Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2020 - March 2021 i International Traveller

Switzerland’s landscapes are incomparably beautiful, whether you’re sitting on a train chugging up an alpine valley, hiking across flowery meadows or sitting on a chalet terrace gazing over impossibly pretty countryside. From mountaintops such as the Schilthorn or Jungfrau, you get pavlova panoramas of snow peaks to infinity. Old towns are pastel-painted and cascading with geraniums. Most cities are lakeside, bordered with mountain-gazing promenades and surrounded by vineyards. Switzerland isn’t just about scenery though. Its modest cities are chic, with some of Europe’s best contemporary architecture, topnotch museums and great dining and shopping – yet without big-city drawbacks. The regions are diverse: the country boasts four languages, changing types of traditional architecture, more than 400 different types of cheese and local festivals that range from pagan winter celebrations to summer…

Andelfingen Half-timbered town in cornfields and vineyards near Zurich, topped by a castle with manicured gardens. LE PONT Charming, Belle Époque resort town on a lake in the Jura Mountains embraced by orchard-covered hills. BAUEN A farming village on Lake Lucerne. Think gabled houses, a white chapel and splendid alpine outlooks. Erlenbach Ornate alpine town in a lush Bernese Oberland valley surrounded by some 200 snow peaks. TROGEN Elegant neoclassical mansions grace this town in the rolling, cow-chewed green meadows of beautiful Appenzellerland. MORCOTE Italianate village of pastel-coloured villas, arcaded houses and a 15th-century church on sunny Lake Lugano.…

The core Grand Tour route runs 1643 kilometres. Budget seven days minimum, more for a leisurely pace with time for sightseeing and hiking. Otherwise, consider a regional section. Zürich, Geneva or Basel are the most convenient starting points. grandtour.myswitzerland.com/en/ ROAD Swiss roads are excellent. Driving is on the right, but traffic rules are similar to Australia’s and you can drive with a valid Australian licence. myswitzerland.com/grandtour E-DRIVING The route has more than 300 charging stations near attractions, hotels and restaurants, and can be entirely navigated in an electric vehicle. myswitzerland.com/e-grand-tour RAIL Swiss trains (pictured above) are comfortable and punctual, and you can soak up the scenery without worrying about driving. The Grand Train Tour visits many of the same destinations (though not north-west Switzerland), and is covered by the Swiss…

Dreaming of a tropical holiday filled with secluded beaches, quaint villages and coral reefs teeming with vibrant fish? Beyond Bali, a collection of destinations across Indonesia – largely undiscovered by Australians – await, each one more staggeringly beautiful than the last. Getting on a plane might not be on the cards right now, but what better time to start dreaming and planning? After all, these islands will still be here for you when you’re ready. Lake Toba BLAME THE gargantuan lake located right in the caldera of a super volcano, or point to the backdrop of lush, emerald forests, but Lake Toba is enjoying a meteoric rise as one of Indonesia’s bucket list destinations. Located in North Sumatra and highlighted in endless social media feeds, visitors can expect luxury glampsites…

WHAT IS THE ULTIMATE REASON PEOPLE SHOULD VISIT BANGKOK? You can find almost anything you want in Bangkok. There’s a huge mix of cultures, people and food. It’s also a city that stays awake 24 hours a day: you can eat anywhere, anytime, whether from street food vendors or sitting down inside a restaurant. There’s also every type of cuisine imaginable, from regional Thai food to Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, Lebanese and more. HOW MUCH HAS FOOD CULTURE CHANGED IN BANGKOK IN RECENT YEARS? Nowadays Thai people are getting more interested in what they eat and lots of fine-dining restaurants have opened in Bangkok. Young Thai chefs have also started to look back and use our local ingredients to present Thai food in their own way, which is very interesting;…

WHAT’S THE PERFECT WAY TO START THE DAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY, COMMONLY KNOWN BY ITS FORMER NAME, SAIGON? My perfect morning starts with a bowl of pho bò (beef) at Pho Minh while listening to the birds sing. A true Saigon experience is having a genuine southern-style breakfast; Pho Minh, in District 1, has been run by the same family since the 1950s and their pho is very good. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS VISITORS SHOULD TRY? Hu Tieu Thanh Xuân, located on the corner of an alleyway at 62 Tôn That Thiep in District 1, has been in business for 70 years. Hu Tieu is excellent and I have lots of happy memories of eating there with loved ones. For dinner I usually want a decent-sized…

