack a lunch in your hand row T1, 4 and 5. 35 offers Mercedes-Benz luggage if you can get it through secu- chauffeur services to and from Lon- rity. WHSmith and Boots have “meal Always check your luggage don Gatwick, Stansted and Heathrow deals” for about £3 that include a drink, receipt has the correct de- for about £60, and airport lounge access crisps and a sandwich. 51 tails on if you are checking from £17.50. a bag in at the airport. If you like an alcoholic A holder for your passport drink in your hotel room, Take your jacket and belt can store frequent fl yer 45consider buying some off and get your laptop out 36 cards and boarding passes small tax-free bottles at the airport in- 52 before you join the securi- too – you can also put important details stead of those in the minibar – it will be ty queue – it will make the process that such as your insurance in it. much cheaper. bit quicker.
32 | NOVEMBER 2010 SMART TRAVELLER
If you check in your lug- Then hold them over your ears for gage, take a change of un- a couple of minutes. The heat gener- 53 derwear/socks/T-shirt in ated will create a small vacuum that your hand baggage so that if your bag is should unblock your ears and ease any mislaid you can at least change clothes. pain.
Take noise-cancelling Take a universal adap- headphones for fl ights as tor on to the plane as not 54 the ones on board won’t al- 63 all seats will have the right ways be of good quality. sockets for your region.
Don’t assume the in-fl ight If travelling economy entertainment will work – long-haul, it will make 55 take a book, magazine or 64a huge difference to get your own portable DVD player. more legroom. Consider paying for “economy comfort” seats for extra Pack a pair of comfy trou- space, and avoid the rows closest to the sers and a T-shirt to change galley, toilets and bassinets to minimise 56 into on the plane so you disturbance. can relax and keep your smart clothes crease-free. Then change back into If you are on a night fl ight them before you land. in coach, take your own ear 65 plugs and cotton eye mask Ladies – invest in a good- – few airlines provide economy passen- quality pashmina. It gers with ear plugs and the eye masks will add a little luxury to 57 are often cheap plastic, which can make your travels and doubles as a blanket if your face sweat. you get cold on board the plane. Take time to acclimatise Wet wipes are good for and get your bearings on cleaning hands and grub- arrival. 58 by in-fl ight entertainment 66 remotes, and a fresh face immediately At a new airport, fi ght the makes you feel better on a long fl ight. urge to jump in the nearest taxi as they can be expen- Orientate yourself with the 67 aircraft cabin and count sive. Instead, ask at information for al- 59 the number of seatbacks ternative transportation options such to the nearest exit – in an emergency as trains and shuttle buses. it may be your best way off the plane if visibility is poor. If you need to get a taxi in an unfamiliar city, ask at Read the safety card in the 68 your hotel what kind of pocket in front of you as price you should expect to pay or nego- 60 these differ from aircraft to tiate before you get in to avoid getting aircraft, and watch the safety demo. ripped off.
If you want peace and qui- If you can’t access a map et after take-off, put head- of the city on your phone, 61 phones on even if you are 69 carry a paper one with not listening to anything to avoid hav- you – it will be helpful for fi nding your ing to talk to your neighbour. way around. You could also show it to taxi drivers if they do not know where Sometimes your ears you are heading – not every cabbie has won’t pop – if it is pro- a satnav. 62 longed and causing re- al pain, an old trick for treating it is Learn a few words of the lo- “hot cups”. Ask the crew for a plastic cal language and read up cup for each ear and two cloths damp on overseas customs – it
70 ▲ ened with boiling water to put in them. will go a long way with foreign clients.
NOVEMBER 2010 | 33 SMART TRAVELLER
lounge, as sometimes you can be out for longer than you intended in a for- eign city.
Pack your own toiletries in case your hotel doesn’t 78 have the full complement 101 – for example, it might have shower gel and shampoo but no conditioner. Al- ways carry toothpaste as hotels rarely TIPS stock this in-room. …to make travelling easier Check the premium you would pay for the Club 79 fl oor as it may be less than Use a separate wallet or fi le the cost of the breakfast, which will for work receipts to help be free in the lounge along with bene- 71 keep control of your ex- fi ts such as internet and meeting room penses, and take a receipt book with access. you in case you don’t know how to ask for one in the local language or your Check the fi re escape in- taxi driver doesn’t have any. formation on the back of 80 the hotel door and walk If you’re a light sleep- the route it suggests – it’s easier doing er, pack ear plugs and ask this when fully awake, with the lights for a quiet room away from 72 on and without smoke fi lling the cor- the lifts – they can be very noisy areas of ridor. If there isn’t a route on the back the hotel. An inward-facing room may of the door, check out and fi nd a differ- be the best option to avoid street noise. ent hotel. If you’re renting a car, Avoid paying credit card check whether central car bills in your home curren- 73 hire locations are cheap- cy as the exchange rate er than the kiosks at the airport. If you 81 wait until the next day you may save may be worse than that offered by your money and it will give you a chance to card company. get familiar with your surroundings. Go easy on the booze – it Ask if you need a pass- will dehydrate you and word for in-room internet 82 leave you feeling out of 74 before you go up to avoid sorts when you land. Similarly, know having to ring down. your limits at client lunches and din- ners. Drink plus jet lag equals poor per- If in-room wifi comes at formance, and most cultures aren’t as a cost, see if internet use is impressed as we are at how much we 75 free in the business centre can drink. and log on there instead. If you have trouble sleep- Find out whether free min- ing, take melatonin (a nat- eral water is provided in 83 urally occurring hormone 76 your room. If not, grab that helps to regulate your circadian a bottle in a shop on your way back to rhythms) or do some light exercise be- the hotel to keep by your bed, otherwise fore you go to bed. Try not to eat, watch you will end up paying through the TV or check your emails immediately nose if you wake up in the night with before retiring as it may interfere with a thirst. your sleep.
Carry snacks such as nuts If you are travelling long- or take the biscuits from haul, adjust to the local 77 your hotel room or Club 84time as quickly as you can
34 | NOVEMBER 2010 SMART TRAVELLER
– change the clock on your phone and Don’t spread yourself watch straight away, and try to stay up too thin when it comes to until your “normal” bedtime. If you get 94 hotel and airline loyal- home in the day, resist the urge to sleep ty schemes – if you join too many, you because you will pay for it later. won’t accumulate the signifi cant re- wards associated with high tier status Don’t over-eat – just be- and mileage/points levels. Stick to your cause you have to dine out favourite brands where possible. 85 with clients two or three times a day, it doesn’t mean you have Do your tax-free shopping to consume all the bread, order three online through the airline courses and clear your plate. 95 website and get it sent to If there is a gym at the ho- your home – try highlifeshop.com or go tel, use it – you’re paying to baa.com, for example. 86 for it, after all (see “Fit for purpose”, page 62). Think about adding your Twitter, Skype ID, Linke- Use iPhone/iPad apps such 96din and Facebook details as the NHS Drinks Tracker to your business card to facilitate social 87 or a calorie counter. Or visit networking. livestrong.com for lifestyle advice. Check travel apps for your Treat yourself to a massage destination – there may be – Gentlemen’s Tonic (gen- 97 maps and guides available 88 tlemenstonic.com) in Lon- for download. don has a signature treatment aimed at travellers. Alternatively, try meditation Use the Google Docs serv- to help you relax. Visit t-m.org.uk for er to make changes to doc- more information on transcendental 98 uments while you are away meditation courses in the UK. instead of doing it by email. It is more Don’t buy gifts at the air- secure and you can track changes. port, as souvenirs and con- 89 fectionery will cost more If you are a solo female and are less personal. business traveller, net- 99working sites such as la- Make sure you have some- diesaway.com and maiden-voyage.com thing in the freezer that’s offer a safe way of linking up with other 90 easy to heat up for dinner women when away. if you are arriving home late. Turn off data roam- When you get home, take ing on your smart- the time to email new peo- 100 phone or iPad to 91 ple you’ve met – even if avoid costly charges when using email,ail, you don’t have immediate business web browsing and other data servic- with them, it will help to cement the re- es abroad. lationship in the future.
Sign up for credit cards If you like the idea ooff that offer air miles, lounge location-based soft-- 92 access, upgrades and other 101 ware, log on to Face-e- travel benefi ts – Amex is a good exam- book Places/Gowalla/Foursquare – bbutut ple. Visit americanexpress.co.uk not if you don’t want others to know your whereabouts. Get a “lifestyle concierge” to arrange everything for ■ Do you have a travel tip you’d like to 93 you. Visit tenlifestyle.com share? Let us know at businesstrav-av- or call +44 (0) 20 7479 3300. eller.com/discussion
NOVEMBER 2010 | 35 GUIDE
BERLIN AIRPORTS Each year the two airports of the capital of Ger- many handle over 20 million passengers. However, soon they will be replaced by a new airport: Berlin Brandenburg International and this fact may cause a big shake-up in the region. oerlin airports Tegel and New York. The most recent, winter sched- Schönefeld are not a compe- ule includes also new destinations – this tition to such giant airports as time to Dubai, Miami, and Mombasa. the ones in Frankfurt or Mu- nich. Both of them are run FROM ROCKETS TO PLANES Bby one company: Berlin Airports. Tegel Tegel airport is named after Otto Lil- is mostly oriented towards international ienthal and is the economic backbone destinations, while Schönefeld is main- of Berlin Airports. It is located 8 kilome- ly used by numerous low-cost air carriers tres northwest of the city of Berlin where and for charter fl ights. over 120 years ago there was a Prussian Last year, both Berlin airports were artillery firing range. In 1930s the area used by 77 airlines, handling over 20 mil- was used as an experimental rocket test- lion passengers, and fl ying to 166 destina- ing and research facility where German- tion in over 50 countries. Theses include American rocket pioneer Wernher von a number of long-haul connections e.g. to Braun worked until 1937. When the “cold
GÜNTER WICKER / BERLINER AIRPORTS FOTOLIA ISTOCKPHOTO Doha, Beijing, Bangkok, and obviously to war” began and Soviets started the Berlin
36 | NOVEMBER 2010 GUIDE
You can quickly reach the airport by car, using A110 and A111 motorways, but it’s also possible to get there by pub- lic transport – I recommend Jet Express Bus service (buses 128, 109 and X9). Next to P2 car park there are offi ces of car rent- al companies such as Avis, Budget, Eu- ropcar, Hertz, and Sixt. The airport’s infrastructure may not be too impressive, but you can fi nd there over 20 designer stores (almost all of them are located in so-called Boulevard Tegel in Terminal A). There are also four business lounges, one for passengers of all airlines and three others run by Lufthansa, Brit- ish Airways, and Air France. Wifi is avail- able throughout the airport, but the access is paid. The airport offers seven confer- ence rooms which are able to accommo- date from 6 (Junkers rooms) to 24 (Lil- ienthal room) people. There are a large number of hotels located around the air- Blockade, it quickly turned out that Ber- also plays the role of an observation deck. When “the port where you could stay while on your lin’s existing main airport at Tempel- Terminal B (also called “Nebel-Hall” af- cold war” business trip. The closest ones are Mer- hof was not big enough to accommodate ter German spacefl ight pioneer Rudolf cure Airport and Dorint Airport. all relief aircraft. As a consequence, the Nebel) is a converted former waiting ar- ended, the air French military authorities in charge of ea in a side wing of the main building traffi c at Tegel SCHÖNEFELD Tegel at that time ordered the construc- (check-in counters B20–B39). There is dramatically The smaller and more and more crowd- tion of a 2,428 meter-long runway, the only one bus-boarding aircraft stand di- ed Berlin airport, which is located 18 kilo- longest in Europe at the time, as well as rectly serving it. Terminal C was opened increased. metres from the centre of the capital, used provisional airport buildings and basic in May 2007 as a temporary solution to be a pride of the German Democratic infrastructure. In the late 50s Tegel start- (as the airport is scheduled for closure Republic. There are two 3-kilometre run- ed to operate commercial flights from in 2012) because all other terminals were ways and an apron which can accommo- West Berlin to various European coun- full to capacity. Terminal D, a convert- date up to 36 mid-size aircraft. tries. After the re-unifi cation of Germa- ed car park, was opened in 2001. It fea- To get there by car you should take A11 ny the number of operated flights grew tures 22 check-in counters, with one bus- (from Szczecin) or A12 motorway. If you ▲ dramatically. boarding gate and two walk-boarding prefer to use public transport, you may The characteristic hexagonal shape of gates. Most passengers of airlines oper- take S-Bahn S9 and S45 railway lines, U7 the buildings of Tegel airport was an idea ating smaller aircraft are brought to the underground line, or bus 171. Taxi ranks of architect Meinhard von Gerkan. The remote aircraft stands by bus from here. are located along all terminals, while car infrastructure includes Terminal A, with Terminal D is the only part of the air- rental offi ces are to be found opposite Ter- car parks, a taxi rank, and a bus stop. The port that remains open all night long. minal A. outer part of the terminal consists of 14 The lower level arrival area is called Ter- Four terminals have a total area of al- boarding bridges and the inner part acac- miminalnal E. most 18,000 sq m, feature 52 check-in commodates 1commodates 166 check-in desks. The roorooff desks (last year over 6 million passengers were served there), and are connected by a passageway. Terminal C was originally built to accommodate fl ights to Israel. It was reconfi gured in 2008 and now han- dles sightseeing trips and fl ights in con- nection with special events. There are nine bars and cafeterias, and over dozen small shops with three larger duty free zones – defi nitely not enough as for an airport of this size. Business passengers flying from Schönefeld may use only one business lounge called Hugo-Junkers-Lounge which is open until 8 pm. The airport’s conference centre has 7 meeting rooms. ▲
NOVEMBER 2010 | 37 GUIDE
The largest one can accommodate up is being built near Schönefeld airport and When the new competitioncompetition for our domestic airairports?ports? to 300 people. it’s going to take over the whole air traf- The answer seems to be obvious. Similarly to Tegel, there is wireless In- fi c in Berlin. Tegel will be closed, as was Berlin’s airport BBI will stretch over 1,500 ha – which ternet access at Schönefel airport, but it Tempelhof airport which stopped its op- opens in is the area equal to 2,000 football pitch- is chargeable (you can pay with a credit erations in October 2008. 2012, this fact es. This giant infrastructure, whose U- card). The closest hotels are Holiday Inn Brandenburg International will be lo- may cause a shaped terminal will cover almost 280,000 Berlin-Schönefeld Airport (about 2 kilo- cated 20 kilometres from the centre of square metres (according to the idea of metres from the airport0, and Leonardo Berlin and it will take only 20 minutes for big shake-up a “one roof terminal”), will provide con- Airport Hotel. the airport shuttle to cover this distance. in the region. venient service to over 27 million passen- Add to this a convenient motorway access, gers each year. Additional terminals have CHANGES a railway station situated next to the ter- already been incorporated into the plans The Germans have precisely set the date minal, and numerous buses. and the fi nal capacity after completion of of launching the new Berlin’s airport. The brochure which promotes BBI all expansions is given as 50 million pas- This will happen on 3 June 2012 and the says that the Polish border is only 70 kil- senger per year. The port will be named fact may cause a major shake-up in the ometres away, so getting to the airport after the former German Chancellor and aviation market in our region. The new from Poland shouldn’t take more than Mayor of West-Berlin Willy Brandt.. ■ Brandenburg International (BBI) airport two hours. Will it then become a serious Jakub Olgiewicz
38 | NOVEMBER 2010 DEALS
UNDER A GOOD
Warszawa da się lubić (Warsaw is likeable) – atitle of asongong by Adolf Dymsza is more and more relevant these days inn ththee capital. Also owing to the new investments. One of them iiss Roof Foksal Residence.
