InsPiring you to reach your dreams #28/DECEMBER 2011/JANUARY 2012

EVER BEWITCHING Emma Watson interview

DRESS TO WINTER IMPRESS From downtown STYLE to designer DAVOS DAYS Politics and winter sports

CLASSIC SEXY KELLY BROOK TALKS CAREER

www.togethermag.eu EDITORIAL Wishing you a stylish winter

Our contributors have supplied this issue intended – the opening of a Bobbi Brown of the magazine with plenty of ideas to cosmetics store in Brussels. The brand is help you celebrate the festive season, based on a simple philosophy that with the from food and drink to gift suggestions, right make-up and knowledge women can look like themselves, only prettier and more shows to see and places to visit confident. The new store is expected to open during December in time for Christmas and is s I write this, Christmas lights right next door to the Cosmeticary cosmetics and decorations are going up store in Rue Orts opposite the Bourse – form all over the city and the an orderly queue behind me! Christmas Market stalls dotted around the Grand Place, the Looking ahead to 2012, our first issue of the BourseA and the Place Ste Catherine are doing year in February will be dedicated to all things a brisk trade. Belgian – Made in Belgium will spotlight the people, products, design and services that are But as the days get colder and the nights grow growing this country a reputation far beyond its longer, spare a thought for those less fortunate, borders. It’s not all moules and frites, you especially children – this issue highlights the know, although one look at the bowler hat I’m work of Unicef and the HappyPack gift wearing in the picture might persuade people concept, an opportunity to give presents to otherwise. Made entirely of mussel shells by friends and family and support the world’s top milliner Elvis Pompilio, it forms part of his vulnerable children at the same time. private collection of one-offs. Pompilio offered to lend it to me – the perfect sartorial statement To give readers a true sense of our Winter Style for a winter Belgian wedding in the Ardennes. theme, we’ve got interviews with actress and model Kelly Brook – who agreed to be on the It remains for me to join Publisher David cover – and actress and model Emma Watson; McGowan and the Together team in wishing all what a coup to have both of them in the same our readers both peace and prosperity for the issue! Through their work, both of these British year to come. beauties have access to the fashion industry’s top stylists and make-up artists, but their own advice is much more down-to-earth. The best piece of beauty advice Emma Watson says she has ever received is: “Don’t over pluck your eyebrows and always take off your make-up Patricia Kelly before you go to bed.” Kelly Brook told me she Editor-in-Chief swears by regular facials and drinking plenty of water to keep her skin glowing.

Meanwhile, there’s exciting news for those of us who need a little extra help with what nature

December 11/January 12 Together – 3 CONTENTs

14 38 3 EDITORIAL 8 COMPETITION Wishing you a stylish winter Le Chat competition - win a 2012 Le Chat diary 6 FORWARD TOGETHER Together online 10 COMING UP Starring in Belgium

PERSONAL 14 COVER STORY 25 POLITICS DEVELOPMENT Kelly Brook interview Davos World Economic Forum 18 GO GET IT! Tips for public speaking 28 MONEY 20 HEALTHY TOGETHER 2012 investment advice Stay fit while travelling 30 ENVIRONMENT 23 RELATIONSHIPS Fighting climate change with Living Apart Together low energy buildings

WINTER 34 INTERVIEW 54 MUST HAVES STYLE Emma Watson interview Watches for him and her 38 DRESS TO IMPRESS 56 Dress to iMPress Winter Style Interview with jeweller Licia Mattioli 48 BEAUTY NEWS Designer perfumes 58 MUST HAVES 50 Interview Chanel Nose Gift suggestions Jacques Polge 60 FOR ART ’S SAKE 52 DRESS TO IMPRESS Painter and sculptor Marine Pocket watch comeback Oussedik

Life of 66 GOING PLACES 88 GOOD CAUSE leisure A day out in Lille Unicef HappyPacks 70 Davos - Magic Mountain 90 DRIVE OF YOUR LIFE 76 Advertorial - Amsterdam Aston Martin Cygnet and Williers 92 Diary 80 EAT TOGETHER Together’s To Do list Belgium Restaurant suggestions 94 Together’s To Do list 84 BY THE GLASS international Celebrity wineries 98 LE CHAT 86 Grand Marnier Machiavellian mouse

4 – Together #28 FORWARD TOGETHER

Online

Technology LIFESTYLE

FASHION TRAVEL

Art & CULTURE NEWS togethermag.eu

6 – Together #28 COMPETITION Le Chat competition – win a 2012 Le Chat diary Together has ten copies of cartoonist Philippe Geluck’s 2012 Le Chat diary to give away to readers

imply think of a caption – in [email protected] with the subject Le English – to fill the speech bubble Chat competition. The ten best entries will in this cartoon of cartoonist receive a diary and the one we think is the Philippe Geluck’s iconic cat and funniest will be published in the next issue of long-suffering mouse. Send your Together magazine along with the winner’s captionS by email before 28 December 2011 to name. The publisher’s decision is final.

8 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 9 COMING UP Starring in Belgium Here’s Federico Grandesso’s choice of entertainment for the festive season

CHRISTMAS CONCERT The National Orchestra of Belgium conducted by Koen Kessels, artistic director of the Hermes Ensemble, together with the Children’s Choir of the Flemish Opera, will give a Christmas concert in the Centre for Fine Arts, Henry Le Boeuf Hall on 23 December. Tickets from €10. www.bozar.be

MIDDAY CONCERTS A concert at noon – quite an original idea for the holidays; a number of concerts at lunchtime by winners of the Queen Elisabeth international music competition include one by the string quartet composed of Elisa Kawaguti, Stefan Willems, Leo de Neve and Jan Sciffer on 21 December. At the Centre for Fine Arts, tickets €8. www.bozar.be dEUS The Belgian rock band dEUS is currently on tour promoting its new album Keep You Close and the single Constant Now. Eclectic melodies mixing different genres such as rock, punk, blues and jazz – playing in Belgium at Antwerp’s Lotto arena on 16 December, and Forest National 17 December, with tickets at €40 and €36 respectively. www.forestnational.be – www.sportpaleis.be – www.deus.be

OPERA A contemporary and innovative interpretation of the opera Nabucco by Giuseppe Verdi, transposed by Geert Allaert and Frank Van Laecke, is a triumph of special effects where light plays an important role. Forest National, 29 and 30 December.Tickets €49-€64. www.forestnational.be

DURAN DURAN Welcome back to the iconic 80s group Duran Duran with a new masterpiece All You Need Is Now produced by Mark Ronson. With 80 million albums already sold, success is guaranteed. The tour brings the group to Forest National on 29 January. Seats at €56. www.forestnational.be

10 – Together #28 “Personal isn’t the same as important.” − Terry Pratchett (b.1948) English fantasy writer; from Men at Arms (1993)

“We should therefore claim, in the name of tolerance, the right not to tolerate the intolerant.” − Karl Popper (1902-94) Austrian-born philosopher; The Open Society and its Enemies (1945)

“If a man does not make new acquaintance as he advances through life, he will soon find himself alone. A man, Sir, should keep his friendship in constant repair.” – Samuel Johnson (1709-84) English poet and critic, quoted in James Boswell’s biography Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

“Disinterested love for all living creatures, the most noble attribute of man.” – Charles Darwin (1809-82) English natural historian; The Descent of Man (1871)

“Dream the impossible dream.” – Joe Darion (1917-2001) American songwriter; The Impossible Dream (1965 song)

Source: Oxford Concise Dictionary of Quotations

Personal development COVER STORY

Model of British beauty We spoke to actress and model Kelly try to find outfits that nip me in at the Brook – on the cover – to find out waist,” she says. what she’s been doing in Belgium and where she’s planning to go next CLASSIC BUT SEXY “I like to think my style is classic, but elly Brook’s choice of sexy,” she says – a bit of an designers for a night out understatement from someone who has are Bruce Oldfield or graced the cover of the American edition Marchesa for red carpet of Playboy. “Being on the cover of events; when she’s Playboy was a career high point – Ksitting in the front row at fashion events everyone from Cindy Crawford to Naomi she says she would opt for Isabel Campbell has done it.” Marant, and for every day she wears J Brand jeans and the American Vintage Having studied at London’s Italia Conti label. But the designer names and Academy of Theatre Arts, Brook started up-market labels this British actress and modelling professionally when she was 16 model normally sports and swiftly rose to national prominence, I LIKE TO THINK haven’t prevented her shortly followed by international recognition. from promoting a range With numerous films and TV acting and MY STYLE IS of glamorous party presenting roles to her credit, as well as CLASSIC, BUT clothes for the high several stage plays, and currently shooting SEXY street chain New Look for both television and cinema, Brook – she’s been working claims to prefer modelling to acting. with them since 2007 – featured here in some of our photos. “I enjoy being on location,” she explains. “Modelling has taken me all over the world FASHION ADVICE and I have worked with everyone from Constantly photographed wherever she David Bailey to Ellen Von Unwerth, who goes, Brook suggests investing in good shot the American Playboy cover. shoes and handbags: “They always make I am into clothes and style and I just love an outfit look more expensive,” she great photography.” Brook is also explains. She tends not to follow fashion somewhat of an entrepreneur, with perfume trends herself, but says she dresses for and clothing among the lines that carry her her shape. “I love the 1950s, so always name.

Ben Riggott for New Look

14 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 15 COVER STORY FILMING his dreams of becoming a successful Brook has recently been in Belgium’s entrepreneur, just like his hero Richard Waterloo shooting part of an upcoming live Branson. action series Metal Hurlant for French television, based on the French cult comic Brook divides her time between London books. “My episode is Masters of Destiny and Los Angeles, and says she’s planning and I co-star with Joe Flanigan of Stargate to spend more time working in LA during Atlantis fame,” she explains. “We have 2012. She also owns a farmhouse in Kent eaten some great meals and drunk far too where she’s intending to spend Christmas. much, but are having a great time.” “I will be with my family in Kent building log Next stop is Belfast , in Northern Ireland, to fires and wearing silly Christmas jumpers. I play the femme fatale in a comedy with am hoping to go somewhere warm for British comedian Leigh Francis, based on New Year, so maybe St Barths,” she his alter ego Keith Lemon, to be released muses, planning in any case to see in the in the summer of 2012 – called Keith New Year wherever she is with Thom Lemon: The Film, it sees Lemon following Evans.

