Innholdsfortegnelse for Traveller 14 i Tatler Traveller Philippines

Twenty five years ago, Amanpulo—the first ultra luxury island resort to open in the country—welcomed its first guests. We couldn’t think of a better cover story destination for this issue on inspiring journeys than the pristine paradise on Pamalican Island in Palawan as it celebrates this milestone. When you go for a swim in Amanpulo’s spectacular waters, it’s not uncommon for endemic species like giant hawksbill sea turtles to swim serenely alongside you, undisturbed and completely at ease in their natural habitat. Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, herself an advocate for environmental preservation, was a perfect fit for cover girl—photographed for our pages against Amanpulo’s world-renowned powder white beaches. Find out about Amanpulo 25 years later: how it remains the benchmark for luxury island resorts, and how it gives back to the community.…

La Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc January 12-23, 2019 Join thousands of spectators in the French and Swiss Alps to witness one of the most challenging sled dog races in the world. Taking place over 12 days and 400 kilometres at different altitudes, 25 of the best mushers from all over Europe gather to vie for first place. A mean feat, the race can be enjoyed by families at one of the many ski resorts on the race path. www.grandeodyssee.com Zouk Out Singapore December 1, 2018 Returning for its 18th edition at Siloso Beach Sentosa, ZoukOut—an epic dusk-to-dawn music festival—will be held for only one night this year. Headlining international acts include world-class duos in the trance and electronic music scene: DVLM brothers and W&W. Revellers can also expect other…

Everything that life has to offer can be attained through travel. We move through the world for different reasons: some for business, some for leisure; others a call of a deeper yearning, while there are those who satisfy their spontaneous thirst for adventure. Since the dawn of civilisation, people have found aspects of their journeys to draw inspiration from. In the same spirit of human curiosity, Philippine Tatler sets its sights on several destinations and unique discoveries that are worth looking forward to. Starting with an award-winning luxury hotel in the heart of a buzzing commercial district, MARCO POLO ORTIGAS MANILA merges the best of western culture and Asian tradition. From sophisticated suites to four unique dining outlets, each experience in this beautiful high-rise was designed to cater something new…

Since it opened its doors in 2009, Sunglass Haven has become the go-to retail destination for the coolest shades in the country with its extensive selection of designer frames. This is a testament to its long-standing relationships with global eyewear brands, among which are Luxottica, Safilo, and Mondottica. Seeing the beauty of life is Luxottica’s vision, inspired by 57 years of innovation in design, technology, and strategic marketing. Its mission is to craft protective eyewear that has enhanced the looks and appearances of numerous generations. Sunglass Haven adds to its extensive portfolio, collections from Prada, which reflect the brand’s casual yet sophisticated luxury. Adding to these are innovative pieces from Ray-Ban and Oakley. Ray-Ban’s Blaze Aviator is a reinvention of the beloved iconic frames with gradient lenses and a bold…

RED SEA PROJECT Envisioned as an ultra luxury destination along the west coast of Saudi Arabia at the crossroads of the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Red Sea Project will become an experimental landscape of nature, adventure, wellness, and culture by 2030. The residential units, hotels, airport, and other infrastructure are set to be developed around several unique treasures: 200 kilometres of untouched coastline, over 50 pristine islands and lagoons, mountains and dormant volcanoes, and heritage sites, with environmental sustainability and conservation in mind. www.PIF.gov.sa Walk on Water A catwalk on water sounds unbelievable to some, but for supermodel and fashion show producer Jessica Minh Anh, it was a vivid vision. On its seventh year, the highly-anticipated J Autumn Fashion Show 2018 featured an empowering all-female designer lineup…

Showcasing the best of international contemporary art with 160 galleries presenting their most forward-thinking artists and imaginative presentations, Frieze London 2018 featured striking collaborations in response to contemporary issues, with a new themed section: Social Work. Opening for the first time with an exclusive two-day preview, Frieze London coincided with Frieze Sculpture and Frieze Masters at Regent’s Park, together forming a most significant week in London’s cultural calendar.…

