Page 196 – Theluxecafe

TRAVELLER TRAILS| Radisson Blu Water Garden in Dhaka offers a nifty stay option to those visiting Bangladesh for work

Not one usually on top of the radar, Bangladesh is a country which has been put under the ‘Next Eleven’ tier of developing countries with serious growth potential. With the government trying to diversify the economy with stress on industrial development, Bangladesh is working its way to being an important presence in the subcontinent. With a history riddled with strife, the country’s natural beauty is often overlooked but is something to explore along with its viability as a ‘best value’ destination for those travelling for work. Visible amidst the recent turmoil is the rise of a liberal public, which augurs well for the times to come as the government is developing business tourism given the proximity of hills, beaches, rivers, tea plantations, forests, and archaeological sites juxtaposed with the busy towns and cities of Bangladesh. What the country offers in terms of facilities for the business traveller is also a topic to be taken up considering there are some luxurious properties worth the time and effort of busy visitors who can relax in the comforts of these hotels known for their hospitality, accessibility and unique ‘Bangladeshi experience’. Here is our curated list of Bangladesh’s best and beautiful business hotels for you to consider on your next trip there:

Pan Pacific Sonargaon

This prestigious 5 star hotel is situated prominently in the centre of Bangladesh’s Diplomatic Zone and commercial district in the capital city of Dhaka. With a Business centre equipped with meeting rooms, wi-fi, secretarial services and such, the hotel is clearly a top choice for business visitor who can also revel in its lush greenery which offers respite from the concrete jungle around. The exclusive offerings such as limousine rentals and round-the-clock room service make it a viable one for the time-strapped, stylish traveller who can then end his stay with a relaxing dip in the hotel’s expansive pool, or a visit to the salon or the shopping arcade, followed by a nightcap at the Balcony Bar which has an extensive selection of international wines and liquors.

The hotel offers a choice of 277 suites and hotel rooms in Dhaka that marry old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. The penthouse Bengali Suite here is theluxe stay option that encapsulates chic urban living with soaring views of the city and swimming pool. This 9090 sqft suite comes with a large bedroom, a tastefully furnished living area with separate guest bathroom, a well-equipped kitchenette, and an exclusive dining area for up to six guests, and not to forget the accompanying Pacific club privileges of butler service, evening cocktails and such. The international cuisine restaurants like the Italian Ciao Bistro and the Barbeque Jharna Grill at Pan Pacific Sonargaon are two of Dhaka’s best restaurants and worth mentioning here.

POOLSIDE PARTY | Sprawling green acres of the Radisson Blu Dhaka are set off by multiple avenues to relax at

Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel

Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden is set on seven acres of lush green gardens studded with water features to justify its name. Situated at just a ten-minute drive from the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, this hotel is also in the vicinity of the diplomatic enclave and main commercial hub of the city. The accessible locations add to the world-class conveniences of this business hotel with the ambiance of a resort. There are 200 spacious hotel rooms and suites featuring modern décor and offer lovely views overlooking the sparkling pool, lush greenery and bustling city streets.Corporate travellers will love their Business Class Rooms with upgraded in-room amenities, a daily breakfast and evening refreshments at the Business Class Lounge or Water Garden Brasserie, complimentary airport transfers, complimentary laundry and daily turndown service. For conferences and team meetings there is ample space like in the Grand Ballroom, Utshab Banquet, and smaller boardrooms which come with breakout areas and service. For the weary workaholic, the hotel offers many avenues of relaxation like at their Sundaree Spa which is one the city’s best. And if you are sports junkie then you can take off to the adjacent Army Golf club for a calming round of golf, or vent it out on the treadmill in their state-of-the-art Health Club, or hit it hard at the tennis court. This hotel has seven restaurants and bars to cater to varied needs but worth special mention is the Cigar Bar with its selection of international cigars and the Sublime Restaurant featuring a modern open kitchen setting and dishing out some seriously decadent dishes.

RELAX AND REJUVENATE |The poolside at Westin Dhaka is the perfect spot for a dip and drink at the end of a long day — RELAX AND REJUVENATE |The pool side at Westin Dhaka is the perfect spot for a dip and drink at the end of a long day

Westin Hotels and Resorts

This award-winning hotel is located in Gulshan, an upscale area of Dhaka, near corporate offices—such as HSBC and Chevron—embassies, shopping, and entertainment complexes. Situated only 20 minutes away from the international airport, the hotel is a relatively new entrant on the Bangladesh luxury hotel scene but is already a favourite and structurally one of the tallest hotels in South Asia. The amenities available are various starting with the state-of-the-art Fitness Studio, the rejuvenating Westin Spa, and the outdoor heated pool. Meanwhile, for the business traveller there is the Business Centre with a suite of professional services. For those on longer work related visits, the hotel has 235 spacious guest rooms, including 24 suites to offer. But the one to choose is Executive Suites which are corner suites with floor to ceiling windows allowing panoramic views of the city and also access to the exclusive Executive Club Lounge with its dedicated workspace for optimal convenience plus daily food and beverage service. Wood flooring, a handsome mahogany panelled credenza, neutral colour palette, and eye-catching artwork makes these suites the perfect space to relax in.A stately upholstered headboard tops the king-size signature Heavenly® Bed with its ten layers of comfort and patented pillow-top mattress – a luxury beyond measure. And if this were not enough there is the en-suite oversized marble bathroom featuring a glass-enclosed rainforest shower, separate deep soaking bathtub for a perfect end to a long day. And should one be having guests over, the additional powder room, located next to the living room, makes hosting effortless.

For the foodies, The Westin Dhaka is a lovely dining destination with its five diverse restaurants and bar. There is traditional Bangladeshi fare and also Italian among the menus on offer. The features to mention here are the Eat Well menu for kids, the fresh and wholesome juicery and the specially curated SuperFoodsRx menu cultivating “food synergy for the wellness conscious.