WHAT MAKES TOKYO ONE OF THE BEST CITIES IN THE WORLD? Tokyo has its own role at each station. For example, Jimbocho is a city of books, Ginza is a city of rich people, Harajuku is a city of young people, and Sugamo is a city of old people. I’m sure travellers will find their favourite Tokyo. WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES IN THE CITY? The Japan Folk Crafts Museum – My heart calms down there; it’s very traditional and beautiful. NTT InterCommunication Center [ICC] – I can enjoy a lot of interactive art. Ginza Graphic Gallery (ggg) – It’s a graphic arts gallery; I can learn so much. ARE THERE ANY FAVOURITE ART BOOK SHOPS THAT PEOPLE SHOULD VISIT? • Komiyama Bookstore • POST…

INCLUDING LOUVRE ABU DHABI (OF COURSE), WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO GO TO EXPERIENCE ART IN ABU DHABI? There is a fantastic exhibition centre, Manarat Al Saadiyat, just five minutes from Louvre Abu Dhabi which in addition to showcasing some great shows has a studio that has amazing programs. Also five minutes from Louvre Abu Dhabi is The Art Gallery at New York University Abu Dhabi which showcases some really important work. WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN ABU DHABI? Berri’s in Al Muneera (from LA) has wonderful coffee and fantastic eggs and pancakes. My go-to for lunch is Dai Pai Dong – the best dim sum in Abu Dhabi and they also serve wonderful pork dishes which aren’t always easy to find here. For dinner, you…

HOW CAN VISITORS IMMERSE THEMSELVES IN THE LOCAL CRETAN CULTURE WHEN VISITING THE ISLAND? Crete is a magical tapestry of Minoan ruins, some of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated beaches, dreamy villages, countless tiny churches and dramatic gorges, where locals share their traditions, wonderful cuisine and a uniquely generous spirit. This is the place where people can cultivate a connection to what they eat, drink and experience. Whether you are looking to escape to a sleepy hilltop village or a scenic vineyard, indulge in indigenous cuisine and take part in feasts confined only to locals, explore an ancient civilisation or enjoy a bit of buzzing urban island life, Crete conjures an array of captivating images in the minds of travellers. Humans have lived on Crete since 7000 BC, surviving a succession…

Mallorca is very much the whole Mediterranean encapsulated in one island. Sometimes it feels like Italy, sometimes like the South of France, sometimes like the North of Africa, and many times like Spain. Dramatic rocky mountain ranges with green valleys or with cliffs kissing the sea. The centre of the island has rounded hills splashed with small forests and golden agricultural fields. And the golden arid south contrasts with the turquoise of the sea. PALMA DE MALLORCA HIDDEN GEMS: Do not miss the traditional pastry shop called Fornet de sa Soca; pop into the beautiful lifestyle shop Rialto Living that was once an old cinema in a city palace; visit S’Hort del Rei, the former gardens of the Mallorcan king, right at the foot of the fortified palace. BEST LOCAL…

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT IN THE CITY? Believe it or not, my favourite thing in Nuremberg is this local falafel stand call Sindbad (sic) in the main square. There’s always a line. It’s the best in the city because the wrap (bread) itself is made fresh when you order. WHERE CAN YOU HAVE A TYPICALLY GERMAN EXPERIENCE? If you’re wanting a German experience, people come here for the Christmas market. And the beer festivals are another big draw. Oktoberfest is more Munich, but there is a nearby town, Erlangen, that has a beer fest in June called The Berg (on a hill). It’s a college town so it’s popular with [students] who dress in traditional lederhosen and dirndl. FUN FACT! Nuremburg has Germany’s largest multiplex: Cinecitta [with…

When it comes to green living, Copenhagen has moved beyond cycling and recycling to reconceptualise how modern cities can function. This eco-aware route is, of course, best explored on a bike – just like a local. The well-marked separate cycle lanes make urban cycling a more healthy and hygge experience than it is in many other cities. Bring a swimming costume and towel for the chance for a sauna and swim on this eco city exploration. 9AM Hire a bike (copenhagenbicycles.dk) and pedal out to the once-industrial, now creative-cool area of Refshaleøen [pictured below right] and breakfast on a fresh cinnamon roll and coffee at the lovely low-key La Banchina, where some of the produce is grown in the on-site garden. There’s a simple sauna here, where you can sweat…

