Page 193 – Theluxecafe

BESPOKE LUXURY | Perched high on a hill, the Sun House is an oasis of calm offering a feel of life in the days gone by

Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), is a tiny island nation south of India in the Indian Ocean. It is a rugged land dotted with Buddhist ruins, rainforests, diverse wildlife and endless beaches. What makes it more interesting is the flavourful local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and a balmy climate which is so conducive to appetite and merry-making in general. If a massage followed by lazing under the sun on the beach, cocktail coolers in hand, followed by an alfresco dinner and dancing by the seaside is your idea of a perfect holiday, then go ahead and book your next trip to this beach paradise. Also, Sri Lanka offers a varied platter of mini islands and beaches off-the-beaten-track for those who wish to explore not just the party lights in Colombo but also exotic locales like Balapitiya, a river-crossed, jungle-strewn, ocean-side escape.

BEACH BLISS | Sri Lanka is a an emerald green island of calm, idyllic charm and yet-to-be-discovered beauty

To jazz up the prospect for you we have gone onto dive a little further to give you a list of hand-picked boutique and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. Your experience of this beach country will only amplify if you are to couple it with a stay at an authentic planter’s house, or a colonial bungalow, or a beach-side cottage which bring you closer to the sea, sand and the sea-food. So, consider for yourself this collection of cosy, comfortable and chic retreats as opposed to run-of-the-mill five star plushness.

The Sun House, Galle, was once the house of a Scottish spice merchant located close to the UN World Heritage site of Galle Fort, Buddhist temples, rainforests, tea plantations, wildlife reserves and some of the most fabulous beaches in the Indian ocean. This colonial house, built in the 1860’s, has been converted into a small hotel exuding a country house atmosphere offering guests the chance to experience a planter’s life where the day began with an English breakfast and ended with sun downers on the balcony overlooking the beach. With seven individual bedrooms, an eclectic décor boasting artworks, books and furniture, this colonial property also has two beautiful gardens – the fragrant frangipani (“temple tree”) garden, leading to the swimming pool, and the mango garden which faces a stunning view of Galle harbour. The gardens are an idyllic and serene place for guests to relax, read, write or sunbathe. The evening drinks at the famed Dick’s Bar and the fusion cuisine served in the airy verandahs add to the charm of a laidback holiday spent in picturesque Galle.

THE SUN HOUSE | Boutique glam is redefined at this planter’s retreat tucked into the heart of Galle

Casa Colombo, Colombo is a 12 suite Retro-chic boutique hotel with suites individually designed by the hotel’s flamboyant owner, Lalin Jinasena. The ruby-red rooms have 15 foot high moulded ceilings, Mosaic and sea-grass floors blending in a contemporary style with the charms of a magnificent 200 year old Moorish mansion. Acres of Italian and Indian mosaic floors, carved arches, moulded ceilings and Moorish styled balconies are mark of effort that has gone in to restore the building back to its former grandeur. Located in Bambalapitiya in Colombo 4, it is in the heart of Colombo’s business district, and yet it is a gated and private hotel. Lazing on the sun bed by the unique pink pool [which could be the first pink pool in the world], or dining by the poolside, or reading from their well-stocked library, one can do a lot in terms of spending time on the hotel premises or venture out with help of the hotel’s luxuriously executed adventures and excursions to exciting hot spots in the city. Eating in is a delight here as this famed Sri Lanka hotel boasts of world class eateries and some which are curiously designed like the ZAZA Bar, a mystifying glass cube that contains chic, comfy ball chairs with plush cushions.

CASA COLOMBO | Retro chic is how the ruby red rooms of this eclectic property can be best defined

Kandy House is a boutique nine-room hotel in the hills, and a 20-minute tuk-tuk ride from Kandy. This ancestral manor house was built in 1804 and has a rich history with exquisite restoration work evident. Its room, categorised as Ultra and Deluxe, are kitted out with four-poster beds and fans, whitewashed walls and a colonial ambience. Interestingly, the rooms are named after Butterflies which thrive in Sri Lanka, and are styled individually incorporating local fabrics, antique furniture with all modern amenities in place. There’s an infinity pool set around tropical trees which look out over the paddy fields and stay here to read and soak-in or you can take a bicycle for exploring the countryside. In-house chefs serve traditional Sri Lankan delicacies and modern international dishes but the highlight twice a week is their highly acclaimed feast of ten traditional Sri Lankan curries.

