Tag Archives: Travelling

Here’s why you have to visit Montreux and Zurich

A land that offers a triple threat of the beauty of nature’s splendour, medieval heritage and contemporary culture, Switzerland has everything you want and need, perhaps even beyond your greatest desire. With the convenience of Swissair, the preferred airline for all Swiss travel, we can reach the Playground of Europe via a quick 15-hour flight that has just a short transit in Singapore.

So hop on with this journey with us as we take you through the greatest attractions in the region of Montreux and Zurich that gives you the greatest of all three unique flavours of the land – history, contemporary culture and nature.

Upon landing in Zurich Airport, the first thing you need is to obtain the Swiss Travel Pass, which allows you immediate access to all public transportation including bus, train and ferry within the country, along with access pass to an extensive list of local attractions in every city. We highly recommend the First Class category for comfortable, expedited and scenic experience as you traverse through the region.

Now that you have your all-access pass secured, it’s time to take a scenic train ride to the Lake Geneva region, located 3 hours away from the Zurich Airport, to discover Montreux Riviera. A city marked with some of the world’s most iconic pop culture stars, Montreux is an unforgettable destination made for all. Gaining the stamp of approval as Charlie Chaplin’s home for his last 25 years, appearing on Freddie Mercury’s “Made In Heaven” album and even inspired Prince to write a song based on the Lavaux vineyards in the region, Montreux needs no other reason to be one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world.

A cruise to Château de Chillon

On top of our Montreux itinerary and one to help us familiarise ourselves with the city is the Riviera Tour, a two-hour paddle steamer boat cruise that lets you take in the scenic landscape of the Lake Geneva region, the charming towns surrounding Montreux including Villeneuve, Le Bouveret, and St Gingolph; and a spectacular first view of the legendary Château de Chillon. After the delectable lunch on cruise, you can simply hop on the bus for a 30-minute ride that takes you right to the doorstep of Château de Chillon, the most visited historic site in Switzerland that dates back to the 12th century.

This magnificent water castle holds a rich history dating between the 12th to 16th century, starting from the original owners, the counts of Savoy, to the later tenants, the inhabitants of Vaud. We highly recommend the guided tour to give you an in-depth and thorough look into the entire architecture and the stories written within the halls. Once you are done with culture and history, you can reward yourself with a dining experience at Café Byron, the famed eatery at the lakeshore that gives a spectacular water view of the castle.

Railway to Rochers de Naye

For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Rochers-de-Naye is the mountainous trail you must visit to witness the majestic of the Swiss and French Alps and the panoramic view of the shores of Lake Geneva. To reach the destination, there is a all-year round cogwheel train, which is also the highest railway in the canton that starts from Montreux, that can take you all to the top of the mountain at over 1,600-meters in altitude.

Once you have reached the end of the railway, the peak is just a short walk ahead. Alternatively, if you want to take a leisure drive up, you can head your way to Col de Jaman and then hop off to take a two to three hour hike to the peak – perfect for hikers and outdoor lovers in the warmer months of spring and summer. There also also various other hiking and mountain climbing trails with varying difficulties to cater to all travellers, but if you are one to skip the hike, then you can take your time take in the beautiful sights and take a leisure walk inside the La Rambertia alpine botanical garden, a place where over 1,000 alpine species are housed, cultivated and preserved.

The power of arts at Plateforme 10

When in Montreux, all connoisseurs of arts and culture must visit Plateforme 10 in Lausanne, one of the rising art district and cultural hub in Switzerland that has recently garnered global recognition. Officially launched in July 2022, Plateforme 10 is one of the nation’s largest cultural development, stretching over 25,000 aquare meters, that currently houses countless outstanding museums including the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), the Cantonal Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (MUDAC) and the Cantonal Museum for Photography (Photo Elysee). This is definitely a destination that one should allocate a full day to slowly take in the various cultural identities and exhibits.

Once you are done, you can head back towards Montreux and take a pitstop at Vevey, a town known to be the “Pearls of the Swiss Riviera”, where the esplanade walk along the shores of Lake Geneva will give you an experience unlike any other. One of the main attractions there include the bronze Charlie Chaplin statue and the rising silver fork that spouts out of the lake, both located near the Alimentarium food museum.

The World of Charlie

On the topic of Charlie Chaplin, one of the top must-visit sites within the Swiss Riviera is definitely the Chaplin’s World museum, the only space in the world dedicated to the legendary comic and icon. Housed within the late actor’s former estate, which he stayed after his departure from US in 1953, this interactive museum will shed light to amazing history and lifeworks of Charlie Chaplin including letters, photos and original furnishing owned by the actor.

