Otahuna Lodge - Yellow Magazine

FASH ION
LIFESTYLE
ART
E NTE RTA I N M E NT
JULY/AUGUST 2012
FREE
Otahuna
Lodge
in New
Zealand
Top Ten
Hotels
in Asia
Summer
Gadgets
Cool
Cocktails
yellowmags.com
F R O M
T H E
E D I TO R
I N
C H I E F
It is inescapable. The media in all forms, both mainstream and otherwise, have focused on the record-shattering heat
that has enveloped the country for the first six months of the year. With so many states being consumed by drought
and the unrelenting fires that have followed, we Houstonians have so far been blessed with sufficient rainfall to avoid
a similar fate. I very well remember the triple digit water bills that last year’s conditions delivered. But, there is no
overlooking the fact that it is still very hot, indeed. In an attempt to be constructive and positive, we have provided
you with a sensational selection of cocktail recipes that will make you forget the heat, at least momentarily. From the
“Pomegranate Key Lime Cocktail” to the “Cucumber-Lemonade Chiller”, we have a beverage that will satisfy every taste
and preference. Personally, I like the “Ice Mint Green Tea” comprised of freshly chopped mint, green tea, honey and
sake and garnished with a slender stalk of lemongrass. I get a chill just thinking about it.
If you would prefer a real respite from the heat, consider going somewhere like New Zealand. It is currently winter
in that part of the world. And we would suggest checking out the historic Otahuna Lodge, built in 1895, that boasts
a very exclusive selection of 7 distinctive and unique suites.
Regardless of the weather, if you are interested in an Asian trip, we present what we consider to be the top ten
establishments that represent the pinnacle of hospitality in Asia. They are all unique and special in their own ways.
Finally, this is the time of year to enjoy refreshing cocktails at pool parties and to travel to exotic locations with
magnificent beaches. It is a time for shorts, tank tops and sexy bathing suits. We introduce you to an exercise program
Photo by Collin Kelly
commonly referred to as high intensity interval training, or HIIT, that can deliver impressive results within a compressed
period of time. It is perfect for all you workaholics who want to get that “swim suit body” in time for all those pool
parties and beaches. So, just HIIT it! You will be glad you did.
V. Hoang
The color yellow has played a recurrent symbolic role throughout
the history of Asian culture. It symbolizes the earth that sustains
all life, yet has been embraced by Buddhist monks as an expression
of unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow: always revered
but in different ways under different circumstances.
The mission of Yellow Magazine is to introduce our readers to the
artistic , fashion, lifestyle and entertainment contributions made
by Asian Americans. It is our hope that the depth and breadth of
the topics and events we cover do justice to the pride that the color
yellow has represented throughout the millennia. As the editor in
chief of Yellow Magazine, my last name is Hoang, which also means
yellow. Just as I am proud of my name, I am proud of my heritage,
and proud of Yellow Magazine.
Editor in Chief
V. Van Hoang, President of MV Media
Editor
Creative Director
Henri Merceron
Jeff Martin
Cultural Editors
Website
Vuthy Kuon
Tricia Volore
Leo Sipras
Health Editor
Ashley Vu
Ivy Yang
Contributing Photographers
Travel Editor
Matt Sims
Mitchell Alexander
Thang Nguyen
Wine Editor
[email protected]
Philip Cuisimano
Timothy Frederick
Music Editor
timothyfrederick.com
Tyler Merceron
Lifestyle Editor
Chau Nguyen-Todd
Beauty Editor
Tree Vaello
Fashion Editor
Vi Hua
Contributing Writers
Deanne Nguyen
Leo Sipras
Ashley Vu
Assistant to the Editor in Chief
Shehla Z. Shah
shehlazshahphotography.com
Peter Tham
Fashion Photographer
Deborah Porter
Fashion Stylist
Vico Puentes
Hair and Makeup
Darcy Teasley
Business Manager
Karla Montejo
Publisher
MV Media
Publisher/Managing Director
Frank Perez
Advertising
713.528.6000 x103
[email protected]
Yellow Magazine
1990 Post Oak Blvd.
Suite 815
Houston, TX 77056
p 713.528.6000
f 713.228.3186
yellowmags.com
Yellow Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in
whole or part of the magazine is strictly prohibited without the permission
of the publisher. Yellow Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited
materials submitted. Subscriptions to Yellow Magazine may be purchased
for $36/11 issues. Mail check to: Yellow Magazine, 1990 Post Oak Blvd., Suite
815, Houston, TX 77056. © 2012 MV Media
On the cover
Necklace (top) by Lulu Frost
available at Joseph
Necklace (bottom) by Arielle De
Pinto, available at Peel Gallery
Model: Yuan Yuan
of the Neal Hamil Agency
July / August 2012
T R AV E L
Cool Down Your Summer
with Winter Down Under
Otahuna Lodge
b y LE O SI P R A S
When the summer temperatures in Houston get to be a bit too much, it might make
sense to head south. Really, really south. In the southern hemisphere, winter is our
summer, so an excellent “summer” getaway is New Zealand, with July daytime
temperatures averaging 52 degrees in a beautiful secluded valley on its South Island.
Exterior of Otahuna Lodge
That’s the home of Otahuna Lodge, a 30-acre estate that provides its guests with the
At dinner, guests can eat communally in the formal Dining Room, which
features rich dark wood panels that remain true to the Lodge’s original
resplendent style. Ornate original gilded wallpaper with its own rating from
the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, a roaring fire and sparkling candlesticks
conjure up the gracious lifestyle of the Victorian era. Guests also have the
option to enjoy a private table for two in the sunken Wine Cellar, the intimate
Library, the Drawing Room turret or another location of their choosing.
Aside from formal dining, guests can pursue a variety of culinary
experiences at Otahuna, including cooking classes and even seasonal mushroom
foraging. Private tours of local food and wine purveyors can also be arranged
upon request.