The Peninsula Chittagong

Moving away from Dhaka, the capital city is Peninsula hotel in Chittagong, another very important commercial hub in Bangladesh. The hotel is located at theGEC circle of the Port City in a scenic and convenient location minutes from the commercial centre surrounded by famous retail shops, restaurants and corporate offices. There is selection of fully serviced modern venues – banquet hall and boardrooms – to suit all occasions, be it corporate meetings, off-sites, conferences. The five star experience is available here with concierge services, limo rentals etc. There are 144 rooms and suites of different types but the one to seek out is the Luxury suite, furnished with solid wood furniture along with teak wood flooring, and a king sized bed with orthopaedic bedding. The ceiling height windows overlook the hotel and the distant hills. There is a separate living room to host a business meeting as well. For when the work is done, there is the fitness centre and the Tararom Spa which has authentic Thai therapies to refresh and re-energise at. The dining facilities here include the Isles Bar and Flamingo Café. But the signature restaurant of the hotel is the Laguna Restaurant which combines the cuisine of five Asian countries – Bangladesh, India, Thailand, China and Sri Lanka with the Arabic and Continental Cuisine. The ambience and the service are both international while the restaurant provides perfect setting for luxurious dining and hosting.

TASTE THE BEST | A whisky trail worth exploring leads you straight to the Scottish highlands

Let’s raise a toast to the spirit which was first distilled as a medicinal brew by Irish Christian Monks in the late 6th and early 7th century AD and baptised as ‘Usquebaugh’, which isGaelic foraqua vitae or water of life. The brew travelled with missionary monks to Scotland and became an integral part of the Scottish identity and, subsequently,a symbol of Scottish resistance and rebellion against English hegemony in the early 18thcentury. The Usquebaughis today one of the most sought after spirit, but better known by its anglicised name-whisky.

Though the Irish claim to have given whisky to the world but the fact remains that when you talk about whisky it’s the Pagoda silhouettes of distilleries dotting the beautiful Scottish landscape which come to one’s mind. The first historical records about the brew in the Scottish official books appear in 1494.There is an entry of ‘eight bolls of malt to Friar JohnCor wherewith to make aqua vitae’. A boll is an old Scottish measure of less than six bushels. One bushel is 25.4 kg.

MACALLAN DISTILLERY | An iconic Scottish distillery which comes with a legacy

Morereferences appear in September 1506 in the treasurer’s accounts of King James IV.He made entries for the 15th and 17th of the month which read ‘for aqua vitae to the king’. However, the earliest reference to a distillery in the Acts of the Scottish Parliament is in 1690, when there is mention of the famous Ferintosh distillery owned by Duncan Forbes of Culloden.

An unpublished letter of February 1622, written by Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy to the Earl of Mar, reported that certain officers sent to Glenorchy by the King had been given the best entertainment that the season and the country allowed. It stated: ‘For they wanted not wine nor aquavitae’. Thenew brew served was, no doubt, the locally distilled whisky.

Subsequent references in various official records establish that the Scottish folks have been producing whisky since the late 15th century and despite suggestions of newfound bestsellers, the connoisseurs stay partial to the brew with a Scottish tag.

CASKED IN OAK | Whisky which is aged to perfection in oak casks tastes of woods and spices

Actually when we talk about Scottish whisky it’s the single malts that one refers to, in general. It is acombination of centuries- old production technique, the perseverance, patience and craft which goes into making a fine bottle of single maltturns it into a delight for its loyalists. Of the more than 100 distilleries in Scotland, producing the finest single malt, there are some which inspire the romanticism of Robert Burns and others which arouse the rebel sprit of Scotland epitomised by Braveheart William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

Being a Scotch aficionado there are some single malts which one enjoys more than others and therefore, the following favourites:

FOR THE TOP SHELF | Glenfarclas 40 years old is the pride of Speyside

Glenfarclas 40 Year Old

The Glenfarclas Distillery is located on the Recherlich Farm in Ballindalloch in the heart of Speyside. This malt is at the top end of the price range for the Glenfarclas single malt whisky.A bottle costs almost Rs 42,324, yet its basic presentation is pretty much the same as the rest of the range.

The malt has a dark brown copper colour which reminds me of an old, slightly tarnished penny. The initial aroma is the scent of an old oak tainted by the dry fruity smells of the sherry cask. I like the way the two distinct aromas have blended.It is hard to decide where the oak ends and the fruity sherry begins. There is also a nice herbal quality that reminds me of woodland meadows full of heather and willow thicket.

The whisky carries a good dose of wood spice in the initial delivery. I taste vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon, allspice and glimpses of ginger, dabs of orange liqueur and glimmers of rich rum like demerara sugar. Those sherry accents are there too, as raisins and dates combine with bitter-sweet chocolate giving impressions of a fruitcake drizzled with chocolate pudding. It is, however, the woodspice that dominates as 40 years of aging speaks clearly in the whisky.

SHERRIED SMOOTHNESS | Coming from the celebrated distillery, Macallan 18 year old is one to cherish

The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Year Old Whisky

This Speyside Single malt comes from the celebrated House of Macallan.It is rich mahogany in colour and shows strong bronze highlights in the glass. The whisky delivers a wallop of smoky sherry flavour and spicy oak as it enters the mouth. The sherry flavour is rich and intense and, can easily overwhelm the palate lessening the impact of the other flavours in the whisky. One can taste dried fruitslike prunes, raisins and dates, charred and caramelised baking spices, a woody cognac with a hint of grape, and a dab of cherry flavour all mingling together.

Addinga few drops of water to itreveals a nice brown sugary sweetness, and then you taste orange marmalade and ribbons of cocoa. The smoky sherry still permeates the whisky but the added water allows more of the subtle nuances to be appreciated. The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 years costs almost Rs 11,700.

FRUITY PUNCH | Feel the undercurrents of toffee, caramel and canned fruits in this long-aged malt from Highland Park

Highland Park 25 Year Old Whisky

It is rich mahogany in colour with a noticeably heavier or more oily appearance than one would normally associate with whisky. The effect of the long-term aging in oak barrels reverberates through the whisky.

My first impressions of tasting it brought memories of caramelised butterscotch toffee, sweeter underlying sugars and a floral peat rich with heather, citrus, and damp spruce moss.

The taste has strong elements of canned fruits – apricots and peaches, which add weight to the whisky. There is a firm cereal grain running through the whisky and a subtle smokiness under the peat with dry fruit flavours of raisins and prunes which seemed to burrow into it and become part of the floral peat. The intensity of this smoky peat keeps rising and falling, carrying and pushing forward other flavours rather than becoming the dominant flavour. Amidst all of this is an underlying oak flavour which is firmly melded into the whisky. A bottle of this beauty will set you back by Rs 27,084 approx.

