. . . because l i f e i s abou t l i v i ng JAN – MAR 2007

homeaway fromhome

contents

jan-mar2007

The views and opinions expressed or implied in do not necessarily reflect those of The Ascott Group Limited, Spafax Airline Network Pte Ltd or Paperclip Communications Pte Ltd, its directors or editorial staff. All information correct at time of print. MICA (P) 252/07/2006 PUBLISHER The Ascott Group LimitedEDITORIAL ADVISORS Gerald Lee Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, The Ascott Group Limited Celina Low Vice President, Corporate Communications, The Ascott Group LimitedLow Su Lin Manager, Corporate Communications, The Ascott Group LimitedPUBLISHING AGENT Spafax Airline Network Pte Ltd

EDITORIAL AND DESIGN Paperclip Communications Pte Ltd MANAGING DIRECTOR Alvin GanEDITORIAL DIRECTOR Ming Rodrigues-HensonART DIRECTOR Leslie NeoASST. EDITORS Lalitha Naidu, Kevin KwangWRITER Valerie ChewSENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER June WangCONTRIBUTORS Tay Chongwan, Graham Simmons, Sally Hammond, June Lee All editorial enquiries to Ming Rodrigues, Paperclip Communications Pte Ltd, 50 Playfair Road, #02-04 Noel Building, Singapore 367995TELEPHONE (65) 6289 4822 FACSIMILE (65) 6289 4833EMAIL ming@paperclip.com.sg

All advertising enquiries to Jeannette James,Spafax Airline Network Pte Ltd, 69A Boat Quay, Singapore 049857EMAIL jeannette@spafaxsg.com or sales@spafaxsg.comwww.spafaxsingapore.com

PRINTER KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd

The sophisticated warmth of the cover image epitomises Ascott International’s branding, “... because life is about living”. Ascott truly understands LIFE’s values. We believe in giving our residents personalised service with a unique Local touch and flavour. We also respect Individuality; as such, our services offer residents Freedom of choice and are designed to be flexible to cater to different personal needs. More importantly, we believe in going the extra mile for our residents, delivering hospitality and service that Exceed expectations.

04 Your Say Residents’ feedback

06 Travel Beijing & Shanghai, China Dubai, UAE

14 Mind.Body.Soul Vietnam’s rising spas

20 Style The best fashion and

grooming essentials

22 Live It Up 10 exciting things to do

in Singapore

26 Savour Flavourful Indian cuisine

28 At Home With Australian Nine Network

travel host Catriona Rowntree

32 Interiors Art for the home

36 Heartware Community

Bringing joy & cheer to kids

38 Ascott Heritage History of Ascott

International

42 Ascott Round The World

44 Our Brands

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Having made the Somerset Park Suanplu, Bangkok as our ‘home’ for the past four years, we are delighted to recognise the constant improvements made in terms of service and amenities since The Ascott Group took over. While retaining most of the staff, the service has been tailored to suit the needs of the different nationalities of its residents, ourselves included. Kudos for making us feel so welcomed in our adopted home here in Bangkok.– Dr Daniel Leung (Hong Kong) stayed at Somerset Park Suanplu, Bangkok

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Y O U R S A Y

To better serve our valued guests, we encourage them to share their experiences. Here, a sampling of notes.

The residence manager delivered excellent service when he offered the use of his laptop as I had forgotten to bring mine along. He also helped set up the Internet connection as well. After this experience, I will definitely make the Ascott my choice of stay for all future travels.– Dr Angelia Chua (Singapore) stayed at Somerset Grand Fortune Garden, Beijing

My wife and I were given excellent service all round during our stay at the Somerset Orchard, Singapore. Even while the staff showed immaculate professionalism in all aspects of service, they did it with a huge dose of care and spirit. This was especially evident when I couldn’t be around during my wife’s treatment for a period of time. The staff made her feel so at home, assisted in all ways and gave her a sense of security in my absence. We’re both grateful to all of them. We look forward to visiting them the next time we come to Singapore.– Dodi Reza Alex and wife, Thia Yufada (Indonesia), stayed at Somerset Orchard, Singapore

I received a pleasant surprise during my stay at the Ascott Kuala Lumpur. The apartment was spotless and well serviced, while amenities such as the spa was excellent value for money. Located conveniently and run by ever obliging and friendly staff, the serviced residence was truly an impressive experience. I would not hesitate to employ the services of The Ascott Group worldwide now that I have experienced such a wonderful stay.– Nigel Watkins (United Kingdom) stayed at Ascott Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Have you enjoyed your stay with us? Why not share your thoughts and write in with your contact details and photo to feedback@spafaxsg.com – you may just win a mystery prize. Feedback may be edited for print purposes.

well served

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Every issue, positive feedback from residents reinforce and encourage us to set the bar even higher. For

when it comes to good service, Ascott takes the matter to heart. Based on the credo “service from the heart” and “going the extra mile”, the Ascott Heartware philosophy is a promise by Ascott and its staff to deliver uncompromising service to all residents in every Ascott property around the world.

“Heartware is basically about servicing our guest with passion. Good service is about being honest. It is an attitude that cannot be derived from books, but only from a genuine desire to make guests happy,” says Glenn Manlapaz

Top service all round: from security, housekeeping and maintenance to front desk, Ascott employees in all departments go the distance in providing service.

Magalang, Assistant Guest Services Manager at Somerset Millennium, Makati. Good service comes second nature to Glenn, who was offered a diploma scholarship in 2003 by the company. Last year, he graduated top of his class in Hotel Management at SHATEC.

Beyond just serving from the heart, going the distance also means giving personalised, tailored service. It puts residents and their needs as top priority, even going so far as to orientate residents and offer them a sense of the local culture at their location. It goes without saying that a stay at the Ascott is truly a holistic experience. – Valerie Chew �

Beijing and Shanghai are two of the fastest rising cities in China. Cosmopolitan, trendsetting, yet with a fascinating persona that

marries tradition with the modern, the two Chinese cities epitomise the spirit of romance and adventure in travel. Beijing text by Sally

Hammond, Shanghai text by Graham Simmons

Beijing and Shanghai are two of the fastest rising cities in China. Cosmopolitan, trendsetting, yet with a fascinating persona that

marries tradition with the modern, the two Chinese cities epitomise the spirit of romance and adventure in travel. Beijing text by Sally

Hammond, Shanghai text by Graham Simmons

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T R A V E L

enigma

Beijing’s name means ‘northern capital’,

and since 1949 it has been the capital of the People’s Republic of China.

No one is sure of the exact figure, but Beijing’s population is estimated at around 16-17 million

people – and growing. Most people are aware that Beijing will host the XXIX Olympics in August 2008

and while all eyes will be on this major city then, there is much to see and do there right now.

Temple of Heaven park and outside the memorial building

chinois

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The regal splendour of Tian’anmen

CENTRE OF ATTRACTIONTian’anmen Square is the nexus of the city – a huge open space said to be able to hold a million people at one time – with a huge picture of Mao’s smiling face at the far end. It’s a relaxed place with people flying kites, selling postcards and watches (with Mao waving on them) and of course photographing each other. Models of the smiling Olympic mascots are here too, as well as the Olympics countdown clock.

CULTURE SHOTAt the pagoda-like Summer Palace, built around Kunming Lake in the northwest of the city, walk across the white, multi-arched, and suitably Venetian-looking Marco Polo bridge and take a boat that looks like a mini summer-house perched on a dragon’s back. Then stroll down the world’s longest corridor beside the lake.

GLORIOUS FOODWangfujiang Street’s extensive, food-only night market has to be seen to be believed. Stall after stall offers huge selections of raw foods ready to be cooked – mainly grilled or steamed – to order. All the mainstream foods are there of course: fish, chicken, vegetables, tofu, even toffee-dipped fruit. The fact that some of the skewers also hold skinned snake, or are beaded with silkworm grubs should not deter you. Look out for the centipedes!

FRAGRANT REPASTParticipate in an ancient tea ceremony in a tea house. This elegant and carefully executed ritual is an ideal way to begin to understand the culture of this ancient land. What’s more, you will also taste several teas and unwind in the tranquil setting.

HISTORY REVISITEDThe Sacred Way by the Ming tombs is lined by giant stone animals and human sculptures in a tranquil garden setting. It’s easy to recognise the lion, horse, camel, elephant, and tortoise, but watch out for the mythical beasts: xiezhi (a sort of unicorn), a qilin (mythical dragon-horse), dragon, and phoenix.

OPERATIC ODEFor a dose of culture, there is always the Opera, and every visitor should indulge in this too. Forget heavy lyrics and yawn-worthy tedium. Although the words may not be understandable, and the music is Oriental, the skill of the actors and the colour and pizzazz of the costumes, intricately sculpted and beaded, embroidered and tailored to the nth degree, are gasp-worthy.

HEAVENLY EXPERIENCETo the south of the main city, the imposing Temple of Heaven with its three round roofs to depict the sky over a square building denoting the earth, is where the Ming and Qing dynasty (1368 to 1911) emperors came to ask for the one thing they could not control – a good harvest. The temple may have once been meant for another use. The sign outside says it was named ‘The Great Hall for Sacrificial Rituals’.

RIDE INTO THE PASTTake a rickshaw ride through the labyrinth of narrow alleys of a canal-side hutong, one of Beijing’s few remaining villages. These quaint stone houses lined by identical doorways and gates are wrapped around serene courtyards generally locked off from the street by heavy doors. Some allow a peep into another world and offer lunches for tour groups. One actually operates as a bed and breakfast. This ancient city has endured a legacy of wars, revolution, dynasties and dissidents. There’s much to tell, and Beijing is slowly but surely opening up to an eager, wondering world.