The property features seven suites that are distinguished by their history
and individuality, and each suite retains architectural features from the
nineteenth century. The largest suite at Otahuna, the Rhodes Suite was
originally Sir Rhodes’ bedroom. A series of four rooms, the palatial bedroom
boasts a magnificent Victorian fireplace with inglenook seating and stained
glass windows, a separate octagonal sitting area situated in the turret, and a
well-lit separate study. The Verandah Suite features a thirty-foot long terrace
that runs across the front of the suite, enjoying an abundance of sunlight and
views of the Canterbury plains. Embroidered Colefax & Fowler curtains
enhance this lovely room that once was Sir Rhodes’ main guestroom and
is believed to have hosted HRH the Duke of York (later King George VI),
a guest of Otahuna when he visited in 1927. A wood-burning fireplace in
both the bedroom and ensuite bathroom add to its romantic nature.
Inspired by the native flora that surrounds Otahuna Lodge, the Botanical
Suite was formerly the Morning Room. A floor-to-ceiling mantle featuring
gingerbread woodwork and a wood-burning fireplace anchors one corner of
the room. In another corner, a large bay window faces east to the gardens and
lets in bright morning sunlight. Located on the ground floor, the Botanical
Suite offers its guests access to the gardens through a private exterior door.
quintessential New Zealand lodge experience with exceptional amenities, personalized
service, and uniquely memorable surroundings.
Otahuna Lodge
224 Rhodes Road
Tai Tapu 7672
Christchurch, New Zealand
+64 3 329 6333
otahuna.co.nz
Located just a 25-minute drive from Christchurch International Airport,
Otahuna Lodge is a truly unique escape to a world of luxury and history.
The Lodge evokes a romantic British Colonial sensibility due to its historic
Queen Anne architecture and intimate size, with only seven suites. Originally
built in 1895, it served as the primary residence of politician Sir Heaton
Rhodes for over sixty years. Otahuna Lodge is the largest private historical
residence in New Zealand, and is regarded as the best example of Queen
Anne architecture in Australasia. Distinctive features such as a hand-carved
Kauri staircase, Rimu paneling, original leadlights and fifteen working woodburning fireplaces (including two in suite bathrooms) have brought Otahuna
Lodge the honor of a Category 1 listing with the New Zealand Historic
Places Trust. In 2010, the grounds of the property were recognized as “A
Garden of National Significance” by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.
Translated from the Maori language, Otahuna is a “little hill among the
hills.” The seven-suite Lodge sits on a hill, between the rocky outcrops of
the Banks Peninsula, providing commanding views of the Southern Alps
and the Canterbury Plains.
Entering Otahuna’s lobby, guests will discover a rich backdrop of Rimu
paneling, accented by hunter green walls, plaid barrel chairs and leather
furniture.With an elegant receiving room entrance, the lobby smartly blends
a classic atmosphere with opulence. A roaring fire crackles at one end of the
room, and a stately hand-carved staircase leads guests to their suites.
A favourite area in which to retreat, the Drawing Room is set off by
crisp robin’s egg blue furnishings, a spectacular hand-carved fireplace mantle,
a matching custom-designed sideboard and elegant wallpaper produced by
Cole & Son. The room is the setting for the Lodge’s most historic piece:
the grand piano from the HMS Renown, on which the Duke and Duchess
of York (later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother)
sailed on their tour of Australia and New Zealand in 1927.
Otahuna Lodge is surrounded by 30 acres of grounds, including manicured
lawns and rambling, semi-wild woodlands along with sheep paddocks. The
gardens at Otahuna are among Sir Rhodes’ greatest legacies and contain an
orchard with peach, pear, plum, quince, walnut and hazelnut trees; a half acre
potager (vegetable garden); a mushroom garden; a rose garden; a Dutch
Garden and a field that blooms with millions of daffodils each September.
The original gardens were designed by garden designer, A.E. Lowe, who
trained at Kew Gardens in London.
The garden was restored in 2007 by a team of six gardeners who
revitalized many areas of the grounds and the Lodge’s original lake. The
gardens are overseen by both Estate Manager, Dave Kilday, and Head
Gardener, Steve Marcham.
A yearly highlight of the gardens is the tradition of Daffodil Days, which
was a legacy introduced by Sir Rhodes. During the first weekend of
September, the property opens its gardens and invites the public to admire
the millions of bulbs planted on the legendary lawn.
Fine dining is definitely a focus at Otahuna Lodge, with an inspired food
and beverage program led by Executive Chef Jimmy McIntyre. Five-course
degustation menus with wine pairings are prepared nightly. The menu
celebrates the best of fresh New Zealand produce with an emphasis on
seasonal and estate-grown offerings. Uncluttered flavors, fresh ingredients
and restrained presentation are the hallmarks of Otahuna dining.
Garret Suite
4
|
July / August 2012
Dutch Garden
Each suite retains architectural features
from the nineteenth century such as
ornate original fireplaces, carved inglenooks
and stained glass windows.
Tucked away at the top of the house is the Garret Suite, the former attic
which recalls Sir Rhodes’ passion for the great outdoors. A desk with a window
view is set within the eaves and gables, overlooking the treetops while the
views from the sitting area extend all the way across the province to the
mountains. Fishing and hunting memorabilia line the warm, wood-paneled
walls. Eclectic antiques and mementos accent the room which features an
archival Swedish fish-patterned fabric that dates back to the 1800’s.
Although it would be easy to spend your entire visit ensconced inside the
Lodge, it’s also the perfect base camp for exploring Christchurch and the wider
Canterbury region. Day trip options include a visit to the harbor town of
Akaroa, a trip to the city center, or a heli-flight into the Southern Alps. A
guided trip through parts of Arthur’s Pass National Park, including a ride on
the the Tranz-Scenic railway through the Waimakariri river gorge, is an excellent
way to appreciate the scenic diversity of New Zealand while learning the
alpine history of its indigenous and colonial peoples.
Whether you choose to take advantage of all the incredible outdoor
adventures (and cool weather), or spend your time enjoying the ultimate
luxuries within Otahuna Lodge, your visit here is sure to be memorable.