Laro’s collection of witty clothing designs exhibited at SM’s Mega Fashion Hall showcased the incredible creativity and talent of Slim’s young students and budding Filipino fashion designers. An ingenious installation by the acclaimed Scenographer, Gino Gonzales, made use of mannequins topped with playful toy figures and giant watch heads echoing the latest Think Fun Collection from Swatch in bright colours and bold patterns. COMIC BOOKS By Vanessa Pinlac Terno pantsuit with iconic Roy Lichtenstein pop art patterns printed onto fabric CHINESE KITES By Damaris Chua Bespoke Barong Tagalog hand-painted in a palette of Ming blue and white PACMAN By Claire Arguelles Francisco Retro ensemble featuring a seamless vinyl cape inspired by the classic ‘80s Arcade game PINBALL MACHINE By Megan Lev One shoulder dress embellished with intricate embroidery and appliqué…

Luxury stems from necessity, elevating even the humblest acts and objects. Such is the case of wool—the natural coat of common livestock: sheep, goat, llama, and alpaca, among them—and its transformation from one of the oldest fabrics of protection for man into the company of the finest cloths in the fashion and textile industry today. From the vision of a young Ermenegildo Zegna, the quaint township of Tivero, Italy has become the centre of this trade. As early as the 1900s, the Italian fabric manufacturer had recognised the abundance of wool in his hometown, foreseeing the value of establishing the Lanificio Ermenegildo Zegna (Zegna Wool Mill) in the mountainous region near the city of Biella. The tradition of wool in Tivero predates Lanificio Zegna’s heritage by six centuries. The men…

Fronting the Sulu Sea and backdropped by emerald virgin forests, Astoria Palawan is an ideal jump off point to some of the popular destinations on the island of Palawan. The experience starts with a warm welcome at the lobby, enveloped in hues that mimic the colours of the sea. From here, they are led to their accommodations: either a luxurious private villa or a spacious suite, each designed with a colourful contemporary vibe. With a tropical getaway in mind, Astoria Palawan offers amenities that are sure to delight travellers of all ages. These include The Pod, a 39-metre outdoor infinity pool that has sunken loungers perfect for basking in the sun. At The Canopy, the resort’s pavilion, guests can make tour arrangements or enjoy indoor games at the recreation area.…

The roads of Rome are paved with so much history that century-old buildings are considered new, which probably isn’t surprising for a city often described as an open air museum. While the Colosseum, Pantheon, and dozens of other ancient monuments draw in the tourists, there are a host of other places that have also become an important part of the city’s fabric. Although the structure that houses Hotel Eden only dates back to 1889, it holds an extraordinary, yet open secret—it is here where one can witness the most stunning panoramic views of the city of seven hills. Just a stone’s throw away from the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, the hotel offers a unique vantage point to take in landmarks such as the Vatican and Il Vittoriano, as…

Amanpulo has shared its entire history with the neighbouring island of Manamoc. Working closely with the Andres Soriano Foundation, Amanpulo and Manamoc have put their efforts together to ensure that everybody on the island has a chance to pursue prosperity right in their home community. Before Amanpulo was built, Manamoc depended on two kinds of livelihood: fishing and seaweed farming. The island’s remote location also meant poor access to basic services like medical treatment, education, and transportation and, ultimately, a limit to local economic growth. But today, Manamoc is a bustling community that has been helped by, and regularly interacts with, Amanpulo in terms of work and learning opportunities. Amanpulo currently runs twice-a-month learning programmes led by in-house practitioners. This includes a computer class for students of Manamoc National High…

EAT Curry everything • dal • grilled okra • fried Bauhinia veragata flower • local honey • Himalayan pink and black salt • yak cheese • local granola • wood apple and wood apple juice DO Everest Base Camp trek • Annapurna trek through Tiger Mountain Lodge • Short flight over Everest (www.buddhaair.com) • Yoga every morning at Dwarika’s Hotel with master yogi Yati RajYBhattarai • Any rejuvenating massage and traditional sauna • Singing bowl sound healing • Elephant Camp at Tiger Tops Tharu Village in Chitwan National Park • Jungle walk with elephants at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge • Gurung Village walk with Tiger Mountain Lodge • Visit the Tibetan Village in Pokhara • Visit the Thangka Painting school in Patan • Buy a 7-metal/7-chakra singing bowl • Indulge…

