Fire Paradox: the centre of attraction

Pythagoras by Glamm Fire

Pythagoras is more than a suspended fireplace but a lifestyle of its own magnificence. Developed to become timeless, it features straight lines, expressed in long edges and defined vertices, emphasising an exuberant silhouette which sublimates the modernity of the fire produced.

The finishes and details of black or white velvet lacquered steel add extra finesse to this fireplace in which the flame is reflected on all sides that surround it, producing a modern perspective in all angles to make it the main attraction of any space. Quite simply, this fireplace invites admiration, and has features that are all controlled by a remote control.

The Exclusive Bioethanol Fireplaces, which are specifically made to burn high-quality bioethanol, provide you with the most realistic dancing flame possible, making you feel warm and cozy.

The production of bioethanol, often known as “ethanol,” which is used as fireplace fuel involves the fermentation of materials with a vegetal origin, including sugar cane, potatoes, sugar beet, and cereals. It is regarded as a renewable energy source that is entirely green, protects the environment, and has no impact on global warming. Hence, “bio” ethanol is referred to.

Weighing 230kg, the fireplace has a width of 122cm, a depth of 105.5cm and a height of 265cm. It has a recommended minimum area of use of 16 square metres, whilst high temperature resistant glass and a lithium battery are accessories that come included with the offer.     

The Bioethanol Fireplaces have a 10-litre tank, a power rating of 2-4 kW and can run autonomously for 15-25 hours. 

128 WATERLOO: This desirable location represents smart, sustainable and superior living

128 WATERLOO is located in one of Hong Kong’s most elite neighbourhoods, a coveted address of extraordinary refinement that boasts more than a century of prosperity and excellence. It is a place of a grand heritage of distinction deeply established for today and for generations to come.

Real estate brand Top Spring have created a magnificent landmark in 128 WATERLOO. This world-class residential tower is set to become renowned for its individuality, calibre of design and construction ingenuity. 128 Waterloo showcases a luminous curvilinear façade and a fluid, dynamic form, distinguished by a unique copper arc on the façade, which echoes the prestigious reputation of the Maryknoll Convent School across the street.

Magnificent flats

This residential project in such a sought-after location contains magnificent flats that are a true expression of luxury and elegance. They are designed with extraordinary details and exacting interior craftsmanship, the result of meticulous planning and superb architectural vision.   

A glass curtain wall allows stunning vistas of the lush, verdant natural scenery of Lion Rock as well as the glittering night lights across the expanse of Kowloon. Flats comes with a varying number of bedrooms from one to five and walk-out balconies provide residents with a feeling of openness and at one with the majestic scenery. This is a residential building that echoes to the historic textures of the site and boldly exemplifies what world-class high-density living is about.

This magnificent complex has taken world standards to the core of its essence,  creating truly smart, sustainable and superior living for its residents. 128 WATERLOO has successfully redefined modern dwelling for all ages responding to residents’ needs covering security, health, safety and smart technologies while sparkled with enjoyment of nature and inspiration of history and arts.

Master bathroom of 3- and 4-bedroom units as well as PENTHOUSE 128 are uniquely pampered with heated floors in the master bathroom. Luxuriating with a warm bath is always a delight throughout the year.

Superb clubhouse

The clubhouse, Club 128, is designed so residents can experience luxury living to the full and comes with a slew of fantastic amenities. Facilities range from an infinity outdoor pool and a gym to a grand banquet room designed for a multitude of special occasions.

This means there are plenty of opportunities for all residents to revitalise both the body and spirit. This includes facilities for children to play in safe and healthy environments.

Nature embodied in the design

The building was designed to link art and nature, where texture, sound and smell are crucial. Vertical green walls and natural stone feature walls were integrated with the elevated design of 128 WATERLOO and provides relief from Hong Kong’s hectic, non-stop lifestyle and dense urban fabrics.

The beautiful Four Seasons Garden on 2/F and plant rooms shield the existing highways and maximize the view of Lion Rock. The garden was designed in modern English style with planting of bougainvillea in different colours of red, pink, purple, orange and white to echo that of Maryknoll Convent School. The garden was loaded with colours and scents that change with the Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.