PUDONGDrop by the new 101 Bar (98 Xinle Lu, near Chang Shu Road subway station, tel 86 21 5404 7719), a no-fuss and unpretentious watering hole. For those who prefer a bit of cultural entertainment, Bandu Music Café (50 Moganshan Lu, in Moganshan Art Park) features regular performances of traditional Chinese music.

LUWANIn Central Huaihai Road (Huaihai Zhong Lu), Karma Restaurant bills itself as the “first fusion restaurant in Shanghai”, serving Indian, Sri Lankan and Lebanese food, with live music till late.

Overlooking the People’s Park is the new MoCA (Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art), which is the city’s first private and non-profit modern art museum. See www.mocashanghai.org for details.

A fast changing city, Shanghai baffles not only visitors but its residents too. Its 19 districts are each as large as a medium-sized city, and the whole megalopolis seems to grow like mushrooms in a hothouse. Here are the hottest picks of the city.

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T R A V E L

PHOTOLIBRARY

A shikumen house, Shanghai

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XINTIANDI The upmarket precinct of Xintiandi has been built around a series of refurbished shikumen houses. Its outstanding feature is an ornamental gateway with elaborate carvings and decorative scrollwork, leading into an enclosed courtyard.

An evening at Xintiandi starts with a drink at the avant-garde DR (Design Resources) Bar. Just around the corner is Ye Shanghai, an upmarket restaurant based on the renowned Hong Kong one, and it offers some of the best Chinese cuisine in town.

TAIKANG ROADDubbed “Arts Street”, Taikang Road has a few dozen galleries (Beipai Gallery features some excellent Chinese classical paintings) and craft shops, but do check out the interesting street art by professional graffiti artists.

SUZHOU CREEKOne of the newest sub-districts of Shanghai is the finely landscaped Suzhou Creek precinct. Opened in June 2006 on the banks of Suzhou Creek is the Pier One Project, a complex of restaurants, bars, nightclub, lounges and boutique hotel. One of its top bars is the rooftop lounge Monsoon, while the flagship restaurant Mimosa offers the best of Modern European cuisine, served with Asian flair.

ZHUJIAJIAODating back 1,700 years to the Ming Dynasty, this picturesque water village, just over an hour by bus from Shanghai, is a postcard-perfection of willow-shaded canals, ancient stone-paved streets and an architectural legacy of 10,000 Ming and Qing Dynasty houses. Amazing too, are the 36 arched stone bridges, the oldest dating back to 1671, that cross the Caogang River.

THE BUNDArguably one of the world’s most stunning stretches of real estate, this is a mile-long Art Deco architectural wonder, complete with fluted towers, frescoed domes, filigreed columns and more than a hint of gothic charm. If you want to be truly dazzled, come in the evenings when the entire area is lit. �

CHINA IN YOUR HANDSWith China opening up to the world, there’s no better time to visit than now. With so much to discover and explore within the world’s most populous nation (1.3 billion people), retreating to comfort and luxury at the end of a busy day is a welcome respite. Ascott properties in China offer just that: a home away from home. Its serviced residences deliver comprehensive personalised services and amenities for the business traveller as well as those travelling with family. Currently there are nine properties in China to choose from: four in Shanghai (Ascott Shanghai Pudong, Somerset Grand Shanghai, Somerset Xu Hui and Citadines Shanghai Jinqiao); three in Beijing (Ascott Beijing, Somerset Grand Fortune Garden and Somerset ZhongGuanCun); one each in Dalian (Somerset Harbour Court) and Tianjin (Somerset Olympic Tower).

Each property offers bespoke services and facilities like 24-hour reception and security, business centre, fully-equipped kitchen and state-of-the-art home entertainment system. But what really sets Ascott properties apart are their locations and service excellence: all residences are within walking distance to the business, dining, shopping and entertainment districts of each city. So whether you’re there for business or pleasure, convenience allows you to easily mix the two.

Call 800 820 1028 (toll free) or 65 6272 7272 (worldwide) for reservations in China.

PHOTOLIBRARY

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desert rose

With its sand dunes and exotic souks sharing the spotlight with stunning high rise hotels overlooking pristine beaches and mega malls of the future, Dubai is the Middle East’s most ambitious city. By Graham Simmons

T R A V E L

The United Arab Emirates is not exactly renowned for doing things by half-measures. Let’s count the ways. The world’s biggest land reclamation project

is currently underway. When completed, The Palm, a set of man-made islands and connecting keys at Jumeirah Beach, will add a full 120 km to the coastline of Dubai. The Burj Dubai is also currently rearing above the north-eastern suburbs of Dubai. The 560 metre tower will scrape the skies at 108 metres above its current nearest rival, the Petronas Towers of Malaysia. The Burj Dubai will even surpass the 507 metre spire proposed as part of the replacement for New York’s destroyed World Trade Centre. Add to that, the planned Dubai Metro has been expanded in size and concept to four lines and 320km, from an originally-planned two lines and just 70 km of track. Construction work has already begun on the first two lines, which should be completed by 2009, to coincide with the scheduled opening of a new light rail system. Bigger is better appears to be Dubai’s philosophy, and the city is clearly out to impress. Add to that surprising pockets of traditional Middle Eastern way of life, and Dubai’s attractions are clearly unique experiences.

THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI• One of Dubai ’s best and yet

“hidden” attractions is the excellent underground section of the Dubai Museum, housed in the 200 year-old Al Fahidi Fort. This is the place to get a feel for the old, fast disappearing Arab way of life. Take a look at the old souk, with its spice store, blacksmith’s shop (bronze artefacts dating back over 4,000 years have been found on-site), pottery and jewellery shops.

• Art Space Dubai (Sheikh Zayed Road, tel 971 4 332 5523) offers the very best in Arab contemporary art, while The Third Line (Al Quoz 3, tel 971 4 341 1367) specialises in works by women artists. Hidden amongst the winding streets and narrow lanes of the Bastakia precinct are several excellent galleries, including the Bastakia Arts Café and the Majlis Gallery.

• Take an abra ride along Dubai Creek. Besides being the most popu l a r for m of com muter transport, the abra ferries provide panoramic views of the city’s fast-changing skyline.

• Ta ke the k ids to Chi ldren’s Cit y. This big theme park is designed to provide not only entertainment but also education, with exhibitions including space exploration and international culture, plus a planetarium. See www.childrencity.ae

• V i s i t d u r i n g t h e D u b a i Shopping Festival (DSF) (www.duba i shoppi ng fe s t iv a l .com) scheduled to run till 2 February 2007. DSF started in 1996 as a celebration of consumerism. In recent years, however, the Festival has taken on a more cultural note, as over a million fairy-tale lights illuminate the entire city, and top world musicians fill the city’s stages.

PHOTOLIBRARY

do you ploh too?order your ploh at www.plohdirect.com

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STYLISH SANCTUARYLike the city of Dubai itself, the Somerset Jadaf, located near Wafi City, offers a menu of attractions and amenities – from its prime location (entertainment, dining, shopping and leisure activities are just minutes away), personalised services and facilities to the luxurious comfort and security of its residences. There are 84 serviced units varying in size, from spacious studio to one- two- and four-bedroom residences. Each is elegantly furnished with a fully-equipped modern kitchen, home entertainment system and contemporary fittings. Somerset Jadaf, Dubai Somerset Residence, Jadaf, P.O 122161, Dubai, United Arab EmiratesTel: 971 4 324 6111

• Visit the Gold Souk. All that glitters might not be pure gold, but it comes close. “White gold” jewellery (an alloy with up to 21 Carat gold) is currently much in vogue. Gold prices at the souk are amongst the lowest on earth; nevertheless, before you buy, bargain hard!

• Take a desert safari, followed by a barbecue in the dunes. The “barbecue” is really a buffet feast, served in a very pleasant and relaxing desert environment set up as a Bedouin camp. But the best part of the programme is the super-mean dune-driving which provides enough thrills to last for a lifetime of story-telling sessions.

• Check out the giant new Mall of the Emirates. Billing itself as “the world’s first shopping resort”, the Mall has over 450 shops, 60 restaurants and cafés, a 14-screen cinema complex, and the Dubai Community Arts Centre with a 500 seat-theatre and art gallery.

• After shopping at the Mall of the Emirates, “ski till you drop” on the five snow-groomed runs of Ski Dubai – within the very same Mall. The longest ski-run is over 400 metres long with a drop of over 60 metres – with a quad-chair to take you back up to the top.

T R A V E L

CORBIS

An abra, a small passenger boat, crosses Dubai Creek from the Deira district to the Bur Dubai district near the Grand Mosque in Dubai.

• If you’re looking for the best in designer products, then Wafi City shopping complex, with its lavish Egyptian-style façade and sparkling rows of designer boutiques, is the place to be.

• Great bargains can be had at Al Karama in the Deira precinct – the old part of Dubai.

FUTURE STATEThe Dubai of the future is already previewed by the new Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Media City and Knowledge Village, all in the Jebel Ali precinct just north of Jumeirah Beach. In the words of the designers, the aim is to create “a Knowledge Economy Ecosystem”. A total of around 300 companies are now represented at DIC, with a vast ornamental lake surrounded by the Arabian-style buildings of the IT industry giants – including Dell, Microsoft, Canon, Oracle and IBM.