This is Little Tibet. Located in India’s northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, much of Ladakh’s monastic architecture, as well as its culture, is akin to that of its neighbour. Monasteries perch precariously in the foothills of the Kunlun Mountains and majestic Himalayas, while resplendent bodies of water, such as Pangong Lake, sparkle, their crystal depths clear under blue skies. Distinctive high-altitude cold deserts stretch across vast plains, while in the base of the lofty valleys, sand dunes roll, patterned by natural forces. Within this striking landscape, where India, China, and Pakistan meet, ancestral traditions have endured. Ladakhis and nomadic tribes go about their ancient ways relatively untouched by the modern world—the region only opened to tourism in 1974. It is the “land of high passes.” Inhabitants of the Himalayan…

WHAT: Philippine Tatler Traveller Art of Luxury Travel Cocktail WHERE: Raffles Ballrrom Makati For an evening inspired by extraordinary journeys, Philippine Tatler Traveller partnered with MasterCard for this year’s Art of Luxury Travel event co-hosted by Raffles and Fairmont Makati. Manila’s fashionable set, esteemed jet setters, and frequent flyers arrived in style at the hotel’s ballroom for the lavish cocktail and launch of the title’s awaited London issue. Philippine Tatler Traveller’s 13th Volume, a sumptuous two-cover edition, was shot on location in the British capital with cover girls, young sisters KYLIE and KERRY TINGA. Philippine Tatler Managing Director IRENE MARTEL FRANCISCO and Tatler Traveller editor MIA BORROMEO welcomed guests who indulged in the festive food stations created by Raffles and Fairmont’s executive chefs. The epicurean offerings and exquisitely curated delicacies (including iconic…

After 17 years in the hospitality field, Astoria Hotels and Resorts has made a name for itself as the epitome of world-class accommodation in the Philippines. The brand has become synonymous with elegance and creativity as it continues to deliver on its promise of unforgettable stays. Whether it’s a sanctuary in the middle of a busy commercial district or a vibrant seaside escape, each of Astoria’s six distinct properties thrives on the beauty of the Philippines and guests’ varied needs and interests. Every structure, room layout, and floor plan conveys a different experience. As a brilliant collaboration with award-winning interior design firm Atelier Almario and architecture group Gallego & Associates, each space was built and brought to life accordingly. Banking on skills and expertise, the Astoria brand has time and…

Embodying the adventurous spirit of its namesake explorer, Marco Polo Hotels across the globe have long been home to many world visitors. Located in the bustling commercial business district bordered by Mandaluyong, Pasig, and Quezon City, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila showcases the same renowned hospitality in contemporary design, curated services, and top amenities. With a passion for travel in its heritage and a love for local culture, the best of Asian traditions merges with western culture to make luxurious stays possible without ever compromising on comfort. This five-star hotel exudes elegance and warmth. From state-of-the-art facilities to sophisticated suites, every experience has been designed for excellence. Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s distinctive restaurants contribute to the metropolis’ diverse dining destinations. Culinary adventures await in the hotel’s signature bars and cafes. Each…

First introduced in 2012, UNIQLO has since won the hearts of Filipinos as the brand synonymous with well-made everyday apparel for men, women, and children. Six years and 52 nationwide stores later, the company continues to serve with UNIQLO MANILA’s Global Flagship Store in the heart of Makati City. Poised to house a wide assortment of UNIQLO products under bright lights and in neatly stacked shelves—a signature approach to visual merchandising—patrons can expect the best of in-store operations and services. The largest store in the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, UNIQLO MANILA will unify local flavours and global trends; here, the brand’s innovative spirit is seamlessly tied into Filipino ingenuity. LIFEWEAR: A NEW WAY OF APPAREL UNIQLO designs apparel that is inspired by Japanese values of simplicity, quality, and…