AMBER NUMBER | Beautifully bottled, the Old Pulteney 21 year old is one for the display

Old Pulteney 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch

This award-winning single malt displays light amber/gold hue. It has an oily texture which coats the palate.The first flavour I encounter is butterscotch with hints of tart green apple and fresh green grapes. A few expressions of dark fruit – dates and purple plums – follow, and there are hints of Christmas fruitcake. A little chocolate custard bubbles up, and then as I hoped, the oak spices kick in. Spices, tart green apple and gooseberries all seem to collide in the finish causing an explosion of spiciness upon the palate as the whisky is slithers down smoothly and the spice builds up upon the palate. Old Pulteney 21 year comes with a price tag of about Rs 9,500.

EXTRA MATURE | The smokey flavour of this single malt from Glenmorangie will have you hooked in no time

Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban (12 Year Old Edition)

This whisky displays a light to medium gold colour with some obvious rusty tones. The initial aroma is fruity, oak filled and stained with chocolate.

The first sip brings forward oak spices and luscious flavours of maraschino cherries dusted with chocolate. I taste light lemon and orange peel flavours within the oak spice accompanied by vanilla and a light touch of mint. The time in the port pipe has given the whisky a vague smoky character similar to what we would find with a sherry cask whisky. However, I find the fresh fruitiness to be more vibrant than it would be in a typical sherry cask whisky with more flavours of ripe fruit and red berries and less of dark dry fruit. The sweetness seems to be just about perfect as it complements the fruit and spice without becoming cloying. A bottle of it will come to you for about Rs 4,500.

There are many more single malts which are worth dying for.But that’s for another day. Till then I will leave you with this phrase in Scottish Gaelic, ‘Slàintemhor a h-uilelà a chi’s nachfhaic‘ [great health to you every day that I see you and every day that I don’t].

SPEED THRILLS | Conquer the roads in style riding on your very own Triumph

The snarl of the Triumph Street Triple send my mind racing back through my college days in Bangalore. Back to the time when seniors would proudly flaunt their puny yet potent RX100s. There were only a few bikes available and we had to make do with them.

The strong Kawasaki KB100 was on its way out. Suzuki was trying to go one up on Yamaha with its Shogun. And fuel-sipping gentle four-strokers were on their way in. For years, I thought, performance motorcycling was dying a slow death here. Closer to 2015, looking around, I feel couldn’t have been more wrong.

Though I personally loath motorcycles from Bajaj due to their less-than-premium component quality, the Pune-based bike maker has done a fabulous job with KTM. Currently, at only Rs 2 lakh, the KTM Duke 390 with 44bhp on tap is one of the most riveting and value-for-money performance bikes in India. Chew this: At around Rs 6 lakh, a Triumph Bonneville gives you around 60bhp.

Indians are smart. And auto makers across the globe know it. Once, the former India head of US carmaker Ford, Michael Boneham, said Indians are not price-conscious but value-conscious. Boneham was responsible for Ford’s turnaround in here and it was only under his leadership that Ford introduced their hatchback winner, the Figo. So, the Aussie knew what he was saying.

I am smart too. For instance, since I have been looking for a nice bike to invest in, I still haven’t been able to zero in on one. Here’s why: In the beginning, I turned to Harley-Davidson’s Iron. It was affordable and good-looking. I am 35. I looked down the road at the next five years and thought I could still ride the Iron in 2020 and not look too out of place. If not anything else, Harleys do have a lot of swagger and can carry off the old-broke-and-hungry look with élan.

The 675 motor has dollops of torque and the fast-revving nature of the bike’s power plant means you will be busy on the shifter to get the best out of it

But then, my good friend at Triumph India, Siddhartha Varma, offered me a two-day ride on the Street Triple. “Try it out,” he said.The test drive consisted of a quick touch-and-go to Jaipur. While the Street Triple could have mastered the twisties in the mountains of Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh, the NH8 is the perfect setting for a motorcycle: Wide open straights, traffic jams, patches of broken tarmac and interesting people.

The Street Triple happily cut through the nonsense at Gurgaon, where highly competitive drivers in Maruti Swifts bayed for my blood. The 675 motor has dollops of torque and the fast-revving nature of the bike’s power plant means you will be busy on the shifter to get the best out of it.Ride quality was near flawless. The committed riding posture is the most comfortable among all the bikes that I have been on in my life (and there have been quite a few). The Street Triple also allows you to stand on the pegs in case the going gets too rough.

The NH8 opens up at quite a few places and the long expanses are a treat for those looking to push the limits. Thankfully, the Street Triple didn’t disappoint. The punchy 79bhp in-line 3-cyclinder mill kept pace with my nerves and I covered around 150km in under 1.5 hours. However, buffeting from the wind was a big irritant on certain stretches.

“At around Rs 9 lakh on-road, the Street Triple is an exciting albeit a slightly expensive proposition for anybody looking to balance city carving and highway sprints with ease.”

Back at home, coffee mug in hand, I looked at the Street Triple parked under the neem tree. It looked picture-perfect in its own way. It didn’t have the mad angles of an MV Augusta Brutale or the resplendent flair of a Ducati Streetfighter. What it has is a nonchalant composure and very high-quality components. All its lines tuck in nicely and give it ripped appearance without making it look unnecessary edgy. The nicely finished exhaust sits beneath the engine and does a fantastic job of bringing you that unmistakable wail of an inline-3.

At around Rs 9 lakh on-road, the Street Triple is an exciting albeit a slightly expensive proposition for anybody looking to balance city carving and highway sprints with ease. In the end, it boils down to a fine line between value and indulgence. The Street Triple falls into the second category. As for me, I said, I am a smart customer. So, I will wait a wee bit before I can get my hands on the Ducati Scrambler.

