June 2013 - The Ascott Limited

A P R I L – J U N E 2 01 3
A P R I L – J U N E 2 01 3
THE SOUL OF DUBAI
A GLOBAL CITY FINDS ITS PERSONAL TOUCH
THE HEAVENLY WARES OF ARTISAN BAKERIES
AN OSCAR WINNER’s ANIMATED LIFE
P R OV I D I N G T H E F I N E S T FA B R I C S F O R T H E F I N E S T H OT E L S I N T H E W O R L D
HAX Building, No.2 Pingji Road, Nanwan Street, Long Gang District, Shenzen. Postal Code 518114
Tel: +86 755 25126000 | Website: www.haxgroup.com | E-mail: [email protected] | Fax: +86 755 25120680
April – June 2013
contents
30
cover photo: Martin Sasse/laif/Redux PHOTOs (clockwise from top left): mark teo; corbis; courtesy of henk; mervin chua
12
24
04 WORLD AT A GLANCE
Five cities of fun. In this issue: Bordeaux,
Jakarta, Nice, Shenzhen and Xiamen
06 TOYS
We take a look at the latest portable
speakers — for the traveller who
prefers not to be wired for sound
08 Digits
18
18 BUY
From quirky cases to bespoke
luggage, we have the best buys
ASCOTT PULSE
34 ASCOTT NEWS
Relax and kick back with whisky
— a popular traditional tipple
This issue: Ascott continues expansion
in China; opens its first Ascott-branded
serviced residences in Qatar and Surabaya,
and helps disadvantaged children
22 CULTURE
36 YOUR SAY
20 TIPPLE
Enjoy our eye-catching interpretation of
the big numbers that make up the internet
Shaping every major city, architecture
is a constant wonder from traditional
old style to the glitteringly new
When the Lee sisters stayed at Ascott Makati,
quick-witted staff averted a potential disaster
10 TRAVEL INSIDER
24 BIG BITE
Rhea Vitto, Ascott’s Director of Sales &
Marketing, North Vietnam has relished the
chance to rediscover old favourites in Hanoi
Make the most of the European
roads in a classic car. Our resident
expert tells you how
12 TRAVEL
Beneath the shimmer of glass and
steel, Dubai has a real personality
Wherever you are in the world, the smell
of baking offers a reminder of home
30 GAME CHANGER
Oscar-winning film-maker Richard
Chuang talks about the constantly
changing world of special effects
38 INSIGHT
39 MILESTONES
Key moments in Ascott history
41 ASCOTT AROUND THE WORLD
Where in the world is Ascott?
AS COTT LIVING 01
CONTributors APRIL – JUNE 2013
Simon de Burton
Simon de Burton (page 10) is a
freelance journalist and author
who specialises in covering the
luxury lifestyle for publications
including the Financial Times,
the Daily Telegraph, Vanity Fair,
GQ and Vogue China. His work
has seen him drive Bugatti’s
Veyron hypercar at more than 320
kilometres per hour and explore
the depths of South Africa’s
largest platinum mine. A former
employee of Sotheby’s, de Burton
is known for writing about highend auctions of fine art, cars and
wristwatches. He is the author of
several books, including the New
Motorcycle Year Book series and a
limited edition collectors’ volume
about the Bentley Brooklands.
Marisa Morea
Marisa Morea was born in
Madrid and has been working as
an illustrator since graduating
with an MA in Illustration from
the Eina School in Barcelona.
Now back in Madrid, Marisa,
whose artwork graces our Pulse
section (page 33) loves saturating
her work with “good moods,
storytelling, playful banter,
vibrant colours and a little bit of
tenderness.” She finds inspiration
in classic movies, pale pink roses,
big cities, chats with friends,
Tumblr and a wide range of songs.
An ardent music lover, Marisa
enjoys going to concerts in her
spare time, recording covers with
her guitar and ukelele — and
getting lost in music stores.
Oliver Robinson
Having edited magazines in places
as far flung as Beijing, Jakarta, and
Dubai, Oliver Robinson is now
attempting to recreate himself
as a freelance writer — or as he
says, trying to get paid for doing
the things he enjoys the most,
namely eating and travelling.
In this issue he takes us on a
whirlwind tour of Dubai in our
cover feature (page 12). Oliver’s
work involves darting here and
there, and writing for an array of
publications, including Time Out,
Square Meal, Kanoo Traveller, and
iPad magazine Industria. His blog
Africa Attraction, which recounted
his overland journey from Cape
Town to London, was featured on
the Lonely Planet website.
The Ascott Limited
www.the-ascott.com
PUBLISHED BY NOVUS MEDIA SOLUTIONS
Editorial Advisors
Senior Vice President
Brand & Marketing
Anthony Khoo
Managing Director
Simon Cholmeley
Senior Designer
Cherlin Chan
Editor
Luke Clark
Assistant Vice President
Corporate Communications
Joan Tan
Assistant Editor
Alison Marshall
Contributors
Ching Lee; Gavin Goo;
Marisa Morea; Mark Teo;
Mervin Chua; Oliver
Robinson; Simon de Burton
Design Director
Richard MacLean
Creative Services Manager
Kwan Gek Lian
Chief Sub Editor
Josephine Pang
Production Manager
Pearlyn Kwan
Novus Media Solutions
77B Amoy Street
Singapore 069896
Tel: (65) 6223 7149
Senior Executive
Corporate Communications
Yip Min-ting
Staff Writer
Daniel Seifert
The views and opinions expressed or
implied in ASCOTT LIVING do not
necessarily reflect those of The Ascott
Limited or Novus Media Solutions,
its directors or editorial staff. All
information correct at time of going to
print. MICA (P) 057/07/2012
02 AS COTT LIVING
Photo Editor
Haryati Mahmood
Director, Design and
Creative Services
Kevin Ong
Luke Clark
Now more commonly known as
“Adam and Ailya’s Dad”, New
Zealander Luke Clark was once
an intrepid traveller and writer, as
adept at riding elephants through
Bengal tiger-laden savannah
grasses, as exaggerating the heroic
nature of his exploits afterwards.
After 16 years of exploring and
writing about Asia, Luke is
now editor of Ascott Living and
Discovery Channel Magazine.
Having written in the past for
Condé Nast Traveler and FHM
Singapore, he still escapes to the
wilds where possible — including
the somewhat reckless decision
in 2012 to climb Indonesia’s
3,700-metre Mount Rinjani —
despite no small amount of pain.
Subscription and enquiries to
www.ascottliving.com
Published quarterly by Novus Media
Solutions Pte Ltd, Company Number:
200920797Z © 2013 Novus Media
Novus Media Solutions Pte Ltd. All
rights reserved. Reproduction in any
manner in whole or part in English or
other languages is prohibited. Protection
secured under the International and
Pan-American copyright conventions.
All Ascott logos © 2013 Ascott, Citadines
and Somerset logos are trademarks of
Ascott, used under licence. All rights
reserved. Printed by Times Printers
Pte Ltd, 16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore
639340. Times Printers Licence Number:
L021/09/2012 Singapore.
LIVING
WORLD AT A GLANCE
This issue, we have five culture-rich cities, across seven categories of experiences.
Let this section be your mini guide during your next big escapade
ON STAGE
JAKARTA
INDONESIA
NICE
FRANCE
SHENZHEN
CHINA
XIAMEN
CHINA
Founded in 1825, Le Chapon Fin
has been a three-star Michelin
restaurant since 1933. Today’s diners
can count Toulouse-Lautrec and
Sarah Bernhardt amongst their
historical dining companions.
www.chapon-fin.com
Classical French cuisine is enhanced
by the location of Emilie: a twostorey building designed by Jaya
Ibrahim, Indonesia’s foremost
designer. The restaurant offers a
tranquil refuge from city life.
www.emilierestaurant.com
La Petite Maison is something of an
institution in Nice. Regular visitors
rave about the ice cream flavoured
with pine nuts and candied orange
blossoms — you may even get to see
musical legend Elton John, who lives
nearby. www.lapetitemaison-nice.com
Enjoy dining at the Maillen Club,
where the atrium offers a pleasant
venue for afternoon tea. The wine
cellar is stocked with a wide variety
of vintages — and wine dinners are
a regular fixture on the calendar
of events. (86–755) 2668 7777
If you’re in celebratory mood, head
to Portofino, possibly Xiamen’s
best-loved Italian restaurant. The
newly refurbished restaurant has
floor-to-ceiling windows allowing
diners to enjoy a fusion of East and
West. (86–592) 202 3333 (ext. 6616)
From chamber music to ballet
and opera, there is always
something interesting to watch
and appreciate at the Opéra de
Nice, which has been a cultural
centre in the city since the
1800s. www.opera-nice.org
For thespians of the future,
the Youth Palace Theatre
is Shenzhen’s only dedicated
children’s theatre. It is capable
of comfortably seating up
to 800 people at a time.
(86–755) 8351 3061
Magic Fujian is a stage drama that
highlights the culture of Fujian
through the arts. Performances are
held every day, except Monday, at
the Magic Fujian Theatre, Xiamen
Culture and Arts Centre.
400–610 3721
The Grand Théâtre de
Bordeaux took seven
years to complete and
is as much a cultural
icon today as it was in
architect Victor Louis’ day.
www.opera-bordeaux.com
Jazz is big in Jakarta.
Try Ancol’s Friday
Jazz Night in the
middle of Pasar Seni
(the Art Market) for
performances from famous
and budding artists alike.
Weary of wine? Head to Le Lucifer
for a different type of pick-meup, and sample one or two of the
250 stunning international beers
on offer. Fans of live music can
experience a rocking good time on
Wednesdays. www.reddevilbar.com
With a blue and white Parisian
bar feel, Loewy is virtually always
full. If you dare, have a taste of the
fiery Tom Yum martini, complete
with a whole chilli garnish —
which is sure to spice up your
night. www.loewyjakarta.com
The ornate interior of Le Relais is
the ideal place to enjoy a cocktail as
the sun goes down. With authentic
walnut woodwork from 1913 and
a tapestry from the 1680s, the
luxe décor is matched by delicious
drinks. (33–4) 9316 6400
Promising stunning views
of Shenzhen, the 360˚Bar
is a contemporary
classic, where the
champagne cocktails
come highly recommended.
(86–755) 8396 1380
Perfect for breakfast or a morning
coffee, Café Le Dijeaux is the insider
tip for the best brew in Bordeaux.
Bag a booth by the window, relax
against the comfy cushions and watch
the world go by. (33–5) 5681 9065
You can’t get fresher than a cup of java
from Anomali Coffee. Whether you
prefer kopi luwak (the renowned civet
coffee) or the caramel sweetness of
toraja kalosi, you’ll find it all here.
www.anomalicoffee.com
Auer Gourmet has the perfect
cuppa from classic Earl Grey to Spicy
Chocolate. It sits next to the family’s
chocolate shop, which has created
delightful morsels of deliciousness
for 200 years. (33–4) 9385 5995
Stop a while at The Summer Tea
House, where in a calm atmosphere
you can savour tea as it should
be taken. The vegetarian menu
has also drawn much praise from
locals. www.jingyi2000.com
Enjoy the soothing taste of a large
variety of coffees at The Coffee
Club, with its memorable views
of the river and unforgettable
location on Yundang Road, the
so-called “Coffee Street”.
A visit to Bordeaux is not complete
without a visit to Baillardran, the
specialist baker famed for the local
Bordelais cake: the canelé, a small
French pastry with a soft custard
centre and crisp caramelised
crust. www.baillardran.com
While in Jakarta,
you can’t miss the
National Monument:
a 132-metre-high
marble obelisk, which
symbolises the country’s
strength and independence.
Not your average theme park,
Minsk World is a must for fans
of military history. In particular,
check out the old aircraft carrier
that has been set up as a exhibition
— complete with uniformed
staff. www.szminsk.com
No visit to Xiamen is complete
without a bowl of their regional
speciality, peanut soup. The taste
might surprise you. Locals tend
to favour Huasheng Tang Dian
on Zhongshan Road — but be
prepared to brave the crowds!
KIDS
Children will enjoy a trip on
Le Petit Train Touristique,
allowing the whole family the
chance to see the sights of
Bordeaux without walking!
www.tourism-citytours.com
KidZania is a child-sized replica of
a real city where youngsters aged
two to 16 can learn the ropes of some
100 featured professions, bringing
entertainment and education
together. www.kidzania.co.id
Take the Train des Pignes from Nice
and discover the countryside. The
railway runs from the city to Digne
les Bains, a three-hour adventure
with time to explore and picnic inbetween. www.trainprovence.com
Happy Valley is an amusement park
that offers oodles of fun for visitors
of all ages, sporting everything
from roller coasters to water
parks and a variety of exciting live
performances. sz.happyvalley.cn
A five-minute ferry ride from
downtown will bring you to the old
town of Gulangyu. Here children
can enjoy the local speciality: yeshi
maci — sweet morsels of sticky rice
dusted with black sesame powder.
STAY
Citadines Centre Mériadeck
Bordeaux is a good starting point
to explore the narrow streets of
old Bordeaux, or stroll along the
Garonne river. www.citadines.com
The chic Balinese-style residences
at Ascott Jakarta are ideal
lodgings for either a short
business trip or relocation in
Jakarta. www.the-ascott.com
Located in the heart of a shopping
area, Citadines Buffa Nice is
an ideal base for discovering the
attractions of the French Riviera’s
capital. www.citadines.com
Ascott Maillen Shenzhen is
a collection of luxury serviced
residences and boutique hotel
rooms, with its own indoor heated
pool. www.the-ascott.com
The new Citadines Jinshang
Road Xiamen is strategically
located, and offers spacious
studios to three-bedroom
apartments. www.citadines.com
COCKTAILS
CAFFEINE HIT
SCOOP
04 AS COTT LIVING
BORDEAUX
FRANCE
Enjoy the spectacle of the
outdoor markets along
the Cours Saleya. The
most famous is between
Place Massena and Vieux
Nice (Old Town) and sells
produce and flowers most days.
For a relaxing drink
with a laid-back vibe
try the Buddha Bar on
Binglang Road and Lieyu
Road. It’s highly rated by
those in the know as the
perfect place to chill out.
PHOTOS: INMAGINE (SHENZHEN); AGEFOTOSTOCK (XIAMEN)
Indulge
For more events, activities
and eateries, visit
www.ascottliving.com
From Barcelona to Seoul, whether you want to
find the best place for coffee, a restaurant for
an indulgent treat or somewhere to take the
children, check out the Ascott Living website
for the places to go by those in the know.
www.ascottliving.com
AS COTT LIVING 05
DIGITS
AIR PLAY
FREE
As of 2012, there are
From countries with the most
blisteringly fast connectivity
speeds, to whether you’re as
addicted to Facebook as the
rest of the world, Ascott Living has
some funky facts about how we keep connected.