INSTA - ISTA Turkish Airlines’ international transit passengers who travel via Istanbul with a layover of six to 24 hours are entitled to "Touristanbul," a delightfully curated experience that reflects the customary Turkish hospitality the airline is known for. The tour highlights landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Galata Tower, among other captivating sites that make it a vibrant city. Revel in charming views and catch a glimpse of Istanbul’s colourful history, culture, and cuisine. Tours depart daily from Istanbul Atatürk Airport’s Hotel Desk at conveniently scheduled times. To learn more about Touristanbul, please visit www.turkishairlines.com South African Beat Cathay Pacific introduces direct flights from Hong Kong to Cape Town, the airline’s second destination in South Africa after Johannesburg. Fly to this scenic…

Katharine Pooley has a keen sense of adventure. She has just touched down after a trip by train across Canada; previous trips have seen her climb some of the world’s highest mountains, cross the Sahara on horseback, and take a dog sled to the North Pole. The British interior designer has visited some 150 countries, and she even lived in Hong Kong for a time. The many places she has been and the sights she has seen have, naturally, trickled into her design aesthetic, coming through in the rich variety of materials she uses and in the refined eclecticism of the pieces she creates and sources for her projects and her boutique. Pooley’s work has attracted a similarly eclectic high-end set of clients. She has worked on everything from barns…

Limited Edition Spritz on the classic CHANEL N°5 in a bold new way. The iconic clear glass bottle gets a makeover with crimson red Baccarat crystal. Available in Eau de Parfum, Parfum, and L’Eau, the 900ml Parfum release is so limited, only 55 bottles were created. www.chanel.com Eyes on the Prize TOM FORD BEAUTY’s SS ‘19 runway introduced a bohemian reinvention of the smoky eye. Create a ‘70s-inspired look with the Eye Colour Quad in Golden Mink by using gold on the lid, rose at the inner corners, and browns diffused into beautifully blended wings. Top the look off with strong brows an a muted lip to achieve subtle sophistication. www.tomford.com/beauty Customised Lippie Take your pick! From muted pinks to deep reds and even emerald green, GUERLAIN’s first customisable lipstick…

If society had its way, Gabrielle Chanel would have been a humble seamstress working with needle and thread; but she decided otherwise: she would be a woman of fashion, cultivated, and free of all constraints. Before she forged the character of Coco, the world-renowned designer was Gabrielle, a rebellious spirit who allowed no door to be closed to her. “I want to be part of what happens,” she liked to say, as she soared from modest social circumstances, conquering Paris with hard work and bold character. Instigating a new femininity, a way of thought enticing women to break free from established norms, Gabrielle remains an icon to women of all ages and all walks of life. Flying in the face of social conventions, Gabrielle Chanel is a fragrance of the…

What does femininity mean to you? So many different things. There is not one version of femininity. It means different things at different times and in different places. It can be a certain softness and grace, but it is also women marching or fighting for their rights or the rights of others. At what age did you feel the most at ease with your femininity? When I first became a mother, and now. That sense of ease grows and changes with each passing year and each stage in life. For me, it is about learning to accept yourself and what life brings. You are the spokesperson of a French perfume, we often hear about femininity “à la française,” how would you define it? Classic, refined, understated elegance combined with strength…

African safaris conjure up visions of the Big Five: lions, hippos, elephants, leopards, rhinos; dinner under a baobab tree, and traditional game drives. One of the top safari experiences is in Namibia, Namib desert, whose safari is silky sand, resilient native animals and iconic views. My joy was unspeakable, overwhelming, to say the least: a luxury escape to South Africa. Rupert, globetrotter David B. Lim, and I exuberantly boarded the Crystal Cruise, on which the show-stopper was Namibia. Wedged between the desert plains and chilly waters of the Atlantic, Namibia is called an “Oasis in The Place of No People”—2.1 million people dribbled into 318,696 square miles. It is the kind of place one has to go to, at least once in a lifetime, for it is known to have…