Along with those, you will also see special wax figures of the icon along with his friends like Albert Einstein, which visitors can interact with to learn more about Chaplin. If you are a big fan of his, be sure to check out the archive of performances and home movies he made and visit the adjacent complex that holds recreations of Hollywood film stages of his movies.

A run around Zurich

After the many exciting ventures in Montreux, it’s time to head back to Zurich to catch your flight home but while you are there, you can make a quick stop at Zurich West, the trendiest district within the city that houses the creative vibes of the city. Start your day at Im Viadukt, a stretch of designer boutiques, art galleries, local food market and more that are housed underneath the famed railway arches of Zurich. From there you can take a leisurely stroll down to the Freitag flagship store, a must for fashion lovers, to get your hands on the signature products made with used truck tarps, before venturing into the strand of vintage stores and diverse furniture boutiques.

Within Zurich West, which is a former industrial quarter, you can also find the most unique architectures that are built by iconic designers. We recommend dropping by the Zurich Tourist Information Centre to ask for a tour guide that can give you a thorough experience on the history and culture of the area. Finally wrapping it up, head down to Frau Gerold Garten, which is just next to the Freitag flagship store, where you will be amazed by the open concept garden that houses various popup restaurants, live music performances and art installations. A perfect way to unwind and relax before hoping back to Zurich Airport for your flight home.

REVIEW: M Social Singapore, a stay turned adventure that you need to experience

As Malaysians, Singapore is a destination we frequent a lot – for its close proximity and countless lifestyle excitement – and for that, we constantly look for a unique hotel experience to enhance our trip there.

That’s when M Social hotel comes into play with its impeccable service and ambience that can turn a simple hotel stay into an adventure. Nestled in the buzzing neighbourhood of Robertson Quay, where a multitude of entertainment, dining hotspots and cultural experience find their home, there’s no reason not to pay this hotel a visit.

Team L’Officiel has the opportunity to pay a visit recently to indulge in all it has to offer and here’s why we think a stay in M Social can very well turn into an exciting adventure for you!

CHECKING IN

Upon arrival at M Social, the first thing that got us excited was the visual presentation of its lobby and reception area. Vibrating with chic modern vibes, each element within the space is planned with care and incorporated with various contemporary art pieces – from the tiles to its centrepiece and even wallpaper.

Like many modern contemporary hotels, check-in is made extremely convenient where you can expedite the process with its self-check-in counter that will scan your travel documents, track your room reservation and prepare your room keys instantaneously.

Of course, there will also be staff stationed at the lobby to assist you, should there be any questions, and to send your luggage straight to your room.

YOUR ROOM

When we talk about rooms available, M Social has plenty of variations prepared including the Alcove rooms, (a room designed with an alcove ceiling to mirror an attic-like experience) and the Loft rooms (a two-storey space that separates the sleep and lounge experience).

Even within the two options, you can further select whether you want a scenic view or a terrace setting, where you get a miniature personal garden to enjoy some peace and quiet.

For us, we opted for the Loft Gallery Room, where you have your bath, sleep and closet on the ground level and a cosy study area on the mezzanine level. Compact, yet spacious (thanks to the two-level setting), you get a spectacular floor-to-ceiling window for an elevated view of the surrounding neighbourhood. Rest assured, sleek blinds are installed for your privacy.

Another thing we appreciate of the loft setting is how clever M Social plans its interior where each nook and cranny is utilised to its potential without wasting space – a sentiment fit for the new generation of minimalist.

DISCOVERING M SOCIAL

After settling down and unpack, it is time to go on a mini excursion to discover the many facilities of the hotel. First stop, we have to highlight the outdoor swimming pool. Being further upstream of the Singapore River and on the edge of Downtown Singapore, M Social provides the perfect escape for you to enjoy a quiet and relaxing day by the pool.

Even if you are not up for sunbathing or a swim, you can lounge with a book and cocktail in hand for a sweet R&R.

After the quick session at the pool, maybe it is time to grab a bite and their resident eatery Beast & Butterflies is a favourable option where they serve an array of Modern Asian Cuisine that combines Eastern and Western flavours. Chic, well-decorated and stocking up a delectable menu, Beast & Butterflies is also a hotspot where locals gather for a quick Happy Hour and dinner.