Illustration by Gavin Goo
Nine out of 10
residents in Seoul,
South Korea subscribe
to high-speed wireless
internet connection.
By 2015, there will be
hotspots in virtually all the
city’s public spaces, including:
360
3,200
parks intersections
2,200 streets near
shopping centres
ZONE
In Amsterdam, the
chocolate bar brand
Kit Kat has erected
several “no WiFi”
zones, which block
wireless signals
within five metres of
the zone. The
advertising
agency explains
that they allow
people to
“escape emails,
updates, tags
or likes”
650,000,000
active websites
on the internet
Fastest Average
Internet Connection
Speeds
Europe:
Switzerland
Netherlands
Mbps
Czech Republic
Mbps
Asia:
South Korea
It took 16 years for the
number of smartphones
around the world to
reach one billion, but it is
expected that it will take just
8.7
8.5
7.7
14.7
10.5
9.0
megabits
per second
(Mbps)
Mbps
Japan
three years for that number to double
Hong Kong
Mbps
Mbps
#1 peak
connection speeds:
Hong Kong
YEARS
a
Terim !
kasih
According to analytics
firm Semiocast, Jakarta,
in Indonesia is the
world’s most active
city in terms of Twitter.
In total, over four percent of
the world’s Tweets are posted in
Jakarta and the runner-up city, Tokyo
06 AS COTT LIVING
1991
The year that University of
Cambridge researchers created
the first webcam (to check
on their coffee machine and
see if it needed filling up)
54.1
Mbps
Nearly one in four
people check their
Facebook account five
or more times daily
Elegant Living in the Heart of Doha
Step into luxury. Tailored for discerning international travellers, at Ascott Doha, you can expect state-of-the-art
recreation and business facilities along with elegantly designed residences and personalised services to provide
the ultimate experience. Located at the north end of Corniche Bay, Ascott Doha offers stunning views of the
Arabian Gulf and is within walking distance to Qatar’s best known retail and entertainment destinations.
Prestigious yet personalised, make yourself at home here at Ascott Doha. Because life is about living.
For further information and global reservations, please visit www.the-ascott.com or call (974) 4497 1234
Ascott Doha is managed by The Ascott Limited, a member of CapitaLand. It is the largest international serviced residence owner-operator with more than
200 properties in over 70 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region. It operates three award-winning brands Ascott, Citadines and Somerset.
tOYS
Portable Speakers
Audiophiles, rejoice! Whether you want hardy durability,
innovative design or multipurpose utility, there are
great portable speakers out there for you
JAMBOX JAWBONE
Justifiably lauded by droves
of reviewers for its crisp
sound quality, the Jambox is
an accomplished all-rounder.
Compatible with most Apple,
Android and Blackberry devices,
as well as Windows and Mac
laptops, you’ll find it great for
conference calls (thanks to its
inbuilt microphone), boosting
movie audio and blasting tunes. All
in one solid, travel-friendly design.
X-MINI MAX II
Practically pocket-sized and with
a battery life of at least a dozen
hours, the X-Mini scores full marks
in the portability department.
And with decent sound quality,
they may surprise you with
their performance. Niftiest of
all, you can link several of them
together to form a daisy chain
of speakers, doubling or even
tripling your sound output.
BOOMBOT REX
Designed to be wearable, these
funky speakers will appeal to
sporty types who want to clip
it on and crank out tunes as
they hike, bike or ski. While they
might look simple, these wireless
units come with speakerphone
capability and can integrate with
iPhone’s Siri. As you might expect,
they are durable, water-resistant
and built to take a pounding.
TDK WIRELESS WEATHERPROOF
As you can guess from the name,
this speaker is perfect for the
outdoors, from a barbecue to a
pool party. While it is certainly
the biggest of the speakers
on this page, it also packs a
subwoofer, so all the revellers
can enjoy your bass-thumping
tracks. And with a hardy, splashproof design, you don’t have to
worry about being rained out.
Weather-resistant Take this term with a pinch
of salt. Different companies define “weather-resistant”
in their own way, so don’t automatically presume that
your mobile speaker can survive playing The Beatles
in a gale-force hurricane. Some light splashes and
knocks are probably fine, but exercise common sense.
08 AS COTT LIVING
The portable drawback Keep in mind
that most portable speakers become so by sacrificing
some sound quality. If you’re an audiophile looking
for crystal-clear hi-fi audio, or bass so booming
it’ll register on the Richter Scale, you might be
better off going for a less portable system.
Choose your weapon There are several
types of speakers, from those that utilise Bluetooth
technology, to iPod docks, to USB chargers, and
to rechargeable batteries. Each adaptation comes
with its own set of advantages and limitations,
so have a think about which suits you best.
TRAVEL INSIDER
Simon de Burton is an auto enthusiast who lovingly
writes about cars and watches for the Financial
Times’ How to Spend It, amongst other titles. As he
revs his engine, he tells Ascott Living how he would
plan the perfect European driving holiday
10 AS COTT LIVING
Driving
Etiquette
Top tips for the road
Travelling with tots
Illustration: corbis photos: Getty images (Swallow your pride, drive like a local)
A Holiday Classic
DRIVING TO A DESTINATION IS
FAR MORE EXPERIENTIAL THAN
simply taking a plane. If you fly into
somewhere in France for example,
like Toulouse, you end up at the
airport, and you’re faced with this
huge city to get across. But if you
are driving, you can take smaller
roads. Generally it is very easy to find
somewhere to have a lovely lunch,
or a place that will be a welcome
diversion from your journey.
Even with budget airlines
everywhere nowadays, it can still be
cheaper to drive, most times. And
though airlines might be getting
better in some ways, air travel is also
getting more stressful. Plus, you are
very much restricted in what you can
take with you, and may be charged for
your baggage. Not so with driving.
The kind of car you pick for a
driving holiday depends on what
kind of trip you’re taking, of course;
whether it is with your family or by
yourself. A convertible is always a
good choice. There are some pretty
unbeatable cars, like Maseratis
and Aston Martins, which are just
fantastic on a picturesque mountain
road. It is lovely to be in a car with a
fabulous-sounding engine — it’s an
amazing thing to hear. On a driving
holiday, an imperative ingredient can
often be the car itself, which adds its
own character.
Destination-wise, Italy is a
great country to drive in, with its
endless roads and beautiful scenery.
The landscape is phenomenal,
particularly driving through Tuscany.
But in terms of the actual standard
of driving, I think Spain and Italy
are probably the most frightening
places to drive if you are not used
to it. France is wonderful, but it is a
large country, so you are often quite
some distance from the coast. In Italy
however, the beautiful coast is always
quite close — which is a bonus.
Pop the Hood
Swallow Your Pride
If you are travelling in an old car, it is daft
to set out without any knowledge of the
car you’re using. Have some idea of what
might go wrong, and how the car normally
handles, and ideally know how to carry out
some simple repairs such as changing a
tyre. Old cars often have a contact ignition
system rather than electronic ignition, so
know how to reset contact points if the car
starts misfiring. It is always good to have a
bag of tools ready too — just in case.
There is no shame in asking for directions.
The only thing you must be aware of is
that quite often people don’t know what
they’re talking about, and might misdirect
you. Local knowledge is often quite useful
as you might find something out that you
wouldn’t have otherwise. If you’re unsure
about what you have been told, seek a
second opinion. Sometimes people want to
help even if they’re not quite sure, so make
sure to watch out for guesswork.
Know Where You’re Sleeping
Drive Like a Local
What you should take with you in all
countries is a respect for the specific
way they drive. The French are very
particular about lane discipline for
example, and it is important to respect
that. If you drive in England on the other
hand, people tend to drive along in the
middle lane of a three-lane motorway.
Adopting that sort of behaviour in other
European countries is frowned upon.
Plan where you’re going to stay the night
as much as possible. It is very easy to keep
driving when you think it’s a lovely spot
— then suddenly, the world is pitch-black
and you are in an unfamiliar place. So book
ahead or arrive with a couple of hours to
spare. There is nothing more demoralising
than having to sleep in the car because you
have failed to plan. And a classic car like a
Porsche 911 is pretty cramped to sleep in.
For more tips on making the most of your travels go to: www.ascottliving.com/theinsider
It is not a no-no to have a long
car journey with young children.
It’s a real adventure for them
to do it at that age, and your
children will be very lucky to go
to exotic destinations in some
exotic cars. However, a few
in-car games probably won’t
go amiss, or even a DVD if it’s
possible. Another thing is to set
off in the evening, so the kids
can sleep for long stretches.
I-Spy and 20 Questions are
good standby in-car games,
though as an adult it does get
rather tiresome quite quickly.
Go low-tech
Even when using a GPS, you
should always take a map with
you, as it gives you that detail.
It is very easy for your brain
to turn to mush by following
a GPS — you stop thinking for
yourself. The map also gives you
much more freedom. It can save
you time as well, particularly if
you are travelling to especially
remote locations — the GPS can
sometimes take you on some
very odd routes, whereas if you
can see a clearer route on the
map, it can be very beneficial to
have both at hand.
Be anti-holiday
If you can avoid road-congested
public holidays, definitely do
so. Spring can provide a great
driving holiday in Europe, in
April and May. You won’t get the
heat you might get in summer,
but there’s beautiful weather as
nature comes to life. August in
France is absolutely packed as
it’s a national holiday, so if you
can avoid that, all the better.
AS COTT LIVING 11
DUB AI travel
Style and Soul
Famous for its skyscrapers, Dubai
boasts an almost overwhelming
selection of cafés, restaurants
and bars where you can sit
back and enjoy great views
12 AS COTT LIVING
PHOTO: Massimo Borchi/4CORNERS IMAGES
Beneath the glimmer of glass and steel, Oliver Robinson discovers
an emirate destination with a growing sense of charm and personality
Swathed in sunshine and
bristling with skyscrapers,
Dubai exudes the energy and excitement of
a city that is yet to realise its full potential.
Of course, the city’s sky-high ambitions
and reputation for excess were shot
down by the 2007–2008 global economic
meltdown. You have probably read some
reports of the city’s woes; expatriates
riddled with bad debt left the city in droves,
development ground to a halt — and even
the opening of the world’s tallest building,
the Burj Dubai, could only go ahead with
the financial assistance of neighbouring
emirate Abu Dhabi (it was subsequently
renamed the Burj Khalifa). But today, as
you settle into your seat at one of the city’s
many splendid al fresco venues to drink
in the sea views and a sundowner cocktail,
these monetary woes seem a long time
ago. Dubai has regained its verve and its
swagger, and is more fun than ever before.
Although echoes of the mantra “biggest
is best” still linger, there is also a tangible
sense that Dubai is slowly becoming a city
of substance rather than style. Today’s
in-the-know residents often bypass big and
brash hotel restaurants, in favour of quality
stand-alone eateries and nightspots, many
of which they have heard about through
word of mouth, rather than a hyped up
“grand opening” party. Meanwhile, the
top parties are taking place in deserted
warehouses rather than corporate function
rooms, while the city’s thriving (and hugely
lucrative) art scene has made Dubai the
cultural hub of the region. Indeed, anyone
who still writes off Dubai as a cultural
wasteland simply hasn’t bothered to look
hard enough. More fool them.
Dubai’s physical layout is pretty
straightforward. It clings to the coast
from north to south (with the occasional
palm-shaped island sprouting out into
the Arabian Gulf ), and the six-lane artery
that is the Sheikh Zayed Road pumps
commuters up and down the city’s
sprawling expanse. It is worth keeping in
mind that Dubai remains a very car-centric
place, and while some areas are a joy to
explore by foot (more on this later), visitors
should probably resign themselves to the
fact that the best way to get about is on four
wheels — whether by private vehicle, or
one of the city’s many affordable taxis.
Dubai can be broken down into areas
of interest according to various districts.
Deira and Bur Dubai tend to be referred
to as the “Old Town”, while “Downtown
Dubai” boasts gems such as the Dubai
International Finance Centre (DIFC)
complex, the impressive faux-Arabian
architecture of Souk Al Bahar, as well as the
world’s tallest building — the shimmering
Burj Khalifa. Further south, towards Abu
Dhabi, lies Jumeirah, and beyond that,
AS COTT LIVING 13
While five days isn’t nearly enough time to take in all the sights and sounds
Dubai has to offer, it’s certainly long enough to get a taste of the city’s top
attractions — from record-breaking buildings to glamorous parties
sunday
start the week right:
Explore the Malls
Visitors should keep in mind that Friday and
Saturday constitute the Dubai weekend,
meaning that Sunday is the first day of the
week. Kick things off with a bang and visit
the city’s iconic shopping malls (trust us,
they have to be seen to be believed). The
Dubai Mall (pictured) is the world’s biggest
by area, featuring, among other things, a
magnificent aquarium, an Olympic-sized
ice rink, an indoor roller coaster — and of
course, hundreds of shops. And just when
you thought a mall couldn’t get any more
bizarre, head to Mall of the Emirates —
which features a huge indoor ski slope,
complete with real-life penguins.
Details:
www.thedubaimall.com;
www.malloftheemirates.com
monday
TIME FOR A TAN:
Soak up Sun and Sea
Two of Dubai’s main draws as a tourist
destination are 365-days-a-year sunshine
and proximity to the coast. The city boasts
a wealth of clean and easy-to-find public
beaches: Jumeirah Beach Park affords the
option of lounging beside the sea or the
leafy environs of the park, while Sunset
Beach (or Umm Suqeim Beach) is home to
two surf schools and has terrific views of the
sail-like Burj Al Arab.
Details:
Jumeirah Beach Park: Jumeirah Beach
Road, Jumeirah 2, opposite Beach Park
Plaza Centre
Sunset Beach: Jumeirah Beach Road,
Umm Suqeim 3 (turn right before the
filling station)
14 AS COTT LIVING
Dubai Marina, where luxury apartments
line yacht-strewn waterways.
Although the most “historic” of Dubai’s
districts are little older than 30 years,
it is quite impressive how each area has
still managed to develop its own distinct
charm. “Dubai is growing ever more
rapidly, with each new development
bringing a new and unique flavour to the
city,” agrees long-time resident Becky
Lucas, who is the editor of Time Out Dubai
magazine. “There are many areas that
have been around for decades, developing
their own very defined identities, to which
residents regularly flock for a hearty dose
of history and culture.”