KANDY HOUSE | Colonial elegance is pervasive in this limited occupancy property which brings you close to the untouched countryside

Club Villa Bentota is a boutique beach-side hotel located just 1.5 hours drive south from Colombo. This Paradise Road property has been much talked about as one of Sri Lanka’s best and has catered to guests such as Paul and Stella Mc Cartney. The hotel’s 15 rooms are all designed by Shanth Fernando, a well-known local lifestyle guru, who has also modernised parts of this pioneering boutique property, going on to add new wing, entrance pavilion, and a new swimming pool. The Villa Café is housed in this newly built pavilion in Paradise Road style and serves some local favourites like Lemongrass and Ginger Chicken, Wasabi-coated Salmon, fresh Cucumber Salad and an unrivalled desserts menu.

CLUB VILLA BENTOTA | Paradise Road’s pride is this beach side resort which was first spotted in its original beauty by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa

Ceylon Tea Trails, Sri Lanka’s first Relais & Chateaux resort, is situated south of Hatton in the Dickoya and Bogawantalawa region of the hill country in south-central Sri Lanka. It comprises four luxurious colonial era planters’ bungalows, connected by walking trails through poetica, beautiful Ceylon tea gardens. Each of the four individual bungalows offer delightful views and unparalleled luxury. There is Summerville with an air of a country cottage, Castlereagh with an eclectic style of its own, the high colonial Tientsin and the more modern Norwood. Built between 1888 and 1950, the bungalows offer a taste of living in the yore, replete with butler service & period furnishings, Victorian bathtubs, chaise lounges, four posters and gourmet meals prepared by the chef assigned to each bungalow.

Ceylon Tea Trails | A complete experience is promised here as you savour the varied landscapes, exotic flora, abundant birdlife and the laidback rhythm of a luxurious tea garden life — CEYLON TEA TRAILS | A complete experience is promised here as you savour the varied landscapes, exotic flora, abundant birdlife and the laidback rhythm of a luxurious tea garden life

You can follow the Tea Trail from one bungalow to the next, while taking in all the views as you trek, bike or picnic in the heart of Sri Lanka’s picture book pretty Ceylon tea country.

Delhi finds itself at a cultural vantage point as it invariably is a part of an India-bound artist’s itinerary. One such culturally enriching evening would still remain sharp in the memory of those who witnessed the beautiful time spent listening to piano virtuoso Balázs Fülei playing some of his favourite compositions, ranging from the eternally loved Bach, Liszt, Schubert to folksy Hungarian tunes. A consummate performer, his renditions lifted the lucky listeners to such a plane of beauty as is possible only through the magic created by artists, and the grand Steinway piano gracing the dimly lit interiors of Nostalgia at 1911, the Brasserie at The Imperial Hotel, only added to the glamour of it all. For those who missed being a part of this, here is an exclusive recording of the musical genius playing some of the stellar pieces. Enjoy!

CLOSETED CLASSIC | A well-fitted white shirt is a wardrobe staple that no man can go wrong with

When in doubt, turn to white. Sounds like a dictum but has been a go-to rule in fashion, be it for men or women. And when one thinks of white, the quintessential item of clothing that comes to mind is the white shirt. To sex it up the ubiquitous white shirt is another game altogether, one nailed to perfection by our dear darling John Hamm in Mad Men. Preppy plaids, quirky prints and vintage chambray might come and go, but the white shirt remains a closet staple for men who remain unbothered by fashion fads and those who like the challenge of carrying a white shirt on through the day. The multitasking white shirt will stand you in good stead at a board meeting and also at an evening out, when coupled with a blazer. No wonder then that designers and international fashion houses have spent considerable energy in reinventing this classic piece of men’s clothing such that the white shirt remains firmly there on the fashion map as the silent knight in shining armour.

MINIMALISTIC DELIGHT | The design, texture and details of the celeb-favoured white shirt can go a long way in redefining it for a day-to-evening wear

Not that the white shirt ever faded into fashion oblivion, but then in matters sartorial there is more to consider when choosing the right ‘white’ for you. The nuances of picking the white dress shirt extends to that of the cuff (barrel or French), collar (semi-spread or point), fit (slim or boxy), and fabric (Panama or broadcloth). And to make matters easy here, we went on a trip to enlist our favourites from among the best out there, so you can now stock up your wardrobe with these five picks.

“When I look at a man’s shirt, I see his passions, his dreams and his ambitions. I see his personal sense of art.” — Charvet Co-Owner Anne-Marie Colban

Tom Ford’s own take on the white shirt has him saying, “When I put on a white shirt, it’s the same feeling as getting into crisp, fresh sheets at night.” The Tom Ford model shirt is a classic-fit high collar stand, barrel cuff white shirt (priced at about $990; tomford.com) which when paired with blue jeans will give you a lean, clean masculine look. Should you want to flaunt your gym-toned body then this is the shirt for you.