f you asked an average resident of tablishments, as welll as aa spa spa cencentretrre anandd tetteristicriistici ffororr tthehhe turn off thethe 19thh 19th19 h andand 20thd 20th20 h Warsaw where they would like to a squash room. Other amenities include centuries, but not used in the architec- live, they would surely choose one of separate wine-ageing cellars providing ap- tural projects for years, is cast iron. It will the bordering quarters of the capital. propriate temperature and humidity. be used in certain elements of balcony Their dream was to have a house on The architectural design thanks to balustrades, window frames and other Ithe outskirts of Warsaw. It has changed its composition and details alludes to ornaments. however, and many people who once the style of modernism. You can also see bought a house away from the centre, that the residence was modelled after PEACE AND LUXURY now are coming back there. Why? First- buildings erected at the turn of the 19th The interior of Foksal Residence is in- ly, despite numerous investments in the and 20th century, and in the 1930s in the spired by the art deco style. It was com- road infrastructure, commuting every USA. At that time sculptures were an in- pleted with the use of noble materials: day takes too much time. Secondly, the tegral part of the construction. And so marble, onyx, granite intarsias, rosewood centre of Warsaw is developing, although is the case with Foksal Residence. The veneers. Residents will have access to the it already has a lot to offer as regard cul- architects from Juvenes studio: Krzysz- swimming pool with a decorative ele- tural activities. And thirdly, the real es- tof Tyszkiewicz, Michał Adamczyk and ment in a form of a smaller pool with ex- tate market has now new and remarka- Sławomir Stankiewicz invited to coop- otic fi sh, and in the entry hall there will be bly attractive offers to consider. If you are eration an outstanding sculptor and an aviary with birds. A concierge will be looking for a really comfortable suite – a professor of The Academy of Fine Arts on hand for residents convenience. There there are plenty to choose from – one of – Antoni Janusz Pastwa. He designed the will also be a special lift for wine storage. the most interesting enterprises is Fok- low reliefs on the elevations seen from Foksal Residence will consist of 7 sal Residency, which is due to be opened the Kopernik, Przyboś and Gałczyński fl oors, including 5 residential ones. The next year. streets. It has been the fi rst such enor- suites will occupy the area of 4840 sq m. mous sculpting project in Polish com- There will be 30 suites, including two THE HEART OF THE CITY mercial architecture for years. two-level ones, with green terraces ac- The building is located between Ko- The project depicts organic forms in- cessible from the mezzanine level. The pernik, Foksal and Gałczyński street, near spired by fl owers (sunfl owers, lilies, pa- average area of each suite will be 150 sq the Nowy Świat district. It is one of the pyrus) which dominate in the bottom m. Each one will feature floor-to-ceil- most prestigious locations in the capital. parts of the composition and smooth- ing windows, large balconies, a fi replace And prestige comes together with qual- ly turn into simpler geometrical forms. and central air conditioning which can ity. Foksal Residence will offer 30 high Another material used in construction be manually adjusted. The suite ceilings quality suites, small offi ces and service es- of Foksal Residence, which was charac- are 3 metres high. ■
NOVEMBER 2010 | 39 PLL LOT
A Real Star Alliance
Easier transfers, one frequent fl yer pro- gramme, access to business lounges, and numerous promotions – these are just a few out of many benefi ts available to passengers who travel with member airlines of airline alliances. LOT Polish Airlines is a member of Star Alliance – the largest organisation.
tar Alliance is the world’s fi rst and largest airline al- liance, founded in 1997 by fi ve airlines, Air Cana- da, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Thai Air- ways International and United Airlines whose main aim was to offer customers worldwide reach Sand a smooth travel experience. The idea caught on. Today Star Alliance has 28 member airlines with a fl eet of over 4,000 aircraft and employing over 400,000 people. The alliance cur- rently has more than 21,200 daily departures to 1,172 airports in 181 countries, with an annual passenger number of 623.53 million, and almost 1,000 business lounges across the world.
40 | NOVEMBER 2010 LOT / STAR ALLIANCE / DEJAN GOSPODAREK minal, under one roof. So far the waiting minal, underoneroof.Sofarthewaiting they houseallmemberairlinesinoneter- the allianceisadaptingairportssothat ious MoveUnderOneRoofinitiatives, fast andsmoothaspossible.Withthevar- hard tomakeyourconnectingtravelas is thatallmemberairlinesareworking class ofservice. a free journeyorreceiveanupgradeone the alliance.Inthisway,youcanchoose awards ineachofthememberairlines tion toredeemyourpoints(ormiles)for Another veryimportantthingisanop- can checkinthreebagsinsteadoftwo. al pieceofluggage2whichmeansyou tional 20kg (44pounds)oroneaddition- priority reservationswaitlisting,anaddi- business lounges,priorityboardingand gramme). Thebenefi liance doesn’thaveitsownloyaltypro- of thewholealliance(althoughStarAl- services availabletoSilverorGoldstatus programme, receivingaccesstovarious ber mayreacha higher statuswithinthe card onboardingtheplane.Eachmem- just enoughtopresentyourmembership tugese TAP,orGermanLufthansa–it’s your pointswhiletravellingbye.g.Por- card issuedbyLOT,youcanalsoearn other words,ifyouhavea Miles&More whole systemcreatedby 28 airlines.In deeming pointstakesplacewithinthe gramme wetakepartin,earningandre- ance. Independentlyoftheloyaltypro- which arecombinedwithinStarAlli- bership infrequentflyerprogrammes, of thegreatestadvantagesismem- the alliancearetrulyimpressive.One The benefi FOR PASSENGERS… Another advantage of Star Alliance Another advantageofStarAlliance ts offered by the members of ts offeredbythemembersof ts include access to ts includeaccessto mum 500 numberofinternationaldele- certain criteria.Theremustbea mini- calls withdifferentsuppliers. your delegates.Nomorehoursofphone tact tohelpyouarrangeflightsforall Plus, you’llbeassignedonepointofcon- ier. OnceyouregisterforConventions attending internationalconferenceseas- service thathelpsmakeorganisingand offers a tailor-made solution foryou. medium sized:theStarAlliancenetwork rate travelandyourcompanyislargeor a convention, ifyouarebookingcorpo- ter ifyouaretravellingtoororganising dedicated loyaltyprogramme.Nomat- cial offerforbusinesses,apartfromthe Star Alliancehasalsoprepareda spe- …AND FORBUSINESS companying guest. you canentermostofthemwithoneac- a characteristic logoofa stylized starand ternet access.StarAllianceloungeshave beverages, thepress,andofcourseIn- silence, spacetorelaxandwork,snacks, es offereverythingyouneedandexpect: is a member ofStarAlliance.Theloung- world, whenfl nearly 1,000 businessloungesacrossthe ently oftheclasstheychoose)canuse well asthosewithGoldstatus(independ- sengers fl effects ofanydelaysinyourjourney.Pas- fl itoring yourin-boundandout-bound are solvingproblemsbycontinuallymon- ware, StarAllianceConnectionCentres than half.Withthehelpofspecialsoft- time inmanyairportshasbeencutmore ights, and will take steps to minimize the ights, andwilltakestepstominimizethe However, your convention must meet However, yourconventionmustmeet Conventions Plusisa Star Alliance ying in Business or First class, as ying inBusinessorFirstclass,as ying with an airline which ying withanairlinewhich er benefi travellers witha single setoffrequentfl of contact,a single agreement,andyour rate Plusprovidesyouwitha single point no minimumturnoverisrequired.Corpo- travels. Participationisfreeofchargeand free fl which, inreturn,canbeexchangedfor penses bycollectingvaluablePluspoints, you canreduceyourcompany’stravelex- arrangements. ThankstoCompanyPlus to serveyouremployeesoncorporatelevel with CorporatePlustobestsupportyou for yourcompanywithCompanyPlusor el solutionstomaximisebenefitseither are the 2 StarAllianceCorporateTrav- Star Alliancebusinesslounges. members ofStarAlliance,andalsouse can earnpointsandmilesintheairline bers ofanyloyaltyprogramme,they downloadable Tools.Iftheyaremem- Star AllianceTravelInformationand with. Theywillalsohaveaccesstothe tions codetheorganizerprovidesthem a conference – simply quotetheconven- exhibitions, andsport&musicevents. tion Plusare:conventions,conferences, types ofeventscoveredbytheConven- advantage oftheofferedsolutions.The nesses andmanyofthemdecidetotake ria arenota big problemformanybusi- two continents.Howeverthesecrite- come fromatleastthreecountriesand gates expectedtoattendandtheyshould money saved. further advantagesintermsoftimeand works ofourmembers,andalloffermany different airlineschedulesandroutenet- Company Plus and Corporate Plus Company PlusandCorporate Delegates whohavebeeninvitedto ights and upgrades on all business ights andupgradesonallbusiness ts. Allthesebenefi ■ ts embrace the ts embracethe Artur Kolger y- NOVEMBER PLL LOT 2010
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41 HOLD LUGGAGE
TUMI Vapor Medium Trip Packing Case (28025) SVery different from Tumi’s traditional look, the team takes a range Vapor range is modern and sleek, with a choice Pack it in of six colours for this case – silver, blackberry, Business Traveller slate, bronze, black and glacier. The bag can be The wheeled behind you using the telescoping han- of check-in bags on the road to fi nd out how dle, or pushed in front or wheeled alongside you they fare using all four of the extremely responsive 360-de- gree swivel wheels – although be aware that this can be hard work on your wrist if the bag is full or the surface bumpy. The shell is made of a tough, lightweight, triple-layer ABS (thermoplastic) and polycarbonate with moulded protective bumpers. The printed graphic exterior is said to reduce surface SAMSONITE marks, but on one long-haul return trip it picked up a long, Pro-DLX 3 Upright Expandable 74 cm thick go-faster stripe from somewhere. In addition, the protec- Part of Samsonite’s Pro-DLX range, this two-wheel case is made tive rubber strip covering the “Omega 2010 zipper system” of armoured nylon with nappa leather trim. In black only, with had started to come away on the hinge of the case, which was small red detailing in the logo, zips and stitching, it’s a smart bag a little concerning. and feels strong. A shiny metal handle glides in and out smooth- In terms of size, I used it for a fi ve-day business trip and ly by pressing a button, and there is another handle on the side. it held everything without trouble. There are two main com- The wheels are a good size and sturdy-looking. A pocket takes partments inside, along with a removable garment sleeve, zip up most of the front of the case and has two compartments, one pockets and tie-down straps. The bag also has a TSA surface- deep and one shallow. mounted lock and retractable carry handles. Inside, it doesn’t feel all that spacious, especially as two size- Verdict: Expensive but impressive. From my experience of own- able bars run the length of the case under the lining. Still, there ing other Tumi products, the fi ve-year warranty is superb. TO was more than ample room for what I needed for my three-day Contact: tumi.com trip and I didn’t travel lightly, packing changes of clothes for each evening and documentation. I imag- ine I could have got enough in for a week. There is al- so an expandable section – I found the zips quite con- fusing, though, and kept opening the expandable ononee instead of the main one. SAMSONITE Pro-DLX 3 Upright Expandable Fold-over mesh flaps with Size straps keep everything se- Capacity 74 cm x 48,5 cm x 28,5-31 cm cure, and in the lid is Weight Guarantee a mesh pocket handy for 5,3 kg95-106 litres underwear, and a see- through plastic wet pock- Five yearsPrice et. This part of the bag zips £265 open to reveal a section un- derneath for suits. A full- length garment carrier is TUMI kept in place by stretchy Vapor Medium Trip Packing crisscross straps – it also Case (28025) Size has a hanger so you can Capacity 63,5 cm x 43 cm x 29 cm put it straight into the Weight wardrobe on arrival. Oth- Price Guarantee 53 litres er handy features include £485 4,6 kg a TSA lock and a con- cealed pull-out address la- Five years bel. The case held up well, although I found the plas- tic around the wheels got a little scratched. Verdict: A stylish, well- designed bag with plen- ty of handy features and compartments. MM
ISTOCKPHOTO/DREAMSTIME Contact: samsonite.co.uk
42 | NOVEMBER 2010 HOLD LUGGAGE
VICTORINOX DELSEY Werks Traveller Hardside Trolley 24 Four-Wheel Green Days 77cm Four-Wheel Expandable Trolley From the makers of Swiss Army Knife, this four-wheel trolley This Delsey case looks impressive, both in terms of its size and case is part of the Werks Traveller range and comes in two col- its masculine aesthetics. The anthracite grey and brick outer ours – burgundy red or black. It is made from hard polycar- casing is understated and tasteful, with lines that at fi rst seem bonate with a pleasing “nylony” fi nish. only for show but actually disguise an array of outer pockets The case looks slick and manoeuvres well, either when being that are discreet yet surprisingly large. pulled behind you on two wheels or pushed beside you on four. Designed using durable, eco-friendly materials – 45 per The retractable T-shaped handle – made from “aircraft grade cent of it is made from recycled PET bottles – it feels stur- aluminium” – jiggles a little, but the slightly rubbery, 360-de- dy. Any scuffs and dust picked up during transit were easi- gree rotating grip, which turns at the press of a button, is a nice ly brushed off, and the more stubborn marks didn’t show too touch and means you can adjust it to make it easier to wheel. badly against the grey. It also comes in brick red and beige, Inside, there are two main sectioned-off spaces behind pan- and blue and yellow. els that can be released by unclipping a couple of chunky pop- The trolley’s 89-litre capacity, expandable by a further fi ve pers. There is also a removable mesh suiter to help keep jackets litres, could easily accommodate ten days» worth of clothing. and trousers fl at between the two main compartments, a small Two netted inner pockets provide storage for a suit and one or zip pocket inside the top for small items, and compression two pairs of shoes. The case also has two elongated outer pock- straps that clip together across your belongings. As it’s not ex- ets good for bulky items such as running shoes. pandable, you have to pack quite carefully, but it held enough Despite its large size, the trolley has four spinner wheels clothes for one week. that move with very little resistance, making it feel extreme- For those who like the peace of mind of being able to secure ly light and manoeuvrable. The only downside is that if it’s their luggage before checking it in, there is a TSA-approved standing upright on a train, it’s liable to move around. Other combination lock, into which the exterior zips clip on the side. features include a TSA combination lock and Delsey’s Secu- (You need to press the buttons on each end of the lock to release ri Tech self-repairing zips. AG. them.) There were a few scratches on the bodyy afafter the trip. Verdict: Impressive build quality and effi cient design – the Verdict: A smart, secure case with a protectivective hard body. four low-friction wheels make it extremely manoeuvrable. AG Quite pricey. JS Contact: delsey. com Contact: victorinox.pl
VICTORINOX Werks Traveller Hardside Trolley 24 Four-Wheel Size Pojemność
Capacity 66 cm x 43 cm x 27 cm Price Guarantee £339 6 kg 79 litrów
Five years
£159 DELSEY Green Days 77cm Four-Wheel89-94 litresPrice 77 cm x 46,5 cm x 36-39 cm Expandable Trolley 5,9kg Five years Size Capacity Weight Guarantee REVIEWERS AG – Andrew Gough FC – Felicity Cousins JS – Jenny Southan MM – Michelle Mannion ST – Sara Turner TO – Tom Otley ▲
NOVEMBERNOVEMBER 20102010 | 43 HOLD LUGGAGE