Smart and distinctive features

Applications Living is greatly enhanced at 128 WATERLOO with some of the most advanced technology features available today.

A smart home system enables off-site control as a one-stop solution for complete home management. From indoor temperature control, lighting, curtain settings, air quality monitoring and video calls to humidity level adjustment and the creation of different ambient settings, life takes on a new level of supreme convenience.

Staying ahead of the rest

With an extensive history in catamaran manufacture, Lagoon’s superbly designed boats will bring unforgettable memories, says Guillaume Andrebe, sales director, Lagoon and Excess 

How did you develop a passion for sailing and how did your experience in the boating industry prepare you for a leadership role in sales?

I developed a passion for sailing at a young age, thanks to my parents who introduced me to boating when I was just three weeks old. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to travel the world on both monohulls and catamarans. When the chance to join the Beneteau Group presented itself five years ago, I immediately jumped on it. Working in the nautical industry in APAC has been incredibly interesting, as many countries in the region are still new to leisure boating. This has allowed me to be part of building the industry from the ground up, which has greatly prepared me for a leadership role in sales.

Could you describe the strengths of Lagoon? What strategies have you implemented to maintain this position and stay ahead of competitors?

Lagoon’s strength lies in its extensive history of catamaran manufacturing. With 40 years of experience and over 7,000 boats built, Lagoon has established itself as a reliable and trusted brand. As part of the Beneteau Group, which boasts 140 years of boat building expertise, we prioritize the quality and reliability of our boats. Additionally, we carefully select the best dealers to represent us and provide excellent service to our owners. Regular training ensures our partners are up to date with the latest technology and techniques implemented in our boats. By consistently providing the best products and services to our clients, we stay ahead of the competition.

What successful sales campaigns or initiatives have significantly contributed to the brand’s growth and success?

We do have a few very popular models that have strongly contributed to Lagoon success and brand image. We have built more than 1000 units of the 42 and the 450 for example. This is unseen in the industry and says a lot about the trust people put in Lagoon know-how.

What efforts are you making to increase the sustainability of your products?

Lagoon is committed to increasing the sustainability of our products. We have taken various steps to minimize our negative impact on the marine environment, from sourcing and product design to production and communication activities. Our new Lagoon 51, for instance, is built using eco-sourced raw materials, including wood from FSC-certified forests and upholstery made from recycled materials. We have also invested in hybrid propulsion solutions and installed XXL-sized solar panels on the coachroof of the Lagoon 51, generating almost 3,000 Watts of energy for onboard service needs. Furthermore, our production facilities in France are certified with ISO 9001, ISO 50001, and ISO 14001, ensuring efficient energy use and responsible waste management. Through collaborations with organizations like Escape to Nature and Anima Mundi, we aim to raise public awareness about preserving the marine environment.

Why would you recommend someone to buy one of these catamarans?

I would recommend someone to buy a Lagoon catamaran because these boats emphasize a lot on comfort and are designed for world travel with friends and family. They are built to create unforgettable memories and moments. Owning a Lagoon catamaran provides a sense of freedom, allowing you to explore the dream destinations and go wherever and whenever you want. It’s a unique feeling that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

UOB Art Academy brings art to heart and ink for all

Container terminals wins 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award

UOB has announced the successful registration of UOB Art Academy (the Academy) as its inaugural charity in Hong Kong. With the motto ‘Art to Heart; Ink for All’, the Academy connects communities and touches hearts through art. It also strives to make Chinese ink art, a longstanding artistic heritage, accessible to the public.

Director of UOB Art Academy Limited, Christine Ip, who is also CEO, Greater China and Head of Group Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB, said: “Upholding the belief that art holds the power to transcend boundaries and spark conversations, we want to promote a more inclusive and compassionate society. Our new charity status allows us to leverage the collective strengths of our stakeholders to make a broader positive impact. We invite ecosystem partners, including corporates, artists, art educators, philanthropists and art enthusiasts from all walks of life to join us in this mission.”