History? Culture? In spite of the
continued assurances of residents,
many outsiders still find it difficult to
comprehend that this 41-year-young city
has anything of the sort. The best way to
remedy such doubts is a stroll down the
Creek first thing in the morning — this
lets you beat the heat, and see everyone go
about their work without having to elbow
your way down a busy street.
The Creek was the beating heart of
Dubai when it was little more than a small
port town. While the discovery of oil in the
United Arab Emirates and the subsequent
influx of wealth and tourism have changed
the dynamic of the city, this area remains
as bustling as ever. Amble along the
water’s edge, and you will see traditional
dhow boats — laden with cargo as varied
as spices, fabrics, flat-screen televisions
and washing machines — load up and set
sail for colourful destinations such as
Iran, Somalia and Pakistan. Taking into
account just how far Dubai has come in
the past two decades, it is remarkable how
little has changed on the Creek — sailors
confide that the dhow are much the same
as they have always been, other than the
presence of a diesel-powered engine and,
if they’re lucky, a refrigerator.
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN): AGEFOTOSTOCK; CORBIS
DUB AI travel
Ibn Battuta Mall on Sheikh
Zayed Road was supposedly
designed to celebrate
the travels of the famous
Arabic explorer and writer
of the same name
Admittedly, strolling along the
waterside (and, if you’re feeling very
adventurous, taking an abra, a traditional
wooden boat, across to the other side)
might not be everyone’s idea of fun,
especially those indisposed to exercise. If
so, it’s recommended you enjoy the charms
of the old town from the vantage point
of Bateaux Dubai (opposite the British
Embassy), which provides a boat tour of
the Creek, as well as a three-course dinner.
Keeping with the theme of food, the
aforementioned DIFC area has emerged
as Dubai’s restaurant hub. The slick,
minimalist environs of the complex not
only house the offices of numerous global
banks, but also some of the city’s most
revered dining imports, which are a short
walk away from one another. High-end
haunt La Petite Maison serves premium
Niçoise fare amidst a buzzing atmosphere.
Likewise, London-based Japanese
restaurant Zuma provides delicious
food, great views and a similarly electric
ambience. Gaucho, meanwhile, plates up
succulent steak in a breathtaking venue —
think gleaming chrome, glass, high ceilings
and a dash of cow print for good measure.
It’s eclectic, but it somehow works.
The majority of Dubai’s top restaurants
are imported from more established dining
scenes (London’s The Ivy and Rivington
Grill have also found homes here), but
talented chefs and ambitious restaurateurs
have also started to branch out on their
own. Sleek Japanese restaurant and lounge
Okku on Sheikh Zayed Road, for instance,
is bucking the trend by exporting its brand
to London in 2013, while table 9 by Scott
and Nick is, as the name suggests, headed
up by Scott Price and Nick Alvis, protégés
of Gordon Ramsay.
“Since moving here three years ago
I’ve seen a massive growth of big-brand
restaurants,” explains Price. “Tourism
is growing rapidly and, with it, the
AS COTT LIVING 15
DUB AI travel
ON THE TOP OF THE WORLD:
Reach New Heights
The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa,
is a must-see, as the view from the At The
Top observation deck is amazing. Book
your tickets online, as it is cheaper and
involves less queuing. After that, head to
nearby Souk Al Bahar to watch the Dubai
Fountain. If you’re hungry, a table on the
outside terrace at Rivington Grill will deliver
prime fountain views and great food.
Details:
www.burjkhalifa.ae; www.thedubaimall.
com; www.rivingtongrill.ae
WEDNESDAY
man-made marvels:
Branch Out to The Palm
Though more palm islands are in the
pipeline, Palm Jumeirah is, to date, the only
one with private residences, restaurants and
hotels. Head to the Crescent, and the water
park Aquaventure, which in addition to rides,
offers the chance to frolic with dolphins.
For more sedate entertainment, dine at 101,
a restaurant-lounge that boasts fantastic
waterside views of the Dubai skyline.
Details:
Aquaventure, Atlantis; (971–4) 426 0000
101, One&Only The Palm; (971–4) 440 1030
THURSDAY
PARTY TIME!
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
Hit the town at DIFC’s hip bar Caramel,
before sitting down to premium Japanese
fare at Zuma. Continue the evening’s revelry
at People by Crystal or, for something less
glamorous, head to Rock Bottom or Barasti.
Details:
Caramel, DIFC; (971–4) 425 6677
Zuma, DIFC; (971–4) 425 5660
People by Crystal, Sheikh Rashid Road,
Oud Metha; (971–50) 297 2097
Rock Bottom, TECOM; (971–4) 450 0111
Barasti, Umm Suqeim; (971–4) 318 1313
16 AS COTT LIVING
Key Survival Tips
Time it right
In terms of weather, the peak season
to visit Dubai is from November
to March. If you must visit during
the summer months, be warned.
They are often sizzlingly hot —
temperatures have been known to
reach 50 degrees Celsius in August.
In addition, keep in mind that in
2013, the Holy Month of Ramadan is
tentatively scheduled for July 9 to
August 7. The city is far quieter at
this time, largely due to the change in
working hours, as well as restaurant
and bar opening times. Furthermore,
as Muslims are fasting during this time,
it is not permitted to consume food or
liquid in public until iftar (the breaking
of the fast, usually just after sunset).
Taxi tips
As we have already established,
Dubai is not an easy city to traverse
by foot. Taxis are the easiest way to
get around, and most cabbies have a
good knowledge of the city. However,
they’re more familiar with hotels, malls
and prominent landmarks than they
are with street names, so it’s best to
help them navigate accordingly.
Above: While many of the
city’s dining venues feature
cuisines from other countries,
those seeking traditional fare
will also be spoilt for choice
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN): GETTY IMAGES; CORBIS; AQUAVENTURE; AGEFOTOSTOCK
TUESDAY
demand for household-name eateries.
The expatriate market, on the other
hand, is starting to move towards more
home-grown concepts.” He adds, “Dubai
has always been at the forefront of
architecture and design. Hopefully this is
bleeding through into the restaurant scene
and investors will start taking more risks
on up-and-coming local talent.”
Another example is recently opened
TOMO, on Sheikh Rashid Road, a slick
Japanese eatery that has turned heads
from the outset. This is largely thanks
to the fact that the chefs already have a
loyal following from their former venture,
Kisaku, as well as innovative delicacies
such as shimesaba kikka (cured mackerel
with vinegar and a chrysanthemum
flower), hiyashi nasu agedashi (deep-fried
eggplant with dashi) and scallop sashimi.
On the entertainment front, many of
Dubai’s glittering nightspots are highprofile imports. The Polynesian-themed
London club Mahiki landed in Jumeirah in
2012, proving an instant hit night in, night
out. Movida, also from the British capital,
only needs to open its doors three nights
a week to have anyone who considers
themselves to be anybody, falling over
each other for a table. And famed Ibiza
venue Blue Marlin, on the outskirts of the
city near Ghantoot, caters to a swimwearclad and six-pack-toting crowd. Meantime,
Dubai is braced for yet more big openings
in 2013, most notably the long-awaited
arrival of Beirut’s MusicHall.
Then for every multinational brand
name, there is a local bar or club that
is famous in its own right. Perhaps the
most renowned is expansive beach venue
Barasti, which champions a more casual
vibe. And perched on a jetty in Jumeirah,
360˚ has established itself as the goto destination for soul, funk and deep
house, spun by some of the world’s most
dextrous decksmiths. You will be hard-
pressed to find a better spot for sundowner
cocktails than here — not just in Dubai, but
anywhere in the world.
More recently, the city has also emerged
at the forefront of the Middle Eastern and
South Asian art scene. For all the perceived
restrictions in the region, Dubai has proven
itself a creative haven for many artists.
Areas such as Alserkal Avenue, founded by
prominent Emirati Abdelmonem Alserkal,
and Al Quoz (home to Traffic, one of the
city’s most famous galleries) have become
hives of creative activity.
“People always say Dubai has no
culture,” says Hisham Samawi, co-founder
of Ayyam Art Centre. “But Alserkal is that
underground, edgy, next generation of
culture that’s rising up — one thing that
Dubai didn’t plan,” he says. “It kind of
happened on its own.”
Perhaps Samawi’s reflections on
Alserkal are true of the city as a whole.
Dubai has always been fast-paced
and fast-growing, but its newfound
spontaneity has given the city an
exciting edge, that promises to sharpen
in years to come.
LIVING
For a database of global events,
activities and eateries, visit
www.ascottliving.com/insidetrack
Think about drink
While it is legal to consume alcohol
in licensed premises (of which
there are many), be mindful of your
behaviour when leaving a bar or
restaurant. Unruly drunkenness in
public places is not tolerated.
Dubai dress code
Dubai is the most liberal of all the
emirates, but visitors should still be
mindful of local sensitivities. Women
should avoid wearing revealing outfits
in malls or on the street, though it is
wholly acceptable to wear bikinis on the
beach or by the pool. Also, refrain from
overt displays of public affection: there
have been instances when passionate
kissing, or worse, has resulted in arrest.
AS COTT LIVING 17
BUY LUGG AGE
Whether you’re travelling for work or leisure, luggage that
looks sharp and travels light is increasingly easy to find
Gone are the days of long
sea Voyages, where GIGANTIC
monogrammed trunks were de rigeur,
and well-heeled travellers could not leave
home without almost all their belongings.
Or perhaps those days aren’t gone for
everyone — today’s frequent flyers on
private jets, or the owners of luxury
liners, can enjoy the bespoke services of
manufacturers like Louis Vuitton, whose
custom-made monogrammed cases cater
to lovers of the distinctive brand, while
adding a touch of yesteryear glamour.
For the rest of us, much as we’d like
to travel everywhere with a wardrobe on
wheels, today’s tight luggage laws and a
need for mobility on arrival, mean that
weight is a big consideration — ideally
without compromising on style. However,
rest assured, from luxury leather to eyecatching designs and high-tech solutions,
there is enough choice to ensure that
the forgettable black holdall can remain
consigned to the back of the cupboard.
As a frequent flyer, Niels Henk was
dissatisfied by the suitcases on the
market, so he spent a decade perfecting
the epitome of lightweight style and
technology in a range of luggage which
bears his name.
“The appeal of bespoke luggage is to
create a piece that completely fits your
personal lifestyle and to own a product you
co-designed. When you create your own
luggage, you stand out from the crowd.” He
has seen growing demand for personalised
luggage. “Customers prefer their own
colours, leathers and names or initials
printed on the bag, and we can offer that.”
18 AS COTT LIVING
Custom elements can even take the
strain out of packing, differentiating
work and leisure. “Our customers can
use the removable wall that comes with
every suitcase, which divides the case
into two parts. One for your business
items and one for your private items.”
In addition, the telescopic handle
doubles as a dress boy — a handy hanger
for a jacket. You can even choose the
exterior and interior finishes to make
the bag your own, right down to a silver
or ebony button. Such personalised
glamour doesn’t come cheap of
course, but you won’t fail to stand out
from the crowd with a Henk suitcase
(US$27,000) or briefcase (US$4,000).
The ultimate in travelling chic is
probably the sleek black suitcase from
English bespoke luggage company
Globe-Trotter, which has been putting
elegance into packing since 1897.
Inspired by the rifle case that the
company produced for the latest James
Bond movie, Skyfall, only 100 editions
of the Stabilist Aluminium case are
available globally, retailing at US$7,700
each. With its flawless finish and quilted
leather lining, it’s almost too goodlooking to let out of your sight.
With some two million cases going
missing each year in the United States
alone, keeping luggage to a minimum
and carrying it on board is a preferred
option for many. Every airline has
slightly differing regulations as to carryon baggage size — so check before flying.
At the lightest end of the scale,
Samsonite’s Firelite — a 55-centimetre
2
henk
With a myriad of design
options, this is the
ultimate luggage for
the traveller with an
individual sense of style
1
samsonite
Able to pirouette like a
ballerina, the Samsonite
Firelite makes easy work
of negotiating crowded
airport terminals
the drawing board. The Hop contains
three receivers to receive, identify and
geographically pinpoint the signals
coming from its user’s mobile phone. A
micro controller interprets these signals
and gives the position of the bag in
relation to the phone, while at the same
time operating a caterpillar system using
compressed air — making the suitcase
follow its user at a constant distance. A
prototype has been made by its inventor,
Rodrigo García, who was the recipient of
last year’s James Dyson Award for Spain,
though it might be some time still before
the Hop is following you home.
Or if you can’t wait for the technology,
and the prospect of even designer
luggage leaves you cold, you can pay
and have your luggage sent on ahead —
companies such as Carry My Luggage
(www.carrymyluggage.com) ship to most
international countries. Now that’s what
we call travelling light.
PACKING TIPS
getty images
On the Case
cabin-sized suitcase — weighs in at a
mere 1.9 kilograms. The patented Curv
material protects belongings against
the rigours of travel, while for travellers
who are unable to pack light, the
75-centimetre version tips the scales at
just 2.9 kilograms.
Coming a close second in terms of
lightweight convenience, is Delsey’s
latest launch, a slim 54-centimetre
four-wheeled cabin trolley, weighing
just 2.3 kilograms. Or another travellers’
favourite, the Rimowa Salsa Air, clocks
in at 2.4 kilograms. Or try the new Antler
Size Zero large cabin suitcase: despite
features like push-button central locking
to dissuade nosy fellow passengers, it
still weighs just 2.4 kilograms.
Technological advances mean that
today’s travellers don’t waste their
luggage allowance in the weight of their
empty case. Tumi’s Tegra-Lite collection
of stylish, hard-working luggage (from
an easily-carried 2.8 kilograms) is
made from Tegris, a revolutionary
polypropylene-thermoplastic composite
material which is also used in NASCAR
race cars and protective gear for
American football players. Lightweight
and hard-wearing, Tumi luggage also
features a unique tracing feature, where
the 20-digit number permanently affixed
to the luggage is registered by the new
owner — and can allow the company to
reunite bag and traveller.
For technophiles, a suitcase that
follows you without the need to be
dragged or pulled has already reached
Make sure your suitcase contains contact
details — luggage tags can often get lost.
If you are checking luggage in, photograph
the contents — and make a list of your
belongings in the event that it gets lost
and you have to make a claim.
4
globe-trotter
A style classic, this limited
edition case was inspired
by the bespoke rifle case
created for the latest
Bond movie Skyfall
3
rimowa
Made to measure,
Rimowa’s lightweight
Salsa is a favourite with
frequent flyers
Roll rather than fold your clothes, in order
to prevent them from creasing.