BRIC’S EAGLE CREEK Sintesis 66cm Four-Wheel Trolley HC2 Hovercraft Upright 28 Made by Italian designer Bric’s, this hard-sided case with The HC2 looks smart and sturdy, and is surprisingly light. leather trim is made from a lightweight polycarbonate. In- It comes in black with blue detail or Pacifi c blue with black side it has one shallow zipped compartment in the top, plus – I tried the former but think the latter would have been better elastic clips in the main compartment to hold clothes in place. as it still looks businesslike but would stand out better on the It is easily large enough for a trip of four or fi ve days. It comes conveyor belt. (There’s also a brash orange with grey for those with a leather luggage tag and a combination lock. who really want to make a statement.) It’s made from ballistic The case has both a side and top grip in leather, which fabrics so is very durable. makes it easy to grab off a conveyor belt. There is also a black The main compartment is deep with thick, winged straps metal handle that glides in and out smoothly and that can be to keep everything in place. It also expands to provide 15 per set to any height – a particularly useful feature. There are four cent more space. I managed to pack a week’s worth of clothes, multidirectional wheels, so it is easy to roll along the ground, as well as four pairs of shoes, without having to cram it all in. but note that it needs to be secured properly when you get on There are two good-sized zipped sections inside, along with a train or bus. The wheels are sturdy, and big enough to cope a smaller zipped area. with uneven pavements. The zip is awkward to close, as it has Although the case does not feel very padded, the exterior a large rubber lip around it, although this does protect the bag. pockets give protection – I brought a bottle of wine back and I tried out the olive colour case but it’s also available in it survived intact. The exterior has three zipped and locka- cream, red or navy. It had a high-gloss fi nish that scratched ble pockets – a large one and a smaller one above it, which easily, so after one trip through an airport it looked a lit- was useful for papers and last-minute items, and a neat sec- tle the worse for wear. Personally, I disliked the light-brown tion for a passport. leather handles, label and trim, as I thought it looked gaudy There is a smooth retractable double handle, and the two against the dark case, but it does make it easy to identify on wheels are large and protected by plastic guards. Going up and the carousel. down steps was a bit of an effort as it is quite bulky and heavy Verdict: The sturdy multi-directional wheels make it easy to when full, and the side handle is quite small, though strong. get around with, but the surface scratched easily. ST There is a concealed luggage tag and you can add another case Contact: brics.it using some detachable straps, although might make it diffi cult to manoeuvre if you do this.. Verdict: A strong, smart and spacious suitcase that is great if you want some- thing practical and durable. FC Contact eaglecreekluggage. co.uk
EAGLE CREEK HC2 Hovercraft Upright 28 Size BRICS 67 cm x 4775 cmlitres x 28 cm Sintesis Four-Wheel Trolley x 36 cm-41 cm 4 kg 71 cm x 46 cm Size Capacity Two years Capacity £235 Weight Weight Guarantee Price 4,25 kg105-114 litres Guarantee Lifetime Price
£235
44 | NOVEMBER 2010 HOLD LUGGAGE
TRAVEL ACCESSORIES AIRLINE ALLOWANCES ■ Organise your bits and pieces with Tin- The rules on airline baggage allowances used to be simple – economy passengers could check in tamar’s fun set of fi ve Bag and Co draw- 20kg, and people in fi rst class 40kg. But over the years the differences have blurred thanks to the arri- string bags. Designed to carry your hair val of different classes and the advent of loyalty schemes. Here we show what a selection of airlines al- kit, leads, socks, jewellery and medical low you to carry in different regions. Note that many frequent travellers receive more generous allowan- supplies, they have a round porthole- ces because they have status in loyalty schemes. For example, gold tier members of Star Alliance get style window allowing you to see what’s an extra 20kg when fl ying with member carriers, or an extra piece free of charge. inside. The bags range from 18cm x 18cm to 34cm x 34cm, with the set costing £30. LONG – HAUL ECONOMY LONG – HAUL BUSINESS & FIRST CLASS Visit quirkybags.co.uk USA/CANADA/SOUTH AMERICA US/CANADA/SOUTH AMERICA *Two bags premium economy (PE) AIRLINE ALLOWANCE AIRLINE ALLOWACE Air Canada Three bags 32kg each Air Canada One bag 23kg American Airlines Two bags 23kg each American Airlines One bag 23kg British Airways Three bags 32kg each British Airways One bag 23kg* Continental Airlines Three bags 32kg each Continental Airlines Two bags 23kg in total Delta Air Lines Three bags 32kg each Delta Air Lines One bag 23kg United Airlines Two bags 32kg each United Airlines One bag 23kg Virgin Atlantic Three bags 32kg each Virgin Atlantic One bag 23kg* MIDDLE EAST MIDDLE EAST *50kg fi rst class **40kg fi rst class ■ Spot your case easily on the carou- *Two bags PE British Airways Three bags 32kg each sel with Tumi’s new “Colorization” serv- British Airways One bag 23kg* Emirates Unlimited bags up to 40kg* ice (£50) at its Lon- Emirates Unlimited bags up to 30kg Etihad Airways Unlimited bags up to 30kg** don Piccadilly Etihad Airways Unlimited bags up to 23kg Oman Air Unlimited bags up to 40kg* store. Colour Oman Air Unlimited bags up to 30kg Qatar Airways Unlimited bags up to 30kg** can be added to a variety of bags Qatar Airways Unlimited bags up to 23kg in the Alpha range ASIA – PACIFIC by changing parts ASIA – PACIFIC *40kg fi rst class such as the mono- *Two bags PE **PE same ***30kg PE Air New Zealand Three bags 23kg each gram leather patch, lug- Air New Zealand One bag 23kg* British Airways Three bags 32kg each gage tag, bag guards and zip pullers. British Airways One bag 23kg* Cathay Pacifi c Unlimited bags up to 30kg* Choose from blue, green, brown, ma- Cathay Pacifi c Unlimited bags up to 20kg Finnair Two bags 23kg each genta, red or silver. Visit tumi.com; tel Finnair One bag 23kg Jet Airways Unlimited bags up to 30kg* +44 (0) 20 7493 4138 Jet Airways Unlimited bags up to 20kg Lufthansa Unlimited bags up to 30kg plus skis* Lufthansa Unlimited bags up to 20kg plus skis Qantas Unlimited bags up to 30kg* ■ Keep your clothes fl at with Ea- Qantas Unlimited bags up to 23kg** Singapore Airlines Unlimited bags up to 30kg* gle Creek’s Pack-it Systems. Singapore Airlines Unlimited bags up to 20kg Virgin Atlantic Three bags 32kg each These folders have a hard Virgin Atlantic One bag 23kg*** plastic sheet inside AFRICA a water resistant cov- AFRICA *40kg fi rst class er – fold your gar- *PE same Brussels Airlines Two bags 32kg each ments around the Brussels Airlines Two bags up to 23kg each Kenya Airways Three bags 23kg each cardboard and se- Kenya Airways Two bags up to 23kg each KLM Three bags 23kg each cure them flat inside. KLM One bag 23kg South African Unlimited bags up to 30kg* They come in three sizes South African Unlimited bags up to 20kg Airways (15/18/20 inches) and cost £18/£20/£25. Airways Virgin Atlantic Three bags 32kg each The largest can hold up to 15 items. Vis- Virgin Atlantic Two bags up to 23kg each* it eaglecreekluggage.co.uk SHORT – HAUL BUSINESS ■ The Contura Suit Carrier is a compact, SHORT – HAUL ECONOMY EUROPE lightweight garment bag ideal for keep- EUROPE Air France Three bags 23kg each ing suits fl at. It is small enough to fi t in- Air France One bag 23kg PLL LOT Unlimited bags up to 30kg in total side carry-on luggage and comes in two PLL LOT Unlimited bags up to 20kg British Airways Two bags 32kg each designs – Original and Avantgarde – in British Airways One bag 23kg KLM Three bags 23kg each medium or large, and in black, grey or KLM One bag 23kg Lufthansa Unlimited bags up to 30kg plus skis brown. From £35. Lufthansa Unlimited bags up to 20kg plus skis Swiss Unlimited bags up to 30kg plus skis Visit timothytravel Swiss Unlimited bags up to 20kg plus skis For the full table, including extra bag and overweight goods.com charges, see “Watch your weight”, businesstraveller. com/archive/2010/may-2010
NOVEMBER 2010 | 45 ORBIS
he Echanson is not merely a profession and knowledge – the personality and passion are even more crucial. They In the Magical not only have to know the T Grands Vins Mercure list used in Mer- cure hotels, but also particular phases of production, or grape varieties. Thanks World of Wines to Echansons the guests may feel the magic of tastes and aromas of wines – the act of drinking becomes a tremen- Their colourful stories take us to beautiful regions, where wine dous pleasure and the best thing you is produced by means of traditional methods in family-run could actually be doing. Nobody can do it better than the ex- vineyards. They tells us why one type of wine has a muddy perts talking at the bar about the wine taste, and another scents of violets and which will suite best from a small village in Chile, where our mood or a particular dish. These are the Echansons – the apart from the houses there is only one experts who recommend wines from the specially arranged church and a vineyard, and the villag- ers meet together and have fun drinking Grands Vins Mercure wine list. They are served in restaurants wines made from local grape varieties.
and bars in all Orbis hotels in the world. Who wouldn’t like to try this special- BIGSTOCK
46 | LISTOPADNOVEMBER 2010 2010 ORBIS
of the Grands Vins Mercure wines mak- ing process, but they also are experts on the human soul. Their role is not limit- ed to advising which wine better match- es the dishes ordered by the guests. The Echansons try to recognize their needs and the mood they are in, and on that grounds recommend certain wines. The guests who are especially into it, can learn from them the art of wine tasting. It’s a profession of long and noble his- tory. In France, at royal courts and in the houses of aristocracy, Echansons used to serve drinks to the king or the lord dur- ing meal times. Today, it takes a lot of work and effort to become such an ex- pert. A candidate for an Echanson needs to get both theoretical and practical edu- cation and pass an exam. Only then can he become a wine adviser of the Mercure hotel guests. Going through different levels of expertise, they are given badges – bronze, silver and gold – corresponding Echansons to their abilities. The badges make it pos- fi nd the usual red – white division, but make sure sible for clients to recognize what class of “Fresh and tasteful”, “Light and fruity”, expert they are talking to. The Echan- “Elegant and balanced” and “Full and that the hotel sons are dressed in black shirts and dark aromatic”. The fi rst group is an unusu- guests select yellow aprons. That’s where they pin the al wine composition of unique character badges to. and exceptional lightness. You can feel only the best It needs to be emphasized, howev- the aromas and fl avours of mature ap- wines. er, that the world of the Echansons is ples, candied oranges and citrus fruits. not only wine-related magic and in- The second category are wines preserv- teresting stories about wine produc- ing the taste of fresh grapes, the most tion and provenience. It is also tough universal satisfying the needs of the work, which needs to be done daily, to majority of gourmets. You may trace make sure the hotel restaurants and the spice fl avours and roasted almond bars have an appropriate setting. The overtones. The third group comprises Echanson has to make sure the carafes, an interesting combination of subtle fl a- bottles and wine glasses come with in- vours – here even the most demanding formation about the taste of the particu- guests will surely fi nd for themselves. lar type of wine. They also need to check Especially sophisticated connoisseurs if the Grands Vins Mercure list is pro- who appreciate the red and black fruit vided in the rooms, or if the bottles at combination with spicy overtones. The ty after hearing such a nice story? Es- the bar are exposed enough. All these last group are strong wines of original pecially if an Echanson specifi es how elements have to match the symbolism and rich palette of flavours and aro- climate of a particular region infl uenc- and the colour scheme of Grands Vins mas like concentrated fruits with oak es the wine’s taste and aroma, and ex- Mercure. tree scents. Each category is represent- plains the roles of fogs, winds and other ed with different colours and symbols. atmospheric phenomena and geograph- AN INFINITE CHOICE In the new Polish list – to be launched ical location. The wine list is available in all Mercure in November 2010 – the clients are go- hotels all over the world. In Poland it is ing to choose among 17 types of wines – UNFOLDING THE MYSTERY changed yearly. The latest edition has that’s two types more than last season. However, that’s still not everything. The been valid since November and its dis- What’s new is that among French, Ital- Echansons not only can enthusiastically tinctive feature is the division of wine ian or Spanish wines, you can also fi nd talk about the provenience and secrets according to the taste. You will not those from New Zealand or Hungary. ■
NOVEMBERLISTOPAD 2010 | 47 REZIDOR
GoldPoints
48 | NOVEMBER 2010 REZIDOR
Customer loyalty programmes offered by airlines sert 8,000 points, a Pay TV movie 10,000 points, a bottle of wine 15,000 points, and have turned extremely successful, providing their a dinner for two 35,00 points. Awards users with a number of benefi ts. The hotel industry vary by hotel so be sure to request a list is no different in this aspect, Take, for example, when you check in. Another interesting idea is so-called the customer loyalty programme goldpoints plus, “Our World, Your Lounge”. A guest which is used, among others, in the hotels of who is a member of goldpoints plus pro- Radisson Blue chain. gramme and has a Silver or Gold status, doesn’t have to book a room in a hotel to take advantage of the programme’s ben- he idea to reward customers receive. To reach Silver Eilte status, you efi ts. He can just come to a hotel to en- with points is not new (the must spend 15 nights (or complete 10 joy a free coffee, tea or hot chocolate for earliest customer loyalty pro- stays) in one calendar year. What are two, plus free Wi-Fi internet access. The grams were “green stamp” the benefi ts? A 25% point bonus, a 2,000 points can also be exchanged for miles programs in which custom- point online booking bonus, and Elite in over 20 airlines which also participate Ters collected stamps from retailers, then customer service line. The guests can al- in the programme, donated to the World collected them into books), but they be- so take advantage of late checkout, and Childhood Foundation, or to offset your came really popular at the beginning of a 10% off standard room retail rates on CO2 emissions. the 80s. Civil aviation industry was par- weekends. If you are travelling within The number of earned points de- ticularly keen on introducing such pro- the Americas and Asia Pacifi c, you are pends on your status in the programme. grammes, because the benefi ts for the entitled to room upgrade, Avis car class In Gold status, each euro or dollar spent customer were clear and easily under- upgrade and 2,500 bonus points, as well for a stay in one of the hotels of Radis- stood: the more you fly, the less your as a complimentary bag guard. son chain earn 20 points. If you book you next ticket costs. Passengers welcomed stay online, you will be granted as many the idea as at that time plane tickets OUR WORLD, YOUR LOUNGE as 2,000 points. When you rent a car, you were quite pricey. Later the hospital- To reach Gold Elite status, you must earn 1,750 Gold Points with Avis, and ity industry took on the idea, but their stay 35 nights (or complete 20 stays) save up to 15% with Sixt. fi rst big loyalty programmes were sim- in one calendar year. You are also enti- The programme has also addition- ply connected with the offer of airlines. tled to 50% point bonus on your stays. al benefi ts for those who organize busi- Today, customer loyalty programmes are Other benefi ts include: 2,000 point on- ness meetings. As a goldpoints plus for a present everywhere and it is estimat- line booking bonus, early check-in, planners participant, you can earn points ed that only in the USA about 75% of late checkout, 72 hour room availabili- per dollar spent— there is no minimum population takes part in at least one type ty guarantee, 10% off standard room re- spend and no limit to your earnings po- of a loyalty programme. This not only tail rates on weekends, Elite customer tential. You can earn: three Gold Points means a huge market, but also competi- service line, and a complimentary bag per USD/Euro for qualifying event pur- tion, which leads companies to provid- guard. There is also Weekend Extend chases up to 5,000 USD/Euros, or Five ing their customers with more and more option which entitles us to spending two Gold Points per USD/Euro for qualify- benefi ts to make them stay with them. nights in the hotel the price of one night, ing event purchases over 5,000 USD/Eu- A lot of hotels have their own pro- or four nights for the price of two. Travel- ros. Points can also be redeemed during grammes, but it is defi nitely more prof- ling with the Americas / Asia Pacifi c we such events. For example, a coffee break itable for hotel guests if their hotel is receive Avis car class upgrade and 2,500 for 10 guests costs 14,000 points, while a member of a larger loyalty programme bonus points (2,000 in Silver status). a welcome drink 35,000. ■ as it means far more advantages than in The points earned in goldpoints plus Adam Tomaszewski case of a small programme. This is exact- can be redeemed for various rewards. ly the case for Radisson Blu hotel chain, The number of combinations and op- which offers their customers a member- tions seems endless. You can enjoy free ship in goldpoints plus programme. The hotel nights starting at just 15,000 points. programme enables its members to earn The hotels are divided into 6 categories free hotel nights, room upgrades, air- and a number of points needed to spend line miles and more exclusive privileges a free night depends on a hotel’s location. at 1,000 hotels and 20 airlines worldwide. To redeem your points for a night in a ho- You can earn your points in many tel in the highest category you need as ways: during a hotel stay, when booking many as 60,000 points. your room online, or renting a car from Lots of guests will be interested in so- a car rental company. called Express Awards. This is simply As it is always the case in every loyal- an option to redeem your points for var- ty programme, the customers may have ious products and services during your a different status. The higher they are in stay at a hotel.For example, beverages the hierarchy, the greater benefi ts they (juice, coffee, tea) cost 1,000 points, a des-
NOVEMBER 2010 | 49 HEALTH AND WELL-BEING FITFOR PURPOSE
Hectic schedules mean exercising on the road can be diffi cult, but with all the amenities available today, is there any excuse? Felicity Cousins reports.