And The Palm Jumeirah? They are already saying that this project is visible from the moon. But The Palm is soon to be joined by two even larger palm-shaped islands, one of which will be the size of Manhattan. These are all scheduled for completion around 2015. In Dubai, the sky truly is the limit. �

Anything to declare?

Only our commitment to excellence.

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Award-winning content from Asia.

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M I N D . B O D Y . S O U L

In a setting of verdant pastures, enchanting beaches and majestic mountains, Vietnam is postcard perfect

for finding tranquility and relaxation – the hallmarks of the Asian spa experience. Unlike spiritual Bali or historical Thailand, however, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi have not been associated with visions of blissful spa culture.

Stepping into the 21st century, Vietnam has thrown off its postwar thrift and launched full steam into the fledgling spa industry. Even as Vietnamese beef noodles and Vietnamese coffee make their way from Melbourne to Madrid, traditional and modern Vietnamese spa treatments are proliferating the local streets, accompanied by wafting scents of spicy lemongrass aromatherapy essence and peppermint tea.

In the capital of Ho Chi Minh, the spa scene is driven by local and Western practitioners. In these early days, prices remain reasonable by regional standards. Expect to fork out US$15-US$50 for massages and facials at top spas, while

In a region filled with superlative spas, Vietnam is a rising star on the Asian map. By June Lee

SensesSanctuary

for the

establishments frequented by the local Vietnamese could start as low as US$8. According to SpasVietnam (84 8 514 2882; www.spasvietnam.com), a local resource centre set up two years ago to integrate the spa industry, the business has seen a boom with at least 30 international standard spas in Ho Chi Minh alone. At the same time, Vietnam is poised to be a spa destination when the government lifts the current ban on new operators – for now, upcoming lush new spas are concentrated in major resort and hotel projects.

Anticipating the spa and pampering trend, travel specialists such as PassionAsia have begun offering spa-specific seven day tours, which encompass day spas and resort spas throughout modern and historical Vietnam.

Bringing together the fragmented spa industry will be a challenge. However, one thing guests will be keen to participate in is the promotion and development of a Vietnamese spa technique to rival other eponymous massages such as the Thai, Balinese, Hawaiian, Swedish and Javanese.

MASTERFILE

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M I N D . B O D Y . S O U L

Essentially, what is known as Vietnamese massage is related to centuries-old Chinese “cupping”, or acupressure, where heated glass cups are introduced to various parts of the body to create a suction effect. The painless vacuum from this technique has marvelous therapeutic effects, including increasing blood circulation, relaxing muscle tissue and easing external aches. Slight markings in the form of circles will occur, signifying the level of toxins that have been brought to the skin surface to be expunged. Clinical treatments are still available at traditional medicine parlours, but spa-goers will be reassured to know that Vietnamese spa treatments incorporate soothing massage oils and massage techniques to create an invigorating and pampering – and much less daunting – experience.

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Spa TropicSpa Tropic opened in 2002 to rave reviews for its restorative therapies offering the best of East and West, in a historic French colonial villa gently shaded by bamboo and banana trees. Attention is in the ingredients, from high-end Jurlique botanicals for facials to locally sourced herbal compresses made of lemongrass, ginger, cinnamon and turmeric in the highly recommended Herbal Heat Energizer (US$40/75 minutes).

187B Hai Ba Trung, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, (84-8) 822-8895 or 827-5813. www.spatropic.com

La Maison de L’Apothiquaire Spa & RetreatTurn back the clock at this 17th century French-inspired apothecary, which holds the secrets to anti-ageing, anti-acne and skin brightening artisanal beaute treatments. Besides their famous facials, which start from US$18, the wellness centre also offers a terrace yoga studio for pilates and stress management workshops, a swimming pool, a spa café, and complementary nutritional and fitness regimes.

64A Truong Dinh, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, (84-8) 822-1218 or 932-5181. www.lapothiquaire.com

Chy SpaWith its potpourri of offerings from Warm Stone Therapy (US$25/60minutes) to a traditional body compress (US$25/120minutes), Chy Spa has proven its spa prowess with a second outlet that’s as popular with locals as it is with expatriates.

1 Ngo Van Nam St. Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh, (84-8) 823-7416 or SA 17-2 Sky Garden, Phu My Hung, District 7, (84-8) 410-2206/7/8.www.chyspasaigon.com

Many spas also adapt the use of thuoc nam, or “southern medicine” which is reliant on tropical plants and herbs native to Vietnam. The freshly gathered ingredients for thuoc nam encompass signature fragrant eucalyptus, ginger, lemongrass, peppermint leaf, lotus petals, and more, and are used extensively for medical as well as cosmetic purposes. In Vietnamese spas, these ingredients help guests return to nature, and give women that coveted spa glow if used on the skin as a masque or herbal compress. Other spas specialise in herbal steam baths, employing the use of thuoc nam ingredients in a heady cocktail to absorb into the skin more effectively.

Clearly, Vietnamese spas have the advantage of its natural landscape and charming French architecture to bring it firmly into the hearts of spa-goers from anywhere in the world.

CORBIS

WHERE TO GO

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Thang Hang SpaceIn a city with scarce day spas, Thang Hang stands out for its commitment to innovation and beauty services. Evolving from a bridal studio and beauty salon, modern Thang Hang Space offers the usual complement of body massages and facials, with Shiatsu massages for hand and feet (US$9 – US$12/45 minutes). 11 Pho Hue Street, Hanoi (84-4) 822-5055. www.thanhhangcorp.vn Zen SpaOverlooking the famous Westlake, Zen Spa‘s traditional healing and rejuvenation treatments benefit from its lush garden setting in a rustic Vietnamese villa. Its Zen Herbal Therapy (US$28/60 minutes) is an ideal introduction to traditional Vietnamese treatment, which stimulates blood circulation and eases muscle tension. For pure indulgence, Zen‘s own Oriental Magic (US$95/140 minutes) is a full package of Asian goodness – a dragonfruit body scrub, pomelo and lemongrass bath/herbal steam, and a Zen Herbal Therapy leave you thoroughly invigorated. Thang Loi Hotel, Yen Phu, Tay Ho, Hanoi (84-4) 719-9889/829-4211. www.zenspa.com.vn �

M I N D . B O D Y . S O U L

TALE OF TWO CITIES Vietnam is on the move. And that dynamic, pulsating vibe is clearly felt in two of its most popular cities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. To enjoy the unique attractions of one of Asia’s most exciting destinations without compromising on luxury and comfort, look no further than Ascott properties.

Besides stylish contemporary living and excellent service, prime location is what makes Ascott properties unique. The elegantly furnished Somerset Grand Hanoi is mere minutes from the city’s hotspots, and even has a shopping mall, convention centre, child education centre and restaurant located within its premise. Over at the Somerset West Lake, Hanoi, along the city’s famous West Lake, its immaculately manicured gardens offer a charming, postcard-perfect retreat for international travellers. And then there is the newly acquired Somerset Hoa Binh, Hanoi in the city’s prime Cau Giay district which is expected to open later this year.

In Ho Chi Minh City, it is hard not to feel right at home at Somerset Chancellor Court which boasts an open kitchen concept, contemporary western style décor and a large balcony. Plus, it is conveniently located close to the buzzing business and entertainment centre. Offering resort-style living, Somerset Ho Chi Minh City, located in the prestigious District 1, is a stone’s throw away from a diverse array of dining, entertainment, shopping, and recreational attractions. Whether you are on business or leisure, these residences are designed to make your stay in Vietnam unforgettable.

Call (84-4) 934 2342 for reservations in Hanoi & (84-8) 822 8899 for reservations in Ho Chi Minh City.

MASTERFILE

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+65 6382 1111 www.purplegold.com

chic essentials

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S T Y L E

For the high-adrenaline alpha male, a Richard Mille tourbillon is something of an essential, not a mere accessory. Driven by the creator’s passion for Formula 1, the brand has a cult following around the world. Now, the limited edition RM 012 tourbillon in platinum comes fully loaded with superb engineering like that of an F1 racecar.

Good shoes maketh the man. And Nicholas Tate is the man to wear. An English style icon, this line of men’s shoes is elegant, smart and witty. Only trouble is, they’re so comfortable you’ll never want to take them off. Beauty and comfort are no mean feat in the designer shoe department. Nicholas Tate wins fans with his elongated lasts, great detailing and finish. The McQueen style has that casual debonair look that will make the ladies take note.

Italmoda is a boutique that offers a good sampling of the impeccable Italian sartorial sense. It is stocked with a nice selection of Italian designer shirts – from formal wear to casual linen – that are top-notch in fabric, fit and design. The Guiducci handmade shirts come highly recommended.

Go on business trips in style. With Tod’s, you can always travel light. The sumptuous new collections come in lightweight, textured leather. The weekend bag in ostrich is roomy and stylish. The new Messenger bags stand out with their unique metal closures. A garment bag – an essential for any frequent flyer – completes the collection.

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The best picks to jumpstart the new year. By Chongwan Tay

Every face can use that magic touch. Of all the technology and innovation out there, SK II seems to have come up with one of the smartest. The new SK II Air Touch Foundation is a highly coveted beauty must-have. Born out of SK II’s collaboration with makeup guru Pat McGrath whose faces grace the best fashion shows, this foundation gives a flawless, precise look. The ionising technology disperses perfectly charged foundation to give the most seamless, refined coverage. Talk about power in a compact.