A PRINCELY PROCESSION | Vintage accoutrements like chhatri, gaddi, pankhi are all part of the fashion that comprised a royal’s ensemble

As Rani Sandhya Kumari of Khajurgaon reminisces about how, during Dussehra, the “elegant bichonas were drawn out of the cupboards for ceremonies, to cover the thrones where rulers used to sit”, she also remembers that the “embroidery on one designed for my grandmother was elaborate, [while] the work on the other created for my mother was a little light.” In the spirit of resurrecting the exquisite heritage inspired art that predominated royal accessories, the Rani of Khajurgaon, in Rai Bareily district of India, has her own brand of vintage regalia seen during royal weddings and processions of yore. Along with chawans (used to ward off evil spirit) and pankhis in gold and silver, she has a rich array of home accents under her label ‘Pakke Rang’. We have her here in a short tète a tète

The Luxe Café: Tell us about the work you do?
Royal regalia is a heritage thing, basically used for durbars and weddings. Earlier, the work was in real silver and gold embroidery with semi-precious stones and navratnas work and the entire set up was only used on special occasions. But now we see these things dying out and it’s not easy to transform the old stuff. So the thought behind this was to revive the tradition but in contemporary ways. The royal families are still using it and various other people have just kept it. It is very close to the Indian culture and origin. Even today every Dussehra, it is still being used. The person who has inherited the royalty, sits on the throne with entire regalia and the arms are taken out and worshipped.

ROYAL UMBRAGE | The ornate chhatri is not just an embellishment but is also a symbol of the royal’s seniority and the due respect

What inspired you to start this?
How I started doing all of this has a small story behind it. My daughter was getting married, during which I restored the entire regalia myself because the kaarigars would not have been able to do justice to the same. It took me 3 months to restore just one bed sheet. Royal families still use the Royal regalia- like galichas at weddigs. The galichas were stitched with different threads and were a very important part of weddings, poojas and other important functions, and are still considered to be an integral part although less used nowadays.

PATTERNED PORTRAITS | Richly embroidered galichas or kaaleens are intrinsic part of the royal heirlooms

Which fabric do you work with? Specially while making Galichas.
Mostly velvets are used for the richness, and it also looks very royal and intricate. There is a pad of cotton thread in the entire design over which the stitching with threads is done. Falisha work with kasab thread and aari work makes this galicha very special and royal. All this work is done in Lucknow and we have a team of kaarigars who do intricate zardozi work.

A RIOT OF COLOURS | From home accents to wedding regalia, Rani Sandhya Kumari brings heritage and its colours alive

How is the demand for royal home decor stuff?
People like very traditional things. Typical royal families go for gaddas, chatris and we make it on order-to basis. Galichas, pankhis, cushion covers, round table covers, bedsheets and carpets are also in demand. It is very expensive and not everyone can afford it, as we do very intricate work and it is nothing close to the cut paste format.

ON A HIGH | Given a certain premium were signature pieces of home accents standing for the opulence of a certain royal household

She goes on to add, “We have royal patrons and then we have Marwari clients who come asking for one of the things. Someone who is planning a royal or a theme wedding with heritage properties also goes for this lavish traditional spread. One example of a patron I would like to share – This person was from Scandinavia, he was one of the royalties and he wanted to turn his palace into a resort and he ordered the crest (2 elephants with a tiger head representing bravery and integrity). Every crest has a story attached to it, and he got his crest done on the cushions, stands etc.”

Faced with a choice between the survival of the planet and a new set of matching tableware, most people would choose the tableware. You may find the sarcasm in this comment by George Joshua Richard Monbiot, an English writer, known for his environmental and political activism hard to digest but will agree that the right tableware spices up a formal or informal meal. If you have the dough, here are some items which will add new meaning to fine dining: The Baraock Christmas Plate at $450 by Versace, Hermes Bleus d’Ailleurs Soup Tureen at $1,300, Villeroy & Boch Althea Nova dinnerware collection, Royal Albert Old Country Roses Tea set at $400 and the Wedgwood Cornucopia Dinner Set

ON A DIFFERENT NOTE | Coffee table books are collectibles of artistic value which also add elegance to home decor

If all the furore around the release of Vikas Khanna’s Utsav: A culinary epic of Indian festivals is anything to go by, we should rest assured that coffee table books are here to stay. Written in gold ink, the 1,000-pages plus coffee table book weighing a hefty 16 kg, and published by Bloomsbury Publishing, contains 1,000 recipes from 70 Indian festivals. Unveiled at this year’s 68th Cannes Film Festival, this is a coffee table book which took years to put together and sports a super luxe price tag of 8 lakhs INR attached with its limited edition copies. While the Michelin star chef-author also plans on getting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to sign a few copies to be gifted to world leaders, the book itself will be available worldwide only later in the year [or you can look it up at a Sothe by’s auction]. The exclusivity is heightened further as Vikas Khanna adds in, “You cannot go to any book store or Amazon store to purchase it initially, because it’s an aspirational project. The first few copies have gold used in them.” And no, you should not imagine it as your [very expensive] pet recipe store resting on the kitchen counter top. Because it is a coffee table book – a concept book which the Wikipedia distinguishes as ‘an over sized, usually hard-covered book whose place is for display on a table intended for use in an area in which one would entertain guests and from which it can act to inspire conversation.”

UTSAV BY VIKAS KHANNA | A mega production of a coffee table book which showcase the rich culinary and festive heritage of India, all good in gold

Going beyond reading material, coffee table books are part of showcase-worthy objets d’art and other collectibles which leave subtle, yet inimitable, clues about the owner’s tastes, traits and travels. “It’s the idea of building a collection – these are not just things that are big and expensive; they give an impression,” says Prosper Assouline, who teamed up with his wife Martine to launch the niche imprint, Assouline, in 1994. Today Assouline Publishing is a luxury book publisher, retailer, and lifestyle brand which sells ‘the most sophisticated books in the world’ [priced at $3000 and above] at their flag ship stores, Maison Assouline, in New York, Paris, Londonet al [and a recently opened boutique store in Istanbul]. A visit to Maison Assouline in Piccadilly, London, is a bibliophile’s dream come true with its redolent quiet, ornate architecture, the swish Swans bar, the bespoke library service and an assortment of goodies – candles, art prints – to buy [if a heavy tome of an art book is not your idea of extra baggage to be ferried over continents].