Entry
T E C H N O L O G Y
Spend Your Summer
Ahead of the Technology Curve
Cool Gadgets
Maybe you want to stay inside because it’s just too, too hot. Or possibly you want to be
outside, surrounded by nature or business associates. Either way, there’s technology that
will make your life easier, more enjoyable, and definitely more fun.
Vtec iPhone Camera Lens
The iPhone 4 cameras take amazing photos, but add these lenses and you can take your
camera phone photography to a whole new level. The wide angle and macro lenses come
as one kit, with the wide angle lens screwing onto the front of the macro lense. The
telephoto lens offers impressive zoom quality without distortion, has a manual focus ring
and comes with its own tripod.
Wide angle/macro lens kit $40, Telephoto lens $55, vtec.co.uk
Mophie Juice Pack
Powerstation
Apple TV
We’ve fought it and fought it, but finally gave in and got the Apple TV, then realized we had really been
missing out! Of course, the simplicity and ease-of-use is there, because it’s an Apple product. But don’t
let the simple look fool you—there’s some major technological guts inside that little black box. 1080p
HD quality and access to the best content you can watch, whether it’s on the Internet or your iPhone.
$99, apple.com
This powerful 4000mAh external
battery can handle the battery
needs of any iDevice including the
power-hungry iPad, as well as a
wide-range of USB-enabled
devices at super-fast speeds. Never
be stranded without your
communication technology items
all charged up and ready to go!
$80, mophie.com
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3
Digital Camera
You don’t have to worry about
breaking this camera—it’s
shockproof, waterproof, dustproof,
freezeproof, and practically
indestructible. There’s no trade-off
in image quality or features
though: 16.1MP of resolution, a
4.0x wide-angle 25-100mm lens,
1280x720 HD video, and a vivid
2.7” LCD monitor.
$180, panasonic.net
Planon SlimScan Scanner
“Slim” is definitely an understatement:
this portable scanner is the size of a
credit card. To make it even better, the
easy-to-use Receipt Management
System software simplifies your
paperwork life.
$139, planonstore.com
foxLv2 Bluetooth Speaker
Wires are so 2000’s. Now you can enjoy CD-like wireless audio for up
to 20 hours with this compact speaker. Music sounds incredible, but
the speakerphone/conferencing capabilities are also standouts.
$249, soundmatters.com
6
|
July / August 2012
S P O RT S
Why Let Olympic Superstars
Have All the Fun?
Choices of Champions
by LEO S I PR AS
Just because Michael Phelps’ skinsuit might not look all that great on your
bod doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate in medal-winning style this summer.
We’ve put together our own sporty selection that will get you across the finish
line looking like the winner you are!
Tiffany Atlas® Pendants
Step up to the winner’s podium
wearing one of these beautiful
medallion pendants from Tiffany
& Co. Your choice of 18 karat
white gold, rose gold, or yellow
gold, all with diamonds and a
champion’s aura.
$1,325 each, tiffany.com
Polo Ralph Lauren Team USA Grosgrain Belt
Crafted in a bold red, white and blue striped pattern, this silk grosgrain belt features
a brass double-D-ring closure is exclusively from Ralph Lauren, the Official Outfitter
of Team USA 2012. So even though you didn’t make the team this time, you can
wear the uniforms.
$85, ralphlauren.com
Mosley Tribes Carden Kalahari Sunglasses
The stadium’s bright lights can be a bit disorienting as you sprint for the
tape, so slipping on these stylish and flattering sunglasses from Mosely
Tribes might make all the difference in the world. The Carden is a classic
sunglass handcrafted of acetate and designed for the active individual.
Offered with polarized glass lenses that provide 100% UV protection.
$245, mosleytribes.com
Vilebrequin Trunks
Maybe you won’t break any records wearing this
swimsuit, but you are sure to break hearts. These
classic Vilebrequin Moorea Turtle swim trunks a
precision engineered for maximum fun in the sun.
$220, neimanmarcus.com
Felt Bicycles Verza Path Women’s Bike
Designed to get you where you want to go comfortably and efficiently,
the Verza Path 1 is ready for your next cycling adventure–probably
around the corner to the coffee shop instead of around the velodrome.
The bike’s aluminum frame offers both low weight and excellent
durability, and a low standover height makes it easily manageable.
$650, feltbicycles.com
8
|
July / August 2012
Yonex Badminton Racket
Combining incredible power and fast
racquet handling for the first time, the
Voltric Z-Force from Yonex features a
stiffer frame with a head-heavy balance
for a massive heavy smash. It’s time to
teach grandma a lesson on your backyard
badminton court.
$270, yonex.com
Necklace (top) by Oscar De La Renta,
available at Neiman Marcus
Necklace (bottom) by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
Leather Wrap bracelet by De Petra,
available at Kuhl Linscomb
Bangles and Rings by Stephen Deck,
available at Neiman Marcus
Shoes by Brian Atwood,
available at Neiman Marcus
Photographer
Deborah Porter
Fashion Stylist
Vico Puentes
Hair and Makeup
Darcy Teasley
Paper Clothing
Deborah Porter
represented by Wade Wilson Art
Model
Yuan Yuan
of the Neal Hamil Agency
July / August 2012 |
9
Earrings by Aldazabal,
available at Neiman Marcus
Necklace (top) by Alexis Bittar,
available at Neiman Marcus
Necklace (bottom) by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
Ring by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
10 |
July / August 2012
Yellow Magazine
Earrings by Aldazabal,
available at Neiman Marcus
Necklace (top) by Alexis Bittar,
available at Neiman Marcus
Neckalce (bottom) by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
J u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 2 | 11
Earrings by Lulu Frost,
available at Joseph
Necklace (top) by Ellen Arthur,
available at Joseph
Necklace (bottom) by Vanessa Mooney,
available at Kuhl Linscomb
12 |
July / August 2012
Yellow Magazine
Earrings by Lulu Frost,
available at Joseph
Glove by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
Necklace (top) by Ellen Arthur,
available at Joseph
Necklace (bottom) by Vanessa Mooney,
available at Kuhl Linscomb
Handbag by Lanvin,
available at Neiman Marcus
Shoes by Charlotte Olympia,
available at Neiman Marcus
J u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 2 | 13
Necklace by Lanvin,
available at Neiman Marcus
Ring by Arielle De Pinto,
available at Peel Gallery
Bracelets by Lanvin,
available at Neiman Marcus
Clutch by Alexander McQueen,
available at Neiman Marcus
Shoes by Fendi,
available at Neiman Marcus
14 |
July / August 2012
Yellow Magazine
Clutch by Alexander McQueen,
available at Neiman Marcus
Bracelet by Lanvin,
available at Neiman Marcus
J u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 2 | 15
T R AV E L
Our Top Ten List
of Luxury and Style
The Finest Hotels in Asia
by M AT T S I MS
With all the great hotels spread across Asia from bustling world-class cities to tiny,
remote islands and resorts, picking the best of the best is not an easy task. The task
is further complicated by factoring in the mix of different cultures, foods, and customs.