All photos this page Ben Riggott for New Look

Clutching her treasured Hermes Birkin “We have a fab recreation ground near bag – contents: Chanel lipsticks, iPhone where we live in London,” says Brook. “We and credit card – Brook advises anyone go to the track and he gives me drills and aiming for a similar career to “rise above exercises to do – I usually can’t walk for days the critics and keep moving forward”. afterwards, but I always see great results.” The secret, she says, is to “remain positive and don’t lose faith in yourself”. Brook says she tries to eat regularly and never diets. “I love dancing and loathe REMAIN POSITIVE IN SHAPE going to the gym, so I have to enjoy AND DON’T With the eyes of just about exercise. I like walking my dog, riding my everyone in the world on bike and Pilates.” LOSE FAITH IN her figure, Brook concedes YOURSELF it is important for her to She partners Boris Johnson to promote stay in shape and says she the Mayor of London’s Sky Ride, part of a believes a balanced diet national campaign to get one million and exercise are vital, working out when people cycling regularly by 2013. She is she can with partner Thom Evans, a former also employed by Reebok to front workout Scotland International rugby player who is videos. But admits she remains partial to currently sprint training for the next cups of tea and biscuits – the British Commonwealth Games. HobNobs brand, to be precise.

Kelly Brook with Mayor of London Boris Johnson

16 – Together #2817 December 11/January 12 Together – 17 GO GET IT! Overcome a fear of public speaking Banish those butterflies Tips for overcoming a fear of public ADRENALIN RUSH speaking from Marie Terese Adrenalin is a hormone produced by the Letorney, Director and Founder of adrenal gland in the body causing Ask your Voice™ stimulation of the heart-rate. A rush of adrenalin starts in the nervous system as hy is it that when you a reaction to high stress or strong are about to give a physical exertion. If this happens just speech, deliver a before speaking, in whatever situation, presentation or breathing will be faster, leading to the introduce yourself, you tone of the voice sounding higher than feelW that familiar flutter in your stomach, normal or the voice shaking. This is the palpitations, and tightness in the throat, moment to immediately focus on We actually train our ear by the way we TAKE UP SINGING accompanied by an annoying dry cough. breathing by gently exhaling, blowing out speak: get to know the sound of your Try humming to help prepare before You can place an order at a restaurant, that compressed air of tension a few voice by letting your ear adapt to the speaking – hum in the morning while give advice to your children, discuss times before speaking. This will release very essence of the sound of your voice. getting ready for work, hum in the car and strategy during a team meeting, cheer at blocked air caused by misplaced Join a Toastmasters repeat your presentation en route, or hum a sports game, sing in the church choir or adrenalin, which in turn often causes the I HAD A SEVERE organisation or as you walk. By humming you are already talk for hours to friends on the telephone, larynx to move higher, giving the feeling STAMMERING rehearse in front of connecting your breathing with your voice all without a problem; yet once under the of a tight throat, sweaty palms and friends or family or in and you are also hearing your voice in a spotlight, you experience anxiety or panic butterflies, inducing panic. IMPEDIMENT front of the bathroom relaxed position. formulating sounds, let alone words. WHICH mirror. POSITIVE ENERGY DISAPPEARED It might be an idea to take up singing, STUMBLING FOR WORDS Gently exhale out and let the mind assist. THROUGH By doing this, your ear especially if you are one of those who If you are one of those people, the fear of Let the right side of the brain take over by will be trained to hear stammer or stutter – join a choir, sing at speaking can be so paralysing that it can thinking of a peaceful image or sweet SINGING AND your voice relaxed home, sing in the car, and sing with your leave you stumbling for words, memory, or imagine a favorite melody in LEARNING HOW and panic free. Both children or with friends. Singing is actually dominating sentences with ‘ahs’ and your head while exhaling out that blocked TO BREATHE your ear and your sustained speech – you are connected with ‘ums’ or, in extreme cases, stammering breath to formulate sound into words. Your CORRECTLY brain will remember your breathing and physically cannot stutter or stuttering. The ingredients of this nerves will not get the better of you when these sensations, and or stammer. As an international opera singer cocktail that makes you tongue-tied are you introduce yourself, and people will TO CONQUER eventually you will and voice specialist, I speak with the voice of adrenalin, not breathing properly and not understand your name the first time ANXIETY automatically know experience: from the age of nine until I was having the right mind-set before you instead of asking you for it again later. when you are not 18, I had a severe stammering impediment even begin to open your mouth. It is When you can feel your breathing calm breathing correctly which disappeared through singing and important to challenge your fears when down at the beginning of a presentation, because you will hear and feel a learning how to breathe correctly to conquer speaking, because your voice is part of your voice will not elevate or quiver. Keep difference in the way you sound. The anxiety. I had to learn to appreciate and love your identity and what you have to say is that positive energy going by connecting brain is a powerful muscle, and the my voice and so can you. important. It’s time to speak up with your relaxed breathing with your thoughts more you practice these tips the quicker confidence and ease. while you speak. you will develop a new habit. www.askyourvoice.com

18 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 19 HEALTHY TOGETHER Keeping fit on the road Travelling for work and living out of a suitcase and in hotels may not be as exotic as it sounds, especially for the frequent business traveller. Aspria’s Health and Well-being Manager Richard Earney has some fitness advice for those who are constantly on the road

Frequent travellers need to keep fit

large number of the programme, lose motivation, feel stiff corporate people we deal and often experience lower back pain. with are frequent travellers and time after time at Planes, trains and extended time on the Aspria we hear the road can give an already sedentary Asame complaints: lifestyle a push over the edge. More often than not, cramped into seats that • I constantly feel tired and lethargic in have become increasingly smaller over meetings; the last few years or, dare I say, we have • I feel drowsy and always dehydrated become increasingly larger. Overly air coming out of planes and trains; conditioned planes leave us feeling • I am sick and tired of airport food, dehydrated; come winter time, these eating out and too much alcohol; environments are fantastic places for • I can’t maintain my exercise spreading bugs and colds.

20 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 21 HEALTHY TOGETHER RELATIONSHIPS

Then there is the food. It is nigh of the body, which will no doubt be impossible to find healthy eating options blocked and feeling tight from travelling in many airports and railway stations. and sitting in business meetings. Even Home alone Eating in hotels night after night can better, have a fitness expert give you an bolster the waistline – think of those individualized hotel-based programme Couples who live apart from each other are becoming increasingly business dinners, usually accompanied – this will hold you accountable and it common; relationship counsellor Suzette Reed takes a look at the by an alcoholic beverage or two, can be tailor-made to suit your goals and growing trend of Living Apart Together followed by a trip to the hotel bar. time frames. Overall, we’re neglecting vital components of well-being, such as EATING OUT sleep, nutrition, exercise and lifestyle Try to make the best choice of what is balance. If you have some specific available. Opt for salads, lean meat, weight loss or sports or exercise-related poultry or fish, preferably grilled or baked goals, then this lifestyle is not going to as opposed to fried. No need for extra help at all. It leads to frustration, poor salt just because it is on the table. Limit performance and lack of energy and this creamy sauces or ask to have them put will not help you reach your goals, or on the side. Replace the fries with improve productivity or energy at work vegetables. Cut out the bread, – something else to consider in this especially white bread. And ask yourself highly competitive age. whether you really need that dessert.

PLANES AND TRAINS Discipline is a key ingredient and When you are stuck at the airport or depends on how much you want to railway station, look for a juice bar. Load achieve your goals, feel better, and up on water, not caffeinated drinks and improve work productivity and energy – if limit sugary snacks. Think about you want this badly enough, then whether you really need that airplane self-control and willpower are necessary. food. More often than not, it’s overly However, by making some simple processed and laden with fat and you’re changes, you will instantly feel better. only eating it because it has been put in Find the motivational cues that keep you front of you. Find raw nuts or fruit to on task, focus on how good you feel Actress Helena snack on, until you can find a healthier when you do make the right choices and Bonham Carter option - this will also help you maintain a keep that in mind when the going gets and her partner live in adjoining more constant energy level throughout tough. houses the day. Use the stairs, not the escalators, to keep the body moving. It Aspria has an expert team of trainers sounds simple, yet it is noticeable how and specialists that will come up with oving and intimate Estimates by the now defunct Center for few people do this. bespoke Business Fit programmes for relationships are about two the Study of Long Distance Relationships you or your company; don’t hesitate to people sharing time put around 18% of couples in northern AT THE HOTEL get in touch to find out how we can help together, doing things Europe into this category. Set the alarm 15 minutes early. Focus you feel better, increase productivity and together, and having a close on doing some stretching to get the body maximize potential. Lrelationship; about sharing the same Research by demographer John Haskey moving first thing in the morning. This space both physically and emotionally. of Oxford University suggests three main will help mobilize the myofascial system www.aspria.be reasons for people in relationships to live Well, yes and no – more and more apart and that this is a rapidly growing couples are in committed relationships phenomenon. LAT couples generally but choose to live apart. Living Apart fall into three categories: apart, but Together (LAT) is a growing lifestyle sadly; apart, yet gladly, and apart, but pattern, and often a lifestyle choice. working on it.

22 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 23 RELATIONSHIPS POLITICS

SADLY APART or in their early careers, is often a choice Is the influence LAT couples who are apart, but sadly so, between trying to keep together with may be those whose work takes them geographical distance between them, away from home; or there may be other and letting go of the relationship. family commitments keeping them apart of Davos on the – such as former relationships or caring Difficult choices – but how much more for other family members; or they may be tricky when the commitment has been subject to legal or residency made and others may be involved. wane? requirements. Career paths that separate families, albeit temporarily, can be complicated. The World Economic Forum bills itself as something special; Some couples choose to have separate Negotiating the ground rules for families originally intended as a bridge between political and business homes and come together when they that are not in the same home and may decision-making, this annual event held in the Swiss ski resort of want to, falling into the gladly apart not be in the same country can be Davos wants nothing less than to change the world. Report by category. They often live fraught. In an age of fantastic Cillian Donnelly YOUNGER close together but have networking opportunities, we can text, a separate space in the email, Facebook, tweet and Skype – all COUPLES ARE business innovators and captains of same house or in the means of bringing us closer together. But MORE LIKELY industry, civic leaders and, occasionally, same area, sharing time zones and work pressures can TO BE FAMILIAR Bono. It certainly aims to be broadly responsibilities for impinge on family life and finding time to inclusive, and its mission statement is WITH MANAGING family needs but spend together is really vital – and, after bold. “By engaging business, political, acknowledging they all, a cuddle is always a lot better than a LONG DISTANCE academic and other levels of society,” it need to have room – Facebook post. Couples and families RELATIONSHIPS says it can “shape global, regional and think English actress that are in for the long haul need to make industry agendas”. Which is undoubtedly Helena Bonham Carter plans together and be realistic and setting the bar high, and when it meets and her partner, director Tim Burton, optimistic about how and what between 25-29 January, 2012, its theme who live in adjoining houses with a is possible. is no less than ‘The Great Transformation: communicating door. Shaping New Models’. Some relationships thrive when there is a The third category of couples – apart, bit of distance between the couple, but DAVOS MAN but working on it – are trying to find a this can only happen if mutually agreed; Of course, there are those who cast a way forward with the commitment they if one partner feels ambivalent or put somewhat cynical eye on the have for each other, alongside a need to upon by the decision, then things can proceedings. The WEF has been make sense of the differing pressures quickly turn sour. The quality of time dismissed as a capitalist love-in, little they’re under and decisions each one spent together needs to be the focus, more than a junket and, with reference to has to make. rather than the quantity. Communication Eyes turn once again to Davos the ultra-secretive organisation beloved of is the key to managing a way through the conspiracy theorists everywhere, a bit LETTING GO challenges, and communication is as escribing itself as “an Bilderberg-light. There may or may not be Younger couples are more likely to be much about listening as it is about international organisation elements of truth in these assertions, but familiar with managing long distance speaking if absence is to make the heart committed to improving the simple fact is that people queue up to relationships. Their first experience of grow fonder, rather than leading to a the state of the world”, the take part. It is certainly the place to be intimate relationships, either at university case of out of sight, out of mind. World Economic Forum seen, or, like Nelson Mandela and F. W. (WEF)D boasts some heavy hitters from de Klerk in 1992, use the event to make a among its attendees: political bigwigs, grand political statement.