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The Langham, Venice The luxurious Langham brand is set to arrive in the Italian city ofVenice with the opening of The Langham,Venice.The 138-room property will be housed in the former Casino Mocenigo, which dates back to the early 1600s, located on theVenetian Lagoon on the island of Murano. langhamhotels.com Club Med La Rosière, France Club Med La Rosière, located in the Franco/Italian ski area of San Bernardo, known for its thick snow and sunny skies, has 395 superior and deluxe rooms, a Cinq Mondes Spa by Club Med and the Gourmet Lounge San Bernardo, embracing the culinary heritage of the local Franco-Italian region. Built on the concrete area of a former airfield, Club Med is committed to rehabilitating the area to return nearly 4000 square metres of land to nature,…

“Can you run?” asks Beat. “I need you to run with me.” “How fast?” I reply. “As fast as you can.” So I run, as fast as I can, even after the snowy ground around the farming village of Beatenberg drops away beneath my feet. Beat instructed me to run and hasn’t yet told me to stop, so I keep on running, my legs wheeling through the air like Wile E. Coyote sprinting over a cliff edge. I’m scared I’ll suffer the same fate and plunge to my death if I stop. “You can relax now. We’re flying,” says Beat. I’ve never been paragliding before, and the moment I manoeuvre my body into my seat and begin to enjoy the incomparable sensation of soaring through the air like a bird,…

STAY INFORMED Pre-pandemic travel had become a fast and furious commodity; you could research a journey, book a ticket and set off all within the space of a day or two. The only thing you needed to check before departing was whether your passport was still valid. But post-pandemic, travellers will need to build in extra time in the planning stage to fully acquaint themselves with government and health requirements of the destinations they are travelling to. For Australian travellers this research should always start with the government’s Smart Traveller website (smarttraveller.com), which has up-to-the-minute details of travel restrictions for Australians leaving the country, and details about the destinations you are travelling to. You should also log onto the equivalent of Smart Traveller in each of the countries you are…

• A must-visit is Lara Djonggrang Restaurant, based on a centuries-old legend that surrounds the Candi Prambanan temple in Central Java. The food is like a local, very authentic encyclopedia of cuisine of the archipelago, it is designed to change visitors’ opinion that Indonesian food is just nasi goreng and satay. • Kawisari Cafe on Jalan Kebon Sirih is [influenced by] the oldest coffee plantation in Java, from the Dutch colonial times, but emphasises the beautiful culture of simple living in the traditional Javanese villages – steeped with tradition and inspired by the majestic landscape in the volcanic lands of Java. • Animale Restaurant, with delicious wood-fired dishes described as contemporary American-Mediterranean, beautiful decor and a whole sensorial experience. • For an elegant dining experience head to Kunstkring Paleis, known…

THE BEST PLACES TO EAT AND SHOP Jing Jai Market – The market concentrates on handmade products and organic foods, opening from 6am to 1pm on Saturday and Sunday. Forest Bake – With fresh bakes daily, it serves 90 per cent handmade produce using natural wild yeast and real butter only: no margarine, no shortening, no trans fats, no preservatives and no additives. Nussara – Where you can find handcrafted cotton products from Mae Chaem [a village near Chiang Mai]. Woo Cafe and Art Gallery – A lifestyle shop for those looking to enjoy a drink and a meal while enjoying beautiful artwork at the same time. Khao Soi Lam Duan – One of the most famous restaurants serving traditional northern Thai food including egg…

1. CADLAO ISLAND, EL NIDO The biggest island in El Nido bay. While everyone wants to see the [area’s] lagoons and most popular beaches, Cadlao has empty beaches, swimming caves and thick jungle, and is the closest to town, even reachable by kayak. 2. SAN FERNANDO AND SIBALTAN, EL NIDO NORTH COAST A one-hour drive from El Nido town through farmland and coconut groves. Kilometres of shallow and smooth beaches perfect for kiteboarding. Diving in Sibaltan is a must, where it is combined with the study and conservation of newly discovered manta rays, for a magical close encounter with these gentle sea angels. Tao Beach Farm, for those who want a few days of the luxury of simplicity, real farm-to-table cuisine, and native massages away from the herd. 3. MALCAPUYA…