Beast & Butterflies aside, you have plenty of dining options for every meal of the day, thanks to M Social’s location. Along the stretch at Robertson Quay, you can find an array of bars, bistros, cafés and restaurants to choose from including the popular PS Cafe, Common Man Coffee Roasters and Super Loco.

Or if you are looking to head out to the city, many tourist spots are within 10 – 20 minutes of walking distance including Chinatown, Clarke Quay and National Gallery Singapore. There is also a free shuttle bus provided to chauffeur you to Harbourfront and Buona Vista areas.

 

AN AUTOMATED SERVICE TO YOUR DOORSTEP

After a long day out and it is time to head back to your room to unwind and if you are are in need of simple amenities from a bottle of water, a can of coke or an extra towel, you can utilise the AURA robot, an automated room service robot that can deliver itself right to your doorstep.

M Social is actually one of the world’s first hotel to deploy this kind of room service and while it sounds simple, to see it in action during your stay can be a rather fascinating and novel experience!

For more information to make a reservation at M Social, visit www.millenniumhotels.com.

This article was originally published on www.lofficielmalaysia.com.

These luxury trains are an alternative to business class travel

Though airlines are constantly unveiling the latest versions of first class and business class for commuters looking to travel luxuriously, rail travel has come forward recently to remind us of the luxuries that slow commute brings. Today’s train rides have transformed to be more luxurious than ever, offering more than just seats with scenic views. From train crews that double as butlers and concierge to 24-hour entertainment services, here are 3 luxurious train experiences to add on your bucket list:

 

Venice Simplon Orient Express

The Orient Express takes luxury to greater heights. Rich with history, The Orient Express served as an inspiration to many authors and movie directors. In 1932, Graham Greene wrote the eponymous book, named after the Orient Express itself, which became a bestseller. This book launched his career. Then in 1934, Agatha Christie wrote the famous “Murder On the Orient Express” which eventually placed the train on the map.

Anticipate plush double beds, marble en-suite showers, private dining, and free-flowing champagne when you enter the luxurious ride. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express comes fully equipped with three Grand Suites, each christened and inspired by the Orient Express’ most famous cities: Paris, Venice and Istanbul. What a lavish way of travelling, best with a book in hand – ‘Murder On The Orient Express’ perhaps?

 

Belmond Andrean Explorer

Belmond launched its first luxury sleeper train in South America, with one- and two-night journeys that take you between Peru’s Arequipa and Cusco. Designed by Inge Moore and Nathan Hitchins of London-based design firm, MUZA Lab, this lavish train provides an unforgettable experience for its guests.

Going up to 4,000 ft without exhausting hikes sounds like a dream to many and Belmond helps to achieve that dream. Possibly one of the highest train routes in the world, this journey provides guests with exceptional scenery. In contrast to the striking landscape that glides past, each twin or double cabin offers a soothing blend of signature Peruvian accents and in-built oxygen for additional comfort at high altitudes. Hand-woven fabrics and soft, Alpaca-style textures invite a leisurely rest. An en suite bathroom and shower permit luxurious bathing––even at 4,000ft.

 

Shiki-Shima

Japan is known for its bullet train and also, possibly for its luxury train cabins by Shiki-Shima. This ultra-new luxury train takes guests into the deep beauty of the eastern Japanese countryside. Designed by Ken Okuyama, known for his work for Porsche, Ferrari and Maserati, he bought sleek and contemporary designs into the train cabins.

The striking, futuristic vehicle polished in champagne and gold is designed with geometric cut-out windows to offer unobstructed view of what Japan has to offer. There’s 6 luxury suites, round-the-clock butler service, bespoke furnishings, piano recitals and exquisite cuisine prepared under the guidance of Japan’s first Michelin-star chef, Katsuhiro Nakamura. The Komorebi lounge is designed so the walls and windows reflect the organic forms and light of the countryside and even the music has been specifically designed for the experience by an award-winning film composer, Naoki Sato, and service is, of course, gracious and attentive.

The dining car menu is devised by Michelin-starred chef Katsuhiro Nakamura and changes to reflect the ingredients and culinary style of the regions through which the train is passing.

Train Suite Shiki-shima offers one-, two- and three-night trips for between £2,150 (Y320,500) and £6,300 (Y950,000) per person, full board.