TOM FORD | One of the most celebrated American designer sports monochromatic power and a cool vibe in an open – necked white shirt

A point to note when outfitted in a crisp white shirt is that the shirt should not be ballooning around you, but at the same time it should not be a case of straining buttons. While slimmer silhouettes suit athletic bodies, bigger guys (read – ‘dad bods’) should opt for shirts with a couple of box pleats for that tiny bit of extra room without compromising the shape. Herein comes the bespoke tailoring which is offered by legendary English shirtmaker Turnbull & Asser. Turnbull shirts are cut splendidly and generously to house bigger builds but they recently introduced a slim fit version, the Slim St Jim, for the first time in a 130-year long history. The slim-fit white marcella dress shirt (GBP 205; turnbullandasser.co.uk) is a great one to go tieless with as its regent collar offers a more open and less severe look than the cutaway collar, and it features the brand’s signature three-button cuff.

TURNBULL & ASSER | The pleated bib-front white shirt dress from this legendary shirtmaker is all about reinventing the classic

Going the bespoke way, and turning towards more Continental luxury, one arrives at the door of fine-shirt companies like Charvet which boasts of having shirts from more than 400 white fabrics, including micro jacquards and poplin, and also Egyptian and Sea Isle cottons, woven by Italian or Swiss mills, which soften with repeated wear. This upscale Parisian brand has custom designed for the royalty and is an institution in itself. If you are looking for that one shirt which epitomises your perfection, rather the pursuit of it, then you can get one made to your exact measurements from one of the 6,000 fabrics in Charvet’s Paris boutique. A slim-fit oxford shirt from Charvet will set you back by $515 but will be worth every cent and centimetre.

CHARVET | A luxurious indulgence is getting a white pointed collar shirt in ivory white from this Rolls-Royce of bespoke shirtmaking brands

Now, if we go past the fabric and cut, we arrive at the collar which according to Calvin Klein Collection designer Italo Zucchelli is an important aspect as the size has to be right, be it a point or a spread collar. “A medium collar is modern. Too big and you look like a dandy,” Zucchelli says. “Too small and you look like you shopped in the boys’ department.” One of the best variations of a white point-collar shirt from a luxury brand will be from the house of Ermenegildo Zegna. Made of cotton-twill, it is comfortable, sleek, and tapered at the waist for a flattering fit to show off the broad shoulders. But it also comes in many size combinations (priced at around $345; zegna.com).

ANN DEMEULEMEESTER | Taking a casual but more structured route will be this plain woven long white shirt with collar detailing from the namesake brand

There are more bespoke brands which offer good options when looking for your favourite shirt sleeves like the Swedish brand Eton which prides itself on quality and craftsmanship. Eton’s Red Ribbon collection offers a selection of dress shirts in different collar and cuff variations and four varied fits ($235; etonshirts.com). Also, worth a look is the long sleeved, slim cut, white dress shirt ($310; corner.com) from Ann Demeulemeester, of the famous Antwerp Six designers, which is perfect for tucking in or for wearing over tapered pants.

THOM BROWNE | Channel in effortless American cool with the Thom Browne white shirt over sharp trousers

And if you think we have huffed and puffed enough about the white shirt’s anatomy, well then you need to be made aware of on the hot debates: oxford cloth versus poplin, or rugged versus delicate. Poplin with its higher thread count is more masculine and expensive while the oxford is sportier, non-fussy and at the same time elegant. Thom Browne, who professes his love for the oxford button-down quite evidently, has a runway-hit white shirt($330; thombrowne.com)made of breathable oxford cotton, which is different from his extravagant creations but still carries Browne’s signature red, white, and blue stripes showing at the neck (although there is another version with the striped armbands jazzing up the whites).

Tags bespoke tailoring, Calvin Klein Collection, Charvet, Classic White Shirt, Ermenegildo Zegna, Italo Zucchelli, Tom Ford, Turnbull & Asser

BEAUTY AND A BEACH | It’s very rare to get that perfect amalgamation of luxury and nature, and that’s where Kerala steps in–offering some of the most serene spots on the planet. Photograph: Bougainvillea by Marari Villas

History speaks of Kerala to be among the most pristine spots on the planet. The culture and traditions of this part of the map enrich the Indian civilisation. And for that luxe traveller in you, who is either travelling across the blue seas to reach India or flying from within the country to this lovely state, the place is sure to offer you a sense of tranquility unlike any other. To take that sense of bliss another notch higher, we at the Luxe Café handpicked some properties to offer you that warm and cozy, home away from home experience!

SPOTLESS PERFECTION | The bungalow stands tall amidst vast expanses of green and resembles an innocent budding flower, thanks to its pristine white hue

Evergreen Estate Bungalow
Totally living up to its name, the Evergreen Estate Bungalow is perhaps the most picturesque on the list. The owners (and your potential hosts) are George, Anju, Rose and Little Abraham. They belong to Pottamkulam Family, who are associated with the pioneers of the Rubber plantations from 1910 who started off as farmers and forged into the plantations. Today their family’s diverse interests have come to include Cardamom, Rubber and Coffee.