24 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 25 POLITICS

Kofi Annan used Davos to announce the Global Health Initiative

Voguishly dubbed ‘Davos Man’ by In addition to accusations of encouraging American political scientist Samuel P. awayday antics, latterly the Forum has Huntington, who saw the kind of person also been criticised for becoming who frequented the five-day get-together something of a marketplace for the latest as the type to care less about national electronic gadgets: hand-held devices borders, and instead put their belief in the and phones of all kinds are routinely eroding power of globalisation, it is road-tested at the event by their parent sometimes hard to escape the conclusion companies, who help make up the 1,000 that Davos exists solely to pander to the or so that fund the World Economic global fantasies of white, male elites. Forum. Recently, as if to perpetuate the gadget-boy stereotype, technology GLOBAL RESCUE hook-ups with new media, such as Such people will, naturally, swear that they YouTube and Facebook have helped to take part only to do their bit in meeting the broadcast the Forum’s message. challenges of global improvement, rather than for the clean air, picturesque mountain But even dispensing with the cynicism, it scenery and world- is hard to deny that the Forum is now a GOOD famous ski slopes. Davos somewhat one-sided affair, a showcase is also, by way of for big egos and devoid of diversity. INITIATIVES coincidence, a top Alpine Good initiatives have certainly come out HAVE resort – see our feature of Davos in the past, such as the Global CERTAINLY on page 70. Located in Health Initiative, announced by Kofi COME OUT OF the Swiss Alps, the town Annan in 2002, but increasingly its is nestled in one of pronouncements seem somehow less DAVOS IN THE Switzerland’s biggest and vital. In January, as the world’s eyes turn PAST best ski areas; something once again to Davos, and looking through that British Chancellor of all the gloss, the question is, can all the the Exchequer, George hard work of global rescue really be Osborne, availed of in 2011, apparently in achieved ­– or is the pull of some of the preparation for a major speech he was due resort’s other attractions too much of a to deliver later that day. distraction?

26 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 27 MONEY Emerging markets score points for investors Financial advisors are urging growth in the global economy. investors to put their cash into Developing countries used to be highly emerging markets as the economies speculative bets that offered high risks, of the developing world expand, but potentially high rewards. But in the writes Laura Cohn current environment, they may not be as risky as they appear. For nearly two or investors, 2011 was a generations, growth around the world stomach-churning roller has been driven by the West, coaster ride. Toward the end particularly the consumer-driven US of the year in particular, economy. But now, analysts expect stock markets around the growth in both the US and Europe to Fworld saw wild gyrations as investors tried sink to levels below 2 percent. WHERE TO LOOK FISCAL HEALTH to sort out the fate of the eurozone, the Economies in the emerging markets, on So where in the developing world to look? There are other compelling reasons to invest. outlook for the US economy and the likely the other hand, are forecast to expand Strategists advise starting with the According to the International Monetary outcome of the US presidential election by 4-6 percent – or more. so-called BRIC nations of Brazil, Russia, Fund, emerging markets have healthier fiscal India and China, long the emerging houses than those in the developed world. In At one point, from August through the first That’s quite a change. “We have a markets powerhouses. Jim O’Neill, the fact, developing nations’ debts are about 35 part of October, the market was so global economy today where two-thirds chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset percent of their economic output, compared volatile that the Dow Jones Industrial of the growth is coming from the Management who coined the term “BRICs” to more than 100 percent for the mature Average either fell or rose more than 100 developing world, not from the US and a decade ago, is now also pointing to markets. Fiscal health supports growth, points about two thirds of the trading not from Europe,” notes Lisa Shalett, South Korea, Turkey, Mexico and analysts note. days. The result: chief investment officer for Merrill Lynch Indonesia. markets were the most Global Wealth Management, in a If you want to invest in such markets, the STRATEGISTS volatile they’d been since webcast to investors. “People are Emerging markets stocks can certainly be best place to put a small slice of your SUGGEST the collapse of Lehman underexposed to the paradigm shift.” volatile. When the Standard & Poor’s 500 portfolio – 8 percent or less – is into a mutual INVESTING IN Brothers in 2008. stock index fell 4 percent from late fund to diversify your risk. The T. Rowe Price THE EMERGING At the moment, Shalett says, investors summer through early fall, for instance, the Emerging Markets stock fund, which has MARKET on average have just 3 percent of their MSCI Emerging Markets index declined by about half its holdings in the BRICs, and the MARKETS, SHELTER portfolios in emerging markets. But that 14 percent, as concerns about demand for rest in the stocks of companies in countries POTENTIALLY As the New Year begins, figure should be closer to 8 percent, she products made in the emerging world such as South Korea and Mexico, is a good THE NEW with so much unresolved advises, in a report “The Great Global rattled investors. place to start. ENGINES OF in Europe and the US, Shift: New World, New Rules” co- where should investors authored with Ian Bremmer, president of But reduced demand for exports may not Without spreading cash into emerging markets GROWTH go to seek shelter? the New York-based consulting firm be as dire for these economies as funds, Goldman’s O’Neill warns, investors will Strategists suggest Euroasia Group. “There’s really a need investors thought at the time. Analysts be missing out on any chance of near-term investing in the emerging for a more global perspective,” Shalett expect the reliance on exports to fall in the gains. “People who can’t get their head around markets, potentially the new engines of says. years to come, as an expanding middle the idea that these are the growth engines of class gains purchasing power and buys the world are missing out on the biggest thing high-end European and US goods. of our generation,” he says.

28 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 29 ENVIRONMENT

persuading a housing association to agree on heavy long-term expenditure is Fighting climate understandably a major challenge. By contrast the massive public buildings sector can perhaps be coerced more easily into change with low- doing the ‘right thing’. RENOVATE EUROPE In addition to establishing the technical energy buildings backdrop to retrofitting, BPIE has been bringing together EU officials and energy, construction and financial experts such as the A new building designed to use metres below ground to add heat to the European Investment Bank, to search for ways minimum energy and take what it building in winter, and cool it in summer. of financing it. The German authorities are needs from renewable sources has already pushing ahead and targeting banks as been unveiled in Brussels and, as The passive house building concept the one-stop-shop to provide information, Nigel Griffiths reports, combines massive low tech – advice and finance to individual house owners. the same technology is available to prefabricated concrete sections and renovate old buildings wooden panels – with a fearsome The European Alliance of Companies for computerized energy management system Energy Efficiency in Buildings, EuroACE has ith its energy use a to cut energy consumption to the bare The Aeropolis building at Ave Urbain also picked up the baton, launching a major Britsiers, B-1030 © Architectes startling one-twelfth of minimum. The design takes into account Associés M. Detiffe campaign “Renovate Europe” to spread the that of a classic additional factors such as the direction of word. EuroACE Secretary General Adrian building, just sitting in sunlight, shade, under soil temperatures The Buildings Performance Institute Europe, Joyce is passionate about the task: the brand-new and local renewable energy sources – a BPIE, states that the technology exists to “Buildings account for 40 percent of Aeropolis II building is a remarkable solution to cutting energy use and CO deliver the major part of the savings, but it Europe’s energy consumption and W 2 experience. It is light and airy, the emissions sitting below our feet and over is not being deployed. ambitious action to tackle unnecessary temperature is perfect, and there is our heads. energy use in the EU’s building stock comforting, homely wood paneling “Renovating or retrofitting of the existing should be an absolute priority of European everywhere. Its energy footprint is The buildings we live and work in stock of residential and commercial energy policy.” negligible and it is termed a near zero represent the bulk of energy consumption buildings can bring about the energy cuts energy building or nZEB – already a in Europe. A massive 40 percent of we need to reach Europe’s climate targets,” Reducing energy demand, Joyce points buzzword in the corridors of the European energy goes into heating them, cooling says BPIE’s Executive Director Oliver Rapf. out, can also save taxpayers money and Commission. Designed by the innovative them and keeping the lights and make their homes more comfortable, while Architectes Associés, this is a new breed computers on. New EU-wide laws have “BPIE is recommending establishing building renovation has the potential to of construction based on been agreed to ensure all buildings are ambitious renovation strategies across create over a million new jobs in Europe. IT IS TERMED the passive house building built to nZEB standards after 2020. The Europe which can cut the energy A NEAR ZERO concept and the company problem is that most of the energy consumption of buildings by over 70 “European governments must make the ENERGY is already working on its consumption takes place in old building percent by 2050. This will drastically reduce right choice for the future and push for the BUILDING next nZEB project. stock, particularly the system-built the EU’s dependency on the import of fossil deep renovation of buildings as part of an constructions of the 1960s when low fuels and give a huge boost to the ambitious energy agenda,” Joyce adds. Classed as the largest construction cost rather than energy economy.” “Missing the energy saving targets of this operational passive energy building in the consumption was the design priority. approach means turning our backs on new Benelux, Aeropolis is naturally ventilated Retrofitting involves certain investments but jobs, cheaper running costs for consumers and acoustically excellent, achieving its Yet new studies show that a concerted is always profitable over the long run – but and business and is refusing to use exceptional low energy qualities through programme aimed at reducing energy who should pay for the upfront costs? available proven technologies to effectively the use of airtight walls and roof, triple consumption in buildings can cut up to 32 Residential property owners are often curb carbon emissions.” glazing, solar protection and reinforced percent of the total primary energy used. elderly and a 15 year cost-saving insulation. It is also equipped with a This is equivalent to 4 billion barrels of oil programme may not appeal. Many www.bpie.eu ‘Canadian well’ system, which uses the per year or the total production of the coal residential blocks are co-owned and www.renovate-europe.eu stable temperature of the water table some and nuclear energy sectors in Europe.

30 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 31 The winter sales start on Tuesday, 3 January 2012. A number of stores in the centre of Brussels participate in the Afterwork Shopping scheme and remain open until 20h each Thursday. Shops on the City of Brussels turf are allowed to open every Sunday during the lead-up to Christmas – 4, 11, 18 and 25 December – yes, even Christmas Day – although the initiative is discretionary, so don’t expect all shops to be open on these Sundays. Shops in the prestigious Avenue Louise/Avenue de la Toison d’Or/Boulevard de Waterloo/Rue de Namur area reversed an earlier decision to stay open late on 15 December, and are now instead participating in Louise Christmas Sunday, giving customers an opportunity to shop on Sunday, 18 December from 12h-18h.