 

By Angelyn Tan

 

The Fashionable Guide to Marrakech

When you think of Marrakech, you might not immediately dub it a fashion capital. But the subtlety of its beauty—the regal architecture, the energy of the medina at dusk, the terracotta-hued buildings and expansive palm desert before the backdrop of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains—creates a poetic amalgam of wanderlust that has inspired fashion and art for centuries. Yves Saint Laurent, Serge Lutens, and Jacques Majorelle are among the famed group of creatives that fell under Marrakech’s spell and now have their own odes to the city in tangible form—from homes to museums, to architecture. With the surge of fashionable tourists that Marrakech has seen over the last decade, it’s clear that there is still much that inspires.

Below, a very chic travel guide to the enchanting Moroccan city.

 

Royal Monsour

Without even leaving the hotel—that is, if you’re staying at the Royal Mansour– Marrakech has already exceeded your expectations. You can see so much of what makes Marrakech a fashion crowd favorite without even exiting the palace’s—err, hotel’s—gates. Immediately you’re greeted by the abundant and eager staff (the staff to guest ratio is 10 to 1 and everyone speaks an impressive range of languages—from English to French to Arabic as lessons are available to all staff on property). They’ll escort you through the five acres of palm and lemon tree-lined gardens that surround the 53 private terracotta-colored riads.

Arrive at your private riad immediately feeling like the protagonist of your own fairytale. In true riad fashion, each home opens up to its own mini courtyard with a cascading fountain. The subtle opulence is characterized immediately by the velvet, brocade, and silk details throughout each of the several floors of every riad on the property. And in Marrakech, you can never forget to look up. The ceilings– wooden and hand-carved—add a modest regality to the already royal experience. The best amenity of all is that each riad comes complete with a rooftop private plunge pool where you can enjoy the afternoon sun while sipping Nana tea or eating breakfast in your canopy before the start of the day (brought to you by your personal butlers). The experience is only topped by a visit to the hotel’s world-renowned spa (don’t leave without booking a private hammam) and a reservation at La Grande Table Marocaine.

 

Serge Lutens House and Laboratory

A recluse himself, famous perfumer, Serge Lutens spent many years of his life building his enchanting home in the heart of the medina, which until recently has been Marrakech’s best-kept secret. The irony is that Lutens never actually lived in the home; he chose not to after spending 35 years designing and overseeing its construction. It wasn’t until recently that he opened it up for tours exclusive to Royal Mansour guests. Lutens’ love affair with Marrakech is evident in the interior design of the home. Inside, you’ll find darkly lit, yet decadently detailed and meticulously handcrafted sitting rooms that have seldom been used by Lutens himself, along with several other North-African inspired spaces and artifacts. It is an eerily elegant masterpiece nestled quietly in the heart of the Medina that is not to be missed.

 

Musée Yves Saint Laurent

Algerian born, Yves Saint Laurent famously said, “The colors of Marrakech gave me color.” In 1966, he bought a vacation home in the city that inspired much of his career. (Marrakech was so important to Saint Laurent that after his death, his ashes would be scattered in the Majorelle Gardens next door.) The museum, which opened in 2017 is unpretentious and easily digestible; it reveals a well-summarized and visually compelling scope of YSL’s career. Inside the terracotta-colored building perched just beside the Jardin Majorelle, you’ll find a concise timeline and exhibit showcasing Saint Laurent’s life and designs that influenced decades of fashion.

 

Jardin Majorelle

It’s really no wonder that Jardin Majorelle is one of the most visited sights in Morocco. The natural beauty and colors of the two and a half acre botanical garden and landscape garden looks practically biblical. Created by the French Orientalist artist, Jacques Majorelle, it features a famously photographed Cubist villa in Majorelle blue designed by the French architect Paul Sinoir. Arrive early to enjoy a peaceful stroll before the large crowds.

 

Sidecar ride to Dar El Sadaka Sculpture Garden in Palmeraie

Take a ride through palm oasis, Palmeraie and end up at French visual artist, Jean-Francois Fourtou’s prolific family-owned villa, Dar El Sadaka (known for “House Fallen from the Sky” and the “Giant’s House”). The memorable day starts off by getting picked up from the Royal Mansour by Marrakech Insiders’ chic vintage sidecars. Cruise through Marrakech in style, taking in the sights and smells of the medina then onwards toward Palmeraie. Arrive at what can only be described as a scene out of Alice in Wonderland. Walk through Jean-Francois Fourtou’s fantasy world that will make you feel like a kid again with a surprise in every corner. End the day with a private lunch in the Giant’s House.