If you swear by roomy bags with pedigree and street cred, Tod’s new Chopper bag is the perfect candidate for your accessories closet. Soft napa leather is embellished with biker-chic details like leather rings, metal rivets and buckle closure. It’s a little retro, a little hip and totally cool.

There’s nothing quite like wearing a unique piece of jewellery to make you stand out from the crowd. And the edgy sophistication of Lee Hwa Jewellery’s Purple Gold collection is designed to be noticed. Set in stunning contrast with rows of precision-cut diamonds, the Purple Gold range epitomises both art and glamour. Choose from rings, necklaces, chokers, pendants, brooches, bracelets and bangles. Visit www.purplegold.com

Not quite done with beach resort hopping? You can never go wrong adding a Melissa Odabash item to your wardrobe. Her beachwear that’s garnered a stellar roster of devotees like Liz Hurley, Uma Thurman and Halle Berry is now within your reach.

Eye SpyEye-catching chinois chic – that’s Shanghai Tang’s first luxury eyewear collection featuring Chinese motifs and trademark Shanghai Tang vibrant colours. In fact, many pieces actually come with fabric incorporated in the frames, lending a touch of flair. The eyewear range is available at Shanghai Tang boutiques and leading optical retailers worldwide.

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L I V E I T U P

get up & go!

ST JAMES POWER STATION

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St James Power Station is the Next Big Thing in entertainment. Touted as the hippest and coolest place to see and be seen on the clubbing circuit, this reconstructed former coal-fired power station built in 1927 has morphed into Party Central. From jazz and R&B to rock and pop, it houses nine different entertainment outlets, including Bellini Room, Dragonfly and Mono. Tel: (65) 6270 7676Website: www.stjamespowerstation.com

Grab your wakeboards and go cable waterskiing or wakeboarding at Ski 360˚ East Coast Lagoon. Pulled by an overhead cable, the system runs counter clockwise around the lake. A twist to the conventional carousel, this is an interactive ride – on water! Tel: (65) 6442 7318 Website: www.ski360degree.com

F o r a b u z z i n g w a t e r f r o n t entertainment experience, head down to Clarke Quay. With over 50 F&B and entertainment outlets, you will be spoilt for choice. Dine al-fresco along the water’s edge at restaurants such as Fish Tales, Hot Stones, The Tapas Tree and many others. For live music and drinks, try Crazy Elephant or One Night Stand, which also hosts great international comedy acts. Go club-hopping under one roof at The Cannery, where besides the iconic Ministry of Sound, there’s Kandi Bar, Barfly, FBar (fashionbar), The Clinic and Bice.Tel: (65) 6337 3292Website: www.clarkequay.com.sg

There’s more to our little island than meets the eye. Valerie Chew suggests 10 cool things to do in Singapore.

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The finer things in life come together at The Arts House. Located at the former Parliament house, the oldest government building in Singapore, this is a place where the boundary between artist and audience blurs. Participation and interaction are encouraged through workshops and seminars, theatre, dance and music, to visual arts, even fashion shows. Singapore’s only book and music store that exclusively puts local literature and music on a pedestal, Earshot strikes a chord with many locals as well as foreigners. Light meals, quick bites and drinks are also available there while other culinary delights await at Restaurant 1827, Viet Lang and Q Bar, amongst others. Tel: (65) 6332 6900 Website: www.theartshouse.com.sg

Set amongst soothing lush greenery, Tanglin Village, a former army camp, is today a sanctum for urbanites. Just off Holland Road, it’s organised into three clusters, namely Dempsey, Minden and Loewen. The most vibrant of the three, Dempsey offers everything from spas to antique shops to chill-out places and eateries. Savour exquisite wine at Wine Network and the Wine Company. Pick up vintage merchandise at Red House and art pieces at Linda Gallery. Then relax and unwind at Oosh, Singapore’s largest alfresco bar and restaurant. Elegant facades and water features accompany the array of restaurants and bars, which serve up an international range of cuisines.Tel: (65) 6323 9829Website: www.tanglinvillage.com.sg

SKI 360˚

MASTERFILE

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MASTERFILE

HSBC TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir

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They say good things come in small packages; well, not when we’re talking about VivoCity. With 1.1 million square feet of retail space and billed as an iconic and lifestyle destination, it is the largest of all shopping malls in Singapore, with the biggest multiplex and hypermart. Designed by internationally acclaimed Japanese architect, Tokyo Ito, VivoCity resembles its natural environment with fluid, wave-like architecture paralleling that of the nearby harbour and sea. Conceptually, it’s a first – besides one-of-a-kind retail outlets not found elsewhere, it boasts a rooftop water feature in the skypark that spans over four Olympic-sized swimming pool, an open-air playground, a rooftop amphitheatre, art sculptures and creative spaces. Tel: (65) 6377 6860 Website: www.vivocity.com.sg

Stand tall and walk amongst the trees . HSBC TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir is a 25-metre high freestanding suspension bridge that connects the two highest points of MacRitchie. It’s an interesting bird’s eye view along this 250-metre walkway, with stunning foliage and a menagerie of birds, monkeys and other wildlife only visible from this vantage point. Depending on your walking pace, it’s about a three to five hour trek back and forth, so be sure to wear good walking shoes, comfortable clothes and bring lots of water. Tel: (65) 6471 7808 Website: www.nparks.gov.sg

L I V E I T U P

If you ever wanted to know what it’s like being a human catapult, strap into the G-Max Reverse Bungee at Clarke Quay. The life-size catapult-like contraption throws you 60 metres in the air at speeds of 200 kilometres per hour. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other.Tel: (65) 6338 1146 Website: www.gmax.com.sg

Up for some spine-chilling thrills? Join the Singapore Paranormal Investigators on a hunt for the paranormal. Each tour stretches from 7pm to 2am and covers areas rumoured to be haunted such as Choa Chu Kang cemetery, Kranji War Memorial and abandoned HDB flats. With the team armed with Digital Thermal Scanners, Electronic Voice Phenomena Recorders, and cameras, be prepared for the unexpected.Website: www.spi.com.sg

Have a swinging good time at Trapizza, a novel beach attraction that innovatively marries a pizzeria with Singapore’s first flying trapeze school. Located at Siloso Beach in Sentosa, instructors are at hand to teach you the fine art of basic acrobatic stunts and gymnastics. Unless you have a cast iron stomach, we suggest you hit the trapeze on an empty stomach first before loading up on the pizzas!Tel: (65) 6376 2662 Website: www.shangri-la.com �

“Spicy” is a common stereotype associated with Indian cuisine. For a culture that puts much stock in marrying

the six elements of taste – sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent – in its dishes, this couldn’t be further from the truth. “Most people have that misconception and some mediocre restaurants are at fault for creating that impression by using excessive red chillies and curry powder,” says Manish Law, Executive Chef of Rang Mahal Restaurant. “Authentic Indian cuisine can actually be as mild as French or as fiery as Thai and Mexican food.”

Since we are dispelling misconceptions, here’s another popular one: Indian food equals to curries. “‘Curry’ is a term the British gave to India,” says Law. “Indian cuisine is

Whether it is Punjabi or Chettinad, Indian cuisine takes the art of spicing to new levels to create a riot of sensory stimulation – and dishes of fascinating variety. By Lalitha Naidu

spice of life

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S A V O U RPHOTOLIBRARY

far more than just curries, it could be as diverse as korma (creamy, often yoghurt-based gravy), do pyaaza (thick, mildly flavoured sauce) and ishtew (stew).”

Despite winning over taste buds the world over, there is indeed much more to Indian food than many think. In fact, purists often say there is no such thing as “Indian cuisine” but the “cuisines of India”. Semantics? Maybe. Still, there is more than a grain of truth in this. India is the amalgamation of 29 states and home to 15 languages. The states enjoy different climates and natural resources with each having a unique way of life. Add to the mix the influence of history and religion and you have the recipe for an extremely diverse cuisine.

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WORLD OF FLAVOURSIn the North, the food is rich, robust and flavourful – thanks in part to the Mughals who arrived through the Himalayan mountains in the 13th Century. They brought new aromatic spices like cardamoms and ways of cooking such as braising, the tandoor (clay oven) and incorporated ingredients like almonds, cashews, pistachios and dried fruit.

Their influence is heavily felt to this day, especially in Delhi, the medieval Mughal capital of India and the surrounding areas of Punjab. Chewy naan, velvety korma, fragrant pulao (spiced basmati rice dish) are staples with lentils, cream, yoghurt, paneer (cheese made with cow’s or bufflalo’s milk and lemon) and warming spices playing a starring role, a perfect antidote to the region’s chilly climate. In the colourful desert state of Rajasthan, the land of the Maharajas, the preference is for creamy, sweet sauces and mild fare like chapatti (flat unleavened bread) and soola (morsels of meat marinated in a mixture including yoghurt, onions and coriander and cooked slowly over hot coals). Cashews, mint, ginger, turmeric, chilli and tamarind are used in abundance as flavouring agents.

Go South and it is not just the landscape that changes. The food gets spicier; the sauces are thinner and fresh coconut milk is preferred to dairy products. An exception is the cuisine of Hyderabad, capital city of Andra Pradesh, where Mughal influences linger and fiery spices go hand in hand with cream and ghee. Biryani (flavourful rice dish with succulent pieces of meat and vegetables) is one of its best known dishes.