WINTER STYLE INTERVIEW Tom Munro for Lancôme © 2011 Magic touch She will always be associated with the Harry Potter films, but actress and model Emma Watson is proving there is more to her than playing Hermione

mma Watson says she can’t my education very grounding, it keeps me remember a time when she motivated and I really love learning.” wasn’t famous, having auditioned as the little witch Currently an ambassador for the beauty Hermione Granger at the brand Lancome, following in the footsteps ageE of nine, adding there have been times of such luminaries as Julia Roberts, Kate when her life has been rather odd. Winslet and Penelope Cruz, Watson is the face of the brand’s perfume Trésor “I think some of my best anecdotes revolve Midnight Rose. around just how surreal the whole situation was,” she says. “I could come from a day “In summer, in the garden of my father’s at school when I’d be doing maths one house in London [born in Paris to British minute and then changing into a premiere lawyers, Watson’s parents divorced when dress the next. If you’d taken a snapshot, it she was five] we always have jasmine would have looked ridiculous to see me growing on the balcony. So the scent of sitting in the canteen speaking to elves, jasmine, which you can find in the witches and wizards in full costume but it fragrance, always makes me think of became perfectly normal to me because it summer evenings and being outside. I just was my life.” love it. Also, roses are my favourite flowers.” Elsewhere in the fashion world, Watson has As far as the Harry Potter films are twice been chosen as the face of Burberry concerned, she says she’ll never forget in their advertising campaigns and she also riding on a broomstick or “being tortured by collaborated with the fair trade pioneer Helena Bonham Carter”. charity People Tree, putting her name to a clothing line she helped them develop. Reading for a liberal arts degree (English, history and art) at the Ivy League Brown “There are aspects of the fashion industry University in the US, Watson is currently on that can be cruel to the environment and an exchange with Oxford in England – she cruel to people who work in the industry. claims her home there is her favourite It’s good to encourage people to consider hideaway – and will spend her final year what they are buying, where it comes from back at Brown. and just to care about it.”

“My studying has always been very But acting is the only career on her horizon important to me because I feel it’s – “hopefully making brilliant and interesting cocooned me in a way. It’s been a really films” – with the current release My Week nice escape because although the film with Marilyn one of her post-Potter film industry is amazing, there are sides of it roles alongside Kenneth Branagh and Eddie which are very superficial and crazy. I find Redmayne.

34 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 35 INTERVIEW

Tom Munro for Lancôme © 2011

“Most of my scenes were alongside Eddie been treated well by guys she’s dated and Redmayne who is such a lovely guy and a has been made to feel worthless. It’s about great actor so it was a real pleasure to work her finding her sense of worth. I felt really with him. I play a wardrobe assistant on compelled by her story and her struggle to Marilyn Monroe’s last big film that she did find belief in herself. It’s a really nice story.” and I don’t want to give too much away but it’s another stellar British cast with a really While she says her education keeps her feet great director – Simon Curtis.” on the ground, keeping her motivated, Watson says she would love to try theatre. Watson also has some insights into the storyline and the character she portrays in “I think performing live, getting that energy the film of the coming of age novelPerks of and doing it in that way is a really special Being a Wallflower, written and directed by experience,” she says, adding she would Stephen Chbosky and due for release in “love to do some Shakespeare one day and 2012: “I play a girl called Sam who has had a play Juliet or Ophelia”. Shakespeare, she pretty difficult childhood and a hard time says, would have been one of her ideal growing up. She’s really screwed up the first dinner party guests: “I’d love to know where two, three years of her time at high school he got the inspiration from to write all those and hasn’t had very good grades. She’s not amazing stories.” Tom Munro for Lancôme © 2011

36 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 37 DRESS TO IMPRESS WINTER STYLE

Total look blue print dress and black coat Luc Duchène

Shoes (black and red) Hugo Boss Shirt Paule Ka

Red dress Stouls for Cachemire Coton Soie

Shoes New look

Ring Pomelato

Photographer: Gregor Collienne www.gregorcollienne.com Stylist: Nicholas Sirot www.nicholassirot.com Hair and make-up: Béatrice Stich for l’Oréal Professionnel and Yves St Laurent www.beatricestich.com Models: Lola, Amber, Maxime of Dominique Models Agency www.dominiquemodelsagency.com

38 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 39 DRESS TO IMPRESS

Total look Diane von Furstenberg

Shoes Sonia Rykiel

Blue navy cape Rue Blanche

Hats Elvis Pompilio

Yellow coat Tara Jarmon

Bordeaux coat New Look

40 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 41 DRESS TO IMPRESS

Yellow coat Tara Jarmon

Trousers Fred Perry

Right: Left: Blue navy cape Top Rue Blanche Fred Perry

Shirt Bordeaux coat New Look New Look

Brooch Trousers Sonia Rykiel Jean Paul Knott

Bag Hat Lancel Elvis Pompilio

42 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 43 DRESS TO IMPRESS

Left: Right: Top Leather coat Gérard Darel Gérard Darel

Fur waistcoat Top and shorts Sabrina Fasoli Sabrina Fasoli

Shorts Comptoir des Cotonniers

Shoes Comptoir des Cotonniers

Hat Hermes

Left: Middle: Right: Black top and vest Blue smoking jacket Grey smoking jacket Sabrina Fasoli Sonia Rykiel Filippa K

Black legging trousers Trousers Black top New Look Sonia by Sonia Hennes & Mauritz Rykiel Shoes Hennes & Mauritz

44 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 45 DRESS TO IMPRESS

Yellow dress Tara Jarmon

Blue coat Hennes & Mauritz

Total look (dress and cape) Hermes Amber wears the new Hermessence scent “Santal Massoia” by Hermes

46 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 47 BEAUTY NEWS

Designer smellies No design house is complete these days without a perfume to its name. Beauty Editor Delphine Stefens shares her favourites Viktor & Rolf Yves Saint Laurent Flowerbomb. The flowery and patchouli L’Homme Libre. A leathery and woody blast limited edition for Christmas. Eau scent with a refreshing dash of pink de parfum for her €113,85/50ml pepper. Eau de toilette for him €82/100m

Maison Martin Margiela Tom Ford The unisex floral, woody and musky Santal Blush is an intense unisex private fragrance is unchanged but bottled blend of sandalwood, spices and florals. in a festive silver flask for this 2011 Eau de parfum €420/250ml; exclusively limited edition. Eau de toilette available at Senteurs d’Ailleurs, 1A Place €95/50ml Stephanie, B-1050 Brussels Chanel N°5 “A woman’s perfume, with the scent of a woman” is how Coco Chanel described it. Extrait de Parfum for her €238,98/30ml

fter taking the fashion scene but a unique composite fragrance. As the by storm, designer Coco story goes, Beaux submitted several Chanel took on perfume. samples labelled with numbers and Chanel She commissioned picked sample N°5, and a legend was perfumer Ernest Beaux to born. Chanel launched what became the Acompose something befitting herself and world’s most famous perfume back in Tommy Hilfiger Lanvin her clientele, a modern and elegant scent. 1921, and numerous designers have Eau de Prep Tommy. A hint of juniper Eclat d’Arpège. A lilac and lemony Not the usual single note floral of the day followed suit ever since. berry and a splash of tonic are some of modern twist on the Lanvin illustrious the ingredients of this preppy cocktail. classic of 1927. Eau de parfum for her Eau de toilette for him €64,20/100ml €100/80ml

48 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 49 FASHION Now smell this Perfumer Jacques Polge is the third generation “Nose” at Chanel; Coco Mademoiselle and the men’s fragrance Bleu de Chanel are among his many creations

ollowing in the footsteps of Polge’s role at Chanel includes the selection of two Chanel legends, Ernest beautiful raw materials, including ylang-ylang Beaux and Henri Robert, the from the Comoros Islands and patchouli from respective creators of Chanel Indonesia, as well as rose and jasmine from No. 5 and No. 19, Jacques Grasse which contribute to the scent of Chanel FPolge is the guardian of a unique olfactory No. 5. The job isn’t all about a sense of smell heritage. Year upon year, he ensures that – he explains that a perfumer also has to have the original scent of all the Chanel a good memory, and will know what a scent fragrances is reproduced to the letter. will smell like by simply reading a formula.

Trained to recognize hundreds of different He says he believes that each fragrance must smells, Polge arrived at Chanel in 1978. “I “take you somewhere”. But the voyage is worked for six months with my predecessor, also a mystery: “If it lacks this vital element, it Henri Robert, who by then was isn’t able to surpass time.” quite old – I think he was over 80. I’ve been here ever since,” What makes Chanel perfumes explains Polge, whose son has different to others, he explains, followed him into the business is that the company makes its and is also a Nose, although own fragrances and has its with a different company. own laboratory. “At Chanel, fragrance is designed like a With a passion for poetry, Polge luxury, small-scale product. To was studying literature and this extent, the brand culture is English at Aix-en-Provence exceptional and the working when he heard that a company conditions unique.” in Grasse – the French town known as the perfume capital of the world – Polge says he loves jasmine and rose, but was looking for Noses for its branch in New dislikes “the invading crudeness of tuberose York. “Fragrance,” he says, “is a form of and mimosa”. For men, he prefers woody poetry. It doesn’t speak but it gives so much.” notes – sandalwood, vetiver and cedar. His favourite moment during the creation process, He studied the basics in Grasse but says: “It he says, is at the beginning “because you have was only in New York that I began to truly the impression that anything is possible”. understand what I was doing.” Afterwards, he says, it becomes more difficult. “Then a moment arrives when you feel that Upon his return to France, Polge worked in things are coming to a close, things become Paris for an established perfume company obvious and the message becomes which creates fragrances for couturiers. stronger.” He admits to being apprehensive “We learned why a fragrance suited one about how a new product will be met by the brand and not another. It’s a very specific public: “I’m always a bit worried. I always approach to creation, a reflection on style.” want to know how it will do.”

Chanel’s top Nose Jacques Polge

50 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 51 MUST HAVES Pocket watches on parade The pocket watch is making an unexpected comeback; Delphine Stefens makes a selection

he main reason for watches find out the time of day, it is a bold to move from pockets to reinvention of the pocket watch. Bell & wrists in the early twentieth Ross, on the other hand, channels the century was practicality. past with the PW1, or Pocket Watch 1, Louis from its Vintage Collection. TCartier designed one Founded just under twenty of the first years ago, the brand looked wristwatches for his to the early 1900s and the aviator friend Alberto military for inspiration, yet Santos-Dumont, who the result of this nostalgic found it difficult to pull exercise is surprisingly out his pocket watch modern. While the pocket while navigating his watch could become the MeisterSinger Ur Uhr No 1 plane. It was a must-have accessory of the €998 commercial hit and modern-day dandy or Cartier still features a fashionista, it may also Santos collection become a sound today. investment. Those opting for a true antique or vintage The pocket watch specimen will find the value was gradually of pocket watches of highly replaced by the praised manufacturers or wristwatch but never brands has not increased fully ceased to exist as much as for and is now making an De Bethune DBM: price upon wristwatches, because unexpected request fewer people wear them comeback. A watch these days – at least, for nowadays is indeed much more about now. For the best of both worlds, attractiveness than usefulness. Take De consider a single-hand wristwatch by Bethune’s DBM alligator smartphone MeisterSinger, a brand launched ten cover with an encased watch – with so years ago but inspired by seventeenth many people checking their phones to century single-hand clocks.