 

Shopping the Souks

Pack light before your trip as the souks are the highlight for many when visiting Marrakech. The city is practically synonymous with its energetic heart in the medina. If you need help navigating the bustling stalls of slippers, spices, soaps, silver, ceramics, rugs and throws, contact Mustapha (the self-proclaimed Marrakech GPS). He’ll take you through the busy markets by way of charming shortcuts and side streets that lead to chic hidden cafes like Dar Cherifa. Words to the wise: go in the AM to avoid crowds and start your bargain at half what asking price is.

 

This article is originally from www.lofficielsingapore.com.

 

5-star Langkawi trip with Bell & Ross

Day 1

If I was allowed to use one word to describe my trip, it would be overwhelming. Last month, Bell & Ross flew me to Langkawi to preview their latest collection from Baselworld and I was inundated by the luxury I had during the trip.

The clock’s hands pointed at ten and eight as my flight touched down at Langkawi International Airport. It was sunny when I stepped out of my flight. I had a feeling the trip gonna be good and I was not wrong.

After less than half an hour journey, we finally reached our accommodation – Four Seasons Resort Langkawi. Unfortunately, the rain started to lash down. The hotel staff was caring enough to shield us with umbrella and drove us into the resort with a buggy.

Inside, it was truly an oasis decorated with a backdrop of Insta-worthy beach view and dotted with villas. I was ushered to the arrival hall. The friendliness of the staffs, the tasty welcome drink and the idyllic setting instantly put me on cloud nine. Then, we adjourned to the Serai restaurant, a restaurant serving buffet meals to have lunch and headed back to my room afterwards.

I was given a room with a partial sea-view. The room was an epitome of opulence, which comprised a spacious room boasting a king size bed; an expansive dressing room consisting dressing area, double vanity, a toilet and an indoor bathroom; an outdoor terrazzo bathtub; and a personal patio with a partial beach view.

Partial sea-view ground floor pavilion

 

Bedroom

After a restful nap, I donned a resort outfit and got ready for the highlight of the day – Discover the evolution of Dive Instruments and the retrospective of Bell & Ross’ Dive Watches.

Hosted at Rhu Bar of Four Seasons Resort, booths were set up to showcase Bell & Ross’ Baselworld collection – BR03-92 Diver Blue and limited edition BR03-92 Diver Bronze.

BR03-92 Diver Blue and BR03-92 Diver Bronze were the extended versions of BR03-92 Diver Black introduced back in 2017. Continued to cherish its glory of being the first brand to introduce square diving watch, Bell & Ross rolled out the two horological marvels in a row during Baselworld 2018.

Bell & Ross BR03-92 Diver showcase

BR03-92 Diver Blue

The trailblazing square diving watch BR03-92 Diver is a professional diving instrument that meets ISO 6425 standard, thanks to its capability of diving underwater up to 300 metres of depth. Aside from its impressive water resistance, it is also imbued with a calibre BR-CAL. 302. automatic mechanical heart, enclosed in a 42mm case. It also boasts White SuperLuminova® on its hour hand, minute hands and indices granting its legibility even underwater and under dark condition, defining a true diving watch.

That night was topped off with gourmet meals served exclusively by the Four Seasons’ chefs.

Day 2

After an English breakfast buffet at Serai restaurant, it was time for an exhilarating adventure at Kilim Geoforest Park. It was a two and a half hour tour which I visited mangrove swamp; abandoned charcoal mill where a troop of monkeys lived; Karst Hills where a flock of red eagles and sea eagles were seen hovering around; and bat cave.

In the afternoon, we popped in Kelapa Grill restaurant – an eatery surrounded by the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea – to sate our hunger for the afternoon. After we were done, Bell & Ross announced they were going to give a surprise in the evening.

Kilim Geoforest Park

Kilim Geoforest Park

Around 6 p.m., Bell & Ross drove us to the secret place in the rain. After half an hour journey, we rolled up at our destination – Ritz-Carlton Langkawi. There were plenty of buggies were already waiting there. We got on the buggy straight away and headed inside the resort. Then, we took a stroll along a hidden alley to get to the secret place.

Surprise unveiled: it was The Horizon, a lounge which perched above a rock with a picture-perfect sunset view. What’s more, there were models looking stunning with swimsuits and BR03-92 Diver watches welcomed us at the infinity pool.

After showering the models with the flashlight, I sat down and had plenty of delicacies such as satay, pad thai and mango sticky rice. As the day faded away, DJ amped up the party with upbeat music and I relished the moment drinking luscious champagne by the infinity pool. All these magnificent moments were preciously stored in my brain.