To make the list, a hotel has to not only live up to the finest standards of luxury
accommodation and attentive service, but must also capture that indescribable magic
that results from a desire to be the best. After logging many miles and spending
countless nights in luxurious surroundings, we are well positioned to bring you the
crème de la crème of hotels across all of Asia. So, if you are one of those travelers who
demands the best, this is your “must-stay” list.
fourseasons.com/hongkong/?source=tahongkongblhotel
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/ShanghaiPudong/Default.htm
If you’re staying in the fastest moving city in the country with the fastest
moving economy, you need to have the highest standard of service and luxury
while staying connected to your hyperactive life. The Ritz gives you everything
you need in the commercial and financial epicenter of the city just across the
majestic Huangpu River from downtown Shanghai.
When you stay here, you’re near the Shanghai International Expo Centre and
will enjoy a prime location overlooking The Bund from the upper floors of an
ultra-modern 58-story tower. When venturing out, all the riches of Shanghai are
literally at your doorstep. If you stay in, you have access to a high-tech meeting
space, four great restaurants and bars, one of China’s best spas, a 24-hour fitness
studio, 24-hour club lounge, and a futuristic room with electronic touch panels
used to control lighting, air conditioning, curtains and music/alarm clock
preferences, and the main 42” LCD TV as well as the ones in the bathrooms.
Simply stated, there is no finer hotel in China.
Andara Resort & Villas,
Phuket, Thailand
andaraphuket.com/default-en.html
This is paradise. Nestled in the lush tropical hillside above Kamala Beach on
the pristine west coast of Phuket Island, you’ll have an experience you’ll never
forget. In a country known for fantastic beach resorts, Andara takes the prize.
Breathtaking sea views, private infinity pools, a large 40m resort pool, world-class
5-star service, famous Thai hospitality, and all of it near (but not too close) to some
of the world’s most exotic cuisine and the non-stop partying that defines the city
of Phuket. Whether you want peace and serenity or an untamed adventure, the
Andara provides the ultimate getaway in one of the world’s most beautiful places.
Other resorts may have nice beaches, but how many have their own fleet of private
yachts to take you island hopping? You’ll think you landed in a James Bond movie.
Further, every trip to Thailand is a culinary adventure, and Andara’s Silk Restaurant
rivals the country’s finest.
Four Seasons Hong Kong
16 |
July / August 2012
There is no view like a Hong Kong view. Wall-to-wall windows overlooking
the world’s most captivating harbor is one reason, but the Four Seasons Hong
Kong takes style to an entirely new level. Choose between 399 state-of-the-art
rooms—including 54 suites—that place you in the middle of sleek Western
elegance blended with contemporary Chinese aesthetics. You may not notice
the silk-paneled walls, graceful marble-floored entry foyers, sculpted furnishings,
artful use of gold leaf, and authentic ink paintings, but trust us, the Four Seasons
has not overlooked any detail. In a city famous for food, how can it get better
than the world’s only hotel to contain two Michelin three-star restaurants? The
answer is… it can’t. Caprice is the city’s finest French restaurant; Lung Keen Heen
is perhaps the best Cantonese restaurant in the world and is overseen by Chan
Yan Tak, the first Chinese chef to earn three Michelin stars. In addition to the
unbeatable view of Victoria Harbor and the famous Hong Kong skyline, you have
easy access to some of the planet’s greatest food. The nights redefine sultry
with live jazz in The Lounge or modern sounds in the Blue Bar. Even among the
many great and historic hotels overlooking Hong Kong, there is none finer than
the Four Seasons Hong Kong.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
mandarinoriental.com/tokyo/
Tokyo can alternatively be
an over whelming and
confusing city or a treat for the
senses. The Mandarin Oriental
indulges all your senses, but
especially those of sight and
taste. It starts with dramatic
design elements that
showcase panoramic views of
Tokyo and continues on to
taste. You will delight in
Michelin star Chinese cuisine
(an unexpected pleasure)
followed by the serenity of
sipping fine tea in the Sense
Tea Corner where each
infusion is professionally
prepared by a tea expert. Then,
there is Sushi Sora where you
experience Japanese zen-like
simplicity and beauty in a
serene atmosphere with
extraordinary views of the
Tokyo skyline. No other hotel
combines the magic of
Japanese aesthetics with those of modernity like the Mandarin Oriental. One
of the many strengths of Japanese culture is its ability to study something
new and make it their own. The hotel has done this with the Tapas Molecular
Bar, a two hour tasting adventure combining the idea of Spanish tapas with
innovative cuisine which elevates the science of flavor to new heights. For
drinks, it’s the Mandarin Bar or the Oriental Lounge, both in-house paragons
of chic style. Located close to the hotel you may indulge in high fashion
shopping in the Ginza or experience thee ancient rituals at the Senso-ji Temple.
This is what you hoped Japan would be.