Harnais pocket by Bell & Ross PW1 La Montre Hermès €2,000 €1390

52 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 53 MUST HAVES WATCH IT ! Together’s selection of watches for him and for her to suit every pocket

Louis Erard limited edition (80 Philip Stein lady’s watch Phlip Stein man’s watch pieces) in rose gold with €1,340 €2,570 alligator bracelet €5,590

Swatch Touch available in various colours €110

Pequignet Paris Royal in Maurice Lacroix Les Classiques Seiko Ananta diver’s pink gold at €19,950 collection, hand-wound, stainless watch, limited edition of steel, leather strap €2,040 700 €4,000 Victorinox lady’s watch with Victorinox man’s watch diamond surround €1,395 €1,750

Poiray lady’s dress watch with interchangeable straps Montblanc Star Cartier Pasha Skeleton in white gold Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande in semi-precious stones. From €650 at Howards, 30 collection in steel, €3,450 with diamonds, price upon request Reverso Lady Ultra Thin in pink rue Ernest Allard, B-1000 Franck Dieleman © Cartier 2010 gold with diamonds €23,100

54 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 55 INTERVIEW Innovative jewellery puzzles

Having designed jewellery since she The brand’s iconic Puzzle collection was a child, Italy’s Licia Mattioli is set illustrates Mattioli’s penchant for straight Tibet pink gold ring with brown to conquer the world with good taste, lines and clean shapes as well as her diamonds €4.380 according to Delphine Stefens sense of proportion. This translates, for instance, into a pair of fine earrings that ecently appointed President comes with three pairs of pendants that of Federorafi, Italy’s national can easily be changed allowing their federation for silverware, owner to mix and match. Puzzle pink gold necklace with brown mother gold and jewellery of pearl and ebony, price on request manufacturers, Licia Mattioli isR the first woman to hold that position. Mattioli started in jewellery making fifteen years ago in her native Turin when, together with her father Luciano, she bought Antica Ditta Marchisio, one of Italy’s longest established goldsmiths, bearer of the first trade mark delivered by the city in the 19th century, which is still used today. A lawyer, then in her STRAIGHT LINES late twenties, Mattioli AND CLEAN Puzzle pink gold earrings with diamonds Saturno pink gold ring with smoky set about and interchangeable brown mother of quartz and moonstone €2.090 SHAPES revolutionizing the pearl jackets €990 business with the guidance of her Opening her first boutique in Rome, where we can welcome friends and father and deepening her own Mattioli says she did not do so “just for customers alike.” understanding of business management. the sake of it”, but instead waited and looked for “the ideal place that would Mattioli’s next stop may very well be One of the first things she did was study correspond to the image of the brand and Moscow or even Shanghai, for this warm, the vast archives of the Antica Ditta feel right”. Inaugurated about a year ago, yet strong-willed woman’s modern take on Marchisio which manufactures jewellery the Mattioli shop on Via del Babuino in jewellery-making is definitely winning for several world-renowned brands, Rome is a superb Art Deco oasis of calm hearts as well as a share of the market. A looking into design from both an aesthetic in the midst of this busy fashion key to her success, says Mattioli, is that and a technical point of view. Launching thoroughfare. Decorated in tones of beige “as a true Gemini, I always strive for the the company’s own Mattioli brand in and black, the exquisite furniture and perfect balance between my creative and 2000, she says she wanted “the designs lighting blend into a cosy whole, giving managerial selves”. to be playful and the earrings light”, customers a sense of being at home. And trusting to instinct that this is what Jewellery chief Licia Mattioli that’s exactly what Licia Mattioli was •Available in Brussels at Howards, 30 rue women want. looking for: “A place that feels like a salon Ernest Allard, B-1000

56 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 57 MUST HAVES

Jewellery by Caroline Swolfs – www.carolineswolfs.be Things we like

For writing thank you letters: luxury fountain pen €750, rollerball €630, ballpoint €545 from the Montblanc Princess Grace collection

Lounge about on a selection of cushions from Home Concept Store, 70 Rue de Namur, B-1000 www.bensimon.com

Selection of flavoured extra virgin olive Rotary wine rack holds 9 bottles, Girbal oil, Oliviers & Co €36.90 box of 5x50ml Le Soin du Vin €37.50 www.girbal.be flasks www.oliviers-co.com

58 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 59 FOR ART’S SAKE Horsey heaven Award-winning French artist Marine Oussedik is renowned throughout the equestrian world for her paintings and sculptures of horses, now reproduced on a range of china

Artist Marine Oussedik and her horse Jeff

assionate about everything to the world. Among the works in her diversified do with horses, Marine portfolio are children’s books and toys, and Oussedik has been drawing her Horses of the Wind series has now been and painting them since she reproduced on a range of fine china, was five years old. The go-to available at the Gien store in the Brussels Partist when equestrian magazines and books Sablon, including a limited edition of need illustrating, she is also an accomplished hand-painted pieces. A wider selection of horsewoman and rides every day when she her work will be displayed at the Salon of can. Having graduated from the Paris art Animal Artists in France during December college l’Ecole Supérieure d’Art Graphique, (see Together’s international To Do list on and with a permanent exhibition at the Living page 94). Museum of Horsemanship in Chantilly, The Eagle France, Oussedik, 44, has exhibited all over www.marine-oussedik.net

60 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 61 FOR ART’S SAKE

Companions Salukis

Bronze by Marine Oussedik Face to Face

62 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 63 “A man travels the world in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.” − George Moore (1852-1933) Irish novelist; The Brook Kerith (1916)

“Living is my job and my art.” - Montaigne (1533-92) French moralist and essayist; Essays (1580)

“Let’s have one other gaudy night.” – William Shakespeare (1564-1616) English dramatist; Anthony and Cleopatra (1606-7)

“We have no more right to consume happiness without producing it than to consume wealth without producing it.” - George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) Irish dramatist; Candida (1898)

“Everything not forbidden is compulsory.” - T. H. White (1906-64) English novelist; The Sword in the Stone (1938)

“If people don’t want to come out to the ball park, nobody’s going to stop ‘em.” - Yogi Berra (b.1925) American baseball player

Source: Oxford Concise Dictionary of Quotations

Life of leisure GOING PLACES Flemish jewel of France Situated in northern France near the border with Belgium, Lille is at the crossroads of Europe’s high speed rail network. Colin Moors recommends getting off the train and spending some time there

jewel in the midst of old want to visit is the Grand Place. Also known Flanders, Lille – or Rijsel in as Place du Général de Gaulle and named Flemish – is a town that has after one of Lille’s more famous modern- gone from being down-at- day sons, the square is a delightful if heel with a dying cloth somewhat odd mix of French and Flemish Aindustry to a must-see attraction for classical architecture that really embodies shoppers, diners and day trippers. Lille is the flavour of Lille itself – a hybrid town and so close to Brussels you could reasonably happy to be so. The highlight of the Grand go there for lunch, but there is a whole lot Place is the beautiful Vieille Bourse, a more to this town than the food. Flemish Baroque construction forming a square with a courtyard and ornately Since the arrival of the Eurostar terminal in decorated with plaques, carvings and some 1994, and the subsequent revival of the rather mischievous looking gargoyles. town’s economic fortunes, Lille has proven Although it may look as if it was purpose- to be the very model of how best to invest a built, the square is actually many houses all massive amount of cash. Getting there from joined together – they knew how to do a Brussels couldn’t be house conversion in those days. THEY ACTUALLY easier – an hour or WANT PEOPLE TO so by car, or a gentle CITADEL COME AND ENJOY half hour by Thalys. A little further out of town, around one THEIR TOWN kilometre or so, is the old citadel. After Lille French, of course, is was reclaimed by the French in 1688, the widely spoken but citadel was built and the city walls the locals will also converse in Ch’ti, a form strengthened to resist the advances of any of Picard spoken in Northern France. Why other country that fancied invading and not download an app for your smartphone claiming it for their own, an unfortunate and learn some – it exists, really. hazard of being Lillois in those days. The Alternatively, they will happily chat in citadel was built to resemble a five-pointed Flemish – the languages make no difference star and was double-walled and moated to to a town that’s full of friendly people. ensure nobody could just walk in uninvited. There’s certainly a warm welcome in most The designer, Sébastien le Prestre de establishments; it’s almost as if they Vauban, designer of over 150 fortified actually want people to come and enjoy buildings, called it “queen of the citadels”. their town. He may well have kicked himself when it was overrun by forces loyal to Spain, GENERAL DE GAULLE Holland, England and Portugal just 24 The first place most people will probably years later.

La Vieille Bourse, highlight of Lille’s Grand Place 66 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 67 GOING PLACES

These days, happily, the citadel can be Jouhaux, 59000 Lille T.+33(0)3 20 39 85 sauntered into without fear of cannon fire. 43), a family-run place you simply have to Home to the French Rapid Reaction Force, book to eat in. The place is dripping with it’s quite a sedate ramble around the two authenticity, from the swings at the bar km perimeter – just watch out for the (yes, swings) to the cheesy soundtrack, armies of joggers and roller-bladers. For matched only by the cheesiness of the children, and indeed the whole family, menu. Try the Flamische de Maroilles, a there is a zoo just outside with many quiche-like affair made with the local species of birds, apes and other assorted cheese, or the ‘Welsch’, a dish made with fauna. There’s even a pair of rhinos. Best bread, ham and cheese – lots and lots of of all, admission is free, and it’s open from cheese. Not recommended for low fat March through December. diets, but divine. Both are served with more frites than you can shake a salt FOOD AND DRINK cellar at and washed down with an All this jaunting around will doubtless artisanal beer. leave you feeling hungry. Before the restaurant recommendations, two points Speaking of beer, Lille may well have the to bear in mind. highest number of beers and bars per LILLE IS VERY Firstly, the people capita outside our own dear Brussels. If MUCH THE are lovely but you can’t find a place to get a drink in PLACE TO GO FOR appear to be in no Lille, you really aren’t trying. Probably the LUNCH tearing hurry – it’s best bet is to give Les 3 Brasseurs (18 probably best to fit Place Gare, 59000 Lille T.+33(0)3 20 06 in with their 37 27). Savour one (or many) of their timetable and not rush. Secondly, the beers, or take a chance on La Mousse du Flemish influence converges somewhat Moment, the latest experimental beer with the French, so you’ll get good quality being brewed. They are all brewed on the French food and Flemish portions. The premises and taste fresh and lively. Best two watchwords here are ‘delicious’ and value is the tasting palette, offering the ‘huge’. For a languorous lunch, try Au four main beers in 12cl glasses. In reality, Paon d’Or (2 Place de Béthune, 59000 these glasses tend to be filled to around Lille T.+33(0)3 20 42 83 52). It’s just off 16cl, so you get a lot of beer for your the tourist trail, but not by much, and the money. The gluttonous could go for the vispotje, moules or even ham and frites metre of beer (10 x 25cl) or share it with are really tasty. Again, service is pleasant, friends if they insist. but leisurely. Lille is very much the place to go for lunch – For something extremely Lillois, try La but don’t be surprised if you end up staying Guinguette de la Marine (8 Ave Léon the whole day, and go back for more.