In fact, being located at the foothills of the Periyar, the very place, Mundakayam, is the one where commercial rubber plantation was born in 1903. The bungalow is at Koottickal, at the midland slopes of gateway to the high ranges of Kerala. The bungalow enjoys that sumptuous art deco-style architecture, reminiscent of the period from 1940-60 in South India. The two massive rooms offered to guests are aesthetically furnished and appointed with modern facilities.

Food is served from the routine Kitchens of Kerala and North Indian. The menu is set between the guest and the host with controlled use of spices, with homegrown and organic fruits, vegetables and spices finding a place in the cuisines.

Plus, whats more lovely is the fact that the homestay is recognized by Kerala’s Department of Tourism and is even classified as a Diamond House, the highest rating prevailing under classification scheme.

Go ahead, shine bright like a diamond, we say!

Tariff per night: INR 10,000 for the AC heritage Rooms.

LUXE GOES PARADISICAL | The clouds, the birds, the villa and easy flowing waters against perfectly rustic sunset! Need we say more?

The Kayal Villa
If the size of a property is the first thing on your vacationing mind, then this might just be ‘the’ place for you. The Kayal villa is a sprawling 2-bedroom villa that sits on 6.5 acres of private estate, surrounded on all sides by Kerala’s backwaters.

A large yard between the villa and the water is used for relaxation, recreation, or banqueting functions. A lovely aspect their management is their effortless effort of striking a balance between nature’s elements. How, you ask? The three ponds are used for aquaculture and the remaining lands for agriculture that supply guests at Kayal Villa as well as their other properties with a farm-to-table dining experience.

And for that adventurous luxe traveller, the Villa’s hospitality team shall be more than happy to assist you with activities including fishing, kayaking, bicycling or exploration of the nearby Fort Cochin.

Tariff per night: INR 10,000–15,000.

CLASSIC AND CHIC | Luxury gets a whole new meaning when you are between antique pieces like this vintage dining table and the very era-reflective architecture

The Anthraper Gardens
One look and you’re hooked! This beautiful heritage home in Cherthala, at a 45 minute drive from Cochin) is among a few rare properties that are surrounded by water on three sides with a private boat-jetty and a sprawling garden.

The homestay building is 75 years old, well maintained in a 2 acre plot surrounded by backwaters on three sides. A verandah runs around the building with a view of the backwaters. The property is well landscaped with 6000sq ft of lawn, varieties of fruit trees and coconut palms.

On the offering are two air conditioned suites with twin beds, attached dressing rooms and modern bathrooms with 24 hours hot water facility. What’s more, all rooms have a view of the backwaters and decorated in old world style. Vibrant and elegant, with a dramatic view of Vembanad Lake the Anthraper Gardens Home Stay is a vantage point from where you can explore the sights, sounds and experiences around you.

The present house Anthraper Gardens with waterfront on three sides is a very quiet and picturesque place with a spacious and well-manicured garden. Away from the hustle & bustle of the city, it is an idyllic place to unwind and rediscover oneself.

Anthraper Gardens offers you that memorable as well as exotic experience of elegant traditional living in an atmosphere of age old charm.

Tariff per night: INR 5,000–6,000.

RIGHT AS RAIN | The magical manner in which monsoons induce life into beings and bring about ethereal shades of green have everyone–from poets to artists–in sheer awe! Photograph: Vythiri Haven resort

We at The Luxe Café totally believe in this saying,

Come July-August, and it is that time of the year again when the monsoon drenches India right from the north to the south. Without a doubt, a monsoon vacation is the best way to make the most of this indulgent weather. But confused over which place to choose?

Fear not, it’s The Luxe Café to the rescue! Here’s presenting our fabulous mix of some boutique properties (mind you, not hotels!) from every corner of the beautiful subcontinent…

SPLENDID SOUTH | The management of the Vythiri resort has done perfect justice to Wayanad’s tag of being a UNESCO heritage site, by keeping the architecture minimal yet without compromising on the luxury aspect

Vythiri Resorts, Wayanad, Kerala
Quietly elegant and exclusive, the Vythri Resort is magnificent place to be in with some truly breathtaking views. An idyllic destination for the vacationing and business traveler, the very place, Wayanad, is a quaint hill District in north western Kerala, in a region of immense beauty and a dazzling variety of wildlife and fauna.

One has the option to choose from a variety of accommodations at the resort. First, there are 5 Tree houses (including 1 exclusive child friendly Tree House) set high above the lush canopy of the rainforest. Then, there are the exquisite cottages with spacious sit outs, elegantly furnished and facing the stream downstream.

