Innholdsfortegnelse for October 2021 i Lifestyle Asia

It’s been almost three years since we changed Lifestyle Asia’s tagline to “Beyond Luxury Living.” We have made it our core value to espouse the discovery, or rediscovery, of the true meaning of luxury. We continue this mission to redefine the word in more meaningful and substantial ways, rising above the material things of this world. We do this while respecting everyone’s points of view of how they define their own luxuries in life. As I always say, what luxury means to me may be different to what it means to you. Its concept has evolved over time. While it can encompass the more obvious—cars, jewelry, clothes, bags—it can also mean experiences that give more meaning to your life. In the last few years, luxury has undergone a seismic shift,…

The name of Furne One brings to mind breathtaking haute couture creations, often unique, dramatic, and out-of-the-box. Through his own brand, Amato Couture, the Dubai-based Filipino fashion designer has been dressing up Hollywood A-listers—Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Britney Spears, Shakira, Jessie J, Rita Ora, and Ariana Grande—not to mention his private clients who are high net-worth ladies from the Middle East, Europe, and, increasingly, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. Many of his works have been featured in multiple editorials in different titles all over the world, including Harper’s Bazaar Arabia and Vietnam, Vogue I›alia and Arabia, and his home country’s Mega magazine. Through the years, One has also consistently showed one stunning collection after another in fashion capitals such as New York, Paris, Dubai, London,…

Lucas Gabriel and Angela Gomez met in Berlin a few years ago through the dating app Bumble. Together for four years, Gabriel proposed on their last trip together just before the first lockdown. “We met in Singapore, and from there we took a short ferry ride to a nearby island called Bintan in Indonesia. He proposed after dinner on the beach,” says Gomez. Today, they consider that their miracle trip, because a few weeks later both the Philippines and Germany would go into lockdown and travel bans took effect. “I arrived back in Manila on March 16, the day of the lockdown. After that trip, we would spend our engagement separated for 11 months due to COVID-19 restrictions,” she shares. When traveling opened up slightly last February, Gomez was able…

At the beginning stages of opening Cafe Fleur, Chef Sau Del Rosario admits that he didn’t have a solid concept of what its menu would look like. However, he knew he wanted to provide Filipinos with comforting food in the middle of all the stressors that came with the COVID pandemic. But instead of sulking when two of his restaurants closed down, he took the opportunity to evolve. The Pampanga native found himself scouting for locations near his home in Makati and had progress in mind. He had three requirements: the space needed to be quaint, be a good area to dispatch deliveries, and be able to accommodate al-fresco dining. When he found the right location in Poblacion, he shared that his first customers were his neighbors. From there, word…

A few days ago, Bulgari opened its first ever exhibit in Korea, showcasing about 190 of its creations. Called Bulgari Colors, the selections included range from jewels from the luxury brand’s archival heritage vault to pieces from private collections. The Italian label, which has been in South Korea since 1998, chose a key identity theme for its first ever exhibition in the Asian country. Founded in Rome in 1884, Bulgari has affirmed itself as emblem of excellence in jewelry through its distinctive style, made of chromatic audacity, bold volumes and elegant quotations of its Roman origins. CONSTANT INSPIRATION The exhibition provides a compelling anthology of Bulgari's creativity spanning from early 1930s until today. It offers a complete perspective on the evolution of the brand’s style, its most powerful icons, and…

Before the pandemic hit, Palawan was one of the top tourism draws in the country. Travelers fly in from all over to spend a relaxing vacation at what is considered as the “last frontier” in ecological conservation. El Nido and Coron are consistently voted by tourists and prestigious media organizations like Condé Naste as a top international destination, not the least because of their idyllic beaches. Another highlight is Long Beach in San Vicente, which, at 14 kilometers, is the longest stretch of white sand in the country. There are other natural attractions in the province such as the Underground River, which has been declared as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. It is a delicate balancing act to manage the environment while encouraging an influx of…