If your case has wheels don’t be tempted
to overfill it — you will still have to lift it.
AS COTT LIVING 19
TIPPLE WHISKY
A Warm Glow
1
Sullivan’s Cove
This Tasmanian
tipple is produced
with locally sourced
ingredients (quite
unusual in the
world of whisky),
and is aged in wine
casks made of
European oak
2
Blanton’s Gold
With a name like
pirate’s treasure, this
bourbon, produced
in the Buffalo
Trace distillery in
the US state of
Kentucky, offers less
sweetness, with a
minty bitterness
3
Flaming Heart
The whiskies involved
in this artisan Scotch
whisky are aged in
American oak casks
and European oak
casks, giving a distinct
flavour — as does the
mix of Highland and
Islay whisky
4
Nikka Taketsuru
The collector’s
choice, this
Japanese blended
malt is at the same
time smokily spicy,
and rich and fruity.
It boasts a blended
complexity in a
single malt
ROLL OUT THE BARREL
scottish whisky is arguably the most famous.
legend has it that the word comes from the gaelic
“usquebach”. meaning “water of life”, it later
became “usky” and then “whisky”
20
ASthe
COTT
LIVING
Find
best
bars for memorable cocktails at www.ascottliving.com/insidetrack
5
Glendronach
A single malt
Scotch from the
Highlands, bottled
for Singapore’s La
Maison du Whisky.
Only 476 bottles
of this collectible
cast strength are
available
RECIPE
FOR
SUCCESS
6
Redbreast
An artisanal Irish
pot still whisky
made of malted and
unmalted barley.
In the whiskylover’s world, this is
reportedly one of
the most respected
Irish brands
PHOTOS: ching lee (whisky bottles); getty images (old fashioned); JAY SIM (BARTENDER and store front)
whisky courtesy la maison du whisky
In celebration or commiseration, in a cocktail or
simply over ice, whisky is the international drink of
choice. From Scotland to Tasmania, this amber nectar
is being produced to worldwide acclaim
Once a drink
attributed to the
mature male, whisky
is becoming popular
with drinkers of all ages.
Loosely speaking, whisky
is a spirit distilled from
a mash of fermented
grains, and aged in casks,
usually of oak.
Malt whisky is
distilled exclusively from
barley malt and is either
single malt — whiskies
from a single distillery
— or a pure malt, that is,
malt whisky from several
distilleries. There’s also
blended whisky, which is
malt whisky combined
with grain whisky made
from other ingredients,
such as corn.
Scotland’s earliest
distillation is thought
to have been in 1494.
According to the Scotch
Whisky Industry Review,
exports were worth
US$6.66 billion in 2011,
with the United States
and France topping the
charts as the biggest
export markets. Even
the word “Scotch”
is protected by law
internationally.
Surprisingly, India
is one of the biggest
producers of the world’s
whisky, but most of
it is consumed by the
domestic market. Brands
sold domestically are
huge names locally,
but usually not of high
quality. The expert view
is that the best and only
brand comparable to
international whiskies
is Amrut, a single malt
available in 22 countries.
Ireland today
has a mere handful
of distilleries. Most
modern production uses
continuous stills, but
artisanal distillers tend
to prefer the traditional
pot still. In the latter,
the produce is allegedly
more “pure” and
contains more alcohol.
However, the pot still
requires distillation
batch by batch, whereas
continuous stills can be
constantly fed.
Manufacture is
regulated by the country
of origin. For example,
whisky made in the
United States is known
as bourbon — and must
be at least 51 percent
corn; aged in new
American oak barrels;
and bottled within the
country. In Tasmania,
the industry is young
— mostly because local
distillation was banned
for 150 years, and the
ban was only lifted in
the early 1990s.
Japanese whisky is
making a play for market
share too. Possibly the
most famous distiller is
Nikka, whose founding
father journeyed to
Scotland from his
homeland in 1918 to
learn the secrets of
whisky-making.
The smoky flavour of
whisky is best enjoyed
on its own, or with a
little ice. For newbies,
experts suggest going
for either a mellow
tasting cocktail, or a
premium pour enjoyed
simply straight.
OLD FASHIONED
first, stir a shot of bourbon with two ice cubes in an oldfashioned glass (a straight tumbler), then ADD half a shot
of sugar syrup, three dashes of Angostura bitters and
more ice cubes. Stir, then add ice, two and a half shots of
bourbon — and stir. garnish with an orange zest twist.
A PLACE
I KNOW
La Maison du Whisky, SINGAPORE
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
With over 600 whiskies, La
Maison du Whisky offers a
delicious voyage of discovery,
whether you prefer your
tipple neat or in a cocktail.
Once you find the one you like
best, you might want to buy
a bottle to take home. (Near
Somerset Liang Court)
80 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-10
Singapore 239013
Tel: (65) 6733 0059
www.whisky.sg
AS COTT LIVING 21
architecture CULTURE
Rising High
EXCITING Buildings on
the Ascott Network:
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France It is one
For those who love architecture, travel provides an uplifting
reminder of the potential of design and construction to lift
both people and places. Luke Clark looks up into the skies
travel offers a perfect
way to experience
culture’s most public of
living artworks firsthand, and discover why
they grace the skylines
For those who enjoy it, modern
architecture is one of the more positive
manifestations of globalisation. Increasingly, leading architects are being
awarded with iconic projects based more
upon design merit than on nationality
— as witnessed by Berlin’s New German
Parliament, the Reichstag, designed by
Briton Sir Norman Foster; while the design
for London’s bold new tower, The Shard,
went to Italy’s Renzo Piano.
22 AS COTT LIVING
Thankfully, architecture need not
always be about joining the throngs of
people queuing to see the Eiffel Tower
in Paris, France, or the Petronas Towers
in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Often,
connecting with a “must-see” building
can be as easily achieved by enjoying it
from a distance — or from high up in a
neighbouring building. Or sometimes, a
personal gem of a house will stop you in
your tracks during a neighbourhood walk.
Either way, a love of architecture can help
you bring history to life, and give you a
greater connection with the city you’re in.
To get started, do a little research
before you leave home, making sure that
you bring along good walking shoes and
enough money for the taxi fare home once
your feet are sore. Keep your wits about
you though, particularly in popular spots
— walking with your eyes to the skies can
leave you vulnerable to everything from
pickpockets to passing cars.
Sometimes, exploring a city’s most
renowned architecture will come easy—
such as a stroll along the Bund in Shanghai,
China, where the mix of art deco and
neoclassical buildings along the Huangpu
River almost seem to eye the gleaming
skyscrapers of Pudong on the opposite
bank, with a slight sense of awe.
Elsewhere though, the attractions
will be on the fringes of the city, and will
only come alive during scheduled events.
This applies to the world-famous sports
stadiums of Swiss architects Herzog &
de Meuron, whose luminously glowing
China Central Television
Headquarters, Beijing, China
At 234 metres, this avant-garde
structure really draws the eye and, in
some ways, fools it. According to its
creators, the unusual shape means
it can appear big or small, and hard
or soft, depending on your angle.
Torre Agbar, Barcelona, Spain
This bullet-shaped building, by Atelier
Jean Nouvel and b720 architectural
practice, offers stunning views of
the heart of Barcelona from its
observation deck, and at night lights
up like a 144-metre-tall firecracker.
One George Street,
Singapore
Clockwise from above: Barcelona’s
Torre Agbar is a constantly changing
feast of lights, while the iconic
Eiffel Tower in Paris never fails
to impress; Berlin’s new German
parliament building the Reichstag
is a symphony of space and light
Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany (home
to Bayern Munich football team) and the
National Stadium of Beijing (or the Bird’s
Nest), host of the 2008 Olympic Games.
Many famous structures such as these
will offer scheduled tours if you make
enquiries, and sometimes a guided tour
is the best way to avoid walking into lamp
posts, while learning about the stories
and intrigue around the construction of
many famous landmarks. While today
they are household names, many iconic
buildings faced a struggle to get finished
— the most notable example being Danish
architect Jørn Utzon’s, and his bittersweet
symphony around the Sydney Opera
House. Now a World Heritage Site and
photos: getty images; terence ong (one george street)
Buildings both protect us
and define us. their lines AND
dimensions can range from the poorly
conceived to the almost divinely inspired.
For those who love the built structure in its
many magical forms, travel offers a perfect
way to experience culture’s most public of
living artworks first-hand, and to discover
just why they grace the skylines and key
addresses of many of the planet’s most
talked-about cities.
From Frank Gehry to Antonio Gaudí,
Ieoh Ming Pei to Moshe Safdie, the works
of some of the world’s most celebrated
architects are on display in cities
worldwide. As spaces, these buildings
can define luxury living, or redefine the
potential of our public places.
of the most recognisable structures on the
planet, and rightly so. Despite wielding
a 7,000-tonne steel frame, the Tower
still radiates elegance and lightness.
the country’s most famous built structure,
Utzon angrily stormed out from the project
following a political dispute, leaving its
interior and the outer edges incomplete.
Sadly, he never returned to enjoy his
design’s proud legacy.
Walking tours that include architectural
highlights are often available through
a local visitor centre, public gallery or
library. Or associations like Europe’s
Guiding Architects (www.guidingarchitects.net) can open up the world of
modern architecture. Tours include the
highlights of the past decade’s architecture
in Barcelona, such as Jean Nouvel’s Torre
Agbar and Parc Diagonal; to the futuristic
HafenCity development in Hamburg,
Germany — a 155-hectare city centre set to
host 1.7 million residents.
In other cities, guided tours help
demonstrate how past events mould
our new world. Take a walking tour of
downtown Berlin, to discover how the
city’s infamous Wall split its soul in half.
Then finish your wandering alongside
some of Berlin’s newest high-rises at
Potsdamer Platz — a square which during
the Berlin Wall’s time, was quite literally a
no man’s land between east and west. As a
symbol of renewed hope, the Daimler and
Sony buildings sprouting out of the once
tortured soil provide an uplifting reminder
of architecture’s power to carry both
people and their places forward.
Boasting not one but
four sky gardens,
an infinity pool
and cutting-edge
environmentally
sustainable features,
CapitaLand’s One George
Street is not just an office
building — it’s a symbol of Singapore’s
commitment to modern design.
The Reichstag, Berlin, Germany
Old meets new in this seat of German
parliamentary power, which in 1999
saw the addition of a beautiful
glass dome, open to the public.
Philips Pavilion, Brussels, Belgium
Le Corbusier’s dramatic pavilion,
designed for the 1958 World’s Fair,
is still standing. Its chief designer
described it as “an Electronic Poem,
and a vessel containing the poem.”
Federation Square, Melbourne
Four years of redesign have transformed
this city square into a cohesive heart of
the city. Over nine million visitors flock
to the 3.8-hectare space every year.
AS COTT LIVING 23
freshly b aked BIG BITE
Freshly
Baked
words by alison marshall photos by mervin chua
If you think there’s only one kind
of bread out there, be prepared to
be pleasantly surprised. Pictured
here from bottom left, you can take
your pick of gluten-free bread, pain
au levain (the classic sourdough),
Turkish pide (a type of flatbread),
an all-butter French crossaint and
ficelle (a type of a mini-baguette)
24 AS COTT LIVING
Wherever you are in the world, the appetising smell wafting
from a bakery is a reminder of home. From flaky croissants
to a mouth-wateringly savoury pie. Ascott Living takes a
look at the rising popularity of the artisanal baker
AS COTT LIVING 25
26 AS COTT LIVING
Above: Baking might seem like simple fun to most
of us, but watching Dean Brettschneider plying his
craft will show you how serious the art can be
Opposite: If you’re hosting a party, a tray of pecan
tarts and raspberry tarts (bottom left) or a cherry
tart (bottom right) are great for afters. On the other
hand, those with a taste for something savoury
might prefer the curried egg, ricotta and bacon
pie (top left). And there’s always a well-made loaf
of sourdough (top right) for the traditionalist
year, four million viewers in the United
Kingdom tuned in to the first episode
of the BBC’s Great British Bake Off — a
programme where amateur bakers are
pitted against each other, to see who can
produce the most delicious baked goods.
As discerning diners and fervent
foodies become more interested in
where their food is coming from and how
much better we feel when we are eating
something healthy, artisanal bakers are
going from strength to strength.
With a wide range of bread from across
the globe, a bewildering variety of sweet
and savoury pies, and cakes packed full
of rich goodness, baked goods are now
drawing people back into the bakery —
from London to Shanghai.
In some Eastern cultures where baked
delight is not part of the traditional
cuisine, contemporary demand for
baked goods is growing. Today, bakeries
producing croissants and delicious
patisserie are flourishing as much in Dubai
as they are in Paris.
Whether we come from a family that
enjoyed cooking or not, there is something
comforting about the smell of baking, an
aroma that enfolds and caresses, making
a dark day brighter and bringing comfort
to hectic times. Even during times of
austerity, people take comfort in the
simple pleasures of tradition — and baking
ticks all the boxes, whether you aspire to
do it yourself, or you prefer to enjoy the
fruit of someone else’s labours.
Global baker Dean Brettschneider is
one of those responsible for this newfound
love affair with the world of baking. A New
Zealander by birth, he now spends much
of his time travelling the world, advising
restaurants and large supermarkets about
how best to bake. Travellers to Singapore
and Shanghai can taste some of his wares
at his Baker & Cook and Baker & Spice
outlets respectively. As Ascott Living went
to press, he had a brand new project due to
open in Abu Dhabi.
“Food has always been a passion.
Baking was the first stop and I got fully
involved in all aspects, from working
with large industries to craft bakers,”
Brettschneider told Ascott Living.
“There’s a resurgence in the artisan
style of baking, things that used to
be everyday — good bread without
preservatives, something that tastes good
and is not out of a packet — we’re returning
to that. People really don’t mind paying for
something of quality.”
PHOTO: Aaron McLean, www.aaronmclean.com (dean Brettschneider)
Interest in “REAL” food
made with love and quality
is growing once again. Despite some
modern diets which shun carbohydrates,
everyday items made with love and quality
are on the rise again — quite literally
in the case of the home-made bread
our grandparents might have taken for
granted, which are largely mysterious to
their great-grandchildren. Sadly, to many
of today’s generation, the smell of crispy,
freshly-baked loaf has been replaced by
the image of a flavourless, mass-produced
rectangle swaddled in a plastic bag.
Bread is one of the oldest baked foods
known to man, and some think the most
primitive version — probably a flatbread
made by mixing flour and water together
before baking — was invented around
10,000 BC. Then came the closed oven,
invented around 3,000 BC, which ushered
in ever-more baking possibilities.