But our favourite are the honeymoon villas which are nothing short of an architectural genius! The four romantic villas come with private swimming pool with covered sun deck on the basement floor and a bed room on top floor with a glass flooring.

This indeed is a secluded hideaway for a select few looking for that tranquil space with the gurgle of the frolicking stream and the chatter of the birds for company.

Tariff per night: INR 11,500–30,000

WONDEROUS WEST | Nothing comes close to the reviving the traditional crafts and the entire nostalgia of the bygone era, like the Chhatra Sagar

Chhatra Sagar, Nimaj, Rajasthan
In the late nineteenth century, Thakur Chhatra Singh of Nimaj, a powerful noble of the desert kingdom of Marwar (Jodhpur), decided to dam a seasonal stream flowing through his estate. His vision was to create a water reservoir which would harvest the monsoon rains. The dam was completed in 1890 and by early twentieth century Chhatra Sagar had developed into a lush green oasis. The reservoir was named Chhatra Sagar in his memory.

With its wide open spaces and enchanting views, it became the entertainment venue of choice. To capture the outdoor “big sky” feel of the place, permanent construction was deliberately kept to a minimum.

A fresh luxury tented camp was created for each party. For many dignitaries visiting Nimaj, “Camp Chhatra Sagar” was the highlight. Legendary sporting parties with high tea and exotic dinners became a regular feature.

Indeed, luxury tents have always been an important part of Rajput lifestyle. Constant campaigns in far flung lands meant long stays in tents under inhospitable conditions. Tents were the only luxury available and soon these “homes away from home” evolved into mobile, mini-palaces. Chhatra Sagar captures the essence of this romance.

Today, the place is a sight to behold. The Tents face east overlooking the lake and have private sit outs offering panoramic views. Each tent is carefully hand stitched with interiors block printed in traditional floral motifs. They are spacious, comfortably furnished with locally crafted furniture, and have well appointed private facilities. Two of the tents are set atop a hill providing complete privacy and a breathtaking 360 degree view. The food? Perhaps, the best in the region!

Tariff per night: INR 30,000–33,000

CENTRAL CALM | If the idiom ‘call of the wild’ ever came true, the Tree House Hideaway will be the result; and an uber-luxe one for sure!

Tree House Hideaway, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh
In lush 21 acres area of green land lies the Tree House Hideaway – offering you that awesome option of experiencing the snug life inside the rooms or to venture out in the tiger-infested wild.

There are a total of five hideaways–Mahua, Tendu, Peepal, Banyan and Palash–named after the trees on which they are established. The designs are a fusion of contemporary design and traditional jungle living with earth tones and eco essentials. All Tree houses have modern attached bathrooms with 24hrs temperature controlled water, living area, mini bar, split ACs, mosquito netting, writing table and chair, and loungers in the balconies. Local craft knowledge and traditional expertise has been used at all quarters to ensure that the Tree Houses blend harmoniously with nature.

Dining hall is built around a century old Mahua tree, in two levels. The ground level serves as a cozy dining hall and the upper floor as a bar cum lounge known as ‘The Watering Hole’. Dining hall offers Indian, Continental and Barbeque meals personalized to requirements of the guests.

Take your pick–spend your time unseen and undisturbed in the intimacy of your room or follow your wild call and go looking for wild animals and birds in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, home to the densest tiger population in India.

Tariff per night: INR 27,000–30,000

EXOTIC EAST | The Glenburn tea estate is your perfect chance to live that life of a rich tea estate owner

Glenburn Tea Estate, West Bengal
About a pleasant hour’s drive from Darjeeling, the 1600-acre Glenburn Tea Estate holds on to a legacy of a rich colonial past. Established in 1860 by Scottish tea planters, the pleasingly rustic yet tasteful property is now owned by Prakash family, a tea-planting household from Kolkata popularly known as the Chaiwala.

Anshuman and Husna Tara Prakash have renovated the property. The property has an awesome view of the pristine snow-capped Himalayas that extend all the way down to the bank of two meandering rivers, Rungeet and Rung Dung. Inside, the beauty of nature is fittingly complimented by Spanish mahogany upholstery and European paintings.

The main attraction of the property is The Burra Bungalow, which is the original planter’s guest house consisting of four charming and spacious individually designed suites and decorated with wonderful hand-made furniture, muslin curtains and bed linen all embroidered with Himalayan flowers and butterflies. Vases of cheerful flowers are in every nook and corner, freshly picked from the terrace garden that overlooks the valley.

The sit down dining room is also a unique feature which doesn’t have any fixed menu. Guests are free to order as per their preferences. “We want Glenburn to be a foodie destination,” says Husna. The food is organic and sourced locally. And the green tea ice cream and tea pakoras are absolute delights.