ook around you the next time you are waiting in the busi- ness class lounge. Do your fellow business travellers look like a healthy bunch? LJet lag, erratic meal times, client lunch- es, alcohol, hotel breakfasts, snacks in the lounge, sitting for hours on a plane, jumping in taxis to get to the next meet- ing… None of these things contributes towards a healthy lifestyle. Today, in the UK, about a quarter of adults are classifi ed as obese. This fact is not only the result of what we eat but also of our increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Imagine the human body as a giant fur- nace and the food you put in it as wood. You only need to create enough fi re to burn it, but the problem is, most of us don’t. The Chief Medical Offi cer’s Annual Report 2009 found that 61-71 per cent of adults did less than the minimum re- quired amount of exercise (30 minutes, fi ve days a week), and only 8-10 per cent of adults who claimed to exercise this of- ten actually did so. What’s more, if 70 per cent of the population exercised for 150 minutes or more a week, then the number of sick days taken would be reduced by just un- der three million a year, saving employ- ers almost £500 million (Deloitte Health of the Nation report, 2006). The Fitness Industry Association (FIA) quotes Deloitte’s fi ndings, which say that almost 35 per cent of interview- ees cited work commitments as a ma-
DREAMSTIME jor deterrent to working out. With this
54 | NOVEMBER 2010 HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
Top tips ■ Going for a run in a new city is a good way of orientating yourself, Stalker agrees: “Jet lag is a very in- can take in 2,000. These calories should as well as keeping fi t. Check dividual thing. One of the worst things be made up of foods from the main nutri- with the concierge for good loop about it is the frustration of being awake tional groups. Worryingly, airline meals routes. when everyone else is asleep, but exer- can be very disappointing in this respect ■ Stretching is relaxing, helps with cise is good for you and it gets rid of that – online health and fi tness network efi t. fl exibility, protects against injury frustration. It doesn’t always make you com analysed 15 top airlines dining and can be done in your hotel more tired, it can make you more lively”. menus and discovered that the average room. So we have all the equipment in place economy class meal contained 1,054 cal- ■ Keep a clean gym or swimming kit and we know exercise is good for us, but ories and 52g of fat. In which case, you in your suitcase so that it is always still we fi nd ourselves fl icking through may be better off grabbing something on hand. the news channels in the hotel room. Per- healthier at the airport. haps we are daunted by the task in hand? Advances in 3G technology have al- in mind, a business traveller’s schedule, Malone says: “The fi rst thing I say to my so introduced fi tness applications to the which involves being on the road and ir- clients is they need to be realistic about market, though you should be careful regular routines, probably does not help what they can achieve, rather than set- about how you use them. Stalker says: matters. ting ambitious goals and then failing. “I have looked at some of them and Brit- But Dave Stalker, executive director This way you are more likely to stay ish Military Fitness has an app [£2.99] of the FIA, doesn’t think there is any ex- motivated”. that is very good, but I think all exer- cuse. “The whole world has embraced She adds: “We focus on what you cise should be in a controlled environ- wellness, particularly in the business want to do rather than what you think ment where you have the knowledge – community,” he says. “There is hardly you should do. If you have had a long- if an app is asking you to do something anywhere that you can’t continue your haul fl ight or a meeting and then go to without showing you how to do it prop- routine”. the gym and hate erly, then it’s not good. Yoga, for in- If anything, it is ‘More and more gyms it, you won’t keep stance, is diffi cult and I can’t imagine easier to keep fit it up. So we say having an app I’m going be able to use these days as many open 24 hours, which go swimming if unless I already have a fair amount of yo- hotels have state- you like it, and if ga knowledge”. of-the-art gyms is useful if you have you like running Whatever method of keeping fi t works that are often open jetlag’ then make that for you, Malone believes the key to suc- around the clock, a priority”. cess is personal motivation. “It comes as well as swimming pools and spas. Yet Even if you are not into sport, you can down to priorities – it is possible to eat some go further than others. Starwood’s still find ways to burn some calories. out and eat healthily and not get drunk”, Westin has the Westin Workout bed- Stalker says: “If you do a bit of research she says. “We help people to under- room fitted with exercise equipment, and feel comfortable with where you are stand the costs and benefi ts of a healthy and the chain also offers Run Westin, going, then instead of jumping in a cab lifestyle”. a service providing organised runs and you could leave enough time to walk”. ■ Visit fi a.org.uk, achievemore.me.uk jogging maps for guests. When is the best time to take exer- Stalker says: “I travel continuously cise? Malone says: “Whatever feels right and I always book myself into a hotel for you and whatever fi ts in. You should Livestrong.com with a health club and make sure before- leave at least two hours after you have Cyclist Lance Armstrong’s website, hand that it’s not just a treadmill. More eaten, which can take a lot of organisa- livestrong.com, is one worth and more gyms are open 24 hours, which tion, so that is something to take into ac- checking out. It has 2.2 million is useful for someone with jet lag”. count – it can be hard if the gym opens registered users and is a portal for Being tired and having to adjust to the at 7am and your meeting is at 9am”. health and well-being related topics. local time zone is probably one of the rea- Stalker thinks our psychological rela- You can monitor your calorie intake, sons many of us don’t venture down to tionship with food can also help with our exercise for free, save running the gym, but it’s good if you can. Per- choices. “You have to go to business din- routes and share ideas with other sonal trainer and fi tness instructor Ruth ners but once your mindset has moved users. The website also has a Malone runs a health and fi tness com- to a healthy area then you do go for the “dare” section that compels users pany, Achieve More. She says: “Business healthy options. The trick is to stick to to take on a challenge, such as travellers tend to be jet-lagged but car- these and not get into binge situations, giving up smoking, losing weight or diovascular exercise, including running, such as ordering room service because starting a new sport. Livestrong.com swimming and cycling, is good at raising you happen to be away”. is also available as an iPhone and energy levels and gives you endurance The average man only needs to con- Blackberry application (US$2.99). throughout the day”. sume 2,500 calories a day, while women
NOVEMBER 2010 | 55 FOOD AND DRINK Eat ethnic in Paris John Brunton psamples an array of international restaurants in the French capital Restaurant Liza
hile most visitors to Paris fi nd ■ 14 Rue de la Banque (Bourse metro); Sat, dinner only on Sun. Two cours- it diffi cult to resist a gourmet tel +33 155 350 066; es €25. W French meal in a classic bis- restaurant-liza.com trot or brasserie, the City of Light also ■ Open for lunch and dinner Mon- JAPAN has a dazzling selection of ethnic restau- Fri, dinner Sat, lunch Sun. Two cours- OTO-OTO rants. These colourful, casual locales of- es €40, set lunch €16 to €21. While Japanese businessmen will prob- fer a fun alternative and are often very ably take their clients to one of the top, reasonably priced. Here are ten address- NORTH AFRICA ultra-expensive sushi bars that line the es for a Parisian tour du monde. Some CHEZ OMAR Sainte-Anne neighbourhood near Op- English is spoken in all. Paris has a large North African pop- era, a new address on the Left Bank by ulation, and the two classic dishes of Saint-Germain is attracting more curi- LEBANON couscous and tagine can be found in ous clientele. Owned by a restaurateur RESTAURANT LIZA hundreds of Moroccan, Tunisian and from Tokyo’s Ginza district, Oto-Oto Open for fi ve years, the elegant restau- Algerian restaurants around the cap- goes beyond the classic sushi, sashimi rant of Liza Soughayar, originally from ital. While gourmets looking to splash (raw seafood) and yakitori (grilled chick- Beirut, has quickly made a name for its out should book at the chic Le Man- enn onon skewers),sskkewwere s), reinventingreini veenttinng traditionaltradditionnal creative, modern interpretation of tradi- souria (mansouria.fr), in arrondisse- JaJapaneseapanesese dishesdisheh s usingusu inng seasonalseseasa ono ala FrenchFrencch tional Lebanese cuisine. Located just by ment 11, most people’s favourite is Chez prpproduceododucu e suchsuuchh asas grilledgrg illel d seaseea bream, Brit-brb eam, BBririt- the Paris Stock Exchange in arrondisse- Omar, a bustling locale in arrondisse- tatanynyy wwhelkshelks anandnd whwhiteitte asasparagussparagug s tem-teem-m ment two, this is popular with the busi- ment three, with a splendid 1930s din- pupura.raa. AtA lunchlunch youyouo ness set for lunch, attracting a more ing room. The couscous royale is a feast caccanan trtryy oneone off thethe glamorous crowd in the evening. Among of succulent lamb, beef, chicken, spicy grggreenreeen tetteas,eas, whwwhileili e the meze starters, try the moudardara, merguez sausages, a huge pot of vege- ovovererer ddinnerini neer itt iiss a rice and lentil salad with crispy on- tables in broth, and a bowl of steamed diddiffiffiffi ccultulu t to resistto rressisi t ions and orange wedges, or kafta samak, couscous. Don’t be afraid to ask for ex- onoonene off ttheheh mmanyanany a sea bream tartare with dill and chives. tra vegetables and couscous, as this is in- tytypesypep s off temptingtemmptp inng Desserts are irresistible, especially sfouf cluded in the price. sassake.akee. Liza, a saffron-scented semolina cake ■ 47 Rue de Bretagne (Temple metro); ■ 6 RueRuR e dudu SSabotabbott with sweetened pumpkin and pistachio- tel +33 142 723 626 (S(SaintSaiaintn Germain-Gerrmainn-
JOHN BRUNTON/ISTOCKPHOTO fl avoured clotted cream. ■ Open for lunch and dinner Mon- dedes-Préses-PrPrésé mmetro);etro););
52 | NOVEMBER 2010 FOOD AND DRINK
Chez Omar
tel +33 142 222 156; ramla.net ■ 8/10 Rue Coquillière (Les Halles met- ■ Open Mon-Sat for lunch and dinner. ro); tel +33 153 408 240; Two courses €39, set lunch €12-28. deda-restaurant.com ■ Lunch Wed-Sat, dinner Mon-Sat. GEORGIA Two courses €30, set lunch €17. DEDA Rue Coquillière in Les Halles is where CHINA Paris’s equivalent of London’s Cov- RESTAURANT HAWAIENNE ent Garden’s food market used to be, The major Chinatown in Paris is centred and here a brilliant new restaurant has in the colourful Belleville neighbour- opened up showcasing the utterly deli- hood. Tucked down a backstreet, the tiny, cious cuisine and wines of the Republic no-frills Hawaienne was one of the ear- of Georgia. The cooking at Deda is an liest places to open up here in the 1970s, intriguing mix of infl uences, from Rus- run by refugee boat people. Just as pop- sian and Turkish to Greek and Middle ular with Asian diners as Parisians, it’s Eastern. Be sure to try khinkalis, plump known for its hearty soups – cahn chua ravioli stuffed with beef and herbs, and ca is a tangy tamarind fish soup, pho wonderfully tender chakapuli, slow- tai chin is a traditional recipe from the baked organic lamb. The bread is fresh- Gulf of Tonkin, and bun bo que is a noo- ly made in a traditional Georgian clay dle soup with pork and chicken. oven in the middle of the dining room. ■ 15 Rue Louis Bonnet (Belleville met- ro); tel +33 143 571 564 ■ Open daily for lunch and dinner. Two courses €15. INDIA PASSAGE DE PONDICHERRY Paris can’t compare with the UK when it comes to Indian restaurants but it does boast its own miniscule Little India,
NOVEMBER 2010 | 53 FOOD AND DRINK
■ 240 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine (Nation metro); tel +33 143 720 605; lesmillelacs.com ■ Open for lunch and dinner Tues-Sat. Two courses €25, set lunch €17. JEWISH YAYIN Corossol While tourists seeking Jewish cuisine usually head for the historic Marais come a fashionable location for foodies, neighbourhood, locals are more likely to with many stalls transformed into cas- be found in the chic 17th arrondissement, ual eateries offering Japanese, Moroc- where the city’s first kosher wine bar can, Italian and, in Corossol’s case, Cre- hidden down Passage Brady, a charm- opened at the end of last year. Yayin of- ole cuisine. Charming owner N’Julienne ing art nouveau alley near Strasbourg fers a wide range of wines from Israel and comes from Cameroon but offers deli- Saint-Denis metro. Menus tend to be France, and a menu that proposes two cious French Caribbean specialities such tailored to French tastes, which surpris- vintages per dish. The cuisine is termed as accra (fi sh cakes), colombo de poulet ingly are not very adventurous, but one nouvelle juive, but the chef is actually Vi- (chicken curry), and spicy boudin an- exception is the Passage de Pondicher- etnamese, so don’t be surprisedriisesed ifif yyououu fi nndd titillaisillaiai sausages. The fun décor features ry, which opened 30 years ago. Although the gefi lte fi sch (fi lled fi sh)h) isis ssteamedteeama eded iinn heherr ccolourful paintings, and she makes you can order classic tandoori chicken a banana leaf with coconutt mmilk.ililk.k sossomeomem amazing fl avoured rums. or fi sh tikka, it specialises in delicious ■ 33 Rue Cardinet (Wagramam memmet-et- ■ 333 Rue Charlot (Filles du Calvaire Tamil dishes such as masala dosa, a thin ro); tel +33 143 806 360;0; memmetro); tel +33 148 873 271 crepe, and the Pondicherry royal biryani. yayin-restaurant.com ■ Lunch only, Tues-Sun. LuL ■ 84 Passage Brady; ■ Open for lunch Sun- TwTwo courses €15.w tel +33 153 346 310 Fri, and dinner Mon- Gefi lte fi sch w Yayin.``` ■ Open daily for lunch and dinner. Thurs. Two cours- IVORY COASTIVVO Two courses €15-20. es €40, set lunch €19.50.0 A LAA LA BANANE IVOIRIENNE While the Francophone African coun- FINLAND CREOLE tries of Ivory Coast, Senegal and Mali MILLE LACS COROSSOL have a large presence in Paris, fi nding A snug, homely eatery serving Finn- The Marché des Enfants Rouges in good places that showcase their cuisine ish cuisine has to be the last thing most République is one of the city’s oldest is not always easy. Kouassi N’Guessan people would expect to fi nd in Paris, but markets, dating back to 1628, but has be- opened A La Banane Ivoirienne in this is a great insider’s address, quite Bastille 20 years ago and has a loyal cli- close to the Bastille quarter. Genial chef Mille Lacs entele, especially on Friday nights, when and owner Leea Karnaattu produces cre- live music plays. N’Guessan spends all ative dishes in her kitchen and then pops afternoon preparing traditional Ivoirian out to socialise with customers at the end dishes including mafé de boeuf, cooked of the evening, suggesting they try one with a rich peanut sauce, and a chilli-hot of her dozens of vodkas. Importing most poulet mango atoko. The ti punch, with products from her native land, the grav- rum and ginger, is legendary but lethal. lax salmon is outstanding, while mari- Book in advance. nated herrings are served with a beetroot ■ 10 Rue de la Forge Royale and horseradish salad. Winter sees rein- (Faidherbe-Chaligny metro); tel deer cooked with lingonberries from the +33 143 704 990 Arctic Circle. ■ Dinner, Tues-Sat. Two courses €25.