It started with bicycle rides in Paris. Chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke often explored the French capital’s sights and restaurants on bikes. The chefs of Republique, Petty Cash, Sari-Sari Store in Los Angeles, as well as Wildflour Cafe and Bakery in Manila point out that the bistros feel like someone’s house. They have a certain look and vibe that is different from what is seen in the US. “It starts with our love for each other and our two beautiful children, Nico and Olivia” The chef couple translated this love and appreciation for quaint Parisian restaurants and "the delicious meals we've enjoyed" into Bicyclette, their own take on the French bistro. “Bicyclette is two concepts in one,” Walter says. It occupies a storied two-floor building once home to the city's…

he Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia award directly translates to “Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy.” The prestigious distinction is given to those who actively promote Italian products and develop cordial relations with the European country. Those nominated have worked in various disciplines such as philanthropy, scientific and technological research, promotion of food and wine, and commercial enterprises. Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino shares in an intimate gathering in his Makati home that, as the head diplomat of Italy to the Philippines, he finds it more meaningful when he awards the Star to Filipinos. Italians have a duty to their heritage to advocate for their county continuously, he explains. But when Filipinos do, it's remarkable because loving Italy is their choice. As the outgoing Italian ambassador who served in…

What started out as Sandrine Kretz's act of kindness as a teacher to parents looking for an apartment in Paris has now become a reputable independent luxury real estate agency, Kretz and Partners. Sandrine, along with husband of 38 years, Olivier, and their three sons, Martin, Valentin, and Louis, operate it as a family. The youngest, Raphael, though still in school, is likely to join soon. Next door is Majo, the grandmother who loves to check in on the family. Collectively, they star in a new Netflix series. Called The Parisian Agency: Exclusive Properties, the show features their experiences in helping clients buy and sell fabulous homes in France. In just over a decade, the family has established its success in luxury real estate. So, what is the Kretz family…

In 1995, when Mark 'Jappy' Gonzalez opened multi-label concept store Homme et Femme in Shangri-La Edsa Plaza, he valued being "irrelevant but relevant" in the retail industry. Gonzalez effectively disrupted the fashion retail scene by product and brand curation. By stocking brands like Rick Owens to Dries Van Noten, Homme et Femme became the go-to store for people who shopped for high-end pieces to match their identity. Ten years later, that idea of being different yet compelling instigated him to launch H&F Retail Concepts. The group currently houses luxury multi-brand store UNIVERS and brings Balenciaga, Lanvin, Off-White, Fred Perry, Lanvin, Y-3, and Comme des Garçons to the Philippines. With the foresight of what would resonate with the Filipino luxury fashion buyer, Gonzales was included in Business of Fashion's “BoF 500”…

Longchamp has long stood for Parisian excellence and allure. From its fine leather constructions evoking the culture’s art appreciation, to even the racehorse–the brand’s iconic signifier–that portrays movement with elegance, Longchamp never ceases to honor its heritage. This is evident in Très Paris, its Fall/Winter 2021 fashion show, held in Paris’s renowned Battesti riding hall for true equestrian expression. With the brand’s roots deeply ingrained in Parisian life, its latest Roseau collection carries only the finest in material and quality, allowing you to confidently strut through the streets. Longchamp’s iconic Roseau bag, originally launched in 1993 as a spacious tote to carry your daily essentials and all the little extras, has now been reinterpreted to feature an array of textures, colors, and compositions. Material contrast in the new Roseu combines…

A Discovering one’s passion can be a lengthy journey. For some, it takes years of life experience to realize what makes them feel fulfilled. While for others, such as Ivy and Cynthia Almario, their passions were brought to light at a young age, influenced by the people closest to them. For Ivy, she was a wide-eyed twelve-year-old when she first saw her aunt, Myrna Almario Adriano’s, newly renovated home in Horseshoe Village. “I was simply blown away,” Ivy recalls. “[Aunt Myrna] finished a correspondence course in Interior Design from New York School of Interior Design, and was the first interior design practitioner I met in my life.” From that moment, Ivy knew she would follow in her aunt’s footsteps. She earned a Fine Arts degree, majoring in Interior Design, from…