MAISON ASSOULINE | A peek inside the gorgeous world of art books and everything around it

A fetish for coffee table books, very justifiable in its inspiring qualities, can take you to travel far and wide, if not the other way around. Consider Julia Chaplin’s Gypset Trilogy [Style, Travel, Living], aphoto-rich, anecdote-studded, triad of ‘explorations into the unconventional wander lust lives of these global bohemian’ – artists, surfers, designers, and ‘bons vivants who live and work around the world’. One from Assouline’s Spring 2015 catalogue, these books’ covers are enough to covey the laid back luxury of a lifestyle which is a beautiful idea and finds expression in these volumes fitting neatly into a vibrant slipcase with colourful motifs. If wanderlust takes you over from time to time and a harmless escape into bohemia is just what you desire, a flip through this trilogy will set you free, at least in spirit if not in letter.

GYPSET TRILOGY | Lifestyle books so vivid and varied that you will feel bohemian reading through them

And then for those inclined towards museum catalogues and art calendars, solace is to be found in the high-quality publications brought out by the small, specialized art house presses and art gallery publishing. However, some international publishing imprints dedicated to illustrated books have also survived through the ages and continue in their endeavour to bring out books rich with photos, imagery, illustration, graphics, design and what not. Phaidon, a 1923 imprint which has nurtured visual art lovers since decades, is one such British publishing establishment. The Art Book is an indispensable one when it comes to coffee table book collections as it is an A-to-Z guide to the greatest painters, photographers and sculptors from medieval times to the present day, and a rich compilation where ‘each artist is represented by a full-page illustration of an exemplary work, accompanied by an illuminating text on the piece and its creator’. Having this on your table is to have a conversation starter ready, even as you sit across a guest who could be an art-fanatic or an art-novice.

THE ART BOOK | A mandatory presence for art and book collectors, this beauty is also informative

Moving onto the fashion side of things, coffee table books can be instant gratification when a flight into the romantic past of Paris might not be possible, but a read through of Paris in the 1920s with Kiki de Mont parnasse can do the same, albeit better [considering the repeat value]. Published by Assouline, written by art historian Xavier Girard, this book is a bestseller not because of its beauty and scope, but because good coffee table books are a labour of love, and not to be confused with the celebrity-driven, random-photo strewn tomes also spotted nowadays. Every image tells a fascinating story in this lavishly illustrated, oversize luxury slipcase volume, revealing the artistic, social, and historical events that created and surrounded the incredible artistic flowering of the now mythical Mont parnasse neighborhood. It can’t get more vintage Paris than this book which features the best and the kinkiest of this city in the Roaring Twenties when ‘Kiki’ was the Queen of Mont parnasse’.

VINTAGE PARIS | Wander into the decadent lives of Parisian artists in this book which captures a piece of history in passing

While coffee table books have ascended the charts as ‘giftables’ in the recent years, defying the threats posed by handhelds, these books are touted as being the repository of culture and history, be it in art, travel, fashion, food, architecture, or ethnicities. Even as Prosper Assouline believes in these books as being “something alive, something personal, something tactile”, the charm of the books multiplies when it comes to their distinctively opulent packaging as well. Although there are some which defy easy handling likeS.U.M.O., the titanic tome celebrating photographer Helmut Newton’s work. Taschen published this as a limited edition of 10,000 copies each signed and numbered by Helmut Newtonand complimented by a special book holder designed by Philippe Starck. This coffee table book, weighing 30 kilos, made history as “the biggest and most expensive book production in the 20th century.”

MIGHTY TOME | SUMO, a concept book which celebrates design in its very form

With such architecture of thought and design apparent in the coffee table books, it is no wonder that not just home designers but also retail houses like J Crew are displaying them as part of their store décor which also has a broader impact. A spacious but cold car showroom can come alive, as much as the centre table in your lounge room can, with a Rizzoli collectible edition of Giorgetto Giugiaro: The Genius of Design. This book is a visual monograph published on one of the most renowned automotive designers of our time, Giorgetto Giugiaro, who was named Car Designer of the Century in December 1999 and inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2002, showcasing his iconic concept cars as the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta, De Tomaso Mangusta, Maserati Ghibli, Iso Grifo, Lamborghini Calà, and Ferrari GG50.

DESIGN GALA | Find the cars and its master crafter come alive in a book so rich and visual

So, all you need to think of when you are adding to your collections, not only for the bookshelves, but also for the centrepiece in your home décor scheme, is the coffee table book –the perfect introduction to your style and self, and at peace inside your home.

Choosing the right spot to start a partnership which lasts “till death do us part” is no longer a tough call. The Luxe Café shortlists six wedding venues for those who believe in living life king size. Marriages are made in heaven and what if you take your solemn vows in the land famous as heaven on earth, the Kashmir Valley. Lalit Grand Palace in Srinagar has witnessed many historic moments and it could be part of yours too. If you would prefer something hotter, the Abode of Rajas, Rajasthan offers wider choice – Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur which has 347 rooms with views; Jag Mandir Palace in Udaipur, built in 17th century as a hiding place for Prince Khurram on the southern island in Lake Pichola; Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur and Suryagarh in the gateway to Thar, Jaisalmer. And last but not the least, down south in Hyderabad, just 5 km from Charminar stands the 32-acre Taj Falaknuma Palace. Here’s wishing the lucky couple a long and happy married life.

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL | Ensembles bringing out the inner you in Dolce & Gabbana spring-summer 2015 campaign

The trend branches right back to the 16th and 17th century where catching a glimpse of pretty undergarments became a style must. More recently in history, it was Courtney Love and Grace Jones who pioneered the look and now performers, fashionistas and trend-setters are getting in on the act. In the 1980s, Madonna proved to be very influential to female fashion in her ‘Like a Virgin’ music video, millions of fans emulated her fashion including bras paired with leather jackets and lace gloves and vintage style bustiers with lacy slips.

LADY IN LACE | Madonna in her iconic bustier which spawned off future trends

With the see-through designs motivating this season it’s no surprise as lingerie again enjoys its moment with items such as longline bralets and camisoles to Balenciaga’s skin-tone pieces designed to do a disappearing act under sheer fabric.