Yakushima is a lush and mountainous rainforest island with many rivers flowing out from its centre. It is a nature lover’s paradise and an escape from crowded cities. Giant, hundreds-of-years-old trees can be found in the dense, wet rainforests of the island’s interior. There are several hot springs on the island and one ultimate thing to do is bathe in the secluded onsen at Hirauchi Kaichu. It is formed from ocean rocks and what you will see at night while you are bathing is millions of stars and shooting stars when it is close to a new moon. Or aim for a bright full moon: a special, healing time to be moon bathing. Other highlights : • Trekking to Jomon Sugi, a cedar tree that is 7200 years old. •…

WHAT MAKES KERALA SUCH A GREAT PLACE TO SURF? There are a few things that make Kerala great for surfing. The first and most obvious is the waves can be really good! But other than that, the surf culture has grown in a really interesting way that’s unique to this part of the world. There is a host of outdoor activities that you can get involved in other than surfing, too, from paragliding and stand-up paddleboarding to nature walks and treks in the mountains, although our favourite outdoor activity after a surf is drinking a chai in one of the hundreds of streetside chai shops. WHAT DO YOU FUEL UP ON POST-SURF? Well, our favourite local food is the Kerala-style beef fry with parotta [flatbread]; we wouldn’t let you leave…

The United Arab Emirates may be a young country, celebrating the Golden Jubilee of its founding in 2021, but that doesn’t mean there’s no history to be found here. Sitting quietly and understatedly in the heart of Dubai is the newly opened Jumeirah Archaeological Site, showcasing the ruins of an ancient caravanserai, mosque, markets and houses, parts of which date back 1000 years to the Abassid dynasty. First discovered in 1969, the site opened to visitors early this year and gives an unexpected insight into the lives that were led in this part of the desert centuries ago. Dubai was located on the ancient trade routes that crossed the Arabian Peninsula, and the small museum houses pottery, jewellery and other household items that made their way here along these routes.…

One of Marrakesh’s best-kept culinary secrets is its street food. The weaving alleys of the medina are dotted with vibrant local establishments, serving rich and flavoursome dishes that out-do the food found in most restaurants. This is where you will find Marrakeshis eating: at street-side carts, hole-in-the-wall eateries and low-key cafes enjoying beloved Moroccan staples and some of the best food in the city. Eating street food requires a certain sense of adventure, a willingness to nudge up alongside locals at shared tables, look past aesthetics and work through language barriers to order. But it is worth it for mouth-watering, inexpensive food and a truly local experience. From mechoui (slow-cooked lamb) to flaky m’semen (crepe), here are the city’s must-try street foods and the best places to get them. MECHOUI…

SAIL THE SEA OF LOVE There is no better way to explore [Losinj and its neighbouring islands] than by sailing. Approaching the islands by sea and sailing into their coves – from the large, protected and well-known gems to the small, hidden coves and secluded beaches – is a real treat for those who enjoy the wanderlust of untouched nature and crystal-blue sea. EXPLORE THE ISLAND OF ILOVIK Known as the ‘flower island’, Ilovik is covered in Mediterranean vegetation with a vast variety of flowers, colourful oleanders, palm trees and centuries-old eucalyptus trees. Take a stroll through the village’s narrow streets to experience the unique island living, or stop by a local seafood restaurant for a tantalising catch-of-the-day meal. SEE THE LOSINJ SUNSET AT PROVIDENCA Your Losinj trip will not…

GETTING THERE Take the ACTV vaporetto line 12 from Fondamente Nove (F.te Nove), a 15-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square, to Burano. EATING AND DRINKING THERE Feast on sustainably caught fish that local fishermen deliver right to the kitchen door at TRATTORIA AL GATTO NERO . gattonero.com Enjoy a seafood lunch or prosecco and cicchetti snacks with the locals at the end of the day at OSTERIA AL MUSEO . osteriaalmuseo.com SPEAKING THERE (LIKE A LOCAL) Ciao – Hi and bye Buon dì – Hello and good morning Salve – Hello Piacere di conoscerti – Nice to meet you Come vanno le cose? – How are things? Non mi posso lamentare – I can’t complain Così così – So-so Alla grande! – Awesome! Buona giornata – Have a good day…