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● Wa ● Audi● A5 ● Łodzie Frauscher ● Poker 4hrs in De ● ● Bruksela ● Charity auction SzczecinSeoul ●Tunezja Railway hotels Order by e-mail ● Saab 9-5 ● Poznań● 4hrs in Delhi ● ● Chorwacja ● Poker ● Gdańsk Bornholm ● Charity auction KopenhagaSeoul ● Railway hotels [email protected] INCENTIVE TRAVEL
water. A “driver” of this unique vehicle has a helmet on their head with an air bottle connected to it – the bottle is not Tenerife’s Paradise on the diver’s back, but fi xed to the front of the scooter. This underwater trip lasts Your fi rst association with the Canary Islands What especially attracts the conference for 2 hours and requires no special abili- is probably a holiday leisure. However, and incentive trip organizers is the rich ties. It gives you a chance to get to know infrastructure. The island offers 5 large this stunning, colourful underwater world the islands are becoming more and more convention centres (for up to 4 thousand off the coast of Tenerife. popular as destinations for incentive guests), every hotel has its own conference A jeep tour to the summit of Mount trips. Tenerife, according to Tomasz rooms, and there are plenty of hotels here Teide will surely give you an adrenaline Wierzcholski, seems to be the leader. – it is enough to mention that the island rush. This rocky mountain of volcanic offers about 50 thousand beds in hotels origin is 3,718 metres high. The name of t is quite far away, but it makes up for of a higher category. Another great ad- the volcano comes from the indigenous the inconvenience with numerous at- vantage of the island is its diversity. The language of the Guanchetos people and tractions. Isn’t it worth to spend a few participants of the incentive trips may go means “an infernal mountain”. And it hours on a plane to see Tenerife, which to a banana plantation, a beautiful park, is infernal, indeed – thanks to its form is considered the most beautiful island climb rocky mountainsides, or visit an ex- – it is one big jagged rock, which is not Iin the Canary archipelago? The island of cellent beach – all within one day. easy to drive or walk on, like in the beau- Tenerife has volcanic structure, which de- Such diversity gives you an opportuni- tifully-situated gorges of Masca. To get termines its landscape and climate. Apart ty to engage in many different activities: to the snow-covered summit of Mount from lavish fl ora and sun-kissed beaches, in Tenerife you can play golf, go sailing, Teide you can use the cableway – it is an you will see here rocks and the snow-cov- scuba-diving, observe whales, go on a jeep incredible experience to see the snow in ered Mount Teide, the highest mountain safari, do horse-riding, go on a wine theme the middle of summer. It is possible to in Spain. It is good to know the islands be- trip or have a climbing training course. organize star-gazing on Mount Teide long to this country, as the level of infra- This is a great opportunity to organize all – with telescopes and under the supervi- structure in Tenerife is defi nitely Euro- sorts of team-building events. sion of an astronomer. It is an unforgetta- pean. Tenerife belongs to a small number For example? There are plenty of pos- ble experience. of places in the world, where the summer sibilities. A very interesting offer is some- In 2008, the Siam Park was opened season lasts all year round. You can always thing referred to as BOB Diving Safari, on Tenerife. It is one of the biggest wa- expect good weather, and the temperature where BOB stands for Breathing Obser- ter parks here in Thai style. The park is is about twenty something, but the North- vation Bubble – it is a cross between a div- a perfect place both for dinner, as the lo-
BIGSTOCK / FOTOLIA ern part of the island is a bit cooler.. ing bell and a scooter, only it cruises under cal restaurant serves excellent Asian food,
56 | NOVEMBER 2010 INCENTIVE TRAVEL
and for a business meeting – as there are place is T3, Tenerife Top Training – a vast plenty of suitable places, including a room sports and recreation centre, where com- for 1,500 people, and a separate island for panies often organize various trainings business meetings. You can have more and matches. The offer includes: swim- organized events here as well. There are ming, football, rugby, squash, volleyball plenty of attractions: the Wave Palace and tennis. The Centre is situated in the generates 3-metre high waves, so you South of the island, in La Caleta. can organize there a surfi ng competition. The local cuisine is also excellent and There is also an artifi cial beach where vol- original – you might try it in many splen- leyball matches and grilling competitions did restaurants. La Bodeguita Canaria in are held. To top it all, there are also huge Santa Cruz, is one of them. The guests water slides (the biggest one is 28-metre may savour here the traditional dishes high), an artifi cial river and a wide choice like ropa vieja (meat stewed with vege- of pools. tables), rabbit with salmorejo (tomato Spain is known for wine production, sauce), or shark dishes. and the island of Tenerife is no different Another place worth recommenda- than the rest of the country. That’s why tion is the Tacoronte Barbecue – a res- you can organize there a wine tour, which taurant in the North of the island, locat- always evokes great interest in the partici- ed in an old historic house. It specializes pants. The tour may start in Casa del Vino in grilled dishes and can seat up to 500 Baranda, a 17th-century property, which guests. There is also a scene here, where is also a museum of viticulture. The Bod- folk performances are held. The 30-year- egas Monje, on the other hand, has been old tradition is enough to take the local producing wine since 1750 and is still chefs» talents for granted – the food is just open for visitors. Its cellars have been ad- fabulous. justed for this purpose, and now they can The Casa Comida La Hierbita res- hold up to 100 people. Events such as lec- taurant boasts its specialty – puchero ca- tures, wine tasting and culinary courses nario – meat with vegetables, as well as are often organized here. cheese from the island of Gomera, called Naturally, Tenerife has a lot more to of- gomero. Anyone who tries it will never fer – there are whale and dolphin watch- forget its taste. Other local specialties in- ing cruise trips, walking tours – e.g. down clude grilled fi sh and potatoes boiled in a picturesque Barranco del Infi erno, and salty water, served with garlic sauce. The all sorts of activities and team games on restaurant’s cellar is its another pride – it the beaches. You can also use the pools – is fi lled with excellent wines and liqueur not artifi cial, but natural ones – in many called La Hierbita. places the volcanic rocks formed little But there is a lot more to Tenerife than bays and ponds, filled with sea water. all this – it is not possible to mention all The greatest number of such pools can the attractions. You just have to come be found in the North of Tenerife, the here, see and experience it. After all, it is region called El Caleton. An interesting not that far away. ■
NOVEMBERNOVEMBER 20102010 | 5757 GOLF
( 1 MARTINDALE COUNTRY CLUB 2 HURLINGHAM CLUB * 3 LOS OLIVOS + 4 THE JOCKEY CLUB
) BUENOS AIRES
HURLINGHAM CLUB WHEREWH IS IT? 30km wewests of Buenos Aires WHAT’SWH IT LIKE? As is ooftenfte the case in Argen- ttina,ina this is a private club ffoundedou by the British rresidentses who created mumuchu of the country’s infrastructure in the Victorian era. John GOLFING RRavenscroftav and his friends, many of them involved in developing tthehe railway network, modelled it loosely on the Hurlingham Club iinn LLondon, but on a much more spacious site. AROUND… TToday it has six grass tennis courts, rare in Argentina, cricket and ppolool grounds, plus a track for training racehorses. Selected by the ddevelopersev because it was close to two train tracks, it still has rapid BUENOS AIRES aaccesscc to the city centre. The present 18-hole golf course was com- plpletedetet in 1928, again with design input from Englishmen abroad. Minty Clinch puts her skills to the test on LLike many of the courses in the Buenos Aires catchment area, it iiss fl at parkland, with wonderful old trees – notably, spreading cam- courses close to the Argentine capital pphorwoodsho that give welcome shade. Although the course is short by mmodern standards, it is well defended, with narrow approaches ttoo fast,f tricky greens. A lake and a creek provide water hazards on hahalflf the holes. ADDRESSAD Avenida Julio A Roca 1,411, 1,686 Hurlingham CONTACT Tel +54 11 4662 5510/4, hurlinghamclub.org.ar PRICE Guests by invitation only, Monday-Friday £32.50, weekends £65. Caddie £12-16. CLUB HIRE Mizuno and other brands, £26 CLUB HOURS 8.30am-3pm (last tee time) MINIMUM HANDICAP 36 FACILITIES 18 holes (5,948m, par 71), practice area and putting green. AFTER THE GOLF The Edwardian-style clubhouse, with its gables and terrace shaded by mature trees, could belong to many a tradi- tional golf club in Surrey. The wood-panelled interior features big silverware, bil- liards and bridge rooms, a hal- lowed members» bar and restau- rant. A stay in the 40-room Dormy House completes the feeling of detach- ment from the real world.
52 | NOVEMBER 2010 GOLF
THE JOCKEY CLUB LOS OLIVOS WHERE IS IT? 25km north-west of Buenos WHERE IS IT? 32km north-west of Buenos Aires Aires WHAT’S IT LIKE? Created in 1926 by 30 English- WHAT’S IT LIKE? Founded in 1882 by the men from the railway industry, the club moved to its movers and shakers of the racing fraternity, present location in leafy suburbia in 1951. Intensive tree the Jockey Club developed along similar lines planting, irrigation and landscaping masterminded by to the Hurlingham, with cricket, polo, tennis, Luther Koontz – Alister Mackenzie’s assistant at the squash and stables. It is still men-only, although Jockey Club – resulted in an 18-hole course that was women are welcome as guests. technically ahead of its time. As the membership grew, In 1928, Alister Mackenzie, a Scottish sur- the fees funded a clubhouse and a further nine holes, geon better known as a course architect, arrived making three possible 18-hole combinations. from California on a mission to transform the The terrain is slightly undulating and richly forested, golf. As was his custom, the man who went on to with water hazards on the seventh on the Blue, and the design Augusta worked his subtle magic on nat- seventh and eighth on the Red. Good putting is at a premium on slick greens. ural features to create the Red and Blue courses. ADDRESS Ruta Panamericana Ramal Pilar Km 32 Ing Pablo Nogués Don’t be deceived by fl at terrain and wide CONTACT Tel +54 11 4587 1076, olivosgolf.com.ar fairways lined with pretty fl owering trees – the PRICE 18 holes £65. Caddie £10-15. Red, host to the 2001 Argentine Open, is the CLUB HOURS 7am-end of play. Closed Mondays. championship track, but the Blue, with its tight- CLUB HIRE Callaway £16 er approaches, is equally testing. It takes skill MINIMUM HANDICAP 36 and patience to stay on ridged fairways and land FACILITIES Three mix-and-match nine-hole layouts: White (3,095m, par 36), Red the ball accurately on domed greens. And that’s (3,056, par 36) and Blue (2,817m, par 35); plus a practice area before you tackle the diabolical contours on and putting green. the putting surface. If impatience AFTER THE GOLF By Buenos Aires standards the club- kicks in early, regroup in the shady house is quite understated. The café at the ninth hole and halfway house at the ninth – things large swimming pool are very welcome. can only get better. ADDRESS Avenida Mar- quez 1,702, San Isidro MARTINDALE COUNTRY CLUB CONTACT Tel +54 11 4743 1001, WHERE IS IT? 55km north-west of Buenos Aires golf.eljockeyclub.com WHAT’S IT LIKE? The focus of the original Martin- PRICE Blue course, guests by dale, created by part-time dairy farmer Henry Martin, invitation only, Tuesday-Friday, £78. was a large house overlooking a cricket pitch and six Caddie (compulsory) £14-16. holes of golf. Martin used his estate to graze his Friesian
CLUB HIRE Callaway, £23.50 Los Olivos cows, and entertain his family and friends. CLUB HOURS 7am-9pm (sum- Martindale became more commercial in the mer), 8am-8pm (winter). Closed Mondays. GETTING THERE late 1980s when a US architect was employed to build MINIMUM HANDICAP 36 Minty Clinch stayed in the the 18-hole Cancha Grande on contemporary American FACILITIES Two 18-hole courses – Red Loi Suites hotel (tel +54 11 lines. That means big water, with more than half the (6,014m, par 72) and Blue (5,807m, par 72). 577 78950, loisuites.com. holes affected by lakes or the diverted brook that mean- Driving range, practice area, putting green. ar) in Recoleta. Golf was ders across several of the fairways. The signature 17th, AFTER THE GOLF The no-expense-spared arranged by Oyikil (tel +54 11 a 505m, par fi ve, offers a spectacular risk-reward sec- clubhouse was built in 1945 to a vaguely Tudor 4878 3480, oyikilviajes.com. ond shot on to a distant green surrounded by grass and design, complete with a squat castellated tower ar) – English speaking with sand bunkers. Miss it and you’re dead in the water. The and a broad entry arch. Like the Hurlingham, the contacts required to book par 11th is equally dangerous, with a lake running all the ambience is yesteryear British, with a men- tee times in any of the private the way up to a small, well defended green. only bar and a restaurant serving large plates of clubs. ADDRESS Juan Domingo Peron 2,375, Pilar beef – staple fare in all the clubs. CONTACT Tel +54 232 248 5749, golfi nbuenosaires.com PRICE £100. Caddies available. CLUB HIRE Various makes, about £55 CLUB HOURS For visitors 11am-6pm Tuesday-Satur- day, 10am-9pm Sunday. Closed Mondays. MINIMUM HANDICAP 36 ROBERT HARDING/MINTY CLINCH FACILITIES 18-hole Cancha Grande (6249m, par 72), nine-hole executive par three, Cancha Chica (par two), golf academy, driving range, practice area and putting green. AFTER THE GOLF Henry Martin’s unusual brick- faced home is now an opulent clubhouse with rooms for overnight visitors. The Martindale also has swim- ming, polo and tennis.
NOVEMBER 2010 | 53 INTERVIEWS The Caribbean my earthly paradise
BusinessB Traveller interviews ZbigniewZ Pszczulny, an architect, a co-founder of the JSK studio, where, amonga many, the National Stadium inin Warsaw was designed.
I usually travel to… During a fl ight… My favourite airport… The Warsaw-Düsseldorf connection To tell the truth I usually catch up with Naturally, the one in Düsseldorf. Not is my usual route. I go there at least the sleep. I also like to read a newspaper. only because it’s my “home” airport – it once a week, sometimes even more of- takes only 15 minutes to get to my place ten. It’s just that I live in Düsseldorf, I regret that… from there. I designed it, and I’m always but work in Warsaw, so I just have to There’s no open internet access on the happy to go back there. commute. planes. Luckily, most of the new Lufthan- sa jets – and it’s the airline I choose So, after visiting it for several times, On the plane I like… the most often – offers the possibili- what is your opinion about it? Are you What’s most important for me is comfort ty to use the Internet during long-haul asking about the things I would change and good service during the fl ight. And fl ights. I make use of it every time. there now? peace and quiet of course.