The humble pie was first referenced
in the Oxford English Dictionary in
1303. Meat was originally wrapped in
leaves or mud to stop it burning, until an
industrious medieval baker formulated a
pastry crust to protect and preserve the
meat. From its simple savoury origins,
the pie has been elevated from its role as
common sustenance, and is now found in
many guises — layered with international
savoury ingredients, or glisteningly sweet
with seasonal fruit.
For baking enthusiasts, there’s nothing
quite like the fragrance of a cake fresh from
the oven. According to some accounts, fruit
cake, a sign of Christmas in many parts of
the world, traces back to Roman times. In
the 18th century, it was allegedly outlawed
across Europe, after being deemed sinfully
rich — a major part of its appeal today.
Despite the fact that more people
are dining out than ever before, food
programmes and baking shows are
becoming even more popular. Last
AS COTT LIVING 27
freshly b aked BIG BITE
The quality aspect is an interesting
one. Figures from the United Kingdom’s
Department for Environment, Food
and Rural Affairs, or Defra, show that
32 percent of bread purchased in the
country is wasted, which according
“Our grandparents
talk about bread
that had real flavour.
we have read and
heard about it — And
artisan baking is all
about that texture
and taste”
At Baker & Cook, breakfast can be a
thoroughly decadent meal, considering
its extensive selection of pastries. You
may be hard-pressed to pick from
(clockwise from top left) the pain
au chocolat (essentially a chocolate
filled crossaint), almond crossaint,
chocolate almond crossaint, classic
butter crossaint and apricot danish
28
AS COTT LIVING
to the anti-food waste organisation
Wrap amounts to a staggering 680,000
tonnes — at a cost of £1.1 billion (US$1.75
billion). It is thought that the easily
available, mass-produced white loaf
that retails there for as little as 20 pence
(US$0.39) has much to do with the lack of
value that some people place on food.
As Brettschneider says, “With artisan
food there is more value. When you have
something yummy, why would you throw
it away when it is wonderful? If you get
something for almost nothing that comes
in a plastic bag, there is no involvement.”
“Baking has become really emotional,”
he adds. “Some bad bakers cut corners
and think the consumer wants a loaf that
is cheap and has a long shelf life. But if it’s
a good product you want it fresh, daily.”
He notes, “Our grandparents talk
about bread that had real flavour. We
have read and heard about it. And artisan
baking is all about that texture and taste.”
Proof that quality has longevity is the
famous sourdough loaf of the Parisienne
baker Poilâne, which has been baked in
the French capital since 1932 — and is
now enjoyed all over the world.
In a world where some feel pressure
to ditch the carbs, it is interesting to see
that the appetite for “real” baked goods
is growing. “People are moving towards
bread that is much better for you, with
more grain. We are all more mindful
today about what we are putting down our
throat,” observes Brettschneider.
From flaky croissants to pillowsoft Turkish flatbreads, densely
seeded German loaves or a simple and
beautiful white bloomer, there’s much
to choose from straight from the oven.
Brettschneider knows the loaf he loves
the best. “Bread-wise, for me the favourite
is a sourdough. It’s the king of breads,
which is nothing more than flour, water,
salt and wild yeast (which I grew 15 years
ago). It’s uncomplicated and has strength
and integrity. I like it toasted because it
doesn’t shrivel — it stays just as it is.”
Baking is not just confined to bread.
From cakes to tarts and succulent
savoury pies, the aroma of baking from
a nearby oven can evoke a warm rush of
emotion in virtually any traveller.
As coffee shop culture grows
worldwide, more people see the perfect
weekend morning as a nice coffee in a
homely environment, alongside a baked
treat. Brettschneider feels for bread
in particular, he’s seen a renaissance.
“People come to the bakery and want to
take a loaf home and share it with friends.
It’s become a family activity.”
With an international drive by
artisan bakers to provide quality baking,
hopefully future generations across the
globe will be able to appreciate what their
elders took for granted.
BAKERY BEST
Singapore
Perth
77 Hillcrest Road,
Greenwood
Singapore 288951
Tel: (65) 6469 8834
www.bakerandcook.biz
From croissants to flatbread,
you’ll find it all here — but
get there early
44 Angove Street,
North Perth
WA 6006, Australia
Tel: (61–8) 9328 7442
www.fiorentina.com.au
Italian goodies for everyday
— or special occasions
Baker & Cook
Fiorentina
Hiroshima
Hondori, Mashinakaku,
Hiroshima, Hiroshima
Prefecture 7300035, Japan
Tel: (81–82) 247 4800
Offers a variety of breads
from local favourites to
Danish pastries
China Central Place
89 Jianguo Road
Building 15, No. 102
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100025
Tel: (86–10) 6530 5480
www.comptoirsdefrance.com
With over 20 varieties of
cake this is a foodie must
Frankfurt
Hanoi
Vogelsbergstraße 19
60316 Frankfurt am
Main, Germany
Tel: (49–69) 431 585
Try their delicious bread —
and maybe a slice of gateau
5 Xuan Dieu, Tây Ho, Hanoi
Tel: (84–4) 3933 2355
Where locals and foreigners
alike go for a crisp croissant
or decadent sweet treat
Andersen Kitchen Buffet
Paris
Poilâne
8 rue du Cherche-Midi
Paris 75006
Tel: (33–1) 4548 4259
www.poilane.com
Aside from their famous
sourdough, Poilâne’s other
breads — such as raisin or
nut — are also worth a try
Beijing
Comptoirs de France
Kronberger
Find out how TO BAKE DEAN BRETTSCHNEIDER’s CARROT CAKE at: www.ascottliving.com/bigbite
Saint Honore
(Xuan Dieu)
AS COTT LIVING 29
Visual Game changer
Visual
Journeyman
From facing down Spielberg and Redford, to helping tomorrow’s
film-makers, Oscar-winning film-maker Richard Chuang has had
a first-hand view of an amazing period for visual effects. As he tells
luke clark, it’s been the changes as much as the successes that
have helped keep life interesting. Photography by Mark teo
no matter how many technical
innovations you are involved
in or how many black tie award
ceremonies that you attend, there are
few things a film-maker remembers
as clearly as looking into the whites
of the eyes of a legendary auteur, and
being told your work is terrible.
For visual effects innovator Richard
Chuang, one such confrontation came
from none other than Steven Spielberg.
Thankfully, he survived to end up on firstname basis with the legendary director and
film-maker. Describing to Ascott Living his
memories of working on groundbreaking
action film Minority Report, Chuang
recalls that getting shot down by a
proven master, is when you really know
that you’re in the film business.
“The fun part is always working with
Steven,” the warm-voiced technical expert
recalls over the phone from the US city of
Los Angeles. “He’s very critical of people’s
work. I mean, I remember one of my
little humbling experiences was, Steven
telling me my work was not up to par. And
when you hear it from him, you know, you
shrink to a very small size very quickly.”
Thankfully, this was certainly not
Chuang’s first-ever film, and nor would
it be the last confrontation. Nor did
he feel the criticism at the time was
30 AS COTT LIVING
intended as personal. Spielberg, he
would go on to discover, specialises
in pushing people to their peak — for
the overall betterment of his films.
“You learn from him too, you know.
He puts you on the team so that you
make him look better,” he explains.
“It’s all of us that have to exceed his
expectations. That will make a great
film.” In Chuang’s eyes, the philosophy of
everyone applying their abilities to their
best is something that Spielberg, better
than most directors, is able to impose on
those who are on his team. “The success
of the film is not just about him, but all
of us exceeding our own limitations.”
The Hong Kong-born son of an
entrepreneurial family, Chuang is one
of the first to admit that his career path
has been a mixture of hard work, risktaking and being in the right place at the
right time. And over time, the embracing
of change, whenever it came his way.
“I always told my wife, I go to work
because I know that when I wake up
tomorrow, I’ll be doing something I’ve
never done before. That’s always defined
my job,” he says. “That was the only
reason I did it, because it was just fun.”
As one of the pioneers of the computer
graphics and digital effects industry, the
opportunities and changes Chuang has
“I remember one of
my little humbling
experiences was,
Steven SPieLBERG
telling me my work
was not up to par. And
when you hear it from
him, you know, you
shrink to a very small
size very quickly”
witnessed have been numerous. He cofounded Pacific Data Images (PDI) in 1981,
and in the act, unwittingly found himself
at the forefront of the convergence of
art and technology in the entertainment
industry. While animation and digital
effects are now as everyday as salt and
pepper to a film director, his career started
at a time when the early pioneers were,
quite literally, shooting in the dark. Not
that he’s complaining: in hindsight, he
wouldn’t have had it any other way.
After PDI’s work became intrinsic
to pioneering films like Shrek and
Madagascar, the company became PDI/
Dreamworks. He describes the early days
of working on Shrek, a film that would later
become known as an animation gamechanger. Did he realise it at the time?
Chuang laughs. “Well to be honest, when
we were first working on that, we had no
idea what we were doing. We finished
doing Ants, and that was challenging
enough being the first feature film we did.
Going to Shrek, it was a whole different
level of complexity at that point,” he says.
“The challenge was really to do humanoid
figures, and be able to convey real acting.”
One of the moments that convinced
him that his technical team was doing
something special, came from a distinctly
non-Hollywood source. “I think we
made some real accomplishments in
that film, that still stand up very well
today. We based our facial recognition
system in Shrek on muscles, unlike other
people that use blend shapes, or things
like that,” he explains. “I had a friend
who was hearing-impaired. He normally
didn’t watch animated films, because he
couldn’t read the lips. He actually went
to Shrek, and coming out, said that it
was one of the first animated films he
saw, where he could actually understand
most of the dialogue, because he could
actually read the lips,” he recalls.
AS COTT LIVING 31
“That was the best comment I received
— we’d accomplished something that
exceeded even our own expectations.” It
was a time of pioneering hardware work
too, as Chuang and his team helped create
a production system that would go on to
become a go-to solution for the industry.
Having started out as a painter,
Chuang showed his early versatility by
turning his hand to software writing.
“I wrote most of the early software
we used in production,” he recalls. “I
wrote the renderer, the compositor,
an animation tool and a lighting tool.”
Indeed, he received an Academy
Award for Technical Achievement in
1997, together with Glenn Entis and
Carl Rosendahl, for the concept and
architecture of the PDI Animation System.
Chuang says he was amused to learn
that one of his early programs, created in
1982, was only retired as recently as 2010.
“Which makes it one of the longest-lasting
pieces of software in the world,” he notes.
Comparing the visual effects industry
now to when he was at the creative
coalface, he says the real innovators in
recent times have been the artists.
“When we first started, it was seatof-the-pants,” he says. Back then, almost
every challenge required a new invention
along the way, whereas now, changes to the
animation tools are less common. “There
has not been as much technical innovation,
as much as there has been creative
innovation. People have now learned to
become masters of their own art form.”
Having come from an art background,
Chuang used to compare his challenges in
computer graphics, to those of the artist. “I
always relate it to my artist friend by saying,
it’s difficult to become a master of your art
when your tools change every day,” he says.
“Basically there’s nothing you can’t do
anymore. What you see now oftentimes
32 AS COTT LIVING
PHOTOs: mark teo (top); everett/tpg/click photos (middle)
”When we first
started, it was
seat-of-the-pants.
everything we did had
never been invented”
Above: Richard Chuang (top)
contributed some groundbreaking
technology and techniques to the
field of visual effects. Among his
many films are Minority Report
(middle) and Madagascar (above)
fools the audience, and the audience
can’t even tell what’s real and what’s not.
Because people have perfected their
skill — and now they’re mastering it.”
Chuang has spent the most recent
chapter of his career creating and
working with film studios in Asia — first
as a studio executive, helping expand
PDI/Dreamworks production capacity
to satisfy a growing global demand.
Then more recently, he has set up a new
venture, Cloudpic, formed to enable
distant artists to work together via the
technology around cloud computing.
Having seen the full picture of the
film-making cycle, Cloudpic’s aim was
to build something artist-friendly and
free of technical impediments. “The
whole idea here is to give back to the
creative people in our space, a little
bit more freedom to collaborate.”
He is impressed too with contemporary
film-makers like The Dark Knight and
Inception director Christopher Nolan,
who push their production team as far as
they can in creating a stunt, before visual
effects become involved. “In some ways,
I really appreciate Nolan’s work because
he tries as much as possible not to use
visual effects,” he says. “We got to a point
where we were so reliant on the visual
effects, we lost track of the storytelling.”
Chuang remembers another
confrontation with a big-name director.
“I remember Robert Redford telling me
the day I started, ‘The last visual effect
supervisor I worked with, I fired.’ That
was his first line to me,” he laughs. “At one
point we got to be pretty good friends, and
he said to me, ‘If you do your job well, I
won’t see it. I’ll be very happy,’” he recalls.
“Because he’s not making a film about
effects — he’s making a film about people.”
He is happy now to hand over the
creative reins to a new generation, safe
in the knowledge that they have the
technical tools to achieve greatness. “The
age of exploration is over,” he says almost
wistfully.” Thanks to pioneers like him,
today’s artists have the best technology at
their fingertips. “Now they have to really
master it, and become storytellers.”
ILLUSTRATION: marisa morea (tHE ILLUSTRATION ROOM)
Around our residences
Yellow Crane
Tower Park,
Wuhan, China
“Yellow Crane Tower Park is a nice place to take an early
morning stroll in Wuhan. Set on Snake Hill, and featuring
the Millennium Bell peace monument (pictured), the park
is a serene little spot in the centre of the city, overlooking the
Tangtze River. The Yellow Crane Tower, built in 223 AD, is
a feature of the walk, which gives you a nice easy start to an
otherwise busy day.” — Hass Aminian
MORE TIPS: apps.facebook.com/aroundourresidences
AS COTT LIVING 33
NEWS ASCOTT
Around Ascott
A snapshot of what’s happening in Ascott around the
world — our properties and our staff
PREMIER ASCOTT
DOHA OPENS IN QATAR
ASCOTT CONTINUES EXPANSION IN CHINA
ASCOTT HAS BEEN AWARDED FIVE
NEW CONTRACTS and formed a
strategic alliance with one of the largest
property developers in Guangzhou.
The company has been awarded three
new contracts in Shanghai and Suzhou:
the 90-unit Ascott Heng Shan Shanghai,
250-unit Ascott Emerald City Suzhou and
192-unit Somerset Baitang Suzhou, which
are scheduled to open in 2014, 2015 and
2017, respectively.
Ascott has also secured contracts
in Guangzhou to manage two more
serviced residences: Citadines LiZhiWan
Guangzhou and Somerset Riviera
Guangzhou. The properties are scheduled
to open later this year.