Centre Fold Homegrown Filipino brand Seda has opened its flagship hotel in the Visayas’ Queen City, the 301-room Seda Ayala Centre Cebu right at the heart of the city’s financial district. Designed by the architect Conrad Onglao, Seda Ayala Centre Cebu’s guest rooms, function rooms, and amenities radiate a minimalist contemporary vibe. The hotel is a springboard to the bustling Ayala Centre Cebu with its myriad entertainment, local and international dining, and retail options all within a stone’s throw away. www.sedahotels.com Blissful Comeback Following Boracay’s six-month shut down, Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, a private beachfront property tucked in Station Zero, is now ready to welcome guests back to the world-famous island. Breathtaking views, distinct architecture, and delightful international cuisine await guests at this exclusive property. Kayak around Naked Rock—an…

In a country made up of thousands of islands, Amanpulo is the one that has repeatedly been called the most beautiful one in the world. From the private propeller plane making the 70-minute journey from the Manila airport, you’ll see a number of landmark places, but prepare yourself for when you finally set eyes on the island: a swathe of powdery white and emerald green, iconic to those that have seen it before, and utterly longed for by those who have yet to experience its wonders. Amanpulo’s home island is called Pamalican. It is elongated and almost completely flat, encircled by five kilometres of fine, white sand, and surrounded by coral reefs and a marine sanctuary, where hawksbill and green turtles nest. Even among the legendary islands of Palawan, Pamalican…

It was an Indian Summer day in Vienna and the sun shone brightly, casting a silver shimmer on the river as we boarded the AmaSonata. The ship would be home for the next seven days as Philippine Tatler Traveller embarked on the Danube Serenade, a week-long cruise along a portion of the second longest river in Europe. Over the course of the journey, a steady current would take us through the Upper Danube, from the capital city of Austria, via the Main-Danube Canal, over the borders of the Czech Republic, and into Southern Germany. Getting settled into my stateroom with its twin balconies (a French balcony in addition to a full outdoor one), I was pleasantly surprised that it was actually more spacious than I had expected. My private little…

Karen Davila News Anchor and Correspondent Our family trip to Somalia’s Acacia Safari Camp at Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Off the grid with no wifi, cell signal and TV. Two hours away by small plane from the Victoria Falls airport, we were whisked away to a vast expanse of animal heaven that felt well-removed from the busyness of modern living. Four days of waking up in the morning to freezing temperatures, sitting in front of a camp fire for breakfast, then going out for the first drive… searching mostly for the super herd of elephants… sitting for hours waiting by the watering holes as hundreds came to mesmerise! I absolutely adored it and still miss the change of pace and the absence of gadgets which resulted in precious conversation…

To mark its 32nd Anniversary, Ideal Vision hosted a shopping party with special offers on their eye wear, sunglasses, lenses, and accessories. Eyewear enthusiasts got first dibs on the latest selections. Dr. Joy go shared tips on the latest trends and innovations from casual and sporting to luxury brands as each guest was sent home with their eyewear of choice, and then some. WHAT: Ideal Vision’s Anniversary Celebration WHERE: Glorietta 2, Ayala Centre…

APART FROM CONFIDENTLY ROAMING THE WORLD WITH TRAVEL INSURANCE AND ACCESS TO LOWER FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES, BPI VISA SIGNATURE CARDHOLDERS CAN SEEK ASSISTANCE FROM A WORLDWIDE CONCIERGE In a world where one is hard-pressed to keep track of monthly bills and unplanned expenditure, a credit card can become a useful asset. The sleek piece of plastic doesn’t have to be associated with the pitfalls of debt. Many banks have shown the practical and exclusive benefits of using a credit card, which through smart spending offers endless perks for cardholders. For years, banks have been linking businesses to individual customers through innovations such as the credit card, facilitating transactions and providing solutions to help manage customers’ finances. Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the first bank in the country and in…

Seda Hotels was created to offer their guests unparalleled experiences during their stay at ideal locations across the country. Named after the Tagalog word for silk, they weave comfort and convenience together in a way that is distinctly Filipino. Now, a stay in any Seda hotel is made even more convenient through its newly-strengthened loyalty programme, Seda Edge. Established in 2015, the programme was created to reward recurring guests with exclusive privileges and rewards. Membership has since then rapidly increased, proving just how satisfied guests are with their stay to keep coming back. Its key locations also make it an ideal choice for accommodations, with hotels positioned in BGC, Quezon City, Laguna, Bacolod, Palawan, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and Iloilo. Seda is set to be present in more cities…