Lotte Hotel, Seoul, South Korea
lottehotel.com
The Andaman, Langkawi, Malaysia
theandaman.com
This hotel offers a perfect combination of luxury and nature. Get back to
nature without sacrificing comfort and style on this exotic Malaysian island
easily reached by plane from Kuala Lumpur. Smooth dark wooden floorboards
will welcome you into your 43-square meter deluxe room or 86-square meter
executive suite, where images of nature frame a plush bed wrapped in 300thread-count linens. Step onto the balcony and relish the view of lush tropical
rainforest and arguably the most pristine beach in Asia. We once observed a
small discreet crew of hotel staff remove a piece of driftwood that had washed
up on shore just a minute earlier. You will gaze upon the turquoise waters of the
Andaman Sea which is hypnotically relaxing as you feast on exotic fruits and
spicy Malaysian cuisine which combines the best of Chinese, Thai, and Indian
flavors. Don’t be surprised when the members of the staff, even the
groundskeepers, know you by name. You are royalty here. The resort has also
made a pledge to operate a green establishment, adopting environmentallyfriendly practices without compromising the comfort of its guests. The pool area
is quiet and the beach is almost deserted. It’s as if the hotel was created just for
you – your own private island getaway. This is truly a place for rejuvenation.
You will not find a hotel anywhere that prides itself
on providing impeccable service to its guests. Airport
pick-up, registration, special requests made from the
comfort of your suite, relaxing in the best-stocked
business lounge in the world, are all handled with
incomparable warmth and exceptional courtesy. In
addition to an incredible staff, you also get luxuriouslyappointed rooms, great amenities, and the convenience
of shopping at the adjacent Lotte Department Store. The
Lotte is the best and biggest hotel in Seoul boasting
more than 1,300 rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness club, sauna and golf range
plus an excellent selection of restaurants offering Korean, Chinese, Japanese,
Western, and Italian dining options, not to mention an English pub, a wine bar
and a specialized whisky bar. You never have to leave the Lotte complex for
anything, in the unlikely event that you would want do this.
The Viceroy, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
The Pan Pacific, Singapore
panpacific.com/en/singapore
The Pan Pacific provides outstanding
service, luxury, and unbelievable food. But
hold on—you won’t want to stay here just
yet. The Pan Pacific has been the finest
hotel in Singapore for quite a while, and
they refuse to compromise. The hotel is
undergoing minor renovations which are
expected to be completed in August of
2012. This will give you a little extra time
to plan your trip. Keep in mind that
Singapore has no shortage of world class
hotels, so, the fact that we have kept the
Pan Pacific on our list when it is in its present condition should tell you something
about how highly we consider it. This place is outstanding in every way. You can
relax away from the relentless non-stop flurry of activity in Singapore in this
classic 5 star luxury hotel that soars high above the city. Savor epicurean delights
at six award-winning restaurants – yes six! And this is in a city where food is
taken very seriously. Overlooking the heart of Marina Bay, the Pan Pacific is a
legend. Singapore is a city that is in a state of perpetual motion; the Pan Pacific
is your refuge where you can recover in an environment of opulence and style
under the careful eye of a most congenial staff. Service is second to none and
you will never feel like just an ordinary guest.
viceroybali.com
On an island known for ultra-luxury hotels, the Viceroy Bali resort and spa
sets a new standard. Starting with your own private villa with infinity pool
majestically situated on a secluded ridge that overlooks the gorgeous Petanu
River gorge, add stellar service and CasCades, a world class restaurant once
named best restaurant in Indonesia, and you may have just discovered the finest
boutique hotel in Asia. This resort boasts 25 private villas and is considered one of
the world's secret tropical hideaways by sophisticated international travelers. The
Viceroy places a premium on providing maximum privacy and comfort. Whether
you stay within the confines of the hotel and enjoy the spectcular view from your
private terrace or make use of the resort’s private car and driver to explore Bali,
your stay will be memorable. The hotel’s architecture capitalizes on uniquely
Balinese design elements such as serene stone statues, walls comprised of volcanic
rock and river stones, and thatched roofs. At the same time, you have access to all
the modern conveniences that you would expect in a five-star hotel including wifi, enormous flat screen TV, free mini-bar, huge marble bathrooms fit for royalty,
and even a heli-pad. The Balinese are very spiritual people with a close affinity for
nature, and this is one resort that combines the best of that spirit with the highest
standards of luxury.
The Hansar, Bangkok, Thailand
hansarbangkok.com
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
songsaa.com
The Song Saa offers perhaps the most unique resort experience
in Asia. It occupies two tiny islands off the coast of Cambodia and
is very seductive. Enjoying incredible isolation from the world outside,
this small collection of villas brings you into a whole new world of
sights, tastes, and sounds. Choose from 27 private villas scattered
on a forest-covered hill, along the water's edge, or above the water
on stilts. All have secluded terraces and private pools. Relax
surrounded by original artwork and individual design details such
as a glass floor in the lounge area of one villa that provides an
aquarium-like view of fish in the sea below. Enjoy gourmet meals
served at an over-water restaurant, beside the infinity pool (or even
in it), in your villa, on the beach, or on a long-tailed boat that cruises
among the scattered islands. In between spa treatments try
snorkeling, kayaking, or boat trips to villages on neighboring islands.
Sang Saa is an intimate and unspoiled paradise for those who love
the sea.
The Hansar delivers outstanding service with a sleek executive
style in one of the most hectic cities in the world. It is ranked
number 1 in Bangkok on the popular travel website
tripadvisor.com and overtook 648 competing hotels to be
ranked as the best hotel in a city of 6 million
people. Whether you are seeking great food,
epic nightlife, or anything else Bangkok has to
offer, this classy up-market collection of
executive-style suites is ideally located for
travelers. You may want to book the “Vertigo
Suite”which has floor to ceiling windows that
enable you to look straight down as if you are
on the edge of a cliff. Or you may prefer
“The Loft”which has an upstairs bedroom
area that appears to hang in space off the
side of the building with views from both
sides of the bed. Stellar views, big soft
beds, rain showers, giant marble tubs, subtle recessed lighting, sophisticated
furnishings, and plush carpets abound. These are perhaps the only rooms in
Bangkok that might tempt travelers to stay inside all day. Even in a city known
for memorable food, the hotel’s fabulous French-inspired restaurant, Eve, will
knock you out like a Muay Thai fighter’s punch. At the end of a long and busy day,
the hotel’s Luxsa Spa will renew you and bring you back to life no matter what
the rest of Bangkok has done to you.