“Southern India is more tropical with stews, chutneys, pickles being popular,” says Law. Especially popular is thali, a vegetarian fare consisting of a variety of small side dishes like sambhar (a basic soupy lentil curry), rasam (tangy, peppery tamarind and sometimes tomato concoction), tear-inducing relishes, chutneys, crispy poppadums and a generous serving of rice. Unlike Northerners who rely more on wheat and breads, Southerners love rice, and the staple takes many forms here – from idli (steamed rice cakes) to dosa (fermented rice and lentil pancakes) and vadai (fried savoury fritters).

While vegetarianism is widely practiced in the South, delicious meat and poultry dishes are also popular. In Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, meat is marinated with red chillies, black peppercorn, mustard seeds and curry leaves to create curries rich in taste and aroma. The fiery factor is especially high in Chettinad cuisine, which is renowned for explosively hot, garlicky fare like Chettinad fried chicken. In Kerala, a state of backwaters, lagoons and lakes, seafood is a mainstay on most dinner tables. Chillies, curry leaves and tamarind are used to create the region’s unique hot-and-sour flavour that is characteristic of such favourites as meen mollee (fresh fish cooked in a spicy, tangy coconut broth).

Despite the regional differences, the cuisines of India have one thing in common – spice. “Indian cooking is an art,” says Law. “The proper use of spices is what makes it so flavourful and delicious.” �

GATEWAY TO SOUTH INDIASoon you’ll be able to experience South India with Ascott properties. Three serviced residences – Somerset Greenways, Chennai; Citadines Chennai Boulevard; and Somerset Whitefield, Bangalore – are currently in the works and expected to open in 2008. This is part of a master development agreement signed with The Rattha Group to acquire and develop seven serviced residences in India by 2010.

All three residences share the hallmarks international travellers have come to associate Ascott with – excellent location, elegant, contemporary living and distinguished personalised service.

Somerset Greenways, Chennai, the Group’s very first property in India, will house 210 studio, one- and two-bedroom units. It is centrally located at the MRC Nagar area, which is just 10 minutes away from the bustling central business district. Another property in the vibrant city is the 220-unit Citadines Chennai Boulevard, located along Mount Poonamelle Road, and near the buzzing Porur area. Experiencing the city’s gastronomic hotspots and its many treats is a breeze from either residence. And in Bangalore, the ‘Silicon Valley’ of India and one of the fastest growing metropolitan cities, the 230-unit Somerset Whitefield, Bangalore is also located at the heart of the action.

Somerset GreenwaysChennai, 94 Satyadeu Avenue M.R.C Nagar Chennai -600028 (Opening 2008)

Poori Appetizer PHOTOLIBRARY

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A T H O M E W I T H

A popular personality in the world of travel, Catriona Rowntree reveals that it is the people

that make each journey special. By Valerie Chew

AdventureSpirit of

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Travel host of Australian Nine Network’s Getaway programme, Catriona Rowntree, was voted one of the ‘most travelled women’ in Australia. Here,

she shares with us her colourful globetrotting life.

A life lived out of the ordinary, your lifestyle must be fascinating; tell us something interesting about yourself, something not many people know about.I come from a long line of adventurous spirits. My great-great grandfather was a ship captain, and my grandfather was a great adventurer as well. I really am just fulfilling my family potential of being obsessed with travel. And of course, I try to live an adventurous life too, and I love taking risks.

Your job as a travel host probably satisfies your wanderlust. What’s great about it? When I first started on the show 10 years ago, the best thing was wondering ‘where is life going to take me this week?’ Now, the wonderful surprise is ‘who am I going to meet?’ I am constantly inspired by various characters all around the world.

Who, then, are the interesting folks you’ve encountered in the course of work?Everyone from Sir Richard Branson to Donald Trump, and also wonderful women from around the world. An unforgettable woman was an old lady I met in China. I visited a village near the Great Wall during winter. It was built from the remaining stones of the Great Wall, by the very people who built the wall. The locals were just as curious about this Westerner as I was about them. In a distance, I could see a small woman hobbling towards me to have a closer look. I was looking at her too, and I saw that she had bound feet! She invited me into her home and treated me to the most delicious dumplings I had ever tasted in my entire life. I can just smell the dumplings right now! She opened up her home and her heart to me. She didn’t have a lot; what she did have, she offered to me. I knew in that moment that I may never meet anyone like that again.

And what is the most intriguing place you’ve been to?I have a fascination with tradition and am drawn to the cultural experience. I am obsessed with China, Egypt and ancient Greece. Singapore came alive for me when I delved into the cultural aspect: the food, the history, and the characters – all of which can only come about from being inquisitive and talking to the locals. It is the people who determine the culture. They give the travelling experience some depth, and this is what provides the best memories and the best friendships. As an Australian, I grew up amongst beautiful beaches and great mountain ranges; but on a cultural level, what we have in Australia cannot compete with what I’ve experienced overseas. After so many years on the road, China remains my greatest trip.

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Catriona’s Australia: My Favourite Aussie Locations is a colourful collection of 100 of Catriona Rowntree’s favourite spots in Australia. It combines Catriona’s humorous personal anecdotes and practical tips on the best places to visit Down Under. Gathered from over 10 years of first-hand experience, it is an entertaining yet handy book on holidaying in Australia. Available now where all good books are sold (AUD$39.99, Published by Jamie Durie Publishing)

You travel a lot and that can be stressful. When it’s time for rest, what do you look for in the perfect accommodation?I have had so many bad experiences that my threshold for bad accommodation is pretty low. For me, the best accommodation has very little to do with location or design; rather, what is important is service – that’s what you remember, that’s what you value, and that’s what money cannot buy. What I like about Ascott’s residences is how they embrace the heritage of their buildings, unlike some hotel chains that are the same around the world. Some people like that because they know what they are going to get, but I like a place that brings to the fore the unique qualities of the building at its location.

When I think of Ascott, the rich history of where it’s housed comes to mind. I appreciate how they are proud of it and this is a distinctive feature that makes the property stand out from the rest. On top of that, the level of service is second to none. Often, when I do stay in magnificent hotels, they tend to be noisy and the service pretentious.

What do you miss most about home when you’re travelling?The beaches, fresh fruits, picking flowers from my garden and just being really relaxed with my family. I try to spend time with my loved ones and to be amongst nature.

I travel 42 weeks of the year, and have really forgotten the concept of nine-to-five or Monday-to-Friday. It is one trip to the next: packing and unpacking. I love it. But I know that there will come a time when I will be a mum and travelling may have to take a backseat. I’m 35 and my other half has expressed an interest in having a family, so it is in the back of my mind.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?My passion in life is communication, travel and people. I really want to make the most of the 10 years of experience I have built up in the travel industry, and to share my knowledge. Having released my first book – something I never thought I would have the skill or the time to achieve, but which seems to be going well – I hope to publish more books. The greatest gift that travelling has given me is learning to be non-judgmental of other cultures. I have learnt that underneath it all, we have the same desires, the same wants, and the same joy. It is difficult to balance work and family, but I intend to just take on the challenges as they present themselves. I believe in appreciating the moment and making the experience work for me. I like my life. �

A T H O M E W I T H

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I N T E R I O R S

Bringing art into one’s life is like marriage – both require an enormous amount of commitment, attention and passion to develop and maintain. And like

a good marriage, it could prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences. As Stephanie Hopper, a London-based art gallery owner, would say, “All of the really great collections I have ever seen have been built on a dream, a love and a lifetime passion”.

However, before you rush to the nearest art gallery and start a purchasing frenzy for your serviced residence, there are some key considerations to take into account.

art of living

A few select pieces of art is all it takes to liven up a home. And picking the right artwork is easy. By Kevin Kwang

CORBIS

POSITIONING & SIZEVarma offers this professional but simple tip: find the central point of your residence and consider the type of furniture around. This would help in determining what the ideal-sized art work should be. Another good tip is to use masking tape on your wall to see if the potential art piece would be a good fit in terms of size composition.

POSITIONING & SIZEVarma offers this professional but simple tip: find the central point of your residence and consider the type of furniture around. This would help in determining what the ideal-sized artwork should be. Another good tip is to use masking tape on your wall to see if the potential art piece would be a good fit in terms of size composition.

DECORIt is vital to take into account the design of your home and the theme behind it. “There are in general two themes, either cold or warm,” observes Louis Lau, artist and owner of Moni Gallery, “and you would want the art piece to create a contrast with the interior’s theme for impact.”

COLOURThe colour scheme plays an integral role in determining what sort of art would complement your home. Generally, if basic tones such as black or white are dominant, the art work should ideally bring an infusion of colour into the space, and vice versa.

DECORIt is vital to take into account the design of your home and the theme behind it. “There are in general two themes, either cold or warm,” observes Louis Lau, artist and owner of Moni Gallery, “and you would want the art piece to create a contrast with the interior’s theme for impact.”

COLOURThe colour scheme plays an integral role in determining what sort of art would complement your home. Generally, if basic tones such as black or white are dominant, the art work should ideally bring an infusion of colour into the space, and vice versa.

LIGHTINGOften an oversight, light is a crucial factor. For example, if white light is used above an oil painting depicting the serenity of Buddha, it would affect the way the painting is received by viewers compared with, say, yellow light. White light throws starkness, a harshness, as compared to the mellow, soothing effect of yellow light. “People don’t consider lighting at all but they should know that it is absolutely necessary to do so,” says Ron Varma, owner of Sienna, an art gallery specialising in Asian decorative art.