Tariff per night: INR 30,000

SCENIC SOUTH | Evocative of the bygone era, ‘Privacy’ is an expression of life’s elements in perfect & pure harmony

Privacy at Sanctuary Bay, Muhamma, Kerala
What’s in a name, they say? Well, in case of this property, everything! Called privacy this place is marks an end to your search for that perfect place that offers a secluded and personal setting. Located opposite Kumarakom, a 45 km drive from The Malabar House, privacy at Sanctury Bay is accessible by car, boat & houseboat.

Privacy has two distinct bungalows: The water front bungalow is an all air-conditioned suite with bed, dining, living & two bathrooms. The heritage bungalow, a relocated ancient wooden cottage, has two bedrooms with bath gardens, separated by the hall. Both bungalows have private sit outs and verandahs overlooking Lake Vembanad. The pool is half way between the two bungalows. Also in the offering is a large landscaped tropical garden and WiFi to stay connected.

Meals are served on the lawn, poolside or your private terrace overlooking the lake. The management also maintains mountain bikes to explore the surroundings as well as a country boat, propelled by a noiseless electric motor, that takes you for bird watching on the lake.

No wonder The Sunday Telegraph has called privacy ‘the smallest, but possibly the most romantic hotel on earth!’

Tariff per night: INR 14,000–23,000

TAILORED TIME | The ‘Tempo’ Apple Watch Edition, as rendered by Legend’s skilled artists represents the rare art of the finest master-grade hand engraving

To ensure that you don’t settle for anything less, Finnish company, Legend has announced their customization service for the Apple Watch.

Called Tempo, the watch will be a perfect addition to your wardrobe. It features a complex hand engraved design on 24Kt gold, a crocodile leather strap, gold deployment buckle and to top it all, it even comes with a luxurious wooden presentation box that also includes the certificate of authenticity in a leather folder.

The case
The intricate hand engravings of Tempo require over 30 hours of engraving. It can be made of solid 18Kt gold or plated with any precious metal of choice: 24Kt gold, 18Kt gold, rose gold or platinum. Also the customer’s initials can be hand engraved on the deployment buckle as a monogram. And for those who wish to add that little extra sparkle, Legend also offers VVS1 grade diamond studded housing.

The strap
Complementing the beauty of the case is the strap. The straps are all made of authentic premium grade exotic leathers where the client can choose from options such as crocodile, stingray, ostrich or sharkskin strap as well as the preferred color of the leather and the stitching. Tempo can as well be purchased with the gold plated Apple Watch link bracelet which can further be hand engraved according to the client’s specifications.

Price: INR 2.5 Lakh including VAT and shipping.

Tags 24 K gold, Apple Watch Edition Tempo, hand-engraved design, luxury watches

ATHELETE AND AESTHETE | Günther Raupp is the man who can rightly be credited to having taken automotive photography to a whole new level

In an exclusive interview with The Luxe Café, Günther Raupp, who is one of the most sought-after automobile photographers in Europe and the US, talks about his passion for shooting Ferraris. Not many artists have lassoed the Prancing Horse the way Raupp has. And why not? As a young freelancer, he achieved his dream of buying a Dino 246 Spider and in 1984 began to photograph and produce his own Ferrari calendar. Enzo Ferrari lauded Raupp on his first edition. His unique photographic style has impressed famous Ferrari collectors across the world. After the last exhibition premiere at the Ferrari Museum’s “Galleria Ferrari” in Maranello, the “Haus der Wirtschaft” in Stuttgart became his next venue. Valencia, Basel and the Unesco World Heritage Site Ironworks, Voelklingen followed. Here’s a sneak peek into Raupp’s eclectic collection of the most exquisite Ferraris in the world. Only on The Luxe Café.

THE MAN & HIS MACHINE | We at The Luxe Café couldn’t help but notice the perfect balance of elements in the photograph; especially how the sun is camouflaged behind the car’s A-pillar and visible only through Raupp’s eyeglasses!

The Luxe Cafe: What happened to Stuttgart? A German in love with Italian cars! That’s unheard of?
The top range of German cars is common here. My tax consultant, my lawyer, my doctor and many of my friends are driving Mercedes, Porsche or BMW. I fell in love for Ferrari when I was a boy of twelve. And when I grew up I realized my dream and bought a Ferrari Dino 246 Spider. I own the car now since 34 years.

STANDING TALL | The nocturnal setting and the sculpted lines of the crimson red Ferrari complement each other beyond measure

When did you start with photography? And, when did cars happen?
I am NOT a photographer, I studied fine art painting and the history of art at the State Academy of Art at Stuttgart/Germany. During the studies I experimented with film and audiovisual media. I had the chance for a spectacular multimedia project about Venice over eight months at the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart which is one of the most rewarded art museums in Germany. In those days I was 25. It was nothing else than logic that I then started my studio for professional communication and advertising. Which means that I came from art to film and then to photography. Then my first car clients came: FIAT, Porsche, Jaguar, Ford etc.