July / August 2012
| 17
F I T N E S S
Compressed Workouts
Perfect for Workaholics
It’s Time to HIIT the Gym
by H EN RI MERC ERO N
Getting and staying in shape has been an elusive goal for legions of well-intentioned
Americans. We are a nation of self-admitted workaholics, working more hours per
week than our counterparts in other industrialized nations. With so little down time,
the idea of spending hours at the gym every week seems very unappealing. Flipping
on the television is so much easier and pleasant by comparison. And yet, we all know
that we should exercise.
We have heard about how beneficial exercise is for our hearts, brains and
bodies. It promises to alleviate or prevent many of the health issues that plague
us—relentless obesity, Type II diabetes, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure,
dementia and much more.
For many years, I have been aware of the method of exercise called High
Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). For the workaholic, it may very well be just what
the doctor ordered. Having said this, as is the case whenever you consider
engaging in a new health or exercise program, it is advisable that you discuss
your intentions with your doctor beforehand.
Considering that most of us do have limitations on our free time, HIIT offers
a method of exercise that allows us to get fit within a compressed period of
time. Notwithstanding that the American Heart Association and other groups
recommend that we need to engage in 30 minutes or more of sustained
moderate exercise 5 times per week to achieve optimum health, meeting that
level of time commitment is beyond the ability of almost everyone. Luckily, an
expanding body of research focusing upon HIIT suggests that it offers a viable
and preferable alternative.
HIIT is simply an exercise protocol that involves brief spurts of relatively
intense exercise followed by alternating periods of rest and repeated up to 10
times. Although there are endless combinations of formats with varying levels
of intensity and periods of rest, allow me to describe the key elements shared
by all. First, select your exercise of choice: it could be using the elliptical runner,
stairmaster or treadmill or running on a track or swimming laps in a pool, to list
a few. My preference is the elliptical runner because it provides me with easier
time, speed and equipment manipulation. After a 2-3 minute warm-up period,
accelerate to reach your “maximum heart rate” (generally, 220 – your age); you
will likely not reach that target on your first cycle depending on your level of
physical conditioning. Further, when you are just starting out, you may find that
are unable to do more than 3 or 4 cycles. Do not despair, as you will soon be able
to get to that level. As you progress, you will adapt the level of your intensity and
18 |
July / August 2012
the length of your recovery periods to suit the specific manner in which your
body responds. As you become more advanced, you will likely increase your
intensity and/or cycle spans to continue to reach your maximum target heart
rate.
Scientific research has concluded that test subjects who engaged in one
hour of HIIT over the course of two weeks achieved the same level of physiological
benefit as they would have reached after 10 hours of continuous moderate
exercise on the same equipment. Essentially, they benefited the same in 90%
less time!
Some studies have suggested that the anaerobic (does not require oxygen
for fuel) aspect of HIIT burns fat at an accelerated rate which is attributable to
the fact that higher levels of catecholamines are released into the bloodstream,
which coax more fat to be metabolized under the skin and within muscles. This
is likely attributable to the fact that only high intensity exercise engages two of
the three types of muscle fibers, the fast twitch and super-fast twitch fibers.
Traditional aerobic and weight training exercise enroll only the slow twitch
muscle fibers.
As a final note, be forewarned that you will find HIIT to be remarkably
HIIT is simply an exercise protocol
that involves brief spurts of
relatively intense exercise followed
by alternating periods of rest
and repeated up to 10 times.
exhausting. Be prepared. Although it takes less time, you will be just as tired
(if not more so) as if you had run three miles around Memorial Park in half
an hour. Thankfully, the majority of articles I read recommend no more than
two or three sessions of HIIT per week to achieve the desired results. This is
one of those times when it is so nice to know that less is more.
FA S H I O N
We’ll All Be
Seeing Spots
Yayoi + Louis
????_________
Fashion house Louis Vuitton is teaming up with Japanese avantgarde artist Yayoi Kusama for what looks to be a spectacular capsule
collection launching this month. You can take your pick of ready-towear, leather goods, accessories and watches—but only at a few
Louis Vuitton stores and seven pop up shops that will open for
one to two month periods around the world. The New York
shop opens in conjunction with Kusama’s touring
Yayoi Kusama
retrospective at the Whitney Museum of American Art
that runs through September 30, 2012.
S P E E D
Put the Pedal
to the Metal–Twice
Fast Twins
You might think you are seeing double, and that’s partially true.
Scion and Subara have just launched their “sister” cars, the Scion
FR-S and the Subara BRZ, and either one would bring a very affordable
freshness to your garage.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Starting at $25,495
subaru.com
2013 Scion FR-S
Starting at $24,930
scion.com
Twenty years ago, Japan was churning out
affordable rear-wheel sports cars like the Datsun
240Z by the thousands. Then came a couple of
decades of overpriced, overstuffed cars that sat in
showrooms looking pretty but without any buyers.
It looks as if Subaru and Scion are ready to change
things with their joint project. Priced under $26,000,
the FR-S and BRZ are attractive (Toyota’s job) and
drive incredibly well (thanks to Subaru). According
to the companies, the FR-S is about “stability” and
the BRZ is about “agility”. Either way, both cars are
a blast to drive and you have to admit they are
gorgeous. Scion and Subaru will definitely put some
fun in your summer without taking too much out
of your pocketbook.
Subaru BRZ
Scion FR-S
July / August 2012
| 19
TA ST E
Chill Out
This Summer
Cool Drinks to Beat the Heat
Although the longest day of the year occurred last month, clearly the hottest day of
the year has likely not yet arrived. It’s enough to drive one to drink. Here are some
Photos by Tam Nguyen for Joy Photography
really delicious suggestions to help you chill.
Watermelon Martini
1 cup watermelon cubes (rind and seeds
removed)
1 1/2 oz lemon vodka
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 tablespoon Cointreau
1/2 table spoon simple sugar
Mix all ingredients in a blender with a couple
of ice cubes and blend until smooth. Pour into
a martini glass. Garnish with slice of
watermelon (optional).