LIGHTINGOften an oversight, light is a crucial factor. For example, if white light is used above an oil painting depicting the serenity of Buddha, it would affect the way the painting is received by viewers compared with, say, yellow light. White light throws starkness, a harshness, as compared to the mellow, soothing effect of yellow light. “People don’t consider lighting at all but they should know that it is absolutely necessary to do so,” says Ron Varma, owner of Sienna, an art gallery specialising in Asian decorative art.

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REALITY CHECKIn today’s art market, it pays to be aware of the proliferation of digital prints. These refer to pictures taken of an original painting and subsequently reproduced to closely resemble the original. Be alert to this and decide if you’re willing to settle for such reproductions or stick with original pieces. “While art gallery owners are normally reticent about revealing the originality of their wares, they are honest enough to reveal the truth when asked,” says Varma.

LOCAL FLAVOURPurchasing local artwork that reflects the region and culture you’re living in is probably the best way to inject personality and a welcoming warmth into your home. “Having art pieces that convey a feel of the region lends the living space a sense of identity and character,” says Beeta Paknejad, Director of Sienna.

I N T E R I O R S

PORTABLE ARTIf you’re often on the move, it may make more practical sense to rent an art piece than to invest in one. Some galleries don’t mind art buyers bringing home a piece of art to see if it fits with the rest of their home before committing to it. The rental duration can also vary to suit the customers’ needs. This is especially handy for people needing to rent art pieces for a party, who not ready to commit to investing in a work of art, or those simply looking to liven up their residences for the duration of their stay.

SAFEKEEPINGCaring for art can be simple. The general rule is to keep it out of direct sunlight, wrap them in linen to protect from wear and tear, and occasionally give it a light dusting. If re-locating, it’s best to remove the artwork from its frame, have a qualified framer roll and package the painting securely and ship it separately from the frame.

With patience, persistence and a healthy dose of passion, together with good advice from professional art galleries, building an art collection for your home can be a joy, especially once you see the perfect piece sitting snugly in exactly the right spot – and giving your home that extra special ambience. �

CORBIS

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H E A R T W A R E C O M M U N I T Y

A holiday and a day trip were all it took to bring cheer to some special kids. By Kevin Kwang

Picture this: a family of five strolling down the waterfront streets of Salamanca, Tasmania. The children’s faces are flushed with excitement,

the brilliant sunshine highlighting their luminescent, ecstatic faces. Linked by the arm, both parents are enjoying the sight of their children’s happy faces and reveling in their company.

And they have good reason to be happy. The Kuhls were treated to a week-long trip to Hobart, Tasmania, where the family of five from Brisbane had a fun vacation. If anything, the trip capped a major turn of events for the Kuhls – and made a little girl’s wish come true.

Eight-year-old Rachel, the Kuhl’s eldest child had overcome a two-year battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Though she had the disease at the tender age of six, Rachel showed remarkable and amazing resilience and strength throughout her illness and gruelling chemotherapy treatments.

It took more than a serious illness to dampen Rachel’s spirit. Despite her condition, she had a wish, a dream – for a family holiday in Tasmania. Word got around to The Starlight Children’s Foundation, a volunteer organisation aimed at bringing cheer to terminally or seriously ill children, and Starlight approached Ascott International to assist them in making Rachel’s dream a reality.

And what a dream vacation it turned out to be for Rachel and her family. From the moment they stepped into their residence at the Somerset on Salamanca, the family was made to feel right at home by everyone. Indeed, it was a “home away from home”, says David Kuhl, Rachel’s dad. From cooking facilities to the impeccable housekeeping service, the Kuhls were treated to the very best of serviced residence living by the dedicated and friendly staff at Somerset on Salamanca, who spared nothing in delivering Ascott’s heartware philosophy of going the distance in service excellence.

The Kuhls were even given gifts such as the “Kidz pack”, containing various toys and accessories, much to the children’s delighted surprise. Not to be outdone, the children made a thank you gift for the staff by fashioning a pinhole camera from the box previously housing a slinky, as a gesture of appreciation for the gift packs.

Personalised pampering aside, the family also got to enjoy the best of what Tasmania had to offer. Roadside markets parading local wares and the freshest of produce, waterfront strolls replete with breathtaking scenery around the town of Hobart, and visits to local attractions kept the Kuhls happily busy.

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Rachel’s happy memories of Tasmania reflected in

her illustration.

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Having beaten the cancer cells into remission, the bubbly girl is now back to school full-time, enjoying a regular life, and looking forward to completing her chemotherapy early part of 2007. In bringing some old-fashioned cheer and joy to Rachel and family, Ascott was given a unique and special opportunity to give back to the community. Says David Kuhl, “We feel so privileged and spoilt to be here and to have Rachel healthy again. We are so very proud of her.” �

HAPPY TRAILSFrom treating Rachel to a holiday in Tasmania to organising a day trip to the Jurong BirdPark for youngsters from the Children’s Cancer Foundation in Singapore, Ascott brings joy to kids around the world.

There was a palpable buzz of excitement in the air as they queued to get onto the bus. Shepherded by the volunteers, they strode briskly up the steps, each anxious to get a good seat and to get started on the journey.

These kids from the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF), a Singapore-based organisation aimed at improving the lives of children afflicted with cancer and their families, were on their first trip to the Jurong BirdPark since the regional bird flu scare. Jointly organised by Ascott and CCF, the special Christmas outing was held on 17 December to much anticipation.

Volunteers from both camps spent the day chaperoning the delighted children around the main highlights of the bird park, including a performance of the “Birds n Buddies” show at the Pools Amphitheatre. There was also time set aside for the children to explore the grounds on their own, allowing the volunteers the opportunity to capture the children’s excitement on both film and tape.

A trip to the bird park might seem like an ordinary expedition, but for these youngsters with cancer, it was a few precious hours for them to have fun, enjoy the birds and be the carefree kids they should be. Their beaming, happy faces were ample reward for all who were involved in making this day happen.

End 2005: Rachel (left, standing) had resumed school and was on the road to recovery.

A child from the Children’s

Cancer Foundation

enjoying a day at the Jurong BirdPark.

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A S C O T T H E R I T A G E

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making From a lone luxury establishment in 1984 to an international company with over 18,000 serviced residence units worldwide today, The Ascott Group has come a long way.

its markIn just 22 years, The Ascott Group (Ascott) has worked

tirelessly to establish a strong global presence and reputation. Success has been no mean feat, given the number of international competitors. A trailblazer in its own right, the Singapore-based company was responsible for pioneering Asia Pacific’s first branded luxury serviced residence, The Ascott Singapore, back in 1984.

Today, Ascott is the largest international serviced residence owner-operator outside the United States. Its management arm, Ascott International, manages over 18,000 serviced residence units in key cities of Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region. The company plans to expand its global portfolio to 25,000 units by 2010.

The serviced residence arm of CapitaLand Limited, one of Asia’s largest listed real estate companies, The Ascott Group has been serving the needs of top business leaders, management executives and their families, as well as young, independent travellers with its three brands – Ascott, Somerset and Citadines. Its award-winning properties are found in more than 40 cities across 20 countries. These include London, Paris, Brussels, Berlin and Barcelona in Europe; Singapore, Bangkok, Chennai, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an and Hong Kong in Asia; Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland in Australia/New Zealand, as well as Dubai in the Gulf region.

As Ascott gained steam in its expansion plans, its reputation grew with accolades pouring in from both the business and travel communities. Forbes, for one, hailed the Group for epitomising “the global home away from home” and highlighted its “edge” in delivering uncompromising service standards in the industry.

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A S C O T T H E R I T A G E

Ascott’s achievements have been recognised globally, having garnered numerous prestigious awards. Among the recent accolades are:

• Best Serviced Residence – Travel Weekly China• Best Serviced Residence Brand in China – Business

Traveller China• World Travel Awards – New Zealand’s Leading Hotel • World Travel Awards – Australasia’s Leading Hotel• Best Serviced Residence Operator – TTG Asia Media• Best Serviced Residence Brand – Business Traveller Asia

Pacific• Best Serviced Residence – Business Traveller Asia

Pacific• No. 1 spot in China’s ‘Top 100 Serviced Apartments’

Awards• Best Brand Award – Korea Herald• The Very Best Hotels Award – The Korea Times• Best Service in Serviced Apartments – Vietnam

Economic Times’ Guide Awards • Tasmanian Tourism Award – ‘Highly Commended’

Deluxe Accommodation

The Ascott Group may have enjoyed phenomenal growth, but the company is certainly not letting success distract it from its core focus. It stays true to its core values of being customer-oriented and practises a work ethic that places emphasis on service excellence. This approach is embodied in its Heartware initiative. The cornerstone of The Ascott Group’s service excellence, Heartware encourages every employee to go the extra mile for its residents and deliver service from the heart. �

Citadines – a pan-European serviced residence chain acquired by Ascott in 2002.

Somerset serviced residences offer executives and their families a warm and stylish home with

recreational facilities and business support.

The Ascott Singapore – Asia Pacific’s first branded luxury serviced residence, opened in 1984.

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Milestones

1984Scotts Holdings , a well-known Singapore corporation with business interests in serviced apartments, shopping centres and property investments, opens Asia Pacific’s first branded serviced residence – The Ascott Singapore.

1991List ing of Scotts Holdings in Singapore.

1998Pidemco Land* sets up Somerset International, its new serviced residence arm. 1999

MAYSomerset International acquires Liang Court Holdings, one of Asia’s largest serviced residence operators, to form Somerset Holdings. Together, these two companies have a combined portfolio of 3,200 serviced residence units in 15 cities.