68 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 69 GOING PLACES

The meeting has spilled into neighbouring mountains – Jakobshorn, Madrisa, Klosters where Britain’s Prince Charles and Parsenn, Pischa, Rinerhorn and Schatzalp The Magic family have been – 300 km of pistes, 45 lifts and 85 THE SNOW skiing for three descents. One pass for all mountains is EVENTUALLY decades, although available. Skiers and snowboarders of all DISAPPEARS TO rumour has it that levels can find ample diverse, beautiful and Mountain resort REVEAL 700 KM Klosters is falling out challenging terrain. OF WALKING of royal favour, much PATHS to the consternation of The 360-degree views of the Alps from the of Davos local politicians and top are stunning. Davos also has indoor and business owners. outdoor skating rinks, a sports centre and Every January, thousands of people ascend to the Swiss mountain two sled runs. The snow, usually excellent resort of Davos. Made famous by the World Economic Forum’s Annual SIX MOUNTAINS between December and April, eventually Meeting – first held there in 1971 – Dianna Rienstra and David The Davos-Klosters area is one of the disappears to reveal 700 km of walking Watkiss discovered that Davos is much more than a crossroads where largest ski resorts in Switzerland with six paths and mountain bike trails. the rich and famous meet, greet and negotiate

Panorama view of Davos

estled in a picturesque painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner’s work is valley in East Switzerland housed at the eponymous museum. in the canton of Graubünden and flanked Renowned for its rejuvenating mountain air, by the Landwasser River, Davos launched itself as a health resort in Nthe village of Davos is typically home to 1860 and as a sports centre in 1930. The about 12,000 residents and a highly hearty, Swiss German-speaking locals are amusing population hospitable and apparently don’t mind the of mountain dogs. 2,500-plus people who book all RUMOUR HAS IT accommodation, fill the restaurants and THAT KLOSTERS IS It is a charming crowd the ski slopes for five days every FALLING OUT OF resort with multiple January during the World Economic ROYAL FAVOUR restaurants, cafes, Forum’s Annual Meeting. They also seem bars, shops, art unbothered by hundreds of Swiss army galleries and officers who patrol the streets, oftentimes museums. Thomas Mann captured its barricading them for security purposes to spirit in his 1924 novel, The Magic protect heads of state, ministers and Mountain, and the German impressionist captains of industry. Mountain skiing on Davos-Pischa

70 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 71 CITY break

LOCAL COLOUR WHERE TO STAY Just eight km from Davos, Klosters is Accommodation is surprisingly affordable. imbued with old-world charm. However, Many Davos hotels offer a free ski pass those in search of nightlife had better stick and double rooms starting at just SFr 87 to Davos. An exception is Gaudy’s (€72). There are dozens of hotels, hostels Graströchni, a bar that can also be reached and self-catering apartments for couples over a picturesque 14 km ski run from the or families. The magnificent Hotel top of Parsenn. Its bright yellow roof is Bélvèdere built in 1895 is around SFr 170 reminiscent of a circus tent – and a circus is (€140) per night. Try the Hotel Schatzalp, exactly what can be found inside. With opened in 1900 as a world-class music ranging from Eurotrash to Oom-Pah- sanatorium, starting at SFr 155 (€125), or Pah, ebullient locals, ski bums and tourists at least have a drink, lunch or dinner in are packed together quaffing a wide range this otherworldly place, perched 300 of drinks – ice cream shooters (miniature metres above the village, accessible only cones filled with liqueur and topped with by foot or funicular. Views are chocolate and cream), tequila shots, hot breathtaking and visitors can ski out from wine, schnapps, beer, wine and Prosecco here to the nostalgic Schatzalp-Strela are all being consumed in large quantities, runs. But tobogganing 2.5 km down to even though the Swiss measure out careful the village after happy hour or dinner is portions in decilitres. ill advised.

The Swiss mountain resort of Davos

72 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 73 GOING PLACES

Take the Glacier Express to Davos

EAT AND DRINK is a treat anywhere, but Café Schneider’s is Every type of cuisine is available, ranging an institution and shrine to the canton’s from typical Swiss at the Pot Au Feu and famous Nusstorte – a dense, caramel- Bistro Gentiana restaurants to Italian, Thai walnut pastry. End an evening at Ella’s and Asian. The ArtHausHotel restaurant Restaurant wine bar and jazz club or at one offers a feast for the eyes and world-class of the noisy-but-fun piano bars. cuisine. The Hotel Europe’s Zauberberg Restaurant serves GETTING THERE BREAKFAST amazing Chinese, It would be a shame to miss the spectacular IS A TREAT next to its piano bar train ride from Zurich Airport via Landquart, ANYWHERE and casino. However, lasting two hours and 45 minutes. Davos is this is Switzerland – also accessible via the Glacier Express, a rib-sticking cheese train that chugs through the heart of the fondue and rösti are de rigeur in most Swiss Alps over 291 bridges and through places. Many restaurants – on or off the 91 tunnels, averaging 40 km per hour. The mountains – serve lunch and drinks outside, seven-and-a-half hour, 270 km trip includes blankets included, but be sure to use crossing the Oberalp Pass at about 2,044 sunscreen. metres. Fine dining onboard is available at €25-€35. Restaurants and bars cater to all budgets, and cosy coffee houses abound. Breakfast http://www.davos.ch

74 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 75 GOING PLACES – ADVERTORIAL houses, you can be sure that you will enjoy discreet luxury and top service. Each room is a relaxing haven styled in dark wood and candlelight – four different categories are offered to meet your requirements, but even the starter category No need to go far is spacious and decorated in style, with its own real chimney and stock of logs. If you have the chance to stay there, you should absolutely try Chez Odette, the hotel for festivities restaurant that is run by talented chef During the magical end-of-year period, Jérôme Stéfanski suggests Keizersgracht 238 is the hotel’s restaurant, Cédric Lamkin, a purist of his craft who crossing the borders to discover what surprises and experiences with a fresh and energizing new concept that creates a visual and sensory feast using neighbouring countries can offer is considered the best grill experience in only the best seasonal ingredients and his Amsterdam – a variety of flavors that invites innovative imagination. After dining, have a ideally, you should plan your trip before the guest to travel around the world. One of drink at Odette’s bar, which is the heart and visiting the city, and a good city trip the highlights is the ever-changing recipe soul of the hotel. starts with the selection of a hotel that influenced by the seasons of the meets every need. In Amsterdam, where Netherlands. Guests can also enjoy the lush Here, you can enjoy a local beer from Orval, it is difficult to drive a car because outdoor garden, which is the perfect setting sample Odette’s special Guignolet-Kirsch or everybody rides a bike, the best hotel is in summer months for a delicious meal under a Picon with white wine, while tasting fine probably one that’s located near the the Dutch sun. cheeses and country pate and view a main tourist conveniences, but not gallery of old black-and-white prints exactly in the epi-centre of such Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam depicting scenes from the village in years attractions. Prinsengracht 315-331, gone by, providing a greater understanding 1016 GZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands of this special little place. And, for those HISTORICAL AND T.+31(0) 20 80 80 368 who want a sweet souvenir from their COSMOPOLITAN www.pulitzeramsterdam.com countryside trip, Odette has just launched a For those who want a wonderful new luxury candle. The perfect occasion to experience in an historic hotel that CONTEMPORARY STYLE bring home a part of the multi-sensorial blends a warm family environment with MEETS AUTHENTIC SPIRIT atmosphere that reigns here. Last but not international standards, we strongly Williers is one of the smallest and the most least, two years ago Odette opened Odette recommend that you stay at Hotel peaceful towns in France, in the north-east of en Ville, a hotel-restaurant located close to Pulitzer. The hotel comprises 25 the Ardennes region. Located between the the Place du Chatelain in Brussels. historical canal side houses dating back Belgian towns of Bouillon and Virton, Williers to the 17th and 18th centuries, all with a is close to Belgium and access is easy from Chez Odette rich history and their own story to tell. Brussels, thanks to the E411. It’s here that Rue Principale, Williers 08110 Founded 35 years ago, Hotel Pulitzer is the story of Odette began – the old café, France located in the middle of the Amsterdam where the local inhabitants met each other to T.+33(0) 3 24 55 49 55 Canal District, which has been added to play cards and share a drink, became the www.chez-odette.com ome people think Amsterdam the UNESCO World Heritage List. Around most exclusive hotel of the region. is only good for crazy young the hotel, you will discover many art travellers who are mainly galleries, fashion boutiques, top bars and The original idea of the founder was perhaps interested in “sex, drugs and romantic restaurants and also museums. a little bit risky, but bold – transforming the rock ‘n’ roll”. On the other The train station is located only one historical site into a contemporary and luxury Shand, the capital of Holland is also a kilometre away, the international Schiphol hotel, without forgetting to preserve the romantic town, where each moment is airport is 20 km or 20 minutes by taxi. A original warmth and reassuring atmosphere. unique. Upscale districts are often member of the Luxury Collection group, The owner met the challenge and guests cheek-by-jowl with mass-tourist sites, this hotel offers 230 rooms and suites. who visit Chez Odette immediately feel at with plenty of ‘coffee’ and sex shops. While each of the rooms is unique in its home. There are also many exclusive shops design, they all share the comfort and offering rare and original products for conveniences that are the standards of a Because only nine exclusive rooms are under the Christmas tree. That’s why, five-star hotel. available and located in two separate