Southern Breeze
1 bottle of Reisling
3 cups club soda
4 ounces peach brandy
1 1/2 ounces grenadine
1 spring mint
Combine all ingredients in a punch bowl, mix well and add ice.
Pour into glass with ice and garnish with peach slice and mint sprig.
Ice Mint Green Tea
Pomegranate Key Lime Cocktail
1 tablespoon simple sugar
1/4 cup soda
1/4 cup pomegranate juice
1 ounce vodka
1 tablespoon Key Lime juice
Key Lime slices for garnish
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake well and pour over
ice. Garnish with Key Lime slices.
20 |
July / August 2012
1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint leaves
1 green tea bag
1/2 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup Sake
1 stalk lemon grass for garnish
Combine mint leaves, tea bag, and honey in a boiling cup of hot
water. Let seep for 5 minutes, remove tea bag and refrigerate
until chilled. Add sake and pour over ice. Garnish with mint sprig
and lemon grass stalk.
Hot Passion
1 1/2 ounce of passion fruit puree
1 1/2 ounce of lime juice
1 table spoon of simple syrup
1/2 ounce of your favorite rum
a splash of Cointreau
a couple slices of Jalapeno pepper
mint sprig
1 Jalapeno pepper slice in half for garnish
Combine all ingredients in the shaker with ice and shake well,
strain and pour over ice. Garnish with a Jalapeno pepper.
Blackberry Sangria
4 cups fresh blackberries
3/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups water
2 bottles of rose wine
1 cup of your favorite cognac
1/4 cup lemon or lime juice
3 cups sliced peaches or plums
Fresh basil for garnish
1. Syrup: in a sauce pan combine
2 cups of berries, sugar, water, and
a dash of salt. Bring to a boil,
reduce heat and simmer 10
minutes. Stir occasionally, remove
from heat, cool slightly, strain
through a colander and gently
press without crushing the fruit.
Discard the berries and allow syrup
to cool.
2. In a pitcher combine the blackberry
syrup, rose wine, cognac, lemon
juice, fruit, cover and refrigerate
for at least 4 hours.
3. Serve on ice. Makes 13 servings.
Cucumber-Lemonade Chiller
1 cucumber
1/4 spoon chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup water
1 ounce Hendricks Gin
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon agave syrup
1 spring rosemary
Muddle fresh cucumber, add all ingredients into
a shaker with ice and shake well. Pour into glass
with ice and garnish with cucumber slice and a
sprig of rosemary.
Honey Dew Mimosas
4 cups cubed honey dew melon
1 cup crushed ice
1 tablespoon sugar
1 bottle sparkling wine
Combine the first three ingredients in a
blender and blend until smooth. Pour
mixture into a large pitcher, add sparkling
wine and pour into glasses. Garnish with
slice of melon.
Grapefruit Margarita
3 1/2 ounces ruby red grapefruit juice
1/4 ounce lime juice
1 ounce of your favorite tequila
1/2 ounce Cointreau
Grapefruit, lime
Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice and
shake well. Pour over ice and garnish with
slices of grapefruit and lime.
J u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 2 | 21
W I N E
Red Wine and Dining Out
in the Summer
Buy By the Bottle
The summer months of July and August are challenging
months as we try to remain comfortable in face of the
onslaught of hot temperatures and high humidity. Wine is
also extremely sensitive to the effects of high temperature
and precautions should be taken to protect it during this
time of year.
White Wine—No Sweat
White wines should be consumed at a temperature
between 43 and 50 degrees F. This does not pose a great
challenge as they are easily stored in refrigerators. One should
note that consumers often serve wine too cold, not realizing
Prior to serving red wine at home,
don’t hesitate to cool it down by
placing it in the refrigerator for
twenty minutes or so.
b y P H I LI P C U I SI M ANO
temperature at 60 degrees. but these units are expensive
and they are only effective within limited confines. Once
a bottle is removed from its controlled environment it is
immediately subject to room temperature. Summer heat
presents a real problem for restaurants that do not have a
refrigerated system and especially so for wines offered “by
the glass”, as these are usually kept at room temperature for
easy accessibility. A red wine served at “room temperature”
in the summer will not be in its optimal state.
Out of Balance
Every summer, restaurateurs lament the decline in their
red wine sales. The reason is primarily attributable to the fact
that the wine is served too warm. When a wine is subjected
to higher temperatures, the alcohol within it becomes energized
and pulls away from the rest of the body resulting in a quaff
that is out of balance. Such wine often imparts a pronounced
alcoholic aftertaste, referred to as “heat” and is, at best,
unpleasant.
Coping with Hot Red Wine
that they are muting its flavor.
Red Wine Blues
The serving and storing of red wines during summer
months is problematic. Red wine is best enjoyed at “Cellar
Temperature”, which is around 60 to 65 degrees F. In order
to maintain wine at this temperature, a refrigerated storage
unit is required. Note the distinction between air conditioning
and refrigeration; the former can only achieve a temperature
variance of 10 to 15 degrees between indoors and outdoors;
if it is 100 degrees outside the most we can hope for inside
is about 85 degrees. The interior feels comfortable because
of the contrast. A refrigerated system can maintain the actual
If you are at a restaurant or bar and you are presented with
a bottle of wine that is served too warm, request a bucket of
ice partially filled with water into which you can immerse the
bottle for no more than ten minutes. Prior to serving red wine
at home, don’t hesitate to cool it down by placing it in the
refrigerator for twenty minutes or so.
Red wines enjoyed “by the glass” in restaurants and bars
pose a special problem for which there is really no convenient
solution. Your best bet is to try to only purchase red wines
by the bottle to share with friends, which is not only more
fun but also more economical. Another option, albeit not
always convenient, is to frequent establishments that offer
Wine of the Month
Soligo Brut Prosecco N.V.
Prosecco is extremely popular today and Soligo is one of the
finest available. A sparkling wine from Italy’s Veneto region,
this cuvee is full of delicious notes of apple, pear and tropical
fruit with a tantalizing aftertaste of cream. The body is full,
crisp, dry and rich with hints of smoke and toast. This is a
perfect summer wine that can accompany all types of food
or is just perfect for imbibing while lounging by the pool.