JULYScotts Holdings merges with Stamford Group, the serviced residence arm of DBS Land* to form The Ascott Limited, creating a joint portfolio of more than 1,700 units in eight cities.

The past two decades have seen merger and acquisition activities involving property players in Singapore like Scotts Holdings, Pidemco Land, Somerset International, Liang Court, Stamford Group and DBS Land. These developments eventually led to the establishment of The Ascott Group, the largest serviced residence owner-operator outside the United States, with a global presence spanning over 40 cities across 20 countries. As a measure of its success, the Group established the world’s first pan-Asian serviced residence real estate investment trust (REIT), the Ascott Residence Trust which was listed in 2006. Looking forward to the future with confidence, the Group plans to increase its portfolio to 25,000 units by 2010.

2000Somerset Holdings merges with The Ascott Limited to form The Ascott Group Limited, swelling its total portfolio to over 6,000 serviced residence units in 16 cities across 10 countries.

2002Ascott acquires a 50 per cent stake in Citadines, a pan-European serviced residence chain with over 5,000 units in 18 cities across France, the UK, Belgium, Spain and Germany. This increases Ascott’s portfolio to over 13,800 units in 39 cities across 16 countries, making it the largest international serviced residence operator outside the US.

2004Ascott completes acquisition of the remaining 50 per cent interest in Citadines. This substantially increased Ascott ’s earnings base and its diversification in developed countries for greater income stability. The Ascott Group now owns the three brands: Ascott, Somerset and Citadines.

2005OCTOBERAscott’s global footprint expands to 17 countries with the opening of Somerset Palace, Seoul, South Korea’s largest serviced residence.

NOVEMBERAscott signs MOU with Bahrain-based Addax Investment Bank to launch at least 15 properties across the Middle East and North Africa by 2010.

2006MARCHThe world’s f irst pan-Asian serviced residence REIT, the Ascott Residence Trust (ART), is established and listed on 31 March 2006 in Singapore.

JULYAscott’s global presence expands further with the opening of Somerset Jadaf, Dubai, its first serviced residence in the Gulf region.

AUGUSTAscott adds India to its global portfolio – boosting its presence to 18 countries.

DECEMBERAscott expands in the Gulf region by adding Bahrain and Qatar to its footprint, bringing its presence to 46 cities across 20 countries.

* DBS Land and Pidemco Land merged in 2000 to form CapitaLand Limited. The Ascott Group is a member of CapitaLand Limited.

Round The WorldAscott SOUTHEAST ASIA

NORTH ASIA

Singapore Reservations: 1800-272 7272 (Local Toll Free) Ascott Singapore Raffles Place (Opening 2008) Somerset Bencoolen, Singapore 51 Bencoolen Street, Singapore 189630 (65) 6849 4688 Somerset Compass, Singapore 2 Mount Elizabeth Link, Singapore 227973 (65) 6732 7737 Somerset Grand Cairnhill, Singapore 15 Cairnhill Road, Singapore 229650 (65) 6835 2900 Somerset Liang Court, Singapore 177B River Valley Road, Singapore 179032 (65) 6337 0111 Somerset Orchard, Singapore 160 Orchard Road, #06-01 Orchard Point, Singapore 238842 (65) 6735 0500 Citadines Singapore Mount Sophia (Opening 2008) Citadines Singapore Scotts 37 Scotts Road, Singapore 228229 (Opening 2007) Char Yong Gardens (Corporate Leasing) 1/3 Hullet Road, Singapore 229157 (65) 6272 7272 Portofino (Corporate Leasing) No.6 Sarkies Road, Singapore 2581256 (65) 6272 7272 Riverdale Residence (Corporate Leasing) 346 River Valley Road, Singapore 238873 (65) 6272 7272 The Heritage Singapore (Corporate Leasing) Mount Pleasant Road, Singapore (65) 6272 7272

Indonesia Reservations: 00180 365 7878 (Local Toll Free)Jakarta Ascott Jakarta 2 Jalan Kebon Kacang Raya, The Golden Triangle, Jakarta 10230, Indonesia (62-21) 391 6868 Somerset Berlian Jalan Permata Berlian V Permata Hijan, Jakarta 12210 (62-21) 5366 8888 Somerset Grand Citra Jalan Prof Dr Satrio Kav 1, Kuningan, Jakarta 12940, Indonesia (62-21) 522 5225 Country Woods (Corporate Leasing) Jalan WR Supratman, Pondok Ranji, Rengas, Ciputat 15412, Banten, Indonesia (62-21) 740 1245Surabaya Somerset Surabaya Hotel & Serviced Residence Jalan Raya Kupang Indah, Surabaya 60189, Indonesia (62-31) 732 8738 Puri Darmo Serviced Residence 17A Jalan Raya Kupang Baru, Surabaya 60189, Indonesia (62-31) 732 6066

Malaysia Reservations: 1800 806 306 (Local Toll Free)Kuala Lumpur Ascott Kuala Lumpur 9 Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (60-3) 2142 6868 Somerset Seri Bukit Ceylon No. 8 Lorong Ceylon, off Jalan Raja Chulan 50250, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (60-3) 2055 8888 Suasana Sentral Residences (Corporate Leasing) 2 Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (60-3) 2140 2220 Seri Bukit Ceylon (Corporate Leasing) No. 8 Lorong Ceylon, off Jalan Raja Chulan 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (60-3) 2055 8888 Tiffani by i-ZEN (Corporate Leasing) (Opening 2010)

Kuching Somerset Gateway, Kuching 9 Jalan Bukit Mata, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia (60-82) 250 958

Philippines Reservations: (63-2) 888 0531Manila Ascott Makati, Manila (Opening 2007) Somerset Millennium, Makati 104 Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City 1229, Philippines (63-2) 888 0505 Somerset Olympia, Makati 7912 Makati Avenue, Makati City 1200, Philippines (63-2) 812 1010 Somerset Salcedo, Makati HV Dela Costa Corner, LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City 1227, Philippines (63-2) 888 6668

Thailand Reservations: 1800 888 272 (Local Toll Free)Bangkok Ascott Bangkok Sathorn 187 South Sathorn Road, Yanawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand (66-2) 676 6868 Somerset Grand Sukhumvit (Opening 2008) Somerset Lake Point 41 Sukhumvit Soi 16, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand (66-2) 663 1234 Somerset Park Suanplu 39 Soi Suanplu, South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120, Thailand (66-2) 679 4444 Somerset Suwan Park View 9 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand (66-2) 658 7979 Citadines Bangkok Sukhumvit 8 (Opening 2008) Citadines Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 (Opening 2007) Citadines Bangkok Sukhumvit 16 No 38 Sukhumvit 16, Sukhumvit Road Klongtoey, Bangkok, Thailand (Opening 2007) (66-2) 663 87777 Citadines Bangkok Sukhumvit 23 (Opening 2007) Omni Tower 69 Sukhumvit Soi 4, Klongtoey Bangkok 10110, Thailand (66-2) 656 8300Pattaya Somerset Nusasiri, Pattaya (Opening 2007/2008)

Vietnam Reservations: (84-4) 934 2342 (Hanoi)/(84-8) 822 8899 (Ho Chi Minh City)Hanoi Somerset Grand Hanoi 49 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hanoi, Vietnam (84-4) 934 2342 Somerset Hoa Binh (Opening 2007) Somerset West Lake 254D Thuy Khue Street, Hanoi, Vietnam (84-4) 843 0030Ho Chi Minh City Somerset Chancellor Court 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (84-8) 822 9197 Somerset Ho Chi Minh City 8A Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (84-8) 822 8899

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China Reservations: 800 820 1028 (Local Toll Free)Beijing Ascott Beijing 108B Jian Guo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100022, China (86-10) 6567 8100 Somerset Grand Fortune Garden 46 Liang Ma Qiao Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100016, China (86-10) 8451 8888 Somerset ZhongGuanCun, Beijing 15 Haidian Zhong Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China (86-10) 6568 7868 Luxury Serviced Residence 17 Jian Hua Nan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100022, China (86-10) 6566 2200 ZhongGuanCun Residence, Beijing 15 Haidian Zhong Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China (Opening 2007) (86-10) 6568 7868Dalian Somerset Harbour Court 55 Renmin Road, Zhongshan District, Dalian 116001, China (86-411) 8899 1888Guangzhou Ascott Guangzhou (Opening 2007) Springdale Serviced Residence Tower B1, No. 105 Tiyuxi Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510620, China (86-20) 8396 6088 Shanghai Ascott Shanghai Pudong 3 Pudong Avenue, Shanghai 200120, China (86-21) 6886 0088 Somerset Grand Shanghai 8 Jinan Road, Luwan District, Shanghai 200021, China (86-21) 6385 6888 Somerset Xu Hui 888 Shanxinan Road, Xu Hui District, Shanghai 200031, China (86-21) 6466 0888 Citadines Shanghai Jinqiao 49 West Beijing Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200003 (86-21) 2308 6666Suzhou Citadines Suzhou Emerald City (Opening 2008) Citadines Suzhou Lejia (Opening 2008) Citadines Suzhou Xinghai (Formerly known as Citadines Chongrui) (Opening 2007) Tianjin Somerset Olympic Tower 126 Chengdu Dao, Heping District, Tianjin 300051, China (86-22) 2335 5888 Somerset Youyi, TianJin (Opening 2008) Xi’an Citadines Xi’an Central (Opening 2007) Hongkong Citadines Hongkong Ashley (Opening 2007)