Immerse yourself in a true earthly paradise by enjoying a combined sea and land experience; the Amalfi Coast is a place that makes your travel a lived dream destined to last forever. A FAIRY-TALE SUNSET BOAT TOUR ALONG THE DIVINE COAST The private cruise begins at golden hour on the sparkling waters, enjoying the scenery of the picturesque coast from sea level. Cruise towards the famous Li Galli islands, where you can admire the magnificent sunset as it descends on the island of Capri and Positano, and make a stop for swimming where Ulysses’ sirens sang. TAKE A LEMON TOUR IN A TYPICAL FAMILY-RUN AMALFI LEMON GROVE Imagine admiring the Amalfi Coast from the top of those mountains you’ve always seen in photographs. Think of being able to walk terraces…

Whether you’re interested in viewing art or looking to buy, my number one rule for those visiting Paris is to walk a lot, and walk in different neighbourhoods. This way you get a feel for the city, but by looking and observing, you get a better sense of what you actually like. To understand the galleries, you need to be an insider or at least someone who already happens to know a bit about contemporary art. That said, I would recommend visiting Drouot, an auction house located in the 9th arrondissement. It’s actually a confederation of around 110 auction houses and if you take your time, you can discover some wonderful treasures. They don’t have much contemporary art and some of it can be junk, but buyers can also stumble…

The day is bright and warm. I checked the weather forecast and the temperature will not drop from 24 degrees. I wear my sneakers, a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and I am ready to go. The Salamanca district, the most sophisticated area in the city and the upscale district of Madrid, awaits me. The sky is amazing, like if it was painted – no clouds, light blue – and a smell of coffee comes out the bars and terraces already opened. Madrilenians really know how to start their days. You can feel the ‘joie de vivre’ all over. Yesterday I wandered around the streets Claudio Coello and Lagasca with their fantastic shops, some of them of international brands like Maje, The Kooples, Sandro and Max Mara, and some…

No trip to Lisbon is complete without trying a pastel de nata (or 10). Known outside of Portugal as the Portuguese tart, this sweet treat has a long history, having originated some 300 years ago at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jerónimos Monastery in the district of Belém, in the west of Lisbon. Legend has it that the monks would use egg whites to starch their clothes, leaving the yolks unused. To stop them from going to waste they came up with the recipe for a sweet custard, and an icon was born. After the monastery was closed in 1834, the monks started selling tarts in order to survive, eventually passing on the closely guarded recipe to the owners of Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which opened in 1837 and is…

What most visitors to Vienna don’t know is that the city has very small-structure sustainable urban agriculture here and you can visit many of these farms and talk direct to the farmers. Visitors can design their own urban farm trail and visit the winemaker here, the mushroom farmer there, the vinegar maker there and the snail farmer here. In Vienna, when you visit a farm, you can sit there and enjoy a tasting and a glass of wine as this is a very big part of our culture. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and even though we are just on the outskirts of the city, it feels like you are in the countryside. My snail farm is located in Rothneusiedl in the south of Vienna, near the Wienerwald [Vienna Woods],…

UREDDPLASSEN Ureddplassen is a place for a short break, a nice rest or picnic, and for long nights with the midnight sun or Northern Lights. The wave-shaped toilet building with glass walls is beautifully lit in the dark [pictured top]. STEGASTEIN The elegant viewing platform at Stegastein overlooking the Aurlandsfjord and Flåm gives an illusion of hovering in space as it reaches 30 metres out over the pine trees, 650 metres above the fjord. With its glass front, it provides a unique view of the fjord landscape. The toilet probably is the only one in the world with a view to kill. ALLMANNAJUVET The Allmannajuvet Zinc Mine Museum is a disused mining works in Sauda in Ryfylke. The mines were in operation from 1881 to 1899. Today, the mining area…

If you only have a day or two to spend in Helsinki, then the best public saunas to visit are probably Allas Sea Pool [pictured above] right near the main port (not such a secret!) or Löyly Helsinki [bottom right], a short walk from the design district. Both have saunas and heated sea pools. But the ultimate sauna experience, if you have a bit of time to spare, is to rent a lakeside mökki (summer cottage) in the Finnish countryside or forest, which will be almost certain to have its own private, wood-fuelled sauna. You can steam to your heart’s content and then plunge in the lake, my set-up below, bathers optional. Also worth checking out when in Helsinki is [art museum] Amos Rex [top right] and the relatively new…