76 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 77 EAT TOGETHER

Celebration dining The holiday period over Christmas and New Year is often a reason – or an excuse – to eat out somewhere special. Food critic John Hellon recommends a few of his favourite downtown Brussels restaurants for the festive season

hink of the city of Brussels and near a window at the upstairs dining room what first comes to mind is its of ‘T Kelderke on the south side of the magnificent Grand Place with square. Open every day till late, 15 Grand its gothic town hall and gilded Place, T.02 513 73 44. baroque town houses. On the first floor of one of the houses commanding The picturesque old quarter known as the T Sophisticated cuisine at La a splendid view of the square is the dining Ilot Sacré is, with a few honourable Maison du Cygne room of La Maison du Cygne. Lying exceptions, best avoided by gourmets. unseen in the cellar are no less than 20,000 One of the exceptions is Aux Armes de Once extremely conservative in its taste, mange-tout vegetables, all cooked al dente. bottles of fine wines. A sophisticated Bruxelles, dating from 1921 and, until the city has undergone a relatively recent Fare of this impeccable quality does not cuisine includes specialties like a terrine of recently, run by successive generations of flowering of more exotic fare. One early come cheap and you should count around foie gras, grilled sole with Sancerre- the same family. Happily, the new owners example, situated near the Grand Place and €70 for a full meal with a moderate amount flavoured butter, have preserved its custom of serving dating from the mid seventies is Al of sake. 28 Rue du Fossé aux Loups, T.02 THE PICTURESQUE roast pigeon with traditional Belgian fare at tables covered in Barmaki, an excellent Lebanese 217 56 39. OLD QUARTER broad beans grown impeccably starched white napery. It’s a establishment – the wide variety of meze is KNOWN AS THE on salt flats. This is a place to enjoy mussels or shrimp rissoles outstanding. Open only in the evening, 67 While Brussels lies well inland, you could ILOT SACRE IS, fine restaurant, – croquettes aux crevettes – and waterzooi, Rue des Eperonniers, T.02 513 08 34. be forgiven for imagining it was a seaport. WITH A FEW though there have a uniquely Belgian chicken stew, or beef Just two blocks north-west of the Place HONOURABLE been occasional stewed in Gueuze, a traditional Belgian A yet more exotic establishment is the de Brouckère, focal point of the central reports of beer. Closed on Mondays, 13 Rue des Japanese Samurai, a little restaurant on boulevards, lie the church and square of EXCEPTIONS, excessively slow Bouchers, T.02 511 55 50. several floors, tucked away in a shabby Ste. Catherine and the now purely BEST AVOIDED BY service. And a meal shopping gallery near the Bourse, the decorative erstwhile fishing harbour, its GOURMETS there does not come A few minutes walk away, La Place de la Brussels stock exchange. Though the untroubled water merely inches deep. On cheap. A fixed price Monnaie provides a fine perspective for the dishes come from the classic repertoire, the square you’ll find La Belle menu costs €90. La eponymous opera house. On the north- you may be in for some delicious surprises. Maraîchère, a bustling fish restaurant, Maison du Cygne is closed on Sundays and east of the square on the Rue des Princes As well as the familiar sushi and sashimi, for one of the many in the neighbourhood on Saturdays at lunchtime. 2 Rue Charles you’ll find one of the city’s longest example, you can enjoy fried scallops and and among the best. Run by generations Buls (Grand Place), T.02 511 82 44. established and finest Italian restaurants, pieces of soy paste in a salty bouillon made of the Devreker family for almost 40 years, Roma. Freshly-made pasta and fish are from dried tuna and sprinkled with finely the specialties include lobster and an To enjoy a fine view of the Grand Place specialties. Closed on Sundays, Mondays chopped radish. Lobster is served in a outstanding fish stew. Closed on without going to great expense – perhaps if and at lunchtime on Saturdays, 12-14 Rue lobster bouillon with asparagus tips, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 Place you have children with you – get a table des Princes, T.02 219 01 94. mange-tout peas, carrots and other Ste. Catherine, T.02 512 97 59.

78 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 79 80 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 81 BY THE GLASS Director Nicolas Provost’s film is his first full-length feature

Then there are those involved in every aspect Brussels gastronomic store Rob The of the process, such as French comic actor Gourmets’ Market in Woluwe-St-Pierre. Gerard Depardieu, a serious aficionado who Celebrity has vineyards in France, including the But if you are titillated by the prospect of Chateau de Tigne label, as well as California, drinking wines made by the stars, not all of Algeria, Argentina, Morroco, Spain and Sicily. them are available here in Belgium. Of grapevine In the business for more than 30 years, those that are, be prepared to pay Depardieu’s produce sells in Belgium at the upwards of €15 a bottle. The celebrity fashion for owning a vineyard is on the increase, according to Alex Hewetson

Madonna has an interest in a family-run vineyard

A growing trend in the MADONNA world of wine is the There are three types of celebrity wineries: involvement of famous those bought by stars for their own people with vineyards; I consumption – this category includes David might have said rich and and Victoria Beckham, Sting, Brad Pitt and famous,A but there are many rich people Angelina Jolie, and Johnny Depp; others have who are quietly involved in wine without all an interest in wine but watch it being produced the fanfare and razzamatazz that goes from a distance – Madonna, for instance, who with celebrity. The glitterati who indulge in collaborates with her father Silvio “Tony” their viniferous whims vary greatly, as Ciccone in the family-owned Ciccone Vineyard Brangelina’s wine is for their own consumption does their involvement. and Winery in Michigan in the United States.

82 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 83 BY THE GLASS

Actor Gerard Depardieu’s wine Actor Sam Neill’s wine sells in Belgium “definitely worth a try”

GOLFERS’ PASSION include the Italian-American movie Let’s take a few sports personalities for director, producer and screenwriter starters. If you are not an ice hockey fan, Francis Ford Coppola of Godfather fame. you may not have heard of Canadian His winery, the Rubicon Estate in Wayne Gretzky, but he is widely California, is well respected, producing considered the greatest ice hockey player reds of different quality and price, but of all time. Having retired from crushing mercifully none named after his films – I opponents on ice, he indulges in the more dreaded seeing something along the lines genteel pastime of making wine, in of Apocalypse Reserve on the shelves association with wine professionals who during my visit there. Bottles from the produce the various styles of wine on his Coppola winery can be obtained from estate (No. 99 Estates Winery) in Ontario. Belgian wine seller Rouseu Wines. Another A number of golfers also have a passion actor of renown who has established a for wine – Nick Faldo (Nick Faldo Wines) winery is Sam Neill, the paleontologist Dr and Greg Norman (Greg Norman Estates), Alan Grant in Jurassic Park. His Two to name but two, both have wineries in Paddocks winery on the South Island of his Australia – Norman also in California – and native New Zealand is where he produces are keen to produce wines of serious quality Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Merlot and quality, making it clear they wish to be Pinot Noir – definitely worth a try. There is respected for their wares. sadly no supplier in Belgium, although the English wine merchants Haynes Hanson & JURASSIC WINE Clark in London do stock Two Paddocks In the world of show business, the players produce.

84 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 85 BY THE GLASS Spirit of the times GRAND MARNIER A pancake flambéed with Grand Marnier, the crêpe Suzette created in RECIPES the late 19th century, remains a classic of French cuisine, says food writer Hughes Belin, who gives us a taste of history as well as some Some delicious long drinks are refreshing and easy to make: try ideas for Christmas cocktails Grand’O, Grand Ginger and Grand Tonic

he French have long been way to enjoy Grand Marnier: a small Grand Ginger rim of the glass with water or juice and dip champions at marketing some after-dinner glass with or without ice, with in a long glass with five ice cubes, pour 1.5 in caster sugar. of the best spirits worldwide, or without cigar. Cognac enthusiasts who shots (45ml) Grand Marnier liqueur, 4 shots especially those based on still like the incomparable taste of orange, (120ml) ginger ale, add a squeeze fresh lime B52 grapes. This is the best sugar and cognac after dinner can opt for and garnish with a wedge of lime. An explosive cocktail with layers of three explanation for why nearly everyone has a bottle of Cuvée du Centenaire made T different liqueurs: ½ shot (15ml) coffee heard of Grand Marnier, and why it is with between 12-25 year-old cognacs; or Red Lion liqueur, pour ½ shot (15ml) Irish cream displayed in bars the there’s Cuvée du Cent In a shaker of cracked ice pour 1 shot liqueur delicately over the back of a cold bar world over, be they Cinquantenaire made (30ml) Grand Marnier liqueur, 1 shot (30ml) spoon, add ½ shot (15ml) Grand Marnier. private or commercial with 25-60 year-old London dry gin, ¾ shot (22.5ml) orange The cocktail may be flamed. Drink through – although only cognacs . Or for juice, ¾ shot (22.5ml) lemon juice, add a a short straw. devotees will know that between €500 and dash of grenadine. Shake and serve in a the bottle is shaped €600 (depending on chilled cocktail glass. Optional: moisten the For more recipes: www.grand-marnier.com like an alembic for the country) opt for distilling cognac. With one of just 2,000 more than 130 years of available bottles of history behind it, Grand Quintessence limited Marnier is a liqueur that edition made with 100 pleases connoisseurs year-old cognacs. as well as the uninitiated. But for most, today’s drinking habits have The drink’s orange changed: digestive flavour comes from the liqueurs are becoming zest of exotic oranges less popular because called citrus bigaradia “one for the road” is (bitter orange oil), no longer an option. hand-picked in Haiti, However, aperitifs are and soaked in alcohol. The warm, oak still in demand, especially if they’re not flavour comes from double-distilled cognac. too strong – and that is a great Grand Sugar is added for smoothness, and the breakthrough for Grand Marnier. This Marnier final product is a unique blend. liqueur is terrific in cocktails, from the limited edition famous Red Lion, created in 1933, to the Quintessence ENTHUSIASTS B52 – popular in the eighties but requiring retails at

€750 Our forefathers probably had only one the skill of a barman to perfect.

86 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 87 GOOD CAUSE Inspired giving The children’s charity UNICEF is promoting a gift scheme that is intended to make a difference to children in need throughout the world

nicef’s HappyPack gift concept – marketed under the name Inspired Gift in most English-speaking countries – are an Uopportunity to give meaningful presents to friends and family while providing essential support to children in any one of the 155 countries and terrorites where the charity operates.