Japan Reservations: 0120 069 500 (Local Toll Free)Tokyo Somerset Azabu East 1-9-11 Higashi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0044, Japan (81-3) 5114 2800 Somerset Roppongi 3-4-31 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan (81-3) 3568 3939 Green Park Akasaka (Corporate Leasing) 5-2-10 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6101, Japan (81-3) 5573 8800 Nakameguro Residence (Corporate Leasing) 4-13-41 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-0061, Japan (81-3) 3714 1131 Nibancho Park Forest (Corporate Leasing) 7-8 Nibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0084, Japan (81-3) 3511 6828 Shochiku Square Residence (Corporate Leasing) 1-13-5 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan (81-3) 6226 5923

Korea Reservations: (82-2) 6730 8000 Seoul Somerset Palace, Seoul 85 Susong-Dong, Jongno-Gu, Seoul, South Korea 110885 (82-2) 6730 8888

TEL:

TEL:

For worldwide reservations: (65) 6272 7272 Website: www.the-ascott.com and www.citadines.com E-mail: enquiry@the-ascott.com

GULF REGION

SOUTH ASIA

AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

EUROPE

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Bahrain Manama City Somerset Juffair (Opening 2007)

Qatar Doha Somerset Corniche (Opening 2007)

United Arab Emirates Reservations: (971-4) 404 9452 Dubai Somerset Jadaf, Dubai Somerset Residence, Jadaf, P.O 122161, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (971-4) 324 6111

TEL:

Citadines Central Reservations (Europe): (33) 1 41 05 79 05

United Kingdom Reservations: 0800 376 38 98 (UK Toll Free) / (44-20) 7269 1680London Ascott London Mayfair 49 Hill Street, Mayfair, London W1J 5NB, UK Somerset Bayswater 42 Prince’s Square, Bayswater, London W2 4AD, UK Citadines London Barbican 7-21 Goswell Road, London EC 1M 7AH, UK Citadines London Holborn-Covent Garden 94-99 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LF, UK Citadines London South Kensington 35A Gloucester Road, London SW7 4PL, UK Citadines London Trafalgar Square 18-21 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5EA, UK St Marks (Corporate Leasing) 300 City Road, London EC1V 2PW, UK France Reservations: 0 825 333 332 (Within France)Paris Citadines Paris Austerlitz 27 Rue Esquirol, 75013 Paris, France Citadines Paris Bastille Marais 37 Boulevard Richard Lenoir, 75011 Paris, France Citadines Paris Bastille Nation 14-18 Rue de Chaligny, 75012 Paris, France Citadines Paris Didot Alésia 94 Rue Didot, 75014 Paris, France Citadines Paris La Défense 1-8 Boulevard de Neuilly, 92400 Courbevoie, Paris, France Citadines Paris Les Halles 4 Rue des Innocents, 75001 Paris, France Citadines Paris Louvre 8 Rue Richelieu, 75001 Paris, France Citadines Paris Maine-Montparnasse 67 Avenue du Maine, 75014 Paris, France Citadines Paris Montmartre 16 Avenue Rachel, 75018 Paris, France Citadines Paris Opéra-Grands Boulevards 18 Rue Favart, 75002 Paris, France Citadines Paris Opéra Vendôme Prestige 2 Rue Edouard VII, 75009 Paris, France Citadines Paris Place d’Italie 18 Place d’Italie, 75013 Paris, France Citadines Paris Saint-Germain-des-Prés 53 Ter, quai des Grands-Augustins, 75006 Paris, France Citadines Paris Tour Eiffel 132 Boulevard de Grenelle, 75015 Paris, France Citadines Paris Trocadéro 29 Bis, Rue Saint-Didier, 75116 Paris, France Citadines Paris Voltaire République 75 Bis, Avenue Parmentier, 75011 Paris, France Outside ParisAix en Provence Citadines Aix Jas De Bouffan 4 Avenue Achille-Empéraire, 13090 Aix-en-Provence, France Bordeaux Citadines Bordeaux Mériadeck 25 Rue Jean Fleuret, 33000 Bordeaux, FranceCannes Citadines Cannes Carnot 1 Rue le Poussin, 06400 Cannes, FranceFerney Voltaira Citadines Genève Ferney Voltaire 34 Rue de Genève, 01210 Genève Ferney Voltaire, FranceGrenoble Citadines Grenoble 9-11 Rue de Strasbourg, 38000 Grenoble, FranceLille Citadines Lille Centre Avenue Willy Brandt-Euralille, 59777 Lille, FranceLyon Citadines Lyon Part-Dieu 91-95 Rue Moncey, 69003 Lyon, France Citadines Lyon Presqu’île 2 Rue Thomassin, 69002 Lyon, FranceMarseille Citadines Marseille Castellane 60 Rue du Rouet, 13006 Marseille, France Citadines Marseille Centre 4 Place Pierre Bertas (11 Rue Sainte Barbe) 13001 Marseille, France Citadines Marseille Prado Chanot 9-11 Boulevard de Louvain, 13008 Marseille, FranceMontpellier Citadines Montpellier Antigone 588 Boulevard d’Antigone, 34000 Montpellier, France Citadines Montpellier Sainte-Odile 195 Rue du Pré aux Clercs, 34090 Montpellier, France Citadines Nice Buffa 21 Rue Meyerbeer, 06000 Nice, FranceNice Citadines Nice Promenade 3-5 Boulevard François Grosso, 06000 Nice, FranceStrasbourg Citadines Strasbourg Kléber 50-54 Rue du Jeu des Enfants, 67000 Strasbourg, FranceToulouse Citadines Toulouse Wilson 8 Boulevard de Strasbourg, 31000 Toulouse, France

Other European Countries Belgium Reservations: (33) 825 333 332 (Within Belgium)Brussels Citadines Bruxelles Sainte-Catherine 51, Quai au Bois à Brûler 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Citadines Bruxelles Toison d’Or 61-63, Avenue de la Toison d’Or 1060 Bruxelles, Belgium

Germany Reservations: 0 30 88 77 60 (Within Germany)Berlin Citadines Berlin Olivaer Platz Olivaer Platz 1, 10707 Berlin-Wilmersdorf, Germany

Spain Reservations: 902 200 699 (Within Spain)Barcelona Citadines Barcelona Ramblas Ramblas 122, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

TEL:

Australia Reservations: 1800 766 377 (Local Toll Free) Hobart Somerset on the Pier Elizabeth Street Pier, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia (61-3) 6220 6600 Somerset on Salamanca 8 Salamanca Place, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia (61-3) 6220 6600Melbourne Somerset Gordon Heights (Opening 2007) Somerset Gordon Place 24 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia (61-3) 9663 2888 Somerset on Elizabeth 250 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia (61-3) 8665 8888 Oakford on Collins 182 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, AustraliaSydney Somerset Darling Harbour 252 Sussex Street, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia 2000 (61-2) 8280 5000 Oakford City West 23-33 Missenden Road, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia

New Zealand Reservations: 0800 272 688 (Local Toll Free)Auckland Ascott Auckland Metropolis 1 Courthouse Lane, Auckland, New Zealand (64-9) 300 8800

India Bangalore Somerset Whitefield, Bangalore (Opening 2008)Chennai Somerset Greenways, Chennai (Opening 2008) Citadines Chennai Boulevard (Opening 2008)

TEL:

TEL:

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our global brandsASCOTT

THE RESIDENCEA premier serviced residence for top executives and industry leaders. It provides efficient business support services in an exclusive and luxurious environment, so guests can relax and recharge, and function at peak performance.

SOMERSET SERVICED RESIDENCEA serviced residence for executives and their families looking for work-life balance. It provides a warm and stylish home with recreational facilities, lifestyle activities and business support services. It is a place to get help to quickly settle into the city, make friends and share family experiences.

CITADINES APART’HOTELCitadines serviced residences are for young, independent travellers who want flexibility in their city stay, in addition to space, privacy and business connectivity. At these vibrant residences, they can choose the services they want from a menu, to suit their lifestyle and budget.

Ascott International Management (2001) Pte Ltd (Regn No. 1979 0088 IN)No 8 Shenton Way #13-01 Temasek Tower Singapore 068811Telephone (65) 6220 8222 Facsimile (65) 6227 2220

Ascott International is the largest global serviced residence operator in Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region. It manages the Ascott, Somerset and Citadines brands in over 40 cities across 20 countries. Ascott International is a subsidiary of The Ascott Group, a member of CapitaLand Limited.

Welcome to Somerset Berlian, JakartaCome home to the lush and tranquil surroundings while keeping tab on your business. Nestled within the premium residential district of Permata Hijau, Somerset Berlian provides you with a stylish and balanced living away from the city bustle, and yet quick access to business services and urban conveniences. Jakarta’s prime financial district, Jalan Sudirman and the Semanggi Interchanges are just minutes away. Also within reach are Jakarta’s popular shopping mall, Plaza Senayan; the exclusive Pondok Indah Golf Course; and Jakarta Convention Centre. Welcome to Somerset Berlian, your new definition of balanced living.

For reservations, please call us at 62-21-5366 8888 or visit www.the-ascott.com

Somerset Berlian is managed by Ascott International, a member of The Ascott Group.Ascott International is the largest global serviced residence operator with more than 120 properties in Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region.

It manages the Ascott, Somerset and Citadines brands in over 40 cities across 20 countries.

A Picture of Global Balanced Liv ing