The new contracts reinforce Ascott’s
position as the largest international
serviced residence owner-operator in
China. In addition, Ascott has entered
into a strategic alliance with Yuexiu
Property, to drive its expansion plans in
34 AS COTT LIVING
China. Yuexiu Property will leverage
on its significant presence and expertise
to acquire and develop serviced
residences in China, while Ascott will
bring to the table its ability to manage
award-winning residences.
Lee Chee Koon, Ascott’s Deputy
Chief Executive Officer and Managing
Director for North Asia noted, “China is
a key market for Ascott, as it continues
to attract significant foreign direct
investment, which generates increasing
demand for serviced residences. To
achieve our target of 12,000 apartment
units in China by 2015, we will expand
in tier-one cities like Beijing, Shanghai
and Guangzhou, as well as other highgrowth cities through investments and
management contracts. Strategic alliances
with leading developers such as Yuexiu
Property will enable us to combine our
expertise and industry knowledge to
further extend Ascott’s lead in China.”
ASCOTT HAS
OPENED ITS FIRST
PREMIER ASCOTTbranded serviced
residence in Qatar,
the Ascott Doha.
With the 229-unit
property, Ascott now
has a network of over
1,000 apartment units
across six properties
in four countries in
the Gulf region.
Discerning business and leisure
travellers can enjoy the elegantly
designed apartments, complemented by
comprehensive recreation and business
facilities. Located in the diplomatic
centre of the city, at the north end of the
Corniche waterfront promenade, fronting
Doha Bay, the serviced residence offers
stunning vistas of the Arabian coast and
easy access to City Centre Mall, Qatar’s
best known retail and entertainment
spot. It is also just a stone’s throw away
from the Doha Exhibition Centre, and a
10-minute drive from the city’s business
and financial district.
Vincent Wee, Ascott’s Managing
Director for India and Gulf Cooperation
Council, said, “Ascott is a Singapore
brand which has gained international
repute for its quality properties
worldwide, and we welcome travellers to
experience our new premier Ascott
Doha. We will also open our properties
in Oman in 2014.”
ASCOTT STRENGTHENS
PRESENCE IN INDONESIA
WITH FIRST ASCOTTBRANDED SERVICED
RESIDENCE IN SURABAYA
ASCOTT HAS won A MANAGEMENT
CONTRACT FOR ITS first Ascottbranded serviced residence in Surabaya,
the company’s 10th property in Indonesia.
Ascott Waterplace Surabaya will offer 181
apartments when it opens in 2014, and will
be Ascott’s third property in Surabaya.
Alfred Ong, Ascott’s Managing Director
for Southeast Asia and Australia, said,
“Ascott sees tremendous growth potential
in Indonesia. Besides a strong foothold in
Jakarta, we are expanding our presence
in Surabaya. Surabaya is Indonesia’s
second-largest city and home to the main
seaport for the eastern part of the country.
Its growing commercial, manufacturing
and meetings and conventions sectors
are attracting both international and
domestic business travellers. Ascott
Waterplace Surabaya, with its luxurious
accommodation, business support and
personalised services, will complement
our existing properties and cater to the
rising demand for international-class
accommodation in this city.”
The contract was awarded by Pakuwon
Group, one of the largest real estate
developers in Indonesia.
Tony Soh, Chief Corporate Officer, Ascott (second from left) and representatives from the
National Parks Board and Jamiyah Singapore officiate the opening of the Knowledge Garden
Ascott Makes A Difference To
Disadvantaged Children
ASCOTT HAS CONTRIBUTED
S$18,000 (US$14,000) TO THE
Garden City Fund (GCF), a registered
charity in Singapore supported by
the country’s National Parks Board.
GCF works with organisations and
individuals to cultivate a love for the
environment through education,
outreach, conservation efforts and
research. Ascott’s contribution will go
towards creating a knowledge garden in
Jamiyah Children’s Home.
For more information
and the latest
promotions, visit
www.the-ascott.com
In July last year, Ascott launched a
Corporate Online Booking campaign
to promote the use of its corporate
booking website. The campaign pledged
a donation of S$1 from every corporate
online booking to GCF.
The garden will enable the children
of the home to learn to grow and harvest
several types of crops, including chilli,
coriander, eggplant, lemon grass and
tomatoes. The children will be involved
in gardening, farming and selling the
produce in the neighbourhood.
Ascott’s Chief Corporate Officer, Tony
Soh, and a group of staff volunteers from
the company visited the home to present
the donation and take part in gardening
activities with the children. Ascott
hopes the knowledge garden will help
the children to discover a passion for
gardening and fulfil their potential.
AS COTT LIVING 35
YOUR SAY
Safe And Sound
When sisters Vyonnie-Amor and Nancy Lee stayed at Ascott
Makati during an emotional visit to the Philippines, quick-witted
staff ensured that a potential disaster was averted
As Vyonnie-Amor and Nancy
Lee planned a visit to the
Philippines from their homes in
Switzerland, little did they foresee that the
visit would involve a heart-stopping fright.
The trip was distressing enough: a
journey made from their respective homes
in Geneva and Zurich, in Switzerland, to
attend their father’s funeral. But things
quickly took a turn for the worse when
childhood friends Francis and Irma
Garcia visited them at their Ascott Makati
apartment, accompanied by their fiveyear-old granddaughter, Andi. Nancy
and Irma went out for the afternoon
and soon afterwards Vyonnie-Amor
discovered that Andi was missing.
“When we realised she had gone we
were frantically looking for her in all
the rooms — including all the wardrobes
and even inside the washing machine!”
recalls Vyonnie-Amor Lee. “Realising
that Andi was actually missing from
our apartment we started to panic,
but somehow there was also a certain
calm assurance that she was in very
good hands. Thank God, a phone call
with good news came just in time.”
While Vyonnie-Amor and Garcia
were searching the apartment, Andi had
managed to get herself into a lift and out
to the lobby on the sixth floor, where she
found security staff Rey Aduptante.
Aduptante had seen her alight from
the guest lift by herself and immediately
went up to look after her and make
36 AS COTT LIVING
sure she stayed safe. He engaged her
in conversation, trying to find out
who she was so that he could return
her to her apartment. Bellhop Ian
Balanoba and driver Reggie Gutierrez
were also on hand to offer their
assistance in returning the girl to her
grandparents as quickly as possible.
Sensing that the child might be
amenable to opening up to a female,
assistant residence manager Susan
Salcedo joined in and coaxed Andi into
conversation by asking her about her
favourite animals and cartoon characters,
all the while trying to get her surname,
which she couldn’t remember — nor
did she know her room number. All she
could give concerned Ascott staff was a
couple of given names, but no surnames.
Meanwhile, the security team was
going through CCTV footage to determine
where Andi had boarded the lift. “When
we found out where, staff reviewed the
guest list from the floor and found a name
that Andi had mentioned as one of the
registered companions,” said Salcedo.
She continued, “Our team called the
apartment and inquired if they had a
child named Andi. Needless to say, they
were very happy when we told them that
we had found her. We then promptly
returned Andi back to her family.”
Vyonnie-Amor was about to race
down to reception to collect Andi,
when the youngster appeared at the
apartment door, accompanied by her
rescuers. “We realised after Andi was
found that she had opened the door of
the apartment by herself to see if she
could follow her grandmother and Nancy.
The Ascott staff said she was very brave
and not upset at all about the ordeal.”
Although it seemed like a
lifetime, the whole ordeal lasted just
20 minutes, thanks to the quickwitted actions of Ascott staff.
“Thanks to the good
sense and helpfulness
of Ascott staff, Andi
was brought back
to us safely. What a
wonderful relief”
Vyonnie-Amor’s sister Nancy
was equally impressed with Ascott’s
prompt reaction. “Thanks to the good
sense and helpfulness of Ascott staff,
Andi was brought back to us safely,”
she remembers. “What a wonderful
relief, I cannot imagine how we
would all be able to face the following
days if nobody had found her.”
Opposite page, from top: The living area of the
Ascott Makati’s two-bedroom residence; the modern
interior of one of the property’s studio apartments
AS COTT LIVING 37 AS COTT LIVING 37
INSIGHT
Extensive squares of green
paddy fields along the highway.
Scores of bicycles and motorbikes
traversing the roads. Young ladies in their
traditional ao dai (Vietnamese national
costume). Conical-hatted street vendors.
Beautiful, serene lakes. Impressive
museums and temples, French colonial
houses and many landmark buildings a
haven for history aficionados. This was my
picture of Hanoi a decade ago — the first
time I set foot in this charming city.
I first came to Vietnam in 1998, and lived
and worked here for six years until 2004. I
came back beaming with excitement to see
familiar faces, revisit memorable places and
discover new additions to the city. It is very
interesting to see what has changed.
There are still paddy fields in
sight, yet buildings are mushrooming
everywhere. The city is catching up
with other cosmopolitan capitals in
neighbouring countries. Some places were
unrecognisable; Hanoi has expanded and is
developing fast.
Yet, right in the heart of the city remains
the untouched beauty that is the legendary
Hoan Kiem Lake. Even though it is nestled
amidst the frenetic thoroughfares of
downtown Hanoi, the lake retains its charm
and unpretentious beauty. The temple that
sits in the middle of the lake, and the iconic
vibrantly red, lacquered timber bridge
connecting the temple to the lakeshore, are
among its many attractions.
Taking a leisurely stroll along the
famous Old Quarter’s 36 streets, you will be
stunned by the many masterpieces — from
paintings, to an impressive collection of
souvenirs and handicrafts. Here in Hanoi,
there are only a handful of chic malls but
visitors will be continually amazed by
the clusters of shops scattered around,
in almost every street — especially in the
Old Quarter. What might seem even more
astounding, few of the houses in this maze
of 36 streets are original. The Old Quarter
illustrates Hanoi’s storied past, but the city
is challenged by economic development and
38 AS COTT LIVING
HISTORY
Milestones
From a single luxury property to the world’s largest serviced
residence company today, Ascott has come a long way
Rediscovering Hanoi
Returning to Vietnam after eight years away, Rhea Vitto, Ascott’s Director of
Sales and Marketing for North Vietnam, has relished the chance to rediscover
old favourites in Hanoi and welcome the new
a construction boom, which has seen the
arrival of new restaurants and mini hotels.
The tree-lined, breezy Phan Dinh Phung
Street, with its big villas reminiscent of
French colonial architecture, still remains,
a focal point being Cua Bac Church, one of
the three major churches in Hanoi.
“Hanoi is a city of
simple beauty, simple
life, simple happiness”
When it comes to local cuisine, I have
been told many times that if you want to
enjoy authentic Vietnamese food, then you
should not miss the fare at the sidewalks.
Two must-try signature dishes, which are
my personal favourites, are the popular pho
(rice noodle soup, which comes either with
beef or chicken) and the well-known bun
cha (grilled pork with thin rice vermicelli).
Of all the country’s diverse culinary
offerings, they are my king and queen.
Hanoi is a city of simple beauty,
simple life, simple happiness. Street
noise from impatient motorists who
enjoy honking their horns coupled with
loud conversations can sometimes be
deafening, but you will find serenity in this
place. There are times you will get bored.
Yet there are times you will admire the city
for its simplicity. Hanoi is slowly changing
its face, like a young lady learning to put
on make-up. Will Hanoi grow up to be a
metropolitan city, while retaining its soul,
old charm and historic ambience? I guess
I won’t get tired of rediscovering the old
charms of this city and welcoming the new.
The Ascott Limited is a
Singapore COMPANY THAT has
grown to be the world’s largest
international serviced residence owneroperator. It has about 22,000 operating
serviced residence units in key cities of
Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region
— as well as over 8,000 units currently
under development.
Our portfolio adds up to more
than 31,000 units spanning over 70
cities across more than 20 countries.
Ascott pioneered Asia-Pacific’s first
international-class serviced residence
with the opening of The Ascott Singapore
in 1984.
With a work ethic that emphasises
customer service excellence, Ascott has
Our achievements have earned
global recognition and with it,
numerous prestigious awards.
Among the accolades are:
been winning guests over with our
signature hospitality, where we deliver
service from the heart and where we go
the extra mile to delight our residents.
We are very glad that many guests have
chosen us as their preferred “home away
from home” over the years. Today Ascott
boasts a 29-year industry track record and
award-winning serviced residence brands
that enjoy recognition worldwide.
Significant moments in our history
1984
Ascott opened Asia-Pacific’s first serviced
residence in Singapore, a new concept in the
region. Citadines started in Europe with its
first apart’hotel in Paris, France.
2004
Ascott completed acquisition of Citadines.
The company now owns three brands:
Ascott, Citadines and Somerset.
2006
The world’s first Pan-Asian serviced
residence REIT, the Ascott Residence Trust
(Ascott Reit), was established and listed on
March 31 in Singapore.
Above, from left: A modern studio
apartment at Citadines Prestige HolbornCovent Garden in London; relax in the cosy
living room of Somerset West Lake Hanoi
2009
Ascott celebrated 25 years in the serviced
residence industry with special promotions
and over 25 community initiatives worldwide.
2008–2013
DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards
“Best Serviced Residence/Residence Operator”
2005–2012
Business Traveller China
“Best Serviced Residence Brand in China”
2004–2012
Business Traveller Asia-Pacific
“Best Serviced Residence Brand”
2007–2012
Business Traveller UK
“Best Serviced Apartment Company”
2005–2012
TTG Travel Awards
“Best Serviced Residence Operator”
AS COTT LIVING 39
[义] RIGHTEOUSNESS
[智] WISDOM
ION Orchard, Singapore
[礼] DECORUM
[仁] BENEVOLENCE
The Orchard Residences, Singapore
[信] TRUSTWORTHINESS
Raffles City Singapore
Capital Tower, Singapore
Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo, Japan
WHEN WE BUILD BUILDINGS
WE BUILD PEOPLE TOO
Isn’t a good building like a good person?
With strength of character,
it could weather hardships.
When sensible to what’s around,
it’s in harmony with its environment.
And like a good building,
a good person is sturdy. Dependable.
Someone who looks outside himself,
to share your joys and hopes.
Click to download
ringtones
Homes • Offices • Shopping Malls
• Serviced Residences • REITs • Funds
www.capitaland.com
At CapitaLand, we see the two as one.
Because you can’t build one without the other.
Raffles City Shanghai, China
The Ascott Limited is a member of CapitaLand, one of Asia’s largest real estate companies. The Ascott Limited is the largest
international serviced residence owner-operator with more than 200 properties in over 70 cities across more than 20 countries
in Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region. It operates three award-winning brands Ascott, Citadines and Somerset.