RISE & SHINE | The beast shines in bright daylight, adding to the beauty of the ancient castle set amidst lush greens

Why cars? Why not anything else, like women?
Cars, women? Cars are my passion. Women too. But you can’t start a business with all of your passions.

GOOD OLD BOY | The composition of the frame is such that though the background and other elements are well in place, but it is impossible to take one’s eyes of this vintage beauty in sunshine yellow

How hard is it? What are the challenges involved?
Cars are usually the top challenge in advertising. It’s the leading industry and the creative results are in the centre of interest. To stay here over years means to define your own style and to develop yourself continuously.

A TIMELESS TALE | The black and red matte finish along with the clean lines of the automobile’s construction are in perfect harmony with the manicured gardens where the photograph was shot

What have been your toughest assignment yet?
My first shooting some years ago for Peugeot/England. I was for a production in Spain and the art director came down from London to Spain to give me the briefing for the coming Peugeot shooting. He knew my latest works very well. He presented me an image of the car and said he wants to get the Peugeot as a sophisticated, an ultimate seduction. “Think of it as with a black negligee.” I said yes and he disappeared. I shot the Peugeot at a studio at London. It was for a huge billboard of 15 meter horizontal and hanging all over Great Britain. When I saw it I always had a smile on my lips when I remembered the briefing…

FAST & FIERCE | Raupp’s oblique and unusual angles of shooting adds a distinct character to his clicks

This question had to come up. What’s the top three cars in your favourite list? Why?
Ferrari F12 because it’s the optimum of power (740 hp) and comfort. Ferrari Dino 246 GTS because it’s the all time icon of beauty, sound and italianità. Ford Focus RS because it’s the rebel among the compact cars. It’s entertaining, it’s affordable and it polarizes.

WITHOUT A SHADOW OF A DOUBT | Due to the immaculate play of shadows, the manner in which the prancing horse logo pops out is incredible

What do you think sets Ferrari apart from any other automobile brand?
The passion for racing and the Pininfarina style of their Gran Turismo cars in more than 64 years. Ferrari is based on the philosophy of its founder Enzo Ferrari and is the only car brand with a coherent, never interrupted history.

BRINGING SEXY BACK | This very click has left us rejoicing in the smell of burning rubber and the roar of the exhaust vents!

How does your equipment look like? What’s your favorite lens?
It looks like my head. My creativity, my passion for better images and my self control are the software programs mostly used. My favorite lenses are my eyes.
If the game is on my digital Hasselblad or one of my Canons are used. My image style is based more on wide angle lenses. Which means 35 mm for the Hassi and any 20 – 30 mm for the Cans.

SCULPTED TO PERFECTION | It’s incredible to see how the clever play of natural lighting has lent the black beauty a supernatural glow

What is the one photography tool that you can’t do without?
My hands. “An idea comes into reality when it has reached the hands.”
No matter what happens in the digital post production – I love photography! I can’t work without my flash equipment. Flashs in several configurations outdoor and on location. I constructed some by myself. And a whole collection of filters is always in my cases.

RED HAUTE | A vintage Ferrari, in red color. A Tropical climate with majestic palm trees around. Life certainly doesn’t get any better than this!

What do you intend to do with your skill afterwards?
For me there is no “afterwards”! Look, actually I’m on to shoot the 2016 Official Ferrari Calendar, the absolute dream-job. But good to know that this is the 32th Ferrari calendar I am shooting exclusively and in a consecutive never interrupted series! Living means designing, means passion, joy and responsibility. Living means giving fun and satisfaction. “Afterwards” is after the death.

DRIVING AWAY THE BLUES | There is something so romantic about the chrome grills and external mounted fixtures of vintage Ferraris that makes you fall in love almost instantaneously!

What do you drive?
Every day’s car is my Ford Focus RS in crazy green. With this you either have friends or enemies – but nothing in between. Starting his engine makes every day a Sunday… And the Ferrari Dino of course.

BEYOND THE ORDINARY | Raupp click captures the source of that iconic sound, as the Ferrari poses with aplomb

Tell us about some of your most interesting clients?
I could write a book about my clients but – lucky clients! – don’t do it! Every partner is different, every challenge is special. And don’t forget the cultural spectrum! I worked for months of life in America at Detroit, Chicago, Hollywood and Monterey. In England, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan and the Philippines… Ferrari, Porsche, Audi, Jaguar, Volvo, Buick, Ford, General Motors, Toyota are among my clients.

CALM & COMPOSED | There’s a certain mystical quality to the peacefully flowing waters and the automobile’s tranquil stance in the photograph

What are some of the most beautiful places you have travelled to?
The next will be the most beautiful!