VACCINES As the world’s largest provider of gift card with a photograph and vaccines for developing countries – 3 description of the gift and your personal billion doses a year to 55 percent of the message,” explains Digital Fundraising world’s children – Unicef is funded Officer Sandrine Devers. “Your purchase entirely by the voluntary contributions of will then be dispatched to countries individuals, businesses, foundations and depending on where the need is governments. The greatest.” UNICEF IS FUNDED charity supports ENTIRELY BY child health and Customers may choose from a wide VOLUNTARY nutrition, good range of life-saving and life-changing CONTRIBUTIONS water and supplies such as vaccines, school sanitation, quality supplies, medicine and toys. basic education HappyPacks cater for all budgets starting and the protection of children from from 5,5€ for 150 sachets of vitamins and violence, exploitation, and AIDS and is minerals. Just €27 will buy the baby also one of the world’s largest buyers of weighing scale illustrated in the picture. mosquito nets. Devers also suggests offering HappyPacks to business contacts and PERSONALISED GIFT team members in place of traditional “When you buy a HappyPack on behalf of corporate gifts. a friend or family member, we will send that person an electronic personalised www.happypack.be/en

Just €27 will buy this baby weighing scale

88 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 89 DRIVE OF YOUR LIFE

The best things Aston Martin Cygnet – all the luxury associated with come in small the super car packages The iconic Aston Martin marque, long associated with James Bond and an image of powerful sports cars, has now appeared on a small city car, although as Bob Monard reports, the Aston Martin Cygnet has all the luxury associated with the company’s super car range

– I’m happier than a kid at Christmas. It is reassuring that I still have the ability to be amazed – the climb up the six-speed automatic transmission is like listening to opera. Aston Martin Cygnet – all the luxury associated with Into London and through Hyde Park, we arrive the super car at the Hempel Hotel in Craven Hill Gardens, in time for a stroll and a shower before dressing “We needed an alternative to our sports Volante, Vantage, Lagonda, Virage and for dinner at the Conran Shop. cars for the city. We also wanted to respect other DB9 models presupposes top quality, the environment. Manufacturers such as whether it’s design, the engine or the finish DISCOVERY Mercedes, Audi and Fiat have small or simply the glory days or yore. And while My dining companion is John Muirhead, models. We want to remain loyal to Aston British engineers have indeed transformed marketing communication manager at Martin owners while attracting other the iQ into the Cygnet, they should have Aston Martin; my host is keen on motor motorists,” he adds. added an exhaust that is more fun and racing and familiar with the Spa- more in the spirit of the AM tradition as Francorchamps track... after an excellent ICONIC BADGE Citroën did with its DS4 and Peugeot with ell, I could never have evening in his company and a sumptious It’s got the iconic aluminium Aston grille, its RCZ. This doesn’t cost a lot, but imagined that one day I breakfast, it’s time to discover the Cygnet. side air vents, spoiler and skirts; the seats changes the mood altogether. would find myself This little three door city car is just three are heated and the leather interior is picked up at the airport metres long, 170 cm wide and one metre hand-stitched – a very British touch. But is Available in grey-green, white, burgundy, by a smart chauffeur high and weighs just over 900 kg. Under its this enough to justify the price of €38,350 black, garnet and fuchsia, our Cygnet Wdriving a prestigious car. But that’s exactly bonnet sits a 1.33 litre 4-cylinder 98 hp euros (manual version) and €39,830 euros cruised from the Bluebird Cafe to Borough what happened. After arriving at London engine coupled to a six speed manual for the automatic? Market with a pit-stop at Daylesford Organic Heathrow on a flight from Brussels, I found transmission making the Cygnet the before afternoon tea at Claridges, the Art myself face-to-face with a tall and mechanical twin of the Toyota iQ. While our London excursion through the Deco palace which has charmed visitors for impeccably dressed man who invited me to interminable traffic jams raised many smiles, more than a century. accompany him to the car park where I was “Our little Aston Martin represents elegance, a cyclist expressed his disapproval confronted by a car of sublime beauty, a style and exclusivity: it’s in the DNA of our commenting: “The badge isn’t everything – Well balanced and with excellent suspension, grey metallic Aston Martin Rapide. What a heritage,” says John Muirhead, explaining it’s not the spirit of Aston Martin.” this car has been well thought out; no gas pity I was only the passenger. the rationale behind the Cygnet – in a guzzler, it negotiates the traffic with agility and changing world, survival depends on I agree, since simply sticking on the can stop on a sixpence, proving that small The V12 engine snorts, my stomach lurches diversification. prestigious logo made famous by the and luxury can go hand-in-hand.

90 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 91 Diary SKI IN BRUSSELS >01.01.12 The Mont des Arts area of central Brussels will become an in-town ski slope with snow for the 150 metre slope generated by a snow machine. Skiers will get to the top with real ski lifts. At the top of the slope, a Together’s five metre high launching ramp will enable courageous skiers to hit the slopes at speed. Professionals will be on hand to give lessons, surrounded by fir trees, wooden chalets and mulled wine stands. To Do list Belgium Mont des Arts, B-1000 Brussels Where to go and what to do – enjoy our selection of upcoming events ICE SKATING 10>01.01.12 Skaters should try the Place Ste Catherine area and its 60 metre long skating rink. The 1,000 square metres of ice can accommodate up to 300 people at a time. A smaller rink for young children is located right next to the main one. Children will also be able to amuse themselves playing inside the Ice Monster - a 40 metre long dinosaur made of ice lurking in the shadow of the traditional Big Wheel on the Place Ste Catherine which provides a panoramic winter view of the city.

Place Ste Catherine area, B-1000 Brussels

HISTORY OF SABENA >26.02.12 An exhibition commemorating Belgium’s former national airline is on show at the Cinquantenaire Museum in Brussels. The pioneering Belgian carrier, founded in 1923, made its first long-haul flight to the Belgian Congo in 1935 – a trip that took five and a half days. In the colonial era it epitomized romance, adventure, and elegant air hostesses dressed in distinctive Sabena livery. Its 78-year history is relived ten years after the company collapsed.

Christmas shopping on the streets of Brussels Cinquantenaire Museum Parc Cinquantenaire 10, B-1040 Brussels www.kmkg-mrah.be/cinquantenaire-museum GRAND PLACE FESTIVITIES >01.01.12 The 2011 Electrabel Nights in the Grand Place of Brussels will feature some spectacular illuminations showcasing CLUB.BRASIL new technologies. In the centre of the ancient square will be a spiral-shaped sculpture of light. Its coloured rays >15.01.12 will shimmer across the Christmas tree and surrounding buildings, creating an all-round sense of mystery and As part of the Europalia festivities, a series of free events, concerts, art workshops and dance sessions are magic. Each week-end until the end of December there will spectacular evening events beginning at 20h, such being held every weekend at Club.Brasil in the Mont des Arts. The programme changes every week to highlight as a crystal musician with at costume made of mirrors, a giant-winged butterfly fluttering around, a fire-dancer different themes showing the multiple aspects of Brazilian culture: samba, electronic music, bossa nova, jazz and a moon-climbing acrobat - not to mention a magical choir on Christmas Eve. and instrumental music, Sertão and north-eastern rhythms. Concerts – Thurs 19h, Fri 20.30h, Sat 19h, Sun 17h; dance – Sat 17h; art workshops – Sun 15h. Grand Place, Brussels www.brussels.be/artdet.cfm/4952 Club.Brasil Dynasty Building, Mont des Arts, B- 1000 Brussels www.europalia.eu CHRISTMAS MARKET >01.01.12 Hailed as “Europe’s most original Christmas market” by British tour operators, the Brussels Christmas Market JEWELLERY EXHIBITION stretches over two kilometres. It includes stalls, chalets, attractions, activities and cafes. People come to enjoy >15.01.12 the food and drink, buy gifts and souvenirs and stock up on delicacies for the holiday period. The City of Mons is hosting an international exhibition of contemporary jewellery bringing together designers from Belgium, Germany and Portugal to present their creations. The event is hosted every three years by a Grand Place, Bourse, Place Ste Catherine area, B-1000 Brussels different country. The 2011 edition in Mons will demonstrate the wide-ranging use of materials and techniques Mon-Thu 12h-21h; Fri 12h-22h; Sat-Sun 11h-22h; 24&31 Dec 11h-18h; 25 Dec&1 Jan 12h-22h behind today’s innovative designs, ranging from the stunningly beautiful to boldly humorous. On display will be www.brussels.be/artdet.cfm/4952 60 works by Christian Wuytack, as a tribute to the late Belgian designer, who specialised in enamel work.

European Triennial for Contemporary Jewellery 2011 Les Anciens Abbatoirs, Place de la Grande Pêcherie, Mons www.wcc-bf.org/en

92 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 93 DIARY Together’s To Do list International Our round-up of events both near and far

Aachen’s celebrated Printen biscuits The Angel Market in Neumarkt, Cologne, Germany

ART EXHIBITION 15.12>18.12.11 COLOGNE CHRISTMAS MARKET French artist Marine Oussedik is renowned throughout the equestrian world for her paintings and >23.12.11 sculptures of horses. A selection of her work will be exhibited at the Salon of Animal Artists in Paris - Salon The city boasts eight individual markets with four of them located around Cologne Cathedral. They attract des Artistes Animaliers. almost two million visitors every year. More than 160 festive wooden chalets can be found around the Cathedral, the site of the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. Watch artisans at work, enjoy original Hôtel de Guénégaud - Maison de la Chasse et de la Nature mulled wine and an unlimited choice of local delicacies. Children especially will find lots to do here – a 60 Rue des Archives, 75003 Paris, France nostalgic children’s roundabout, a puppet theatre, a Santa Claus grotto and many toy stands. Endless fun www.marine-oussedik.net and entertainment.

Cologne, Germany POLO MATCH www.cologne-tourism.com 26.01>29.01.12 The highest snow polo tournament in the world at an altitude of 2007 metres will be held at the altiport site of the French ski resort Courchevel. The Argentines and the French, last year’s winners, will be competing. CHRISTMAS IN AACHEN Snow polo is played on a smaller field than traditional lawn polo with the aim of the game – to score as >23.12.11 many goals as possible in four quarters lasting seven minutes – is identical. Aachen describes itself ‘The City in the Heart of Europe’ – situated on the Belgian and Dutch borders, it is a convenient base for day trips to Liege and Maastricht. BMW Polo Masters Courchevel Every year in the period leading up to Christmas the squares and streets around Aachen Town Hall Courcheval, France and the cathedral are transformed into a paradise of light and colour, festive sounds and seductive www.courchevel.com smells. Look out for Aachen’s celebrated Printen biscuits, gingerbread and marzipan bread. Aachen calls itself ‘The City in the Heart of Europe’ – situated on the Belgian and Dutch borders, it is a convenient base for day trips to Liege and Maastricht.

Aachen, Germany www.aachen.de

94 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 95 Subscribe now! To have your Together delivered (six editions for 25€) go to www.togethermag.eu

Together If you are interested in our advertising rates, Contributors: magazine please contact: Hughes Belin; Laura Cohn; Cillian Donnelly; Richard Earney; Philippe Geluck; Federico Grandesso; Nigel David Mc Gowan Griffiths; John Hellon; Alex Hewetson; Marie Terese [email protected] or T. +32 (0)497 543 672 Letorney; Bob Monard; Colin Moors; Suzette Reed; Dianna Rienstra; Delphine Stefens; David Watkiss Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission Video director: of the publisher. The publisher cannot be held Armand Richelet-Kleinberg: responsible for the views and opinions expressed www.camera-man.weebly.com in this magazine by contributors. Together is neither responsible for nor endorses the content Online Editor: of published advertisements, nor can the Nigel Griffiths magazine be held responsible for any errors or [email protected] inaccuracies in the same. Cover photo of Miss Brook by Steve Vas/ Founder: Featureflash Jérôme Stéfanski Design: Publisher: Studio LetMeSee - Yves Reynaert David Mc Gowan T. +32 (0)496 723 950 [email protected] - www.studioletmesee.be Editor-in-Chief: Patricia Kelly [email protected]

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96 – Together #28 December 11/January 12 Together – 97 Le Chat Machiavellian mouse

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98 – Together #28