Over the years I have come to carve out moments of stillness in London. There are plenty of sanctuaries to be found for those who know where to seek. Here is my selection of my favourite places that deliver a healthy dose of botanical medicine for the mind, body and wallet. BARBICAN CONSERVATORY When I was a young girl my dad’s office was based in the Barbican, a Brutalist complex of residential buildings with a performing arts centre. Although my architectural knowledge was nascent, I was naturally drawn to the building’s monolithic facade. Then I discovered the conservatory [pictured bottom right]. To step inside one of London’s largest conservatories is like being submerged into a tropical jungle. It is pure escapism in the centre of the city and not to…

When travelling from London to the popular holiday destination of Cornwall, halfway, you will pass through a once-sleepy county called Somerset. With its diverse landscape of hills and woodland, to the wetlands of the Somerset Levels, linked together by narrow country lanes, its residents have learned to thrive on what grows around them. It’s traditionally a cider region and the home of the original cheddar cheese; an explorer could enjoy several weeks visiting artisan food producers, including an eel smokery, a multitude of cheese producers, vineyards and even a water buffalo farm producing its own mozzarella, and of course many a beekeeper! Beekeeping has gone hand in hand with the many cider apple orchards for centuries, but at The Newt (thenewtinsomerset.com), and in all my work with bees, we are…

THE FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE TO VIETNAM Planning your first time to Vietnam? There’s a lot to get excited about, but there’s also a lot to wrap your head around: in this beginner’s guide we cover all the basics you need to know before booking. SEARCH VIETNAM IN THE DESTINATIONS TAB TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND The allure of NZ’s South Island lies in its spectacular landscapes of mountains, fiords and glaciers that will take your breath away at every turn. SEARCH NEW ZEALAND IN THE DESTINATIONS TAB TOP 10 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SINGAPORE What the island city-state of Singapore lacks in girth (its landmass measures 719 square kilometres) it makes up for in density of choice when it comes to things to see…

The frozen tundra of the Canadian Arctic is a true land of myth and lore. Hardy explorers once faced the most challenging conditions in their quest to chart new shipping routes through the ice-choked waters. The story of the Northwest Passage and its tragic consequences reminds us of these once hazardous regions. Nowadays, modern explorers can venture into this mystic realm in the safety and comfort of 21st-century vessels such as Quark Expeditions’ Ultramarine. In 2021, the Seattle-based company will celebrate 30 years of continuous operation and at one time held the record for the farthest south any vessel had sailed when the famous icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov broke Roald Amundsen’s 95-year record. ICE-STRENGTHENED ULTRAMARINE Ultramarine heralds a whole new era in modern expedition cruising. Carrying just 199 guests, this sleek,…

Skiing Schuss down 200 kilometres of groomed heaven across two valleys and three ski resorts in the Jungfrau ski region – one of Switzerland’s largest. Hiking Ride a rattling cog railway from Wilderswil to Shynige Platte then tramp through alpine meadows to First. Kayaking Paddle across peaceful Lake Brienz towards a medieval castle perched on a rocky knoll. Sledging Slide for 15 kilometres on the world’s longest sledge run, from the 2680-metre summit of Faulhorn to Grindelwald. Snowshoeing Footslog around the powdery hills of Lombachalp, away from the ski crowds, to see wintry landscapes in their natural state. Skydiving Take in the majestic views over the Bernese Alps ahead of a minute-long tandem free fall from the Reichenbach drop zone. Cycling Ride an e-bike through Bernese Oberland farmlands and villages.…

READY AND WAITING Indonesia’s rich history, both geographic and cultural, has resulted in a destination of diverse and entrancing experiences. Indonesia is a compelling travel proposition. The largest archipelago in the world, made up of some 17,500 islands (6000 of which are uninhabited), it is a land of tropical rainforests, lush wildlife-filled jungles, stunning coastline and jutting mountains. While the landscape itself has been formed over millennia by seismic activity (Indonesia is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire), the culture is a fascinating mix of traditions and beliefs influenced by everything from early migration to the country’s long history of trade and colonisation to its independence and emergence as an economic and tourism hotspot. The country’s long and varied history – both cultural and geographic – has resulted in…