Moritz Gastl and Jessica Wilson officially tied the knot in a civil wedding at the Sunlight Island Resort in Coron, Palawan. The intimate ceremony “with a small group of loved ones” comes almost two years after their engagement in Papua New Guinea. “We had always planned to keep this small and simple,” said Wilson. “It grew to a small group of friends and family that we wanted to celebrate our civil wedding with.” Even before the ceremony, the fun has already started for the couple and their guests. Commencing the weekend wedding was a welcome party on a sunset cruise on Friday. There was a Filipino fiesta-themed gathering, complete with colorful banderitas. Wilson wore the most fun party look possible—a Martin Bautista-designed outfit. “Martin Bautista has always been one of…

Months ago, commuters were puzzled to see an unknown statue covered in tarp towering along EDSA. It went viral online as Filipinos wondered what it is—and what it is for. SM Megamall recently uncovered this mystery, unveiling a 12-meter, mirror stainless steel sculpture. Called “Time,” it depicts a man looking at his watch. It is a fitting piece to install along a highway where commuters and motorists are often stuck in traffic. Revealed to be the work of Filipino-American artist Jefre, “Time” is part of his first signature works from the Baks series which was named after the phonetic pronunciation of the word “box” in American English. Its figures are archetypes representing people who give life and character to cities around the world. The sculpture has points established across the…

Gracing our olfactory senses is the latest entry in Dolce & Gabbana’s acclaimed Light Blue fragrances, which was released last September 2021. Evoking the uncanny zest, warmth and sparkle of the Mediterranean coast, Light Blue Forever consists of a duo of refreshing fragrances for both him and her, an apt combination when it comes to encapsulating the spirit of eternal love in a bottle. A WHIFF OF THE SEA Dolce & Gabbana places the next chapter of its Light Blue fragrances at the noses of two world-class perfumers of different formulating philosophies. The Light Blue Forever Pour Femme was crafted by no other than celebrated master perfumer Olivier Cresp, the creator of the original Light Blue Eau de Toilette. Cresp developed an exciting twist to the Light Blue Forever Pour…

It took almost 100 years for it to happen, but the Philippines finally got its first Olympic gold medal last July. Hidilyn Diaz outlifted her competition in the women’s 55 KG event at the Tokyo Games, breaking the Olympic record in the process. “Nakaya natin… kaya natin ito,” she said, breathless, teary-eyed, and excited, when she met up with the Philippine press right after her win. “Akala natin imposible. Akala ko din imposible. Nasa pandemic tayo, imposible ang Olympics, pero nandito tayo ngayon,” she said. “Kaya natin, wag kayong sumuko. Kung ano man challenges or trials yan, manalangin tayo kay God, mag-ga- guide siya sa atin. Proud to be Pinoy.” It has indeed been long and grueling road for the Zamboanga native, who, at 17 years old, finished 11th at…

Chris Edwards and Alessa Lopez met as two foreigners living in the bustling city of Beijing. “Our first date was in a quaint Italian restaurant in a hutong in Gulou, a lively area traditionally known for its bustling restaurant scene,” says Lopez. The year after, they moved to New York City together, where Lopez pursued her master’s and Edwards continued his career in tech. Together for four years (a relation ship spent shuffling between Beijing, New York, and Manila), Edwards proposed in Lopez’s grandparents’ ancestral home in San Juan in front of her entire immediate family. “It was perfectly staged. Our family was taking a Christmas photo and then suddenly Chris got down to propose!” remembers Lopez. They visited Lopez’s other grandparents after to share the news, and then Edwards…

Launched in 2020, Pagerie is the first luxury house dedicated to pet accessories. Its idea was sparked when Mandy Madden Kelley, the brand’s founder, noticed that people dressed “immaculately” had their looks ruined next to their dogs sporting plastic leashes from chain stores. “Our pets are a reflection and extension of ourselves, and I realized there was such a gap in the market for products that live up to that connection,” Kelley told Dezeen. According to the American pet brand’s website, their designs are “innovative accessories that will stand the test of time. Imbued with artful craftsmanship, exquisite attention to detail, and conscious functionality.” To fill the gap in the market, Pagerie was born, and they released Hermes-inspired creations last November. For example, on how the French house-inspired pieces, the…