PEEK-A-BOO | Lattice cut out dress from Balenciaga’s Spring 2015 collection

The trend blurs the boundary between ready-to-wear and the hidden intimates to drive focus on the body. It redefines the idea of leaving nothing to imagination by giving a subtle hint of something. Dolled under the glamour of haute couture and easy chic, lingerie never looked more playful.

Dolce and Gabbana are synonymous to playful elegance and sensuality. The duo echoes the trend with their designs: “Lingerie is the maximum expression of a woman’s femininity instead of covering it up, we prefer to accentuate its qualities.”

SEDUCTIVELY SHEER | Rose-embroidered floral and sheer long sleeved from Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2015 collection

At the spring/summer 2014 collections shown in Paris in October, Stella McCartney mixed her crisp suiting with sensuous lace-trimmed slip dresses and camisoles. She wasn’t the only one to mix innerwear and outerwear.

IN AND OUT | Stella Mccartney’s one-shoulder rosebud lace dress adds that hint of spice to the just sexy

Altuzarra’s whites aesthetically combine with the beautiful craftsmanship of leather strip skirt playing peek a boo with the basic blacks add to the smart crisp of the look, while the pretty floral prints of the collection teamed with brassier of corresponding design teasingly volume the fresh, vibrant essence of the season.

LATTICE LOVE | Altuzarra’s showpiece thick latticed leather skirts and dresses heat up the runway in style

There were bra-tops at Prada, Isabel Marant, an endless parade of see-through lace at Burberry; fishnet body stockings worn by melancholy Vegas showgirls at Louis Vuitton; big underwear-revealing skirts at Giambattista Valli; and layers upon layers of sheer everywhere from Balenciaga to Calvin Klein Collection.

OVER THE TOP | Prada's gals wore long-sleeve jumpers and coats emblazoned with bras in spring 2014 runway show — OVER THE TOP | Prada’s gals wore long-sleeve jumpers and coats emblazoned with bras in spring 2014 runway show

Christopher Kane plays the daring trends with sheer neons in camisoles and negligees adding to them the elegance of the classic black lace. The collection showcases pairing of sheer tops with pleated skirts to see through camisoles all sporting the subtle sensuality of black brassiers.

NEW IN NEON | Sheer neon dresses over essentials feature in Christopher Kane Resort 2015 Collection

As Hollywood embraces the trend, a host of celebrities including Kim Kardashian, Ellie Goulding, Miley Cyrus, Beyoncé, Daisy Lowe, Iggy Azalea and Rita Orra, have been spotted inspiring women. Even fashion royalty such as Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham have recently been spotted stepping out in chic, sophisticated lingerie-style ensembles fuelling inspiring rise in the sales of sexy chemise, slinky bralets and sensuous negligees.

The underwear as worn as outerwear trend is seen being sported with easy chic as Rihanna is spotted stepping out in a full length silk nightie to watch a football match in New York the Barbadian beauty wore the hot pink number with lace trim under a denim jacket and paired with sneakers .

ROCKING IT AGAIN | Rihanna in a silk nightie with sneakers and a denim jacket to complete her street chic

Read on to how to make it work:

As much as we love trendsetters and followers, most of us can’t follow them for many reasons, but layering, contrast and a bit of imagination will make it work. Think mixing girly, feminine lingerie with tougher fabrics such as leather or denim as sported by Rhianna or the 1980s trend of Madonna.

For a more tailored and chic look layer with a waistcoat or boyfriend blazer. A sheer blouse over printed lingerie works great. If you are shy with skin show, team up with tone on tone for a more subtle look. Sheer panels, cutaways, lace and shorts are all perfect for layering to create that slightly dishevelled, bohemian vibe. Think subtle colours such as black, nudes or soft pinks. Chiffon shirts will look great with a black bra underneath, or a splash of leather without looking too Shades of grey.

Bralette: Let’s start with a go-to innerwear as outwear piece, the bralette.

The bralette’s purpose doesn’t fade off quite so quickly. Since the days of Marilyn Monroe and the retro girl, these tops were first introduced to feminine swimwear with a figure flattering motive. To give a more chic look get inspired by Ellie Goulding as she tastefully pulls off the satin bralette with a smart pair of leather shorts.

Street style fashion adopts the bralette as fashion statement combined with gorgeous long pencil skirts. We saw Beyonce team up the top shop black bralette with a thigh high slit skirt. It got us all dreaming.

BRAVO TO THE BRALET | Alberta Ferretti spring 2013 presentation had juxtaposed the bra top and pencil skirt to make it all summer

You can play with prints by playing matchy-matchy from top to bottom. Matching patterns helps keep the look clean and uniform. Pair the bralette with an above-the-knee. A-line skirt keeps it fresh.

For fashion conscious yet subtle woman there is always the idea of throwing a smart coat on top to rock the style with confidence. The blazer adds a perfect menswear touch to theretro look and just enough cover up to still keep it sexy without being too revealing, the look walks the borderline of vulnerability. Throwing on the blazer adds a classic touch and is feminine as well. Just see Jamie King do it so well for us.
High waisted pants teamed with satin bralettes look chic and classy.

Racer backs: If you’re going to show off your chest and neckline, why not accentuate your back too. Some women even find that racer back bras give them more. Wear this under a sheer top or a low-cut cropped tee.

NET ON THE BACK | Racer back lace bralette to perk up the dress

Bandeau: Bandeaus don’t look like they are going away soon, with several designers sending them down the runways. Again, Prada featured elasticized bandeaus with coordinating prim pencil skirts. Albino picked up on the lady-en-déshabillé vibe, styling his ruffled bra with a sheer full skirt; while No. 21 opted for a more structured take on the bandeau with a cupped demi in cotton plaid.

Camisoles: If your underwear is in a nice material that feels luxurious, you can layer it and wear it, for a fashionable summer look. Satin camisoles in pastel shades pair nicely with dark slim-fit blazers.

Corsets: Black corsets look super-hot when teamed with matched black body-hugging trousers. Another stylish way to wear corsets is to pair them with long linen skirts. This works well if you are wearing a pastel shaded corset in a pretty material. A little different from corsets, bustiers also work well as outerwear. While corsets hold your waist in, bustiers are exactly what their name says, they show off your bust. Fitted with push-up cups, bustiers are just right for a naughty and flirty mood. For an ultra girly look with a hint of mischief and bling, try metallic finish bustiers with short tight skirts.