This sparkler is a great value at $20.99.
Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various
locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you.
Dining Guide
Yellow Magazine’s featured restaurants
J A PA N E S E
Sinh Sinh
VIETNAMESE
Tokyo One
9788 Bellaire Blvd., 713.541.0888
Kim Son Restaurants
The seafood at Sinh Sinh is quite exciting
because everything served comes from live tanks.
Prawns, Australian king lobster, King crabs, Coral
Tokyo One is a sushi buffet restaurant, situated
Leopard trout, Surf clams, Geoduck clams, Trunk
in a fancy boat house with an outside deck. The
clams, Elephant clams, etc…are all featured as
food is fresh and is constantly replenished.
live seafood.
Selections include: salads such as sea weed, beef,
squid, salmon and watercress. Sushi includes a
THAI
variety of rolls and sashimi.
7465 W. Greens Rd., 281.955.8898
2938 W. Sam Houston S., 713.785.8899
Zushi Japanese Cuisine
5900 Memorial Dr., 713.861.5588
Thai Spice
8282 Bellaire Blvd. 713.777.4888
Thai Spice on Bellaire is a foodies dream. It’s a
Zushi serves extremely fresh and high quality
casual place that serves Thai dishes you won’t
sushi. Stand out items are the sashimi appetizers
find anywhere else in Houston, with a huge
served with perfectly paired sauces or any one
selection of interesting, rare, tasty dishes at
of the many house specialty rolls.
excellent prices. A must have is the whole fried
Uptown Sushi
tilapia with hot and sour dipping sauce and
papaya salad and Tom Yum soup.
1131 Uptown Park Blvd. #14 713.871.1200
Uptown Sushi personifies an upscale sushi
Nit Noi
restaurant located near the Galleria in the swanky
6700 Woodway Pkwy., Suite 580 281.597.8200
Uptown Park Plaza. The menu offers Japanese
Nit Noi means “a little bit” and Thai food lovers
fusion dishes and a great selection of high-end
pack Nit Noi restaurants and cafes all around
sashimi and sushi. Side note: Uptown Sushi has
Houston. Nit Noi will always be known for their
“off-the-menu” specialty rolls served daily!
Pad Thai, but other must try dishes include
PadThai Korat (flat noodles stir-fried with
CHINESE
chicken, pork or shrimp with vegetables) and
Auntie Chang’s
Tom Yum Goong (spicy and sour shrimp soup).
2621 South Shepherd #290, 713.524.8410
Tony Thai
2001 Jefferson (and other locations), 713.222.2461
The menu is the most imposing part of this casual,
highly regarded landmark Vietnamese restaurant. There are no poor choices among the 100 or so
options. Enjoy finely prepared delicacies as well
as the expected fare, such as the pork vermicelli
and fried eggroll. Must try is their black pepper
softshell crab. Special event facilities available.
Vietopia
5176 Buffalo Speedway, 713.664.7303
Trendy yet elegant, Vietopia delivers top notch
Vietnamese cuisine at reasonable lunch prices and
a stellar dinner menu. The lounge works perfectly
for those who want a less formal dining experience
but still want to enjoy quality food.
Mo Mong
1201 Westheimer Rd. #B, 713.524.5664
This Trendy Montrose establishment has a great
lunch crowd as well as a packed martini night
on Wednesdays. But the real draw is the foodtraditional family recipes mixed in with some
tasty modern dishes. Must try items include the
Mango Spring Rolls, Shrimp and Avocado Spring
Roll, Volcano Chicken, and the Bo Luc Lac.
CO N T I N E N TA L
Auntie Chang’s offers the most flavorful home10613 Bellaire Blvd., 281.495.1711
style Chinese cuisine around. Although known
A sophisticated approach to traditional Thai
for their dumplings, any of your favorite classic
cuisine, Tony’s executes with perfect balance
Chinese dishes are done extremely well.
and pizzazz. Tony’s Wings, wet or dry, and the
Hong Kong Food Street
Steamed Mussels are popular appetizers. For
the main course try the Basil Lamb, Garlic
9750 Bellaire Blvd., 713.981.9888
Peking duck and roasted pork hang from cleavers Salmon or the Steamed Fish with Chili.
in a front window display giving a Hong Kong
street market feel. In addition, the menu is I N D I A N
divided into sections including Seafood, Hot Pot,
Kiran’s Restaurant
Special Stir Fry, Sizzling and Chef Specials.
Voice Restaurant & Lounge
San Dong Noodle House
Built in 1923 and originally the mansion of
Walter Fondren, one of the founders of Humble
Oil, Colombe d’Or Hotel is considered a Texas
historical landmark. Featuring French and
Continental fare, we recommend the Carre
d’Agneau, individual rack of baby lamb grilled
with natural herbs and red wine sauce.
4100 Westheimer Rd. #151, 713.960.8472
This northern Indian style restaurant embodies
a fusion approach to its cuisine. With a focus on
9938-F Bellaire Blvd., 713.271.3945
Authentic hand pulled Chinese noodle dishes are well balanced flavors rather than spice, the Flaky
served at a reasonable price. A few favorites Halibut Swimming in Watermelon Curry sauce
include the Roast Beef Noodle soup served in a and the Tandoori Platter typify this perfectly.
beef broth accented by ginger and soy, or the oh
so addicting pan fried dumplings.
To have your restaurant featured in Yellow Magazine, or to recommend a restaurant
that you enjoy, please email the information to [email protected].
Hotel Icon, 220 Main, 832.667.4470
The impressive décor has thoughtfully
transformed the space of an old bank lobby into
a warm cozy and elegant dining area. Try the
Mushroom Soup “Cappucino”, reduction of
garlic, onion, crimini mushrooms topped with
frothy truffle foam, and the Bryan Farms Roast
Chicken, a free range and 100% corn fed chicken.
Colombe d’Or Restaurant and Hotel
3410 Montrose Blvd. 713.524.7999
Reserve your Marketplace ad today!
Call 832.778.4530