My favourite hotel… I like a few hotels in different cities. For many years, when I’ve visited these cit- ies, I’ve tried to stay there. In New York it is The Lowell hotel, and I also appreci- ate the Saint James’s in London, and the Le Bristol in Paris.
My remedy for a long journey… I’ve learnt it’s important to always take it lightly. It’s not worth worrying about momentary problems such as a delayed fl ight.
I always take with me… I don’t take it with me really, but I near-
BIGSTOCK ly always ask the plane staff for a pillow.
60 | NOVEMBER 2010 INTERVIEWS
quiet are also very important, but for me ways possible to fl y without a refuelling – the hospitality comes fi rst. stop. The plane was fi lled up, and before the take-off some turbine defect was de- When I have a break, I usually… tected. The plane required an inspection, If I visit a city which I don’t know, which lasted about two hours. naturally I try to go sightseeing, pro- When we fi nally got on board, during vided I have enough time. When in the take-off, at full speed, the captain Warsaw, I enjoy going to the cine- started to apply emergency brakes. We ma or theatre to catch up with news were all thrown forward, and that was from Poland’s culture. Because of my when I realised what the use of the safe- work, I can’t do it on regular basis. ty belts was. We weren’t sure whether the pilot would be able to stop the plane be- The greatest holiday so far… fore we reach the water. Luckily, the cap- The greatest holidays always make me tain managed to stop the plane before we I think it’s a well-designed place, think about the Caribbean. Jumby Bay, reached the water – we stopped literari- and I have to admit I still like it, and it a private hotel on a tiny island near the ly on the verge of the runway. We were makes me very proud. First of all, reach- Antigua island is, in my opinion, one of towed back, and after a few hours of fur- ing your plane never takes too much the most beautiful places on our plan- ther repairs, luckily we departed. Yet it time. In the arrival and departure halls et. I guess last time I went there the ho- was quite an intensive experience. we decreased the intensity of light, as in tel belonged to the Rockefeller. I haven’t such places artifi cial lightning is usually been there for at least fi ve years. I know I’m going to visit… used a lot. As a result, it resembles a bit I would defi nitely like to visit Australia the atmosphere of a living room. I de- A trip adventure I’d be willing to for- one more time. I think it’s a beautiful con- signed quite a few terminals, among get about.… tinent, and you can really unwind there. them the Berlin Schönefeld, the Mün- I always rememberer ann iinterruptedntntererruruptpteded ttake-akake- ster-Osnabrück, and the Frankfurt. off of my jum- Currently, we’ve been working on two bo jet at the old projects in Poland – the airport termi- Hong Kong air- nals in Gdańsk and Wrocław. port where the runway ended What attracts my attention in hotels… where the sea was. I usually pay attention to the service We were return-- and the way I am treated there by the ing by a Lufthan-- staff. I expect to be welcomed at the en- sa plane to Frank-- trance, as I make an assumption that by furt. At that timee going there, I pay a visit. It’s the most im- long-range Boe-- portant thing for me. ing 747-400 planess Naturally a comfortable bed in the weren’t in opera-a- room, good equipment and peace and tion, so it wasn’t al-l-l-
NOVEMBERNOVENOVNNOOVEOVOVEVEMBERMBEMMBBERBEBERER 20102012020100101010 | 6161 A BUSINESSMAN ON HOLIDAY Champagne Among Icebergs
There are no boys in today’s world (and even the girls have been bitten by the bug) who would not dream about faraway journeys or dangerous adventures. And there is a really interesting and original way to make those dreams come true – to embark on the Prince Albert II expedition ship.
ilversea’s idea was as simple Prince Albert II was built to explore clusive offer, which means the passengers as it was brilliant. To build those places on Earth which are normally have all the meals, beverages and numer- a ship for everybody who seeks inaccessible for other cruise ships. Its ous attractions included in the price. That adventures, and combine the special construction makes it possible also includes the tips (with other shipown- comfort holiday with experi- for it to float on waters of Arctic or Ant- ers paid separately). Sence previously reserved only for people arctica covered with ice fl oe. The ship can The guests can count on good quality who take part in a real scientifi c expedi- hold 132 guests and 117 crew members, it service – like the dedicated room service tion. Popularity of Prince Albert II cruise is 107-metre long and reaches the speed for all the passengers. The places at the ship shows the idea was a major success. of 14 knots. As the parameters can tell table are not designated (like with other There are a number of people interested you, it’s a rather small vessel, not intended shipowners), that’s why during the meals in the trip, and the well thought out cruise for mass tourism, but rather focusing on you have a chance to make new acquaint- programme makes the whole expedition quality and comfort. Eeven more so, be- ances. The room service, available 24/7, an unforgettable experience. cause a stay on the ship involves an All In- is ready to fulfi l all your wishes, includ-
62 | NOVEMBER 2010 A BUSINESSMAN ON HOLIDAY
ing the culinary ones – and it’s worth mentioning that the menu is prepared in cooperation with the well known Relais & Chateaux hotel and restaurant group. Naturally, the guests have access to wifi throughout the whole ship. The special- ists from all the fi elds – and that includes: scientists, explorers, writers and photog- raphers – are also present throughout the cruise to serve you as tour guides, giving you all the necessary details about the places visited along the way. Prince Albert II is owned by the Silver- sea cruise line, which is a guarantee of the high quality comfort in the cabins. There are a couple of different types of cabins here, so every passenger will fi nd some- thing for themselves. In all the rooms you can expect champagne (on the day of embarking), fresh fruits and flowers, a set of drinks adjusted to your personal preference, cushions in your favourite col- our, comfortable mattresses, a bathrobe, a pair of slippers, binoculars (useful dur- ing expeditions), a safe, a hair-dryer and a comfortable single or double bed, a bath- room and a TV set. The cabins are cleaned twice a day, and there is also a turn down service. The smallest are the Adventurer rooms. They are 16-17 sq m and have two win- dows (portholes). They are not too big, but comfortable – they come with a separate lounge area, a desk, and a bathroom with a bathtub or a shower. Explorer rooms are slightly bigger, while View and Vista suits have largelar panoramic windows. Veranda susuiteite cocomes with a so called “French balcony” – a balustrade situated behind the balcony door. Expedi- ttion suite offers much bigger space –– 43 sq m – and comes with huge wwindows and a separate lounge aarea furnished with a sofa. Silver rroomso offer similar space, but have ttwow French balconies. They can be ccombinedo with Veranda cabins to mmake a two bedroom suite. Addi- titionalo amenities are a dressing room aandn a dressing table. Medallion suite is is 333 sq m, and comes with a balcony of of 88 sq m. With its space of 63 sq m, ththee Grand Suite is almost like a fl at – it also has a separate lounge, dining rooroomm and a huge balcony. The Own- er’s Suite is of similar area, but the balbalconyc is 15 sq m. The rooms slightly diffdiffere when it comes to decor, but you can bbe sure you will feel comfortably in eaceachh one of them. ▲
NOVEMBER 2010 | 63 A BUSINESSMAN ON HOLIDAY
with 2,300-metrew high Mount Beerenberg, isis an opportunity to see a real volcano. In IcelandIc you might see the biggest waterfall inin Europe (44 m high, 100 m wide), admire rarera species of birds, boiling mud pits and geysers.ge During the cruise the passengers arear also told about the history of Vikings. An interesting expedition is one from Portsmouth,P England to Leith in Scotland. It’sIt not far away, but the journey lasts 11 days,d and it is a “Gardens and Mediaeval Castles”C theme cruise. The stops include theth island of Sicily, Waterford, Dublin, the Guests can expect various attractions The cruise GighaG island and a few Scottish cities. The on the ship. Ladies – and some gentlemen cruise. The ship goes to aa few few regions: the passengersp visit castles and churches, spec- too – will surely be interested in visiting the by Prince Antarctic, the Arctic, Southern and Latin tacular gardens accessible only from the Beauty Parlour, where you will be pam- Albert II America, and the Western coast of Africa. sea, caves, and observe various birds. The pered by a hairdresser or a manicurist. The cruise line offers also cruises called expedition gives you a chance to sink into There are lots of shops on the ship where is a real “Remote North” – that is a connection be- the Gothic atmosphere and take hundreds you can buy various high quality products scientifi c tween Lisbon and Scotland or Reykjavik of excellent pictures. such as jewellery, fashionable clothes or expedition and Canada. A cruise from Puerto Caldera, Costa perfumes. What made an unusually posi- One of the cruises around the Southern Rica to Callao, Chile is a real visual tive impression on me was the Connois- cold waters is the route starting in Ushuaia, paradise for photography enthusiasts. It seur’s Corner – a place which looks like Argentina to the Falkland Islands, North- gives you a chance to learn about ancient taken straight out of the films about 19th- western Antarctic islands and the Drake cultures and visit tropical forests, which century England. Here you can sink into Passage. Within these twelve days, you are includes seeing wild monkeys, iguanas, a comfortable leather armchair and savour given a change to get to know the real treas- sloths and the abundance of flora. The a glass of cognac and a good cigar. If you ures of the Antarctic: snow-covered moun- passengers also visit the archaeological are not a fan of smoking, however, you may tains, massive glaciers and you can also sites and a banana plantation, as well as like to go to the fitness centre, equipped observe penguins, whales, dolphins and Ecuador, Panama, and the famous Quito with modern and efficient calorie burning various species of birds. Prince Albert II is in Peru. machines. The offer also includes aerobics also equipped with Zodiac motor boats, so As for the African expeditions, the cruise or pilates sessions. There is also a Spa salon, reaching the seemingly inaccessible places from Cape Town, South Africa to Dakar, where you can undergo series of revitalis- should be no trouble. Naturally, during the Senegal is especially worth mentioning. ing treatments. In the library, all avid read- cruise, you might go sightseeing – e.g. to the This visit to the Western coast of Africa ers will find hundreds of books in various English cathedral in the Falkland Islands lasts nearly a month, but this enables you languages, as well as audiobook stations. or ancient arctic research stations. to explore the desert, see the rock salt de- On the 6th deck, there is the Observation Equally exciting are cruises around the posits, spectacular crags, as well as pelicans, Lounge. It’s a place where you can see North Pole. During the expedition from flamingos and cormorants. The passengers stunning panoramic views – naturally over Oslo and Longyearbyen, the passengers visit typical African villages, schools, coco- a cup of coffee or a good cocktail. There visit the Svalbard archipelago and the Jan nut plantations and, naturally, numerous is no swimming pool on Prince Albert II, Mayen island in Norway and a couple of towns. however, there are two outdoor jacuzzis, places in Iceland. The expedition is called Obviously, on returning from all these and the adjacent grill always ready to serve “Fire & Ice” – and not without a reason. expeditions, you bring not only hundreds you something delicious. Talking about The ice is represented by the glaciers, of pictures, but also souvenirs. And the fact food, you must not forget about the ship’s fjords, bears, reindeer, whales, seals and that the Prince Albert II reaches the places restaurant, where you can savour excellent seagulls, while fire – by the volcanoes, which are inaccessible for others, makes dishes in an elegant atmosphere. lava and geysers. The passengers have them all the more valuable. After all, it’s What’s especially important when trav- a chance to see the Spitsbergen island and a thing for real explorers. ■ elling on Prince Albert II, is the route of the visit a real tundra. A visit to Jan Mayen, Paweł Kowalski
64 | NOVEMBER 2010 A BUSINESSMAN ON HOLIDAY Winter à la Margarita SkiingSSkkiinngg ppuristsuru istss mmayay nnotot uunderstandndderststand ththis,iiss bbubutt itit’st’s’s nniceicce tot sspendpend wwinterinntteer ini wwarmarm clclimate.liimate AAndndd wwee don’t mean sitting all days in a comfy chair in front of a telly. On the contrary, we think here about the sun and the blue sky of Margarita Island. All of these offered by Exim Tours.
t is sometimes worth going against fer. You can also choose to go off road andd all trends and have a rest in nice and take a jeep safari – such a trip takes youu friendly environment, when in Poland to the south of the island and Macanaoo all you can count on are snowstorms Peninsula with its charming mountain-n- and blizzards. Who wouldn’t be tempt- ous and semi-desert landscape. It is theree Ied to try one of the 72 beautiful beaches, where you will find one of the greatestst the turquoise sea, and the resorts which attractions of the island – La Restinga la-a- are always ready to welcome the new goon – a national park which is home too visitors? This is exactly what Margarita fl amingos, herons, parrots, pelicans, andd Island is like. The place is barely known, hawks, as well as numerous sea species.s. but really worth consideration. The coast of the lagoon features a 22-kilo-o- Isla Margarita is the largest of Ven- metre long sand beach. The programmee ezuelan islands. It lies on Caribbean Sea, of the tour also includes a boat trip alongg about 40 km from the mainland. Marga- this lagoon, an opportunity to take a swimm Margarita Splash is, in turn, a trip bbyy rita is, in fact, an archipelago consisting by Punta Arenas beach, and lunch. Fi- fast boats along the island’s coasts. You of two little islands connected by an isth- nally, you will cross La Sierra mountains can also choose to visit La Coche island mus called La Restinga. The landscape which offer an unforgettable view over the which is situated between Margarita here is quite diverse, and the climate whole Macanao Peninsula. and the mainland. La Coche is known remarkably friendly. for being ideal for windsurfi ng, and the The island’s capital is La Asuncion most convenient way to get there is by with Santa Rosa fortress, but its real catamaran. Another interesting place is charm can be seen through its small cit- Cubagua island with a shipwreck which ies such as La Galera, or Ell Valle. They can be explored while snorkelling. There are worth visiting even if only for their is also an option to take a full-day trip cuisine, as there are numerous bars and by plane to Los Roques National Park restaurants there, offering seafood, corn where you can scuba dive in one of the flour pies, or pabellon – chopped beef most beautiful coral atolls. In a similar with rice, beans, and fried bananas. way (by plane) you can visit Canaima Margarita offers a great deal of leisure park where you will see the charming El time activities. Swimming with dolphins, Sapo waterfall. However, if you wish to a wide range of water sports, horse-riding go truly exotic, we recommend a 2-day along the beach – these are just some of trip to the delta of the Orinoko river, them. You can take a tour around the is- where you can admire the might and land, which will quickly and conveniently magic of the tropical forest, including introduce you to what Margarita has to of- caimans, and anacondas. ■
NOVEMBER 2010 | 65 TECHNO All in One
The “all-in-one” mobile phone, commonly known as let grass grow over their feet, and are continuously the smartphone, has become not only a fashionable working on new solutions. The stakes are high. That gadget, but also an inseparable life companion for is why, why have decided to look at the most newest, every modern inhabitant of our planet. The standard best, and most advanced smartphones on the market. version offers the access to your mailbox, an internet Darek Zawadzki – our electronics geek – reports. browser, an advanced multimedia player, satnav, not to mention a camera or, in fact, a video camera. Additionally, thanks to new applications, smartphones are consolidating their position on the market. They are used by businesspeople, doctors (medical applications), travellers (satnav), and linguists iPhone 4 (advanced dictionaries). Electronics companies, don’t The fourth edition of the fantastic smart- phone made by the company with a bit- ten apple in its logo, boasts with a lot of novelties. In comparison to the pre- vious model (3GS) m, iPhone 4 comes with a better 3.5» Retina display, offer- ing 960 X 640 resolution (which is four times more than in the previous mod- els), a 5 MP digital camera with movie recording in HD (not in 3 MP – as be- fore), and an utterly new front panel camera (providing better quality in vid- eo calls). The newest iPhone also fea- tures a new processor – Apple A4, which efficiently manages all phone’s oper- ations. Thanks to FaceTime function, the users of iPhone 3 are able not only to talk to each other, but also e.g. wave to each other, as the data is transmitted over WiFi network. Gamers will defi nite- ly like the 3-axis gyroscope thanks to which iP4 is able to precisely calculate yaw, pitch, and roll. The newest iPhone is different from its predecessor not only as regards the included electronics, but also visually. iPhone 4 has a fl at back (the back panel of the previous model had a bulge), which makes it easier to use it when, for example, it’s placed on a desk. CONCLUSION: The newest iPhone is an excellent smartphone with an exten- sive range of camera options, and ac- cess to a huge number of applications (unfortunately, you must pay for most of them) via App Store. The initial prob- lems with signal loss have, fortunately have been resolved. Unfortunately, iP4 is one of the most expensive devices in its class. The model with 16GB memory costs around €900, the one with 32GB as much as €1,100.