Chemise: A silk floral cami top with a pencil skirt and jacket for a chic glamourous look or pair a slip lace dress with a pretty cardigan. Victoria Beckham looked great in a Louis Vuitton black lace slip dress at the Wimbledon.

CAMI WHAMMY | Sex up office dressing with a dainty cami paired with a blazer

Pyjamas: Elegant sleepwear such as soft silk printed pyjama tops paired with the right trousers is a classy style and can easily be translated to office-day wear—sophisticated and suitable for work.

Boyshorts: The androgynous edge of boxers makes them cooler—and these designs aren’t really the same as the M&S numbers in a man’s underwear drawer. They’re silky and a bit loungey, a shortened version of the pyjama pants that are now a fashion standard. Solange Knowles is also a fan. She wore printed ones to an H&M show earlier this year, with a matching top, and she looked great. There have also been catwalk moments.

Tags Altuzarra, Balenciaga, camisoles, Dolce and Gabbana, lace trim, Luxury innerwear, Stella McCartney

WILDERNESS OF THE THAR | Mihir Garh or "the fort of the sun" in Jodhpur is named as world's most extraordinary hotel by Lonely Planet

Planning a summer trip? Pick up your phone and call a luxury hotel in Rajasthan right now.
Dogged by low occupancy rates, tony hotels in the state have slashed their rates this season. Most people would think visiting Rajasthan in the peak of summer is a wrong idea since the mercury has a habit of hovering around an uncomfortable 45 degrees. Interestingly, India’s highest ever recorded temperature was recorded in Alwar. It was a scorching 50.6 degrees centigrade. However, modern hotels have air conditioners, apart from a bevy of thirst quenchers such as foot massages and in-room baths set up with scented candles and flowers. And when it comes to Rajasthan, hotel tariffs are inversely proportional to the direction of mercury. This, we feel, could turn out to be one of the best reasons to holiday in the princely state. Don’t believe us? Check out the exclusive properties we have curated for you. Have a good trip. You can thank us later!

Umaid Bhawan Palace

One of the last of the great palaces of India, Umaid Bhawan Palace sprawls across 26 acres in Jodhpur. It is a blend of eastern and western architectural influences. The property offers 64 rooms and suites, each showcasing the Art Deco style with lavish and elegant interiors. A part of the palace is managed by Taj Hotels. The special price starts at Rs 24,940 per night, inclusive of taxes. The Royal Presidential suite is available at a huge discount at Rs 46,000 per night, inclusive of taxes, compared with the usual tariff of Rs 1,18,618 per night. Don’t forget to take the exhilarating drive around the city of Jodhpur in a vintage car, accompanied by your private butler.

Amanbagh

Amanbagh was the hunting lodge of Maharaja Jai Singh of Alwar who stayed here during his trips to the forests of Sariska. With 24 haveli suites and 16 pool pavilions, it evokes the palatial elegance of the Mughal era. Marked by high ceilings, domed cupolas, private courtyards, large verandas of sandstone marble surrounded by lush green area, the property is a fusion of old and modern architecture.

The special price starts at Rs 23,500 per night, inclusive of taxes.

Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore

Standing just 10 minute drive from Ranthambhore National Park, Oberoi Vanya Vilas provides a fabulous opportunity to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger. Spread across 21 acres, the landscaped property offers air-conditioned luxury tents along with exclusive spa therapies and private dining experience.

You can enjoy the panoramic views of the jungle from atop an observation tower, sipping champagne at sundown.

The special price starts at Rs 28,400 per night, inclusive of taxes.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

The stunning palace in middle of the Lake Pichola is a perfect place to hide from the scorching sun. Each of the 66 rooms and 17 suites in the palace capture a different mood and period. The rooms offer stunning views of the lake and the opulent decor recreates exotic regal nostalgia. Whether it is about relaxing on the rooftop deck or enjoying the services of the Royal boat, the experience is sure to take your breath away.

You can avail 50 per cent discount during summers. Price starts at Rs 24,000 per night, inclusive of taxes. The Grand Presidential suite is available for Rs, 2,27,000 per night, a more than 72 per cent discount to the usual tariff of Rs 8,40,000 per night.

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Spread over luxurious 50 acres, the Oberoi Udaivilas is located on the bank of Lake Pichola. It offers spectacular views of the lake and hotels garden. The hotel stands on the 200-year-old hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar. The rooms and suites offered are one of the largest in the city. The hotel is offering a flat 50 per cent discount on the stay for the first time.

The special price starts at Rs 23,000 per night, inclusive of taxes.

Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

This 32 acre luxury resort set in a beautiful landscape with verdant trees, lovely flowers and exotic birdlife is built around an 18th century Shiva temple. Oberoi Rajvilas recreates the magic of princely Rajasthan with Mughal arches, high ceilings and stunning crystal chandeliers. The hotel offers one of the best ayurvedic therapies.

The special price starts from Rs 20,000 per night, inclusive of taxes.

Mihir Garh

Mihir Garh or the fort of the sun is on Lonely Planet’s world’s most extraordinary hotel list. This oasis of luxury stands 55 km from Jodhpur in the wilderness of the Thar. The Mihir Garh fort has nine magnificent suites, each with a Jacuzzi or plunge pools and fireplace made from cow dung. You can enjoy the private terraces and courtyards or rejuvenate yourself at Tulsi Spa. It reopens on July 16.

The special price starts at Rs 24,000 per night, inclusive of taxes and the rates are applicable only till October 31.

Rambagh Palace

The more than 150-year-old Rambagh Palace is situated in the heart of Jaipur. It was the original palace of the Maharaja of Jaipur which was refurbished as a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge and renamed as Rambagh. Over the years Rambagh has played host to several illustrious guests including Lord Louis Mountbatten, who has a suite named after him, and his grand-nephew Prince Charles, and Jacqueline Kennedy.

It is offering 50 per cent off on the regular rates. The special price starts at Rs 28,600 per night, inclusive of taxes.