BEAUTIFUL WORLD, WHERE ARE YOU BY SALLY ROONEY Ah, Sally Rooney, the scribe of our times! When the announcement that a new Rooney book was incoming hit the news, I immediately pre-ordered a copy way back in January. It’s hard not to be excited: her first two books, Conversations With Friends, and the Man Booker-shortlisted Normal People have become part of the zeitgeist, thanks in part to the successful TV adaptation of the latter, and the incoming one of the former. With Rooney, you either love her or hate her, and this latest seems like it's ready to once more divide opinions: four friends, navigating life, intimacy, the workplace, and living in today's tumultuous conditions. What's not to love? Haters will say it sounds like Conversations With Friends, stans (like…

Im standing in waist-deep water next to my husband Brage. We’re holding up a huge, squishy sting ray in our arms as a dreadlocked Caribbean man named Scooby Doo tells us to smile for the camera. This visit to Stingray City was just one of the stops on our island-hopping tour of Antigua and Barbuda in the West Indies. Growing up in the Philippines, I never had the Caribbean on my bucket list, only because I felt it would be similar to what I’d see back home and the journey to the other side of the world seemed way too long. After looking into it, I realized it wasn’t as complicated as I thought, especially if you are already in Europe or the US. As I live in London, an…

Constantly checking the time is the norm for Sarah Lahbati-Gutierrez. Whether it’s for a meeting, a workout, or a class, it’s imperative for her to be on time. “I was born and raised in Switzerland where time is such a big thing,” she tells Lifestyle Asia. “No one is ever late and if you are, it’s almost like you did something so terrible.” In such instances, a timepiece comes in handy for Sarah and her husband, Richard. In fact, it’s an interest they both share. And while they are not watch experts, both consider it a style staple. Sarah typically goes for a dress watch, one that suits her wrist size and has multiple functions. As a certified AIDA International freediver, however, she says she's currently eyeing a diving watch…

Surprisingly, Chef Vallerie Castillo-Archer, the first-ever female executive chef of Los Angeles’ Japanese restaurant Yamashiro, didn't even think she'd get hired when she started as its pastry chef. "When I began my career as a chef, I had no idea that I would ever be given the title as the executive chef of an iconic restaurant," the Ilocana recalls. In 1914, Yamashiro's building was initially owned by Dolph and Eugene Bernheimer of New York. The hilltop mansion turned restaurant sits 250 feet above Hollywood boulevard. After being home to 400 Club, the watering hole of A-list stars of the golden age of Hollywood in the 1920s, the former home was later converted into a restaurant in the sixties. "First of all, I had no aspiration to be even in the…

“I really believe that everything happens for a reason,” says Dr. Vicki Belo. “And I’ve gone through so much in 31 years.” The retrospection was warranted. We were in a Zoom call with the Belo Medical Group CEO, who just came back from a trip to Paris with her husband Hayden and daughter Scarlet Snow a couple of days before her clinic celebrated its 31st anniversary. Since opening in 1990, Belo has opened 14 more clinics all over the country, including in Cebu and Davao. Certified by the Department of Health and endorsed by the Department of Tourism, Belo Medical is the first ambulatory cosmetic surgicentre in the country. It is also the first ambulatory clinic in the Philippines to be accredited by the international body National Accreditation Board of…

Chef Miko Calo is the kitchen leader at Metronome, a modern French bistro in BGC that she opened with partners Elbert Cuenca, Alain Borgers, and RJ Galang. Here, she turns French food ideas in her head, in her notebooks, and in photo pegs into reality. Prior to its opening in 2019, it received considerable hype. For starters, Calo was trained by Joël Robuchon, a renowned French chef and restaurateur. He was named “Chef of the Century” by the guide Gault Millau in 1989. He was at the helm of over a dozen restaurants in many of the world’s capitals and by 2016, he held the most Michelin Guide stars for any restaurateur—a total of 32. Add to that Cuenca and Borgers, who are already well-respected figures in the hospitality industry,…