66 | NOVEMBER 2010 TECHNO
Motorola Defy True – the name of the model doesn’t sound that good for a Polish speaker, but the phone itself is just excellent. It is based on Android platform which automati- cally gives its user access to over 70,000 applications, widgets, and games from Android Market. The phone has a large 3.7» WVGA touchscreen (offering 480 x 854 resolution) and does well especially in severe weather conditions as it’s water resistant and dustproof. Moreover, CrystalTalk PLUS function helps elimi- nate background noise by dedicating two microphones as fi lters. Other interest- ing features are: a 5 MP digital camera with fl ash and digital zoom, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) – a media share technology which allows us to store and share data with compatible home equipment, the newest version of MOTOBLUR application (which allows you to personalise and organise all the information for each of your friends under one listing). The price hasn’t yet been announced. Blackberry Torch 9800 CONCLUSION: We haven’t been able to test the newest model of Motorola, The Canadian company RIM but basing on our previous experience we dare to predict that it’s going to be (Research In Motion) introduced its a successful smartphone. fi rst mobile featuring a slider. The man- ufacturer claims that the slider mech- anism is rated for more than 150,000 cycles, so you don’t have to worry Samsung Wave II that frequent opening the QWERTY A second wave is coming! Samsung has re- keyboard will wear the mechanism. cently presented the newest version of Wave The Torch has also a 3.2» touch- model, known as GT-S8530. The second gen- screen (HVGA 360 x 480) with a vir- eration is based on the newest version of ba- tual keyboard. The smartphone runs da system (which means “ocean” in Korean). on the newest BlackBerry OS 6 op- The phone features a large 3.7» Super Clear LCD erating system, has a 5 MP digit- touchscreen (WVGA 480x800), a 1GHz proc- al camera with 2x digital zoom, a 624 essor, a 5 MP digital camera with a function MHz processor and a nice multime- of HD recording, and Social Hub service (of- dia player. The «Berries» don’t need fers a convenient, single-point access to all any special recommendation – if you your email accounts, calendars, personal con- have used one, you will defi nitely stay tacts, IM and SNS information. Social and faithful to the brand. A solid chassis, work calendars from all portals and social net- safety (it is even used by the US pres- working sites are colour-coded and displayed ident), and a classic design, are the de- in an integrated view via 2-way synchroniza- vice’s major advantages. Price: €700. tion). The price hasn’t been announced yet. CONCLUSION: Another solid design CONCLUSION: The new Samsung Wave is with an innovative (as for BlackBerry) aimed at users on a mid-range budget. The price solution in form of a QWERTY keyboard for the Wave’s fi rst generation was as little as hidden behind a slider. It seems to be €300. New applications for the phone are avail- an excellent choice for corporate users. able via online store Samsung Apps, but more It defi nitely is not a revolutionary device, advanced users may feel a bit disappointed be- and creating BlackBerry Torch 9800 cause both Android Market and Apple AppStore the manufacturer opted more for con- offer considerably more applications. solidation of its position on the market. ▲
NOVEMBER 2010 | 67 TECHNO
Nokia N8 Welcome to Poland! Pre-sales for the newest N8 model began in August and the fi rst customers received their smartphones in October. Nokia N8 was a long awaited device, but it seems that it was worth it. The Finnish company equipped this remark- able telephone with a 12 MP digital camera which features Carl Zeiss optics, HD video recording, and HDMI port (to connect it to a TV). There is also an integrated web television (Web TV application), free satnav (Ovi Maps), and a sophisticated mul- timedia player. The 3.5 AMOLED screen with 360x640 reso- lution and “pinch zoom” function (which enables you to quickly zoom in images), is excellent. The tele- phone runs on Symbian 3 operating system and is available in 5 colours: black, white, green, orange, and blue. Price €400. CONCLUSION: Undoubtedly, Nokia knows how to create a good mobile phone. The N8 is a show off of the com- pany’s experience. It features a solid alu- minium body, excellent graphics, and the newest version of the operating system. It might be a real competition for the iPhone. It’s a shame, though, that we had to wait for it for so long.
HTC Desire HD The phone was offi cially presented in a new user’s interface called HTC September in London, and in October Sense. Price €620. it appeared on the Polish market. CONCLUSION: It’s huge! Let’s hope Desire HD is well equipped to handle that the large 4.3» display won’t over- multimedia content thanks to its 4.3» load the battery resulting in a dramat- bright Super LCD screen with 480 ic drop in its life. Another thing worth x 800 resolution, Dolby Mobile sound mentioning is HTCSense.com service system, and a new Qualcomm 8255 which, if necessary, will fi nd your lost Snapdragon 1 GHz processor. The phone on a map, switch the ringtone HD symbol hasn’t been added to the one, or redirect incoming calls to a dif- name of the model by accident. The ferent number. If it doesn’t help, the device features a 8 MP digital camera system may display info about a prize which records video with HD quality. offered for the person who has found The body is made of one piece of alu- the telephone. If it doesn’t help, how- minium which contributes to the over- ever, there will always be an option to all sturdy looks. Android 2.2 operat- remotely wipe the whole content of the ing system has been enhanced with phone’s memory.
SHARP LCD 3D/2D At this year’s IFA fairs Sharp Corporation presented 3D touch- screen LCD featuring the industry’s highest brightness that can switch between 2D and 3D modes. Users can view 3D images without the need to wear special glasses, making this LCD ide- al for mobile devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, and smartphones. The newly developed 3D LCD uses a paral- lax barrier system to display 3D images. This parallax barrier, which has a series of vertical slits, is incorporated into an ordi- nary LCD to control the path of light reaching the right and left eyes, thus creating a sense of depth. However, the conventio- nal 3D LCD with this system had diffi culty in displaying high-qu- ality images in 3D mode. The display is 3.8 inch and offers 640 x 760 resolution in 3D and 1280 x 768 in 2D.
68 | NOVEMBER 2010 TASTES OF THE WORLD A Taste of Japan The average person usually associates the Japanese cuisine only with sushi. The impression is reinforced by the commerce, in shops there are more and more ingredients needed to prepare this admittedly unique dish. But Japan has a lot more culinary specialties to offer than this one.
y friend, who often goes to Japan, claims that what at- tracts us to the Japanese way of living, the appar- ent mystery, the samurai Mtraditions and mysticism is only a gim- mick, which is used to promote and sell the local cars and TV sets. To top it all, the world is hugely indebted to Japan. And we are not talking about the fa- mous Godzilla monster, but the food. The abundance of fl avours, spices and – what is not irrelevant – colours, makes the cuisine from the land of the rising sun one of the most interesting culi- nary phenomena in the world. Howev- er, because sushi bars and restaurants are thriving, our command of Japanese spe- cialties is limited to those popular fi sh delicacies. What a pity. A couple of years ago, some of us would quail on hearing the name “Chi- nese cabbage”. Naturally, only if we were expected to use it in our kitchen. Where possibly could we have bought it? To- day it is no longer a problem. Chinese cabbage is available on the Polish mar- ket, which is especially a good thing, as it is one of the ingredients needed for the A little less extreme is the dish called Japanese Slowly pour the eggs, don’t mix them but Natto Miso Shiro soup. It is a dish for Donburi. To be precise, you should call cuisine is don’t let them get too solid. To complete those who like to experiment with dif- it a set of dishes, as the word “donburi” the dish we put the hot, cooked rice in- ferent tastes: natto are fermented soy- means a bowl, or a saucer – but at a res- not only to the bowls – and top it with the pan- beans, which have strong, unpleasant taurant it also refers to a dish served the world- fried mixture. The bowls should be quite smell. Also available in Poland – howev- in a thick bowl. There are plenty types recognized deep with thick walls, and possibly – they er, in shops we can often fi nd the export of Donburi, some of them resemble should come with lids. Donburi may be version of natto, devoid of the character- a soup, others a gratin. All types also dif- sushi, as served with green tea, although I know istic aroma. So you’d better look for the fer in terms of ingredients. The one thing the culinary some people who prefer to wash it down smelly soybeans! When you have found which never changes is rice. Donburi diversity of with sake. it, pour two cupfuls of dashi (bouillon) is a rice-based dish. To prepare one of this country is The abovementioned dishes are only into a pot, heat it up and add 2 leaves of them, called Oyakodon, we need 3 glass- a tiny fragment of the vast spectrum of Chinese cabbage. Wait until the leaves fuls of rice, 3 spring onions, 200 grams of really huge. possibilities offered by oriental cuisine. have softened, pour out some of the chicken breast, 4 eggs and sauce made Abundance of experiences guaranteed. bouillon and mix it with a spoonful of from half a glassful of dashi bouillon, And coming back to this friend of mine, red miso (soy paste), and then add it to soy sauce and sugar. Pour the eggs in- well... Personally I have nothing against the soup. Add about 200 grams of natto to a bowl and mix it, cut the raw chicken Japanese TV sets or cars – given that, and boil it up. Garnish with a few onion into thin strips, and chop the onion into they are of really good quality. But I like rings before serving. If it is 3 o’clock in rounds of about 2 cm. Pour the prepared to go “the Japanese way” when cooking the morning and your guests have over- sauce into the pan, add strips of chick- as well, even if I am guided not by mys- stayed their welcome, treat them to the en, and after a couple of minutes add ticism, but my sense of taste. Banzai! ■
FOTOLIA / BIGSTOCK soup – works like a charm! the onion and fry for about 2 minutes. Artur Kolger
NOVEMBER 2010 | 69 WINE
Everyone who has entered the ne of the three main factors GRAPEVINE TORTURES which infl uence the qual- JIf you want to know the difference be- world of viticulture comes to a ity of wine – besides the tween a regular farmer and a winemak- point when they ask themselves grape variety and a meth- er, show them a piece of poor, stony soil a question: How is it possible od of production – is the so – the farmer will sit and cry, while the Ocalled terroir, which is the soil expres- winemaker will jump for joy. Poor soil is that two wines from the same sion, climate and geography of the re- ideal for winemaking. It is by no means grape variety and produced by gion where the vine is grown. Each of us an accident that the poorest soil makes means of the same technique, has surely read in a book or heard some- the best wine. It’s because self-respect- body in a movie talking about “gravel ing winemakers aim at quality, not effi - but in different parts of the world soil”, or “the Southern slope”, and we ciency. The worse conditions grapevine taste so different? And why all thought it was nothing worth further has to grown in and the more it has to should you never say: “I don’t like deliberation. However, all this is of huge root in the soil in search for water and importance and strongly infl uences the nutrient – the fewer fruits it will pro- Chardonnay”? taste of wines. duce, but their quality will be outstand- ing. What’s more, winemakers often re- move some grape bunches, so that the vine puts all its energy into developing the remaining fruits. It is called a green harvest. An advantage of poor soil is that is does not keep water, which when excessive, could damage the grapevine. Poor soil allows for better air circulation and protects the roots The Wine’s against diseases. Expression Part 1 BIGSTOCK
70 | LISTOPADNOVEMBER 2010 2010 WINE
The climate in which wine is pro- All these factors influence the final The worse ty. Therefore, when somebody claims duced is equally important. Grapevines product, i.e. wine. As the climate gets they are not a fan of Chardonnay, they like neither the heat nor cold. Maturing hotter and drier, the acidity of wines conditions would have to try all the Chardonnays of the grapes can be compared to steak tends to decrease. Instead, they become grapevine in the whole world, otherwise they ex- ■ preparation – if a pan is too cold, the more concentrated. It often happens that has pose themselves to ridicule. meat will be grey and bland, if it is too the level of sugar in grapes is so high, Michał Poddany & Robert Mielżyński hot – the steak will be burnt on the out- that the yeasts cannot convert all of it, to grow in, side and raw on the inside. The same ap- and some sugar remains. It makes the the better plies to water – if the soil is too dry, the wine taste smoother despite its muscu- vine will die, even though in search for lar structure. Wines from cool climates quality water its roots can reach a depth of 40 are delicate, and more acidic (which is grapes metres. However, when it is too wet preferred). They are less concentrated, – the plant will produce too many fruits but more complex and sophisticated, as it producess of bland, watery taste. Or worse – they nothing inhibits the expression of the will rot or get infected by mould. most subtle overtones. That’s why the Chardonnay from Argentina is a rich, HOW MUCH SUGAR thick wine scented with candied exot- IS THERE IN SUGAR? ic fruits with creamy consistency. The The location of the cellar is also a crucial one from the French Chablis is a more issue. A sloping will carry the water bet- ephemeral, fresh wine with the aroma ter, and if it is directed properly, it pro- of lemon pip and mountain stream vides a better exposure to the sun. What’s waters with distinct acidi- more, on the slopes the soil is usually poorer, as rich soil is usually leached by water, and accumulates in the valleys.
NOVEMBERLISTOPAD 2010 | 71 MOTO
The Explosion of Gadgets
72 | NOVEMBER 2010 MOTO
Compact cars are he fi rst C4 received an ideal promo- art is seen in details - the colour of the backlight- functional, but you can tion thanks to participation of Citro- ing behind the instrument panel, and various en in WRC championship and seven confi gurable chimes/alerts. That is why, in C4 forget about all the championship titles won by Sebast- it’s possible to not only adjust the colour of the amenities the producers ien Loeb behind the wheel of this display of meters, but even change the shade of T model. The car shocked with its line, but also their edges. For the same reason the new C4 has equip bigger cars with. Such a statement, with remarkable solutions used on board. The a choice of various polyphonic sounds, which engineers equipped C4 with a number of smart can be assigned to various alerts just like poly- however, does not gimmicks such as the fi xed steering wheel hub phonic ringtones in a mobile phone may be as- make sense when which lets the driver operate several functions of signed to various profi les. referring to the latest the car without removing his or her hands from the wheel, directional headlights, a lane depar- ONLY PROVEN SOLUTIONS Citroen C4, which has ture warning system, tyre air pressure sensors, All Citroens are extremely functional and fea- been endowed with an and even a perfume dispenser. No - not scent, ture numerous compartments whose location explosive name and top- but “perfume” – the French decided that com- has been well thought out. It’s the same with end facilities. fort is the most important feature. Therefore the new C4. In the version with clutchless man- it’s not surprising that the previous model was ual transmission called EGS (works similarly to a sales hit. This time, however, Citroen decid- an automatic transmission), the free space be- ed to introduce some changes, because the mar- tween the front seats is now occupied by a large ket evolves and becomes even more demanding. fridge. Literally - this huge box can store and What did the Citroen engineers decide then? cool as many as four 1.5 litre bottles. They made the new C4… even more comfort- It can’t be said that the new C4, which will able. First of all, the new C4 has grown in di- soon appear in Poland, is only a car which has mensions to provide even more comfort for the undergone a facelift. Citroen has, in fact, built a passengers in the cabin and more space for the completely new car, which weighs less, although luggage in the boot (now the boot’s capacity is it features all the above novelties. It’s the best record 408 litres – the competitors are far be- proof that the design of the new C4 has been hind), the dashboard is made from soft mate- well refi ned. Only the engines haven’t changed - rials, and the car itself has been better sound- but this seems quite understandable as custom- proofed (in line with the idea that less vibration ers don’t like unproven solutions. The choice is and noise equals less tiredness, which in turn wide, both in case of petrol and diesel engines. equals more joy from driving the car), and Will there be anything new? Yes - a diesel micro- equipped like limousines. I’m not exaggerat- hybrid - that is a car featuring a diesel engine ing! Your new C4 may feature not only leather and Start&Stop system (when the car comes to upholstery or a glass roof (known and banal), a halt, the engine automatically shuts down, and but can also have internet access, or even seats on engaging the clutch starts again). Thanks to with a massage function. the omnipresent electronics you will be able to save money and the Mother Nature. Gadgets TAILORED TO THE NEEDS may be fun, but saving the environment is also Journalists generally loath to use marketing important – not only for C4 manufacturers. ■ terms, but in this case the term “tailored” seems surprisingly appropriate and not exaggerated. Rafał Jemielita The new Citroen can be tailored to your own is a journalist for Playboy preferences, but also to your own mood. How is and a co-presenter of TVN Turbo’s it done? The French specialists claim that this ‘Automaniak’ – a motor magazine programme.