FLAMING HOT | This seduction-on-wheels has our adrenaline shooting up to never-before-experienced levels

Have you ever come to India?
I was some years ago there and love the people, the culture and the country! Great dynamic!

CLASSY & CURVY | The chiseled Ferrari, the old world architecture and the setting sun–have us hooked and how!

How does a day in the life of Gunther Raupp look like?
I start early at the atelier at 5 or 6 a.m. Most of the creative ideas are born in the early hours. When the world around has awaken there are to many phone calls, e-mails and meetings. I hate this. I love to be out on photo shootings because it’s a total concentration on the task in front of you.

READY TO ROLL | An amalgamation of sense & sensuality, delivered through the veteran’s lens

What is the last big risk you took?
I just finished a big book with more than 300 pages on the iconic Italian design house Pininfarina. It is the ultimate book and so is the title THE PININFARINA BOOK. I say risk because to overtake such a project is a big challenge. Ok, I published before at the same rewarded publishing house teNeues two books on my life-work for Ferrari. But to realize such a Pininfarina book under the limelight of the international design world is not only a hot deal – it is a huge work too. But just now the book had its world premiere and the press is tremendous.

SIXTEEN TILL I DIE | There is no such thing as an old Ferrari – They’re either new or classic

Do you think photography, especially automotive photography, is a career worth pursuing?
No. Because of a changing world people are needed who think and work universal, who are able to be creative in a wide field of communication arts.

GOTH & GLAM | This deep black beauty reminds us of that iconic thought by Enzo Ferrari when he said, Aerodynamics are for people who can’t build engines!

What drives you?
Love.

RED BLOODED | Raupp’s composition of a striking red Ferrari posing pretty in front of the symmetrically aligned trees has made us fall in love, all over again!

Any advice or tips for budding automotive photographers?
They have to know the cars.

GIVING THE GREEN LIGHT | The blue sky, the orange-yellow sun, the green car and that magical pink bokeh near the number plate–the palette of colors in this click are ethereal

Describe the word ‘luxury’ in one sentence?
To have time.

BLUE EYED BOY | The blue sky, the blue car and the blue lights – the color never looked so electrifying

Collectors can also buy the photographs as valuable originals, created using an elaborate diaplex process in 120 x 120 cm format, and personally signed by Günther Raupp via www.raupp.com

IN THE COMMANDING POSITION | When you’re behind the wheel of the Ferrari, what’s behind you doesn’t matter!

View Raupp’s latest Ferrari book here

Kanwarani Kamini Singh and Princess Chandni Kumari Singh of Seohara are the forces behind brand Rose Tree which blends together sustainable eco-fashion with vintage style and traditional handwork. From spa and beach wear to exquisite crushed kurtis and shararas, Rose Tree is unique in its offering of luxurious formal wear in natural fabrics, exotic in themselves being sourced from renewable sources like organic cotton, hemp and bamboo, embellished with exquisite chikankari, pearls, aari and gota work done by the local women of Seohara. Revival of the dying crafts being an USP, their designs have been to Milan Fashion Week and cater not only to those looking for traditional handiwork on breathable fabrics but also to the conscious stylista’s need for sustainable fashion with contemporary silhouettes

Tags Green fashion, heritage crafts, Kanwarani Kamini Singh, Organic fashion, Princess Chandni Kumari Singh, Rose Tree, Vintage style

The Imperial New Delhi, known to house the largest and a significantly exuberant collection colonial & post colonial art & artifacts, is also, aptly, known as the Museum Hotel. Starting with the aquatints of war between Punjab and the British Empire in the Lahore Lounge, to the stellar 70 feet mural, titled “The Panoramic view of Hindoostan” by A P Mongin, in 1911 restaurant, to stately portraits of the Maharaja of Bikaner and Maharaja of Patiala in the Atrium, to the life size bust of George the V and Queen Mary with the chair used in the coronation ceremony in 1911, the hotel has its pillars, walls and corridors adorned with the art collectibles which offer one a historical tour across continents and ages. No wonder then that international movie stars, politicians and personalities of note from India frequent The Imperial as their preferred stay-away-from-home.

It’s the abode Gods & Goddesses. The pure air, serene environ amidst verdant surroundings rejuvenate the mind, the body and the soul. The Luxecafe becomes a leisure guide for those who are ready to rough it out across the Himalayan villages and slopes by the day but want the luxuries of home at night. Himalaica of Daves, the eight houses of Shakti Ladakh, Shakti Kumaon and, Dalar Homestay & Mary Budden Estate in the Binsar wildlife sanctuary are among the select luxe homestays which provide an experience as exhilarating as a trek through the hilly terrain. The mountain of cash needed for spending a few nights at these places seems like a molehill when measured against the joy the stay brings.