For worldwide reservations: (65) 6272 7272 GDS chain code: AZ
Website: www.the–ascott.com, www.citadines.com and www.somerset.com E–mail: [email protected]
SOUTHEAST ASIA
Ascott Sentral
(Opening in 2013)
INDONESIA
Somerset Ampang
187 Jalan Ampang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(60–3) 2140 2220
Jakarta
Ascott Jakarta
Jalan Kebon Kacang Raya No 2,
Jakarta 10230, Indonesia
(62–21) 391 6868
Seri Bukit Ceylon Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
8 Lorong Ceylon,
Off Jalan Raja Chulan,
50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(60–3) 2055 8888
Reservations: 00180 365 7878
(Local Toll Free)
Ascott Kuningan
(Opening in 2013)
Citadines Rasuna Jakarta
The H-Tower,
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Kav.20,
Kumingan, Jakarta 12940, Indonesia
(62–21) 2995 6888
Somerset Berlian
Jalan Permata Berlian V,
Permata Hijau,
Jakarta 12210, Indonesia
(62–21) 5366 8888
Somerset Grand Citra
Jalan Prof Dr Satrio Kav 1,
Jakarta 12940, Indonesia
(62–21) 2995 6888
Somerset Kencana
(Opening in 2014)
Countrywoods Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
Jalan WR Supratman,
Pondok Ranji – Rengas, Ciputat,
Jakarta 15412, Indonesia
(62–21) 740 1245
Iskandar
Somerset Medini Iskandar
(Opening in 2015)
Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar
(Opening in 2014)
Surabaya
Ascott Waterplace Surabaya
(Opening in 2014)
Citadines Marvell
(Opening in 2015)
Somerset Surabaya Hotel
& Serviced Residence
Jalan Raya Kupang Indah,
Surabaya 60189, Indonesia
(62-31) 732 8738
MALAYSIA
Reservations: 1800 806 306
(Local Toll Free)
Cyberjaya
Citadines D’Pulze
(Opening in 2014)
Kuala Lumpur
Ascott Kuala Lumpur
9 Jalan Pinang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(60–3) 2142 6868
Marc Service Suites
(Corporate Leasing)
3 Jalan Pinang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(60–3) 2140 2220
Kuching
Citadines Uplands
Lot 866 and 7126 Jalan Simpang
Tiga Section 64 KTLD
93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
(60–3) 2140 2220
Nusajaya
Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar
(Opening in 2014)
Petaling Jaya
Somerset Damansara Uptown
(Opening in 2016)
Ascott Raffles Place
2 Finlayson Green, Singapore 049247
(65) 6577 1688
Citadines Mount Sophia
8 Wilkie Road, #01–26 Wilkie Edge,
Singapore 228095
(65) 6593 8188
Somerset Bencoolen
51 Bencoolen Street,
Singapore 189630
(65) 6849 4688
Somerset Liang Court
177B River Valley Road,
Singapore 179032
(65) 6337 0111
Somerset Orchard
160 Orchard Road,
#06–01 Orchard Point,
Singapore 238842
(65) 6735 0500
Riverdale Residence
(Corporate Leasing)
346 River Valley Road, Singapore 238373
(65) 6235 4130
The Heritage Singapore
(Corporate Leasing)
Mount Pleasant Road, Singapore
(65) 6235 4130
THAILAND
PHILIPPINES
Reservations: 1800 888 272
(Local Toll Free)
Manila
Ascott Bonifacio Global City
(Opening in 2014)
Bangkok
Ascott Sathorn
187 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa,
Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
(66–2) 676 6868
Reservations: (63–2) 755 8888
Ascott Makati
Glorietta 4, Ayala Center,
Makati City 1224, Phlippines
(63–2) 729 8888
Citadines Millennium Ortigas
(Opening in 2015)
Citadines Salcedo
(Opening in 2014)
Somerset Millennium
104 Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village,
Makati City 1229, Philippines
(63–2) 750 7888
Somerset Olympia
7912 Makati Avenue,
Makati City 1200, Philippines
(63–2) 812 1010
Salcedo Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
HV Dela Costa Corner,
LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village
Makati City 1227, Philippines
(63–2) 888 6668
SINGAPORE
Reservations: 1800 272 7272
(Local Toll Free)
Citadines Sukhumvit 8
77/7 Sukhumvit 8, Sukhumvit Road,
Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 257 2277
Citadines Sukhumvit 11
22/22 Sukhumvit 11, Sukhumvit Road,
Klongtoey–nue, Wattana,
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 264 6777
Citadines Sukhumvit 16
38 Sukhumvit 16, Sukhumvit Road,
Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 663 8777
Citadines Sukhumvit 23
37/7 Sukhumvit 23, Sukhumvit Road,
Klongtoey–nua, Wattana,
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 204 4777
Somerset Lake Point
41 Sukhumvit Soi 16, Sukhumvit Road,
Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 663 1234
Somerset Park Suanplu
39 Soi Suanplu, South Sathorn Road,
Bangkok 10120, Thailand
(66–2) 679 4444
Somerset Sukhumvit Thonglor
No 115 Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor),
Sukhumvit Road, Klongton Nua,
Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
(66–2) 365 7999
Vic3
89 Phaton Yothin Soi 3,
Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
(66-2) 618 9888
VIETNAM
Reservations:
(84–4) 3934 2342 (Hanoi)
(84–8) 3822 8899 (Ho Chi Minh City)
Danang
Somerset Danang Bay
(Opening 2015)
Hai Phong
Somerset Central TD
(Opening in 2014)
Hanoi
Somerset Grand Hanoi
49 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hanoi, Vietnam
(84–4) 3934 2342
Somerset Hoa Binh
106 Hoang Quoc Viet Street,
Hanoi, Vietnam
(84–4) 3755 5888
Somerset West Central Hanoi
(Opening in 2016)
Somerset West Lake
254D Thuy Khue Road, Hanoi, Vietnam
(84–4) 3843 0030
Hoa Binh Green
(Corporate Leasing)
No. 2, 376 Lane, Buoi Road,
Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
(84–4) 2227 8888
Ho Chi Minh City
Somerset Chancellor Court
21–23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street,
District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
(84–8) 3822 9197
Somerset Ho Chi Minh City
8A Nguyen Binh Khiem Street,
District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
(84–8) 3822 8899
Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City
No 628c Hanoi Highway, An Phu Ward
District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
(84-8) 62 55 99 22
Vista Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
No 628c Hanoi Highway, An Phu Ward
District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
(84-8) 62 55 99 22
Diamond Island Corporate Leasing
(Opening in 2013)
Diamond Island Luxury Residences
(Opening in 2014)
AS COTT LIVING 41
NORTH ASIA
CHINA
Reservations: 400 820 1028 (Local Toll Free)
Beijing
Ascott Beijing
108B Jian Guo Road, Chaoyang District,
Beijing 100022, China
(86–10) 6567 8100
Ascott Raffles City
1–2 Dongzhimen South Street,
Dongcheng District
Beijing 100007, China
(86–10) 8405 3888
Somerset Grand Fortune Garden
46 LiangMaQiao Road, Chaoyang District,
Beijing 100016, China
(86–10) 8451 8888
Somerset Wangjing
(Opening in 2014)
Somerset ZhongGuanCun
15 Haidian Zhong Street, Haidian District,
Beijing 100080, China
(86–10) 5873 0088
Raffles City Residence
(Corporate Leasing)
1–3 Dongzhimen South Street,
Dongcheng District
Beijing 100007, China
(86–10) 8405 3882
Chengdu
Ascott Financial City
(Opening in 2015)
Ascott Raffles City
(Opening in 2013)
Citadines South Chengdu
(Opening in 2014)
Somerset Riverview
1 Section 3, Renmin South Road,
Wihou District, Chengdu 610041, China
(86–28) 6181 6998
Chongqing
Somerset JieFangBei
Block B Hejing Building
108 Minzu Road, Yuzhong District
Chongqing 400010, China
(86–23) 8677 6888
Dalian
Somerset Harbour Court
55 Renmin Road, Zhongshan District,
Dalian 116001, China
(86–411) 8899 1888
Foshan
Ascott M-City
(Opening in 2016)
Guangzhou
Ascott Guangzhou
73, Tianhedong Road, Tianhe District,
Guangzhou 510630, China
(86–20) 8513 0388
42 AS COTT LIVING
Ascott IFC Guangzhou
No. 5 Zhujiang Xi Road, Zhujiang
New Town, Tianhe District
Guangzhou 510623, China
(86–20) 3838 9888
Citadines LiZhiWan Guangzhou
(Opening in 2013)
Somerset Riviera Guangzhou
(Opening in 2013)
Springdale Serviced Residence
Tower B1, No 105 Tiyuxi Road,
Tianhe District,
Guangzhou 510620, China
(86–20) 8396 6088
Hangzhou
Ascott Raffles City
(Opening in 2015)
Hong Kong
Citadines Ashley
18 Ashley Road, Tsimshatsui
Kowloon, Hong Kong
(85-2) 2262 3062
Somerset Victoria Park
(Opening in 2014)
Macau
Ascott Paragon
(Opening in 2014)
Shanghai
Ascott Huai Hai Road
282 Huai Hai Road Central, Luwan District,
Shanghai 200021, China
(86–21) 2329 8888
Ascott Heng Shan Shanghai
(Opening in 2014)
Citadines Biyun
Lane 450, Hongfeng Road
Jinqiao Export Processing Zone,
Pudong, Shanghai 201206, China
(86–21) 3860 2288
Somerset Xu Hui
888 Shanxi Nan Road, Xu Hui District,
Shanghai 200031, China
(86–21) 6466 0888
Shenyang
Somerset Heping
No. 80 Taiyuan North Street,
Heping District,
Shenyang 110000, China
(86–24) 2397 5555
Shenzhen
Ascott Maillen
3 Yanshan Road, Nanshan District,
518067 Shenzhen, China
(86–755) 2685 8888
Suzhou
Ascott Emerald City Suzhou
(Opening in 2015)
Ascott Midtown Suzhou
(Opening in 2013)
Citadines Xinghai
Blk 27 Jiacheng Gardens, 58 Xinghai
Street, Suzhou Industrial Park,
Suzhou 215021, China
(85–512) 8885 8288
Somerset Baitang Suzhou
(Opening in 2017)
Somerset Emerald City
436 Changjiang Road,
Suzhou New District,
Suzhou 215011, China
(85–512) 6818 6611
Tianjin
Somerset International Building
No 75 Nanjing Road
Heping District
Tianjin 300050, China
(86–22) 2330 6666
Somerset Olympic Tower
126 Chengdu Dao, Heping District,
Tianjin 300051, China
(86–22) 2335 5888
Somerset Youyi
35 Youyi Road, Hexi District,
Tianjin 300201, China
(86–22) 2810 7888
Wuhan
Citadines Zhuankou
159 Dongfang Avenue
Wuhan Economic Development Zone
430056, China
(86–27) 8421 8000
Somerset Wusheng
(Opening in 2013)
Xi’an
Citadines Central
36 Zhubashi, Beiilin District,
Xi’an 710002, China
(86–29) 8576 1188
Citadines Gaoxin
13, 4th Gao Xin Road,
Hi–Tech Zone,
Xi’an 710075, China
(86–29) 8843 7888
Citadines Xingqing Palace
159 Xingqing Road, Beilin District,
Xi’an 710049, China
(86–29) 8338 0588
Somerset Gaoxin
(Opening in 2014)
Somerset Garden City
1068 Nanhai Avenue, Nanshan District,
Shenzhen 518067, China
(86–755) 2602 9988
Xiamen
Citadines Jinshang Road
(Opening in 2013)
Somerset Grandview
(Opening in 2013)
JAPAN
Reservations: 0120 069 500 (Local Toll Free)
Fukuoka
Actus Hakata V–Tower
(Corporate Leasing)
350–1, 3 chome, Hakata ekimae
Hakata–ward, Fukuoka 812–0011, Japan
(81–9) 2722 0288
Fukuoka College Court
(Corporate Leasing)
94–3, 3 chome, Hakataeki Higashi
Hakata–ward, Fukuoka 812–0013, Japan
(81–6) 6245 2551
Infini Garden
(Corporate Leasing)
2–2, 3 chome, Teriha, Higashi–ward,
Fukuoka 813–0017, Japan
(81–9) 2663 8848
Hiroshima
Gravis Court Kakomachi
(Corporate Leasing)
13–10, Kakomachi, Naka–ward,
Hiroshima 730–0812, Japan
(81–3) 3352 8671
Gravis Court Kokutaiji
(Corporate Leasing)
2–1–9, Kokutaiji–cho, Naka–ward,
Hiroshima 730–0042, Japan
(81–3) 3352 8671
Gravis Court Nishiharaekimae
(Corporate Leasing)
38–10, 8 chome, Nishihara,
Asaminami–ward,
Hiroshima 731–0113, Japan
(81–3) 3352 8671
Kobe
S–Residence Shukugawa
(Corporate Leasing)
36–1, Kamisono–machi, Nishinomiya–city,
Hyogo 662–0027, Japan
(81–3) 6535 8898
Kyoto
Citadines Karasuma–Gojo
432 Matsuya–cho Gojo–dori
Karasuma–Higashiiru Shimogyo–ku,
Kyoto 600–8105, Japan
(81–75) 352 8900
Grand E’terna Chioninmae
(Corporate Leasing)
577–3, Inarimachi Minamigumi,
Higashiyama–ward,
Kyoto 605–0067, Japan
(81–75) 341 0606
Grand E’terna Nijojomae
(Corporate Leasing)
472–0–2, Taruyamachi, Nakagyo–ward,
Kyoto 604–8264, Japan
(81–75) 341 0606
Kasahokomachi
(Corporate Leasing)
49, Kasahoko–machi, Shimogyo–ward,
Kyoto 600–8494, Japan
(81–75) 251 1900
Nagoya
Marunouchi Central Heights
(Corporate Leasing)
ascott ar ound the world
23–6, 3 chome, Marunouchi,
Naka–ward, Nagoya 460–0002, Japan
(81–3) 3455 3530
Osaka
Samty Namba–Minami
(Corporate Leasing)
5–1–2, 1 chome, Ebisu Honmachi
Naniwa–ward, Osaka 556–0013, Japan
(81–3) 6535 8898
S–Residence Fukushima Luxe
(Corporate Leasing)
22–9, Fukushima 7 chome,
Fukushima–ward,
Osaka 553–0003, Japan