NOVEMBER 2010 | 73 EQ.7 this is how coffee tastes Good coffee is worth living for, as well as paying a lot to get some. Lovers of this aromatic drink are truly aware of this. Luckily, not only them. Siemens also knows it, and their new coffee maker is a good proof of this. he company analysed all stages of coffee making and the factors more fl avour to be released from the ground coffee. For a cup of es- which may infl uence its taste (the type of coffee beans, the grind- presso to achieve perfection, the water must be sustained at the ideal T ing level, the temperature, and the brew pressure). Adding to this temperature for 30 seconds during the brewing process. With the new the cutting edge technology, and an impressive design, Siemens cre- Senso Flow System, this is now possible, giving you perfect fl avour eve- ated the fi rst completely automatic coffee machine named EQ.7. The ry time and anytime. Earlier only professional coffee machines used by machine is a real breakthrough in coffee making, with over 60 inven- the best baristas were able to do so. The heating system is switched tions which have been utilised in the new EQ.7. At the same time EQ.7 on only when it is necessary. Special sensors measure the water’s tem- is the strongest coffee machine, with 1700 W wattage and a 19 bar pres- perature, ensuring that coffee is ideally brewed. It’s also a unique, en- sure water pump. ergy-saving feature.
STEP BY STEP ONE BUTTON The process of making coffee starts with appropriate grinding of the EQ.7 features a coffee dispenser with adjustable height for varying cup beans. It is well known that this process is one of the most crucial when size. It’s simple, but very practical. The innovative milk frothing nozzle preparing the traditional espresso. The machine features a specially de- creates delicate milky foam frothy as light whipped cream. The height signed ceramic grinder called silent ceram drive. The unit not only grinds of the nozzle is also adjustable which makes it possible to use cups as coffee beans with consistent performance, but also does it very quietly. tall as 15 centimetres. The “cream center” option makes it possible to In contrast to traditional steel grinders, this one is made of wear resistant prepare coffee of your preferred aroma, so making various types of cof- material making it extremely reliable. fee with or without the foam is now even easier and more convenient. In order to obtain rich aroma and thick, tall, medium brown crema, the Thanks to “one touch” function only one push of a button is enough to “aroma pressure system” automatically achieves the ideal, continuous make an excellent drink – either cappuccino or latte macchiato. The in- pressure and therefore the perfect brewing result, for every single cup. telligent “auto valve system” switches automatically between steam- & The tamper has been designed with a convex shape, that allows even hot water function, dispensing appropriate quantities of all ingredients to produce an ideal drink. This sophisticated system of valves is the heart of EQ.7 machine. It’s worth remembering that the milk container is ther- mo-insulated and keeps all the ingredients fresh for as many as 7 hours. Another good thing about this creation from Siemens is its auto- matic cleaning system. “One touch service” programme simply starts the whole process of cleaning and removing scale. Moreover, EQ.7 is equipped with a practical function called “cream center cleaner” to quickly clean the frothing nozzle. It can be started with one touch of a but- ton. The nozzle can also easily be removed and washed in a dishwasher. Add to this the elegant looks of the machine (which will fi t any interior as the available colours include black piano or aluminium/anthracite), an intuitive LCD with Polish menu, an individual setting function called “My Coffee” (to adjust your preferences regarding your favourite coffee), Brita water fi lter, and EQ.7 becomes an essence of what a real coffee lover needs. Enjoy your coffee.
Moscow From imposing architecture to delicate Fabergé eggs, Jenny Southan experiences the ambition and imagination of the Russian capital. Lenin’s Mausoleum
LENIN’S MAUSOLEUM St Basil’s Cathedral SST BASIL’S CATHEDRAL Red Square is the obvious place to start AA short stroll across the square will bring a tour of Moscow, with the orange crenel- yyou to the colourful St Basil’s Cathedral, lated walls of the Kremlin – the offi cial tthe twisted candy domes of which have residence of the president – and the neo- bbecome a symbol of Moscow. The Rus- Russian GUM shopping emporium on ssian Orthodox place of worship was opposing sides. If you get the timing ccommissioned by Ivan the Terrible in right and don’t mind queuing for up to tthe 16th century but has since become an hour (it could be a push in winter), aa museum. It features eight small you can visit Vladimir Lenin’s mauso- cchapels, each decorated with golden leum, where the communist revolution- BByzantine icons, plus a larger central ary lies in state. oone beneath the fi sh-scale spire. Each After a series of strokes, Lenin died iis connected by steep staircases and in 1924, aged 53 – the outpouring of wwell-walked corridors decorated with public grief was overwhelming, with ffloral and geometric murals. Audio almost 100,000 mourners paying their gguides are available for 200 roubles (£4). respects in the first few weeks. Such OOpen 10am-5.30pm daily except Tues. was the demand for his body to be pre- EEntry is 200 roubles (£4). No photos. served for future generations that the Soviet government decided to have it AARMOURY MUSEUM embalmed, and in 1930 the stone tomb OOn the other side of the Kremlin, tick- that stands today by the Kremlin walls eets for the Armoury Museum (open became his resting place. ddaily except Thursdays) can be bought Inside, visitors are ushered a few at aat the Kutafya Tower entrance, from a time down a dim staircase by stern wwhere visitors walk through the Alex- guards. At the bottom is a chamber aander Garden to a security point (large where Lenin lies in a glass-sided cof- bbags not allowed). Although entry times fi n. Although he is wearing a dark suit, are restricted to 10am, 12pm, 2.30pm a spotlight shining on his face reveals and 4.30pm, it is well worth fi tting into smooth white skin and a neatly trimmed your itinerary as even a whirlwind tour beard – think Madame Tussauds wax- will leave you stunned. work rather than Egyptian mummy. Founded by Peter the Great in 1720, It might not appeal to everyone but the collection of tsarist treasures is it’s a unique experience that may not spread across two floors and includes be available for much longer as debate a dazzling array of ecclesiastical robes, continues about whether or not to bury court dresses, royal carriages, ornate him. In the meantime, it is reported that crowns, thrones, icon and bible covers, his body requires daily maintenance, weapons and armour. Signs tend to be along with chemical baths every 18 in Russian only but items that may catch months. Open 10am-1pm daily except your eye are the children’s carriages de- Mon and Fri; free entry. No photos, signed to be pulled by ponies and led by phones or large bags – after queuing at dwarves, the throne encrusted with 1,964 the north-west corner of the square, you nuggets of sapphire, turquoise and pink can check them in for 40 roubles (85p) amethyst, the velvet and gold brocade at the Historical Museum Tower before horse coats, and the wedding dress of
JENNY SOUTHAN going through security. Catherine the Great.
76 | NOVEMBER 2010 The museum is also home to ten Im- choose what you want at the counter be- perial Fabergé eggs, the world’s largest fore paying and sitting down. collection. The House of Fabergé was Try the oroshka cold summer soup a jewellers established in St Petersburg with cucumber, spring onions, potato, in 1842 that became known for its in- ham and sour cream, the beetroot salad, tricately designed Easter eggs made for the blini pancakes topped with fi sh eggs, the Russian tsars – the fi rst was commis- or a glass of kvas, a non-alcoholic drink sioned by Alexander III as a gift for his made from fermented bread – it tastes wife in 1855. Some 50 were created in to- nicer than it sounds. Arbat 45/23; cafe- tal, each handcrafted in precious stones mumu.ru (Russian only) ■ and metals with a “surprise” of some Go to visitrussia.org.uk kind inside – be it a miniature Trans- Metro station Siberian Express train or a replica of Alexander Palace. But only 42 eggs are which the area was used as an outdoor known to have survived – those remain- swimming pool. TAXI TIP ing are worth millions. Entry is 700 rou- Today’s cathedral was rebuilt in 1997 Cabs tend to be expensive if you are a foreigner as drivers bles (£15). and even if you only have a few minutes often charge two to three times more. As a guide, a ten-minute spare, you should take a look inside at journey should cost about 500 roubles (£10) in an offi cial yellow CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST the lavish murals, fl ickering candles and cab. Locals may offer to pick you up in their own vehicles but THE SAVIOUR soaring architecture. Entry is free. No this can be risky. If you decide to do this, agree a price fi rst – ten Not far from the Kremlin is the Ortho- photos. Open 10am-6pm daily. minutes should be about 150 roubles (£3). dox Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (Khram Khrista Spasitelya), complete MY MY CAFE MOSCOW’S METRO with shimmering golden onion domes, This branch of the popular Russian The city’s metro system is a sight in itself. Commissioned by a white marble and granite façade, and chain of eateries (pronounced Moo Stalin in the 1930s, many of the stations were built as “palaces life-like bronze saints adorning the exte- Moo) is located on the lively shopping for the people” to showcase the might of the regime, with rior. Originally built in the 19th century, street of Arbat, where you’ll fi nd plenty grand chandeliers, statues, marble columns and pro-soviet the church was destroyed by Stalin in the of buskers, T-shirt stands and souvenir frescoes. London Underground provided advice on its early 1930s in a bid to use the site – well stores. My My offers a democratic style of construction. positioned on the banks of the Moskva dining suited to tourists, business people River – for a soviet palace. But construc- and families alike, with a wide selection tion was interrupted by a lack of funds of local salads, stews, soups and meat and then the Second World War, after dishes at low prices – take a tray and
Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
My My café
NOVEMBER 2010 | 77 Ask Peter ?Piotr Kalita has been associated with the air travel market for almost 20 years. He specializes in corporate and diplomatic travel. Do you have any questions? Ask Peter. Send your question at [email protected]
VACCINATION BEFORE A HOLIDAY TURBULENCE I want to go to Africa. My colleague has talked me into a journey A few times a month I go away on busi- to Kenya and Tanzania. She was there before, and especially loved ness, and spent a lot of time on the plane. safari. I’m really excited about this journey. However, I’ve heard When turbulence occurs I feel rath- about some tropical diseases occurring in this region, which dis- er uneasy. Is turbulence dangerous? courages me a bit. Apparently, there are some side-effects of anti- Should I keep my safety belt fastened all malarials. Is it really that dangerous? the time? Beata Andrzej
Dear Beata, Dear Andrzej, It will surely be an unforgettable The malaria parasites are transmit- As I’m writing this reply to but they sometimes are unpleas- journey. You have to prepare your- ted by the mosquito vectors. So, you I am waiting for my plane ant for the passengers, especial- self for every expedition. Tropical the key thing is to avoid the mos- to Europe at the Damascus Air- ly when occurring suddenly (and diseases do occur, but there are quito bites. The mosquito repellents port, and I’m not afraid of turbu- when you spill your coffee). Pi- adequate ways to minimize the risk available in the pharmacies in Po- lence. It’s because, in fact, they lots have very accurate and up- of becoming infected. I consulted land should effectively do the job. pose no real danger to the safe- to-date aviation weather maps, a doctor specializing in contagious The mosquitoes are troublesome ty of the fl ight. It’s one of my fa- supported with radar screens, diseases (including tropical ones). mostly in the morning and in the vourite topics to talk about with so that they can avoid the areas The most important thing is to be evening. It is therefore recommend- the pilots. The planes are con- where heavy turbulence are like- vigilant about hygiene, and noth- ed to wear clothes covering arms structed in such a way, to resist ly to occur. In case of turbulence ing can replace that. Washing and and legs, in natural light colours. far heavier loads, than those oc- the passengers should keep disinfecting your hands is an ab- Bold colours, like intense yellow or curring at natural conditions dur- their safety belts fastened, and solute necessity. The most com- red, usually attract these insects. ing the fl ight. Usually the plane the luggage must be put in the mon conditions are stomach com- No cure for malaria has been dis- encounters turbulence when go- locker. If turbulence is especial- plaints caused by the change of covered so far, but there are med- ing through the clouds or after ly troublesome, the captain may bacterial fl ora. You should drink icines, which prevent the malar- running into the so called wind ask the crew to fi nish the in-fl ight only originally sealed bottled water, ia plasmodium from multiplying in gradient, i.e. a difference in wind service and be seated, just like and some popular carbonated soft the human organism. One of such speed. At that moment the plane during the take-off or landing. drinks. Avoid drinks with ice cubes, medicines is Lariam, which can be is very sensitive to strong winds Other objects like serving trays as water used to make them might obtained by prescription in Poland. coming from all directions. The are also protected to prevent not have been boiled – even in the The fi rst dose is taken a week be- term “wind shear” is also used. the possibility of hitting or for in- best hotels and restaurants. fore departure, and you should still If you think about driving a car stance, spilling the coffee. It is recommended to vaccinate continue the treatment for 4 weeks on a windy day, it would be eas- Pilots always have a possi- against viral hepatitis A and B. The after coming back from the malaria ier for you to imagine the forces bility to change the route of the vaccine is administered in three endemic countries. Each drug may exerting pressure on the car in fl ight in case of really strong tur- doses. The second dose is given cause undesirable side-effects. perpendicular directions. When bulence. Sometimes the pilot after a month, and the third one af- Rarely, it may cause a patient to un- fl ying, the plane is additionally may also decide to decrease the ter six months. Immunity to the dis- dergo short-term depressive symp- exposed to the forces pushing it cruise speed, because then the ease is developed after the third toms. These are rather individual re- up and down, which cause the whirls of air do not have such dose. That’s why you should start sponses to the treatment. plane to additionally move up- a huge impact on the plane. preparing for such a journey a cou- I strongly suggest you should wards and downwards. That’s I hope now it will be easi- ple of months ahead of time. make a doctor’s appointment and what we call turbulence. er for you to get accustomed to Kenya and Tanzania are coun- seek medical consultation before As I’ve mentioned before, they the turbulence during the future
FOTOLIA / PIOTR WALICKI tries where malaria often occurs. the journey. aren’t dangerous for the plane, fl ights.
82 | NOVEMBER 2010 WAKACJE MARZEŃ LATO 2011
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[934-10] Laguna MONACO GP Traveller 275x208.indd 1 21/10/10 12:31:36