For independently minded travellers wanting to explore lesser-known local neighbourhoods, the Tai Seng/ MacPherson estate is a treasure trove of hidden gems. Once a vibrant kampung (local village) area rife with gang wars and an industrial estate, Tai Seng now shines with cafes and interesting shops. Make a trip down to this neighbourhood for one of the best fishball noodles in town at Michelin Bib Gourmand Fishball Story, well-known for its bouncy, handmade fishballs. Or feast on one of the best roast meats at Mei Mei Roast Meat, operated by the younger sister of the venerable Kay Lee Roast Meat who has since sold the business. Located in an industrial coffee shop, the rack of ducks with shining, reddish-brown skin and succulent char siew hanging in the display case beckon.…

BEING AN ARTIST, CAN YOU TELL US THE BEST GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS TO VISIT IN SOUTH KOREA? In Eastern countries, ceramics are the foundation of art. As such, in order to see the essence of Eastern countries and Korean culture, I would like to recommend ceramic-themed museums and galleries. The National Museum of Korea [pictured far right], located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, is home to a collection of over 220,000 artefacts from ancient to modern times encompassing a wide range of topics, including art and culture. Nogo Gallery, located in Hongcheon, Gangwon-do, is one of the representative galleries of contemporary ceramic arts. It’s only about one hour’s drive from Seoul.The gallery, situated in the forest, houses about 500 small and large black potteries and pieces. Visitors can enjoy the newly created…

WHILE KYOTO IS STEEPED IN HISTORY, WHERE CAN VISITORS GO TO SEE THE MODERN FACE OF THE CITY? Kyoto is a treasure of modern architecture and design. I would recommend a commercial complex called Shin Puh Kan and Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art [below right]. WHERE ARE THE BEST GALLERIES/MUSEUMS TO SAMPLE JAPANESE MODERN ART? Kyoto has a lesser number of primary modern art galleries compared to Tokyo; instead we have small-scale modern art galleries where we plan and produce high-quality exhibitions, such as at eN arts and Sokyo Gallery. For a museum, I recommend Higashiyama Cube, located within Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art. AS A LOCAL, WHAT IS YOUR ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE THING TO DO IN KYOTO ON A SUNNY SUNDAY? My absolute favourite thing to do in…

WHAT WERE YOUR INSPIRATIONS FOR THE INTERIOR SPACES AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR? The interior design concept ‘desert-scapes’ was carefully curated to create a local cultural experience for visitors, while being complementary to Jean Nouvel’s architectural masterpiece. His architecture is a representation of the desert rose formation; a connection to nature. Each interior space is an experience of the Qatar story that aims to enhance and fulfil both a cultural and memorable experience for museum visitors. Our design of the interiors speaks to the narrative of Qatari history: the nomadic lifestyle, the beautiful natural environment and the beginnings of trade. Through many conversations with the local Qatari people, the designs evolved to translate a story into a visual design and memorable experience. HOW MUCH WAS THE PROJECT A CULTURAL…

WHAT IS THE ULTIMATE REASON PEOPLE SHOULD VISIT ETHIOPIA? In my opinion, the ultimate reason to visit Ethiopia is the spiritual power here and the amazing landscape and nature. They are all connected, of course. Because Ethiopia has never been colonised, our unique identity has not disappeared. There are ways of life that you can’t find anywhere else, including food, language, customs and philosophy. Ethiopia is a sacred land. The more you experience it, the deeper you can go, and the more you will learn, not only about the country, but also about yourself. WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT FENDIKA CULTURAL CENTER IN ETHIOPIA’S CAPITAL CITY, ADDIS ABABA? Fendika is the only locally owned, multidisciplinary cultural centre in Addis Ababa, dedicated to music and artistic innovation rooted in Ethiopian…

There’s nothing that hurts my heart quite like the traveller who thinks they can see Istanbul in three days. It’s just not based in reality, and you are in danger of missing the really good stuff. My recommendation? Spend your three days on attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar, and then book another trip back to see the real Istanbul, the city I’ve known and loved my whole life. The top recommendations I scribble on any interested party’s notepad, in no particular order, are: VISIT A LOCAL MARKET No visit to Istanbul is complete with a day meandering around the Grand Bazaar, but when it comes to shopping like a local don’t miss visiting the Salı Pazarı (Tuesday market) in the suburb of…