(81–6) 6262 8451
S–Residence Gakuenzaka
(Corporate Leasing)
1–1, 2 chome, Sitatera 2 chome,
Naniwa–ward, Osaka 556–0001, Japan
(81–3) 6535 8898
S–Residence Hommachi Marks
(Corporate Leasing)
2–3–6, Tokuimachi, Chuo–ward,
Osaka 540–0025, Japan
(81–6) 6262 8451
S–Residence Midoribashi Serio
(Corporate Leasing)
3–17–6, Nakamoto, Higashinari–ward,
Osaka, 537–0022, Japan
(81–6) 6262–8451
S–Residence Namba Viale
(Corporate Leasing)
3–9–1, Motomachi 3 chome,
Naniwa–ward, Osaka 556–0016, Japan
(81–3) 6535–8898
S–Residence Tanimachi 9 chome
(Corporate Leasing)
4–29, Ikutama–cho, Tennoji–ward,
Osaka 543–0072, Japan
(81–6) 6262 8451
The Grandview Osaka
(Corporate Leasing)
19–7–2, Jusohigashi, Yodogawa–ward,
Osaka, 532–0023, Japan
(81–6) 6535–8898
Saga
Grand E’terna Saga
(Corporate Leasing)
1167–3, Ipponmatsu, Honjocho
Saga 840–0937, Japan
(81–7) 5341–0606
Grand E’terna Sagaidaidori
(Corporate Leasing)
63, 4 chome, Nabeshima
Saga 849–0937, Japan
(81–7) 5341–0606
Sapporo
Big Palace Kita 14 Jo
(Corporate Leasing)
6–2, Nishi 4 chome, Kita14jyo
Kita–ward, Sapporo 001–0014, Japan
(81–1) 1552 331
Sendai
Grand Mire Miyamachi
(Corporate Leasing)
1–1–62, Miyamachi, Aoba–ward,
Sendai 908–0004, Japan
(81–2) 2213–5881
Grand Mire Shintera
(Corporate Leasing)
9–23, 4 chome, Shintera,
Wakabayashi–ward,
Sendai 984–0051, Japan
(81–2) 2217–3133
Tokyo
Citadines Shinjuku
1–28–13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku–ku,
Tokyo 160–0022, Japan
(81–3) 5379 7208
Somerset Azabu East
No 1–9–11 Higashi Azabu,
Minato–ku, Tokyo 106–0044, Japan
(81–3) 5379 7208
Asyl Court Nakano Sakaue
(Corporate Leasing)
1–14–12 Honcho Nakano–Ku
Tokyo 164–0012, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Colonnade Kamiikedai
(Corporate Leasing)
20–8, 1 chome, Kamiikedai,
Ota–ward, Tokyo 145–0064, Japan
(81–3) 3373 7011
Fujimi Duplex Riz
(Corporate Leasing)
21–30, 2 chome, Fujimi,
Chiyoda–ward, Tokyo 102–0071, Japan
(81–3) 3437 2753
Gala Hachimanyama I
(Corporate Leasing)
2–1–18 Kamitakaido, Suginami–ku
Tokyo 168–0074, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Gala Hachimanyama II
(Corporate Leasing)
2–1–2 Kamitakaido, Suginami–ku
Tokyo 168–0074, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Green Park Akasaka
(Corporate Leasing)
5–2–10 Akasaka, Minato–ku
Tokyo 107–6101, Japan
(81–3) 5573 8800
Joy City Koishikawa Shokubutsuen
(Corporate Leasing)
3–35–18 Otsuka, Bunkyo–ku
Tokyo 112–0012, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Joy City Kuramae
(Corporate Leasing)
2–24–1 Kuramae, Taito–ku
Tokyo 111–0051, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Nakameguro Residence
(Corporate Leasing)
4–13–41 Nakameguro, Meguro–ku
Tokyo 153–0061, Japan
(81–3) 3714 1131
Nibancho Park Forest
(Corporate Leasing)
7–8 Nibancho, Chiyoda–ku
Tokyo 102–0084, Japan
(81–3) 3511 6828
Park Habio Azabu Tower
(Corporate Leasing)
1–8–3 Higashi Azabu, Minato–ku
Tokyo 106–0044, Japan
(81–3) 3505 1732
Roppongi Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
No3–4–31 Roppongi, Minato–ku
Tokyo 106–0032, Japan
(81–3) 3568 3939
Shochiku Square Residence
(Corporate Leasing)
1–13–5 Tsukiji, Chuo–ku
Tokyo 104–0045, Japan
(81–3) 6226 5923
Zesty Akebonobashi
(Corporate Leasing)
1–17 Tomihisacho, Shinjuku–ku
Tokyo 162–0067, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Nishi Shinjuku III
(Corporate Leasing)
3–18–15 Nishishinjuku,
Shinjuku–ku, Tokyo 160–0023, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Sakura Shinmachi
(Corporate Leasing)
3–11–3 Tsurumaki, Setagaya–ku
Tokyo 154–0016, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Shin Ekoda
(Corporate Leasing)
1–2–2 Toyotamakami, Nerima–ku
Tokyo 176–0011, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Shoin Jinja
(Corporate Leasing)
4–3–3 Setagaya, Setagaya–ku
Tokyo 154–0017, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Shoin Jinja II
(Corporate Leasing)
4–5–4 Setagaya, Setagaya–ku
Tokyo 154–0017, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
SOUTH KOREA
Reservations: (82–2) 6730 8000
Zesty Gotokuji
(Corporate Leasing)
6–42–5 Matsubara, Setagaya–ku
Tokyo 156 0043, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Seoul
Somerset Palace
85 Susong–Dong, Jongno–Gu Seoul,
South Korea 110885
(82–2) 6730 8888
Zesty Higashi Shinjuku
(Corporate Leasing)
6–15–20 Shinjuku, Shinjuku–ku
Tokyo 160–0022, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
SOUTH ASIA
Zesty Kagurazaka I
(Corporate Leasing)
2–13 Nishigokencho, Shinjuku–ku
Tokyo 162–0812, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Kagurazaka II
(Corporate Leasing)
123–3 Yaraicho, Shinjuku–ku
Tokyo, 162–0805, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Kasugacho
(Corporate Leasing)
6–4–15 Kasugacho, Nerima–ku
Tokyo 179–0074, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Koishikawa
(Corporate Leasing)
5–41–7 Koishikawa, Bunkyo–ku
Tokyo 112–0002, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
Zesty Komazawa Daigaku II
(Corporate Leasing)
2–12–21 Higashigaoka, Meguro–ku
Tokyo 152–0021, Japan
(81–3) 5575 5512
INDIA
Reservations: (91–44) 7101 0000
Ahmedabad
Citadines Parimal Garden
(Opening in 2015)
Bangalore
Citadines Galleria
(Opening in 2014)
Citadines Richmond
No 1 Langford Gardens, Richmond Road,
Bangalore – 560 001, India
(91–80) 7100 0001
Somerset Whitefield
(Opening in 2015)
Chennai
Citadines OMR Gateway
(Opening in 2015)
Somerset Greenways
94 Sathyadev Avenue, MRC Nagar,
Santhome Chennai – 600 028, India
(91–44) 7100 0001
Hyderabad
Citadines Hitec City
(Opening in 2015)
AS COTT LIVING 43
ascott ar ound the world
AUSTRALIA
Reservations: 1800 766 377
(Local Toll Free)
Hobart
Somerset on the Pier
Elizabeth Street Pier,
Hobart TAS 7000, Australia
(61–3) 6220 6600
Somerset on Salamanca
8 Salamanca Place,
Hobart TAS 7000, Australia
(61–3) 6220 6600
Melbourne
Citadines on Bourke
131–135 Bourke Street,
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
(61–3) 9267 5400
Somerset on Elizabeth
250 Elizabeth Street,
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
(61–3) 8665 8888
Perth
Somerset St Georges Terrace
185 St Georges Terrace,
Perth WA 6000, Australia
(61–8) 9226 3355
EUROPE
Reservations (Europe): (33) 1 41 05 79 05
BELGIUM
Reservations (within Belgium):
(33) 1 41 05 79 05
Brussels
Citadines Sainte–Catherine
51 Quai au Bois à Brûler 1000
Brussels, Belgium
Citadines Toison d’Or
61–63 Avenue de la Toison d’Or 1060
Brussels, Belgium
FRANCE
Reservations (within France):
0 825 333 332
Paris
Ascott Arc de Triomphe
81 Avenue Kléber, 75116 Paris, France
Citadines Suites Louvre
8 Rue Richelieu, 75001 Paris, France
Citadines Austerlitz
27 Rue Esquirol, 75013 Paris, France
Citadines Bastille Gare de Lyon
14–18 Rue de Chaligny, 75012 Paris, France
Citadines Bastille Marais
37 Boulevard Richard Lenoir,
75011 Paris, France
44 AS COTT LIVING
Citadines La Défense
1–8 Boulevard de Neuilly, 92400
Courbevoie Paris, France
Citadines Prado Chanot
9–11 Boulevard de Louvain,
13008 Marseille, France
Citadines Prestige Les Halles
4 Rue des Innocents, 75001 Paris, France
Montpellier
Citadines Antigone
588 Boulevard d’Antigone,
34000 Montpellier, France
Citadines Montmartre
16 Avenue Rachel, 75001 Paris, France
Citadines Montparnasse
67 Avenue du Maine, 75014 Paris, France
Citadines Opéra–Grands Boulevards
18 Rue Favart, 75002 Paris, France
Citadines Prestige Opéra Vendôme
2 Rue Edouard VII 75009, Paris, France
Citadines Place d’Italie
18 Place d’Italie, 75013 Paris, France
Citadines Porte de Versailles
94 Rue Didot, 75014 Paris, France
Citadines République
75 Bis, Avenue Parmentier,
75011 Paris, France
Citadines Prestige
Saint–Germain–des–Prés
53 Ter, quai des Grands–Augustins,
75006 Paris, France
Citadines Tour Eiffel
132 Boulevard de Grenelle,
75015 Paris, France
Citadines Trocadéro
29 Bis, Rue Saint–Didier,
75116 Paris, France
OUTSIDE PARIS
Bordeaux
Citadines Centre Mériadeck
25 Rue Jean Fleuret, 33000
Bordeaux, France
Cannes
Citadines Croisette
1 Rue le Poussin, 06400 Cannes, France
Ferney Voltaire
Citadines Genève
34 Rue de Genève, 01210 Genève
Ferney Voltaire, France
Grenoble
Citadines City Centre
9–11 Rue de Strasbourg,
38000 Grenoble, France
Lille
Citadines City Centre
Avenue Willy Brandt Euralille,
59777 Lille, France
Lyon
Citadines Part–Dieu
91–95 Rue Moncey, 69003 Lyon, France
Citadines Presqu’île
2 Rue Thomassin, 69002 Lyon, France
Marseille
Citadines Castellane
60 Rue du Rouet, 13006 Marseille, France
Nice
Citadines Buffa
21 Rue Meyerbeer, 06000 Nice, France
Citadines Promenade
3–5 Boulevard François Grosso,
06000 Nice, France
Strasbourg
Citadines Kléber
50–54 Rue du Jeu des Enfants,
67000 Strasbourg, France
Toulouse
Citadines Wilson
8 Boulevard de Strasbourg,
31000 Toulouse, France
GEORGIA
Reservations (within Georgia):
(995) 3254 7030
Tbilisi
Citadines Freedom Square
Building 2a, 4 Freedom Square,
0105 Tbilisi, Georgia
GERMANY
Reservations (within
Germany): 0 30 88 77 60
Berlin
Citadines Kurfürstendamm
Olivaer Platz 1, 10707 Berlin–
Wilmersdorf, Germany
Frankfurt
Citadines City Centre
(Opening 2014)
Hamburg
Citadines Michel
(Opening 2014)
Munich
Citadines Arnulfpark
Arnulfstrasse 51, 80636
München, Germany
The Cavendish
(Managed by The Ascott Limited)
81 Jermyn Street, St James’s,
London SW1Y 6JF, UK
Citadines Barbican
7–21 Goswell Road, London
EC1M 7AH, UK
Citadines St Mark’s London
300 City Road, London
EC1V 2PW, UK
Citadines Prestige
Holborn–Covent Garden
94–99 High Holborn,
London WC1V 6LF, UK
Citadines Prestige South Kensington
35A Gloucester Road,
London SW7 4PL, UK
Citadines Prestige Trafalgar Square
18–21 Northumberland Avenue,
London WC2N SEA, UK
GULF REGION
BAHRAIN
Reservations: (973) 1781 1889
Manama
Somerset Al Fateh
PO Box 75771, Juffair, Kingdom of Bahrain
(973) 1781 1889
QATAR
Reservations: (974) 4420 3456
Doha
Ascott Doha
Diplomatic Area,
PO Box 207274, Doha, Qatar
(974) 4497 1111
Somerset West Bay
Al Qassar Region, Diplomatic Area,
PO Box 260026, Doha, Qatar
(974) 4420 3333
OMAN
Muscat
Somerset Panorama
(Opening in 2014)
SPAIN
Sohar Garden Residences
(Corporate Leasing)
(Opening in 2013)
Barcelona
Citadines Ramblas
Ramblas 122, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Reservations (within Spain): 902 200 699
UNITED KINGDOM
Reservations: 0800 376 38 98
London
Ascott Mayfair
49 Hill Street, Mayfair,
London W1 5NB, UK
Dubai
Ascott Park Place
Park Place Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road,
PO Box 117452, Dubai,
United Arab Emirates
(971–4) 310 8555
savills.com.sg
D’LEEDON
SINGAPORE
Strategically located in the prime area of District 10, D’Leedon sits on an expansive 840,049 sq ft site along Farrer Road. The first condominium in
Singapore to be designed by internationally-renowned Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Zaha Hadid, the landmark project will comprise a total of 1,715
units, with 1,703 apartments in seven 36-storey towers and 12 exclusive semi-detached houses. Rising majestically above the surrounding high quality
bungalows and low-rise condominiums, the towers will offer unobstructed views of Singapore’s skyline as well as breathtaking views of large expanses of
greenery such as the Botanic Gardens and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
The development provides a full suite of recreational facilities, including two 50-metre lap pools, dipping pools, Jacuzzis, a water gym, a children’s wet
play pool, an eco-pond, reflecting pools, three party houses, barbeque areas, tennis courts, two clubhouses with reading rooms, games rooms, karaoke
rooms, golf simulator rooms and screening rooms, spa pavilions, a gymnasium, outdoor event spaces, retail areas and restaurants.
CONTACT PERSON:
Irvin Kok (CEA No. R009236G) | +65 9388 4236 | [email protected]