VINTAGE CHARM | Vivaana’s richly detailed interiors featuring original frescoes, a salute to a rich legacy

When the time worn frescoes of vibrant Shekhawati enticed an art-loving city dweller into its scintillating folds, Vivaana, a culture hotel was born. In a landscape dotted with havelis, bastions of a culture grown out of the flourishing silk route trade and the ensuing riches of the Marwari merchants finding expression in their palatial family homes or havelis, there stood one in particular – the Ram Pratap Nemani haveli. As a structure that had survived the test of time, it shone in the light of the solo lamp post nearby, full of promise and beautiful potential which, when brought together with its neighbouring twin Kalicharan haveli, restored and recreated to its glory, today stands tall and proud as Vivaana.

TIME TRAVEL | Vivaana standing tall under the night sky, a testimony to time’s passage

A labour of love, Vivaana is mingling of two meticulously restored 19th century Shekhawati havelis in Churi Ajitgargh, featuring 23 luxuriously decorated rooms and suites, each different from the other.The best parts of this heritage haveli are the picture sque frescoes which bring the place alive and which have been left un-tampered. The frescoes adorning the facades, gateways, walls and ceilings of the property depict mythological and historical themes, spanning from images of Gods, Goddesses, flora & fauna, to the life of Lord Krishna and also some erotic frescoes. Introduced by the Shekhawati Rajputs in their forts and castles, later espoused by the Seths who travelled far and wide, the techniques employed to paint these frescoes were elaborate, and comparable to the Italian frescoes of the 14th century. The colors were mixed in lime water or lime plaster and were then made to sink into the plaster physically, through processes of beating, burnishing, and polishing. All the pigments used were prepared with natural and primarily household ingredients like kohl, lime, indigo, red stone powder, and saffron. These frescoes were further complemented with mirror work, lattice work and intricately carved wood work.

ART UNRAVELLED | Witness to the cultural ethos of its time, the Vivaana havelis are lush with frescoes telling visual stories

Easily connected via road, Churi Ajitgarh is 10kms from Mandawa and lies between the Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur triangle. Even as Mandawa is the most visited hamlet of Shekhawati, Vivaana is its most well-kept secret, reserved for the discerning traveller who wants an oasis of calm away from the touristy hordes while soaking in the original ambience of a storybook town. Handmade oversized beds, goose down pillows in a room with embellished walls, tall doorways,arched ceilings makes for an indulgent time with old world charm at its best. Personalized service and warm Rajasthani hospitality, right from a musical welcome amidst falling rose petals to alfresco dining on private sand dunes, will make you feel at home as one travels back in time, with only the vibrant space around to be explored, and no television to distract.

COMFORT MEETS CALM – A lavishly done up bath area, fitted with a vintage bath tub, adjoining the Vivaana suite — COMFORT MEETS CALM | A lavishly done up bath area, fitted with a vintage bath tub, adjoining the Vivaana suite

Being tucked away in history’s cradle, Vivaana does not, however, lack in modern luxuries and houses an Ayurveda spa [interestingly named after the erstwhile resident elephant Rani], pool, Vivaatini bar, multi-cuisine restaurant, tea lounge, library, game room, gardens among other avenues of discovery. With spectacularly rich detailing in its interiors, evident also in the selection of furniture to crockery to curios, it is quaint and old world even in the way the hotel’s name is written on the number-plate of a vintage orange Ambassador standing on the hotel grounds.

OUT STANDING | The bright orange Ambassador proclaims ‘Vivaana’ to a cheery high

For eyes sore from all the concrete and smog, a relaxed siesta on the Vivaana rooftop under the pristine blue skies is an unforgettable experience. At night, the inky blue sky becomes a window to the starry sparkle beyond – something too precious to miss out on.While an art lover can easily lose himself in the vast expanse of aesthetically abundant Vivaana, the guided village walks into neighbouring Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Fatehpurand into Churi Ajitgarh itself will be quite an experience of a heritage walk. The ubiquitous camel safaris to see rural Churi Ajitgarh from the height of a camel back is as much an option as is bird watching while also admiring the visiting peacocks. A whole host of other activities, ranging from reading in the Fresco Lounge, watching folk performances to kite flying and karaoke-in-the-bar, are also available for those willing to pursue, but the thing to remember is Vivaana’s legacy as an outpost of a culture that faded way into the quite leaving behind its vibrant frescoes to tell all the stories.

REFLECTIVE QUIET | The pool at Vivaana offers a serene spot for the weary traveller to relax by

Reminiscing about his Vivaana journey, founder Atul Khanna shared – “When I turned 50 I change my focus from following my mind to following my heart. My decisions in business changed from meeting financial goals to creative and conservationist approach. Vivaana is, thus, a labor of love rather than a purely commercial venture. The ambience of a heritage property is its distinguishing difference from the gloss & glitter of a modern box Hotel, and every nook and cranny of our restored heritage haveli radiates old world charm and the historical significance of a bygone era.Our commitment to preserve and enhance the cultural heritage of an earlier century is manifest in every detail which enlivens Vivaana. We made a conscious effort to perpetuate the original structure and traditional integrity of these beautiful havelis. The surroundings and sounds at Vivaana are reflective of the culture, of the people of Rajasthan, where the wafting music of a colourful and creative tradition is the background score for Vivaana. The Hotel exemplifies the care taken to preserve the rich legacy without any interference with the cultural ethos of the architecture, emotions, and sanctity of this great land of Rajasthan.”

CULTURE PERFECT | What was once an ostentatious lifestyle is today a carefully restored treasure trove of artful legacy

And going further, he shares with us his insights while ending on a thoughtful note when he said, “As a conservationist at heart, it pains me to see heritage proper ties falling prey to commercial lucre and greed. The sorry sight of havelis being neglected due to complex ownership patterns through generations pains me immensely. Moreover, havelis giving way to markets and shopping complexes is a sad reflection of today’s callous disregard for history and legacy. The beautiful painted havelis of Shekhawati are a historical treasure. Vivaana is born out of an effort to restore this cultural gift and it has undoubtedly been an experience par comparison. The entire process of reviving the twin havelis was greatly enlivening and inspiring, though quite challenging. We would like to appeal to the entrepreneurs to incorporate the havelis in their business models, natives to be proud of their rich heritage, archaeological departments to take ownership and accountability of these ageless wonders,and the government to make stringent rules to safeguard the historical properties.”