Last summer, before going to safari, I took my kids to The Elephant Camp in Victoria Falls, a sanctuary that now takes care of 19 elephants that have been wounded, orphaned or are very old. What makes this experience valuable is the up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures and the opportunity to understand their needs and behaviour while being on foot alongside them. The guides first introduced us to their initial herd of four, including the famous “Miz Ellie” and “Jumbo”—the largest of them all and more than 30 years old. They were first captured during culling operations and then sold to a farmer, and have been now rescued to a sanctuary that is able to care for them. I was very impressed with the training and handling of the…

Manila Marriott Hotel’s big façade and expansive building might be built for adult business and pleasure. But did you know that the hot el offers fun perks and special treats for kids, too? Just like grown-ups, children deserve pampering and Quan Spa, the hotel’s wellness hub, can definitely make this happen. Quan Spa uses a combination of organic and marine-based products for its full menu of treatments. Spend quality time and reward the little ones with a strawberry hydraboost facial (for kids as young as nine years old up) or an aroma fusion massage (for teens, 16-17 years old). Let them soak in relaxation la-la land at the spa’s bathing suite and private rooms. At the all-day dining hub Marriott Café, mum and dad can savour a spread of sumptuous…

In an inspiring showcase of French craftsmanship and savoir faire, the Hôtel de Crillon—which reopened in July 2017 after a four-year facelift—masterfully balances its 18th-century heritage with state-of-the-art luxuries. When the hotel closed its doors in 2013 for extensive renovations, two key principles guided the project: the conservation of the hotel’s history and classified landmarks, and its transformation into a modern palace for the 21st century. The building dates back to 1758 as a façade built by famed architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel, who was commissioned by Louis XV to beautify the Place de la Concorde—where the French Revolution reached its bloody climax just a few decades later. With the addition of surrounding buildings, it became a luxurious private residence before opening as a hotel in 1909. The architect Richard Martinet, who…

CAVIAR DREAMS Sturia might be the greenest variety of farmed caviar to date—with regard to its operations. Its sturgeons are also fed on granules made using flour and fish oil, mixed with plants, minerals and vitamins. Directeur Commercial Guy de Saint-Laurent says that the feed is free from antibiotics, growth hormones or any MGO products, and is sourced directly from a Marine Stewardship Council assured local manufacturer (Biomar) located less than 100 kilometres away from the farm near Bordeaux, France. In Singapore, it’s served at restaurants such as Stellar at 1-Altitude. DRINK WITHOUT GUILT The next time you’re drinking a Sonoma County wine, perhaps the superb 2015 Littorai The Haven Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast—remember that you’re doing Mother Earth a favour. Thanks to the region’s commitment to be 100 per…

My love affair with London began four years ago, when I started taking short courses in fashion at Central Saint Martins. To study fashion and to construct clothes does not only require inventiveness, but also patience and diligence. To sum it up, it felt like reliving Project Runway on a daily basis. At the end of each day, dashing to a pub near King’s Cross to unwind became de rigueur. It was an experience I revelled in each time I would attend short courses. This daily habit, however, changed in the spring of 2017 when I met a new Filipino friend in London. His name was Scott Villacora. Our common friend, Jaime Ponce de Leon, had excitedly introduced us over afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason, the luxury department store…

It was a rough morning for Braiden Albrecht, the 30-year-old winemaker at Mayacamas, when we first met on the estate. A fancy dinner at the French Laundry the night before was taking its toll in the form of a red-wine hangover. His brother, Ian, was already armed with big bottles of pink coconut water and locally made kombucha. While it may be easy to write them off as stereotypical millennials, my trip to Napa Valley and the wider Northern California region showed me a new generation of producers with the drive to make the wine and spirits industry a more sustainable place—and embracing every bit of hard labour that comes with it. The move towards “organic everything” sounds faddish, but it was obvious to me that these young people were…