NEIGHBOURHOOD HIDDEN GEMS Atlantis Books – It’s an amazing little bookstore located on the main marble street of Oia. Some quite rare pieces of literature in several languages are available. Castle of Oia – Strategically built on Oia’s most elevated position, the historic Venetian castle stands proudly to this day, offering truly majestic views from its unique vantage point. It is something definitely worth experiencing, especially if you visit during sunset. Marine Museum – This museum allows you to immerse yourself in the naval culture of the island and discover a different side of Santorini. BEST PLACES TO EAT AND SHOP Black Rock Restaurant – Our multi-awarded Black Rock Restaurant [above right] serves excellent post-modern international cuisine for lunch and dinner. You will be able to…

WHAT IS THE ULTIMATE REASON PEOPLE SHOULD VISIT MALTA? For more than a quarter of a millennium the most aristocratic families of Europe sent their sons to Malta to join the Knights of Malta. On an island that is only 17 by nine miles [27 by 14 kilometres] in size, they left us an incredible legacy that still surprises everyone who visits Malta today. We have an abundance of exquisite European architecture, the largest painting by Caravaggio, and a cathedral in Valletta that can hold its own with countries hundreds of times bigger than us. YOUR FAMILY WERE THE FIRST MEMBERS OF THE MALTESE ARISTOCRACY TO OPEN THEIR HOME TO THE PUBLIC; CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF CASA ROCCA PICCOLA AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT…

ART EXPERIENCE: Launched by New York City art collector Lio Malca, La Nave is a small but amazing gallery in the former salt storehouse next to Ses Salines beach. FARM-TO-TABLE RITUAL: For an authentic Ibizan experience, the farming rituals at La Granja [part of the Designs Hotel roster; pictured below right] have become renowned. Enjoy a communal dinner with chef José Catrimán to experience slow-food cuisine with the island’s hippest locals. LOCAL GASTRONOMY: C’an Cosmi in Santa Agnés makes the tastiest tortilla (Spanish omelette) on the island. Sit on the terrace overlooking the beautiful 18th-century church and watch the world go by… this is the real Ibiza. ROMANTIC VIBE: Perched on a cliff-edge with incredible views of the azure sea, Amante restaurant is a truly spectacular place for a romantic…

What makes W Amsterdam different from other hotels in Amsterdam is that we are not afraid to colour outside the lines. We try to be not only a hotel, but also a place to inspire locals, entrepreneurs, artists and people who want to inspire one another. You can see our passion through W Happenings, from hosting a W PRIDE Boat for the Canal Parade to inviting speakers to open a debate regarding gender equality. Happily, the hotel is located in the heart of the city centre, one of the oldest parts of Amsterdam. If you step outside the hotel and walk past the first bridge you will enter the Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets). I always give the tip to stand still on the bridge overlooking the houses and imagine how…

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TRAVELLERS WANTING TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THEIR VISIT TO THE HERMITAGE – ONE OF THE LARGEST MUSEUMS IN THE WORLD? The Hermitage is [effectively] a big movement in a circle; before your visit to the museum you need to decide which part of the collection you want to look at in detail. And select one temporary exhibition that you want to visit. So that your visit consists of an in-depth inspection of the part of the collection you want to see most and a cutting-edge show. And see the rest of everything if you still have enough energy for it. IN WHAT WAY CAN VISITORS EXPECT TO ENCOUNTER CONTEMPORARY ART AT THE HERMITAGE, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT THE MUSEUM EXHIBITS AND…

The compact metropolis of St. Gallen, located in eastern Switzerland between Lake Constance and Appenzellerland, has a charming, traffic-free old town; colourfully painted oriel windows are a town feature. The Abbey precinct, with the cathedral and Abbey Library, has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage listing. St. Gallen has been the capital of textile production for 800 years. Thanks to the textile industry, St. Gallen has flourished: the first banks in the country were founded here, as was the first art museum and the first football team (in 1879). Martin Leuthold’s small, expert design team of around 12 people creates more than 1200 new fabric designs each year. Jakob Schlaepfer is avant-garde when it comes to innovative materials and production techniques and delivers to high-end fashion houses, from Dior and Armani…