Director of UOB Art Academy Limited, Mrs Christine Ip, who is also CEO, Greater China and Head of Group Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB, officiated the UOB Art Academy charity launch earlier, together with Ms Marietta Li, Head of Strategic Communications, Brand and Customer Insights, Hong Kong and Taiwan Head of Network Partnerships and Strategic Marketing, Foreign Direct Investment Advisory, Hong Kong, UOB

The Academy seeks to enrich lives and strengthen communities through its diverse range of programmes and initiatives. The following key areas underpin the organisation’s vision:

  1. Fostering artistic heritage: Through curated art programmes, the Academy preserves and fosters the rich tradition of Chinese ink art, which holds timeless beauty and profound cultural significance.

  1. Providing accessible art education: Through the Art in Ink workshops, the Academy provides learning platforms and resources to make Chinese ink art education accessible to both teachers and students of all skill levels.

  1. Empowering artistic talents: The Academy supports artistic talents and helps them achieve their full potential. It offers programmes like the UOB Art in Ink Awards, We+1 Mentorship and Internship Programme and Artist for A Day, providing platforms for young talents to explore and pursue their artistic aspirations.

  1. Facilitating Greater China-ASEAN cultural connectivity: Through long-standing art programmes like the UOB Painting of the Year competition, UOB contributes to the development of the art scene in ASEAN.

  1. Art for social impact: The Academy aims to address important societal issues through art therapy and strives to create a more compassionate and equitable world through art.

  1. Inspiring community engagement: The Academy collaborates with local institutions, organisations and art communities to develop community programmes like the Art in Ink Festival.

Mr Li Chik Keung wins 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award

In conjunction with the incorporation of the UOB Academy as a charitable organisation, the 2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Presentation Ceremony was held on the same day to recognise twenty artistic talents for their outstanding performance in ink art creation.

Mr Li Chik Keung’s Container Terminals won the 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award and Gold in the Open Category – Landscape or Figurative. This captivating piece utilises monochrome tones and intersecting vertical and horizontal lines to create an interplay of density and sparsity. The artwork beautifully showcases the vibrant dynamism and order that characterise a bustling scene at a container terminal. 

Container Terminals, Mr Li Chik Keung
2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award and
Gold Award, Landscape or Figurative, Open Category

Breakthrough, Ms Victoria Lin
2023 Most Promising Artist of the Year Award and
Gold Award, Landscape or Figurative, Senior Student Category

Ms Victoria Lin’s Breakthrough won the 2023 Most Promising Artist of the Year award and Gold in the Senior Student Category – Landscape or Figurative. This remarkable achievement marks Lin’s third win of the Most Promising Artist of the Year Award. She previously won the award in 2019 with her artwork Fish Tank and in 2022 with Let It Go. Breakthrough symbolises the determination to overcome obstacles while pursing one’s dreams.

2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Winners’ Showcase

The 2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Winners’ Showcase will be held at the Palace Academy, Hong Kong Palace Museum from 16 to 31 December 2023 (excluding 19 December). This exhibition is a significant component of the second edition of Art in Ink Festival, co-organised by UOB Art Academy and the Hong Kong Palace Museum. Apart from the exhibition, there will also be various activities including ink art workshops, immersive animated ink screenings, an interactive ink experience zone, art talks and artist studio visits. The Festival is open to the public.

Date: 16-31 December 2023 (excluding 19 December 2023)

Venue: Palace Academy, Hong Kong Palace Museum, 8 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District

Website: www.artininkfestival.com.hk  

Marking 100 magnificent years: Whiskies cultivated in the finest Japanese distilleries

To honour the craftsmanship and innovative spirit of the iconic whiskey brand’s 100th anniversary since its creation, the House of Suntory announces Limited Edition Yamazaki and Hakushu bottlings as part of a collection of exclusive bottlings to commemorate the milestone.

These are bottles that pay homage to the brand’s heritage and unwavering dedication to exceptional quality.

They include two limited edition Hakushu bottlings – a new, limited release Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt, along with the flagship Hakushu 12 Year Old clad in limited-edition celebratory packaging for the 100th anniversary.

Two limited-edition Yamazaki bottlings include the new, limited Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara, a single malt Japanese whisky aged exclusively in rare Mizunara oak casks, and the classic Yamazaki 12 Year Old and are also clad in limited-edition celebratory packaging for the 100th anniversary.

“Blending is at the heart of everything we do at the House of Suntory, and we hold each of our whiskies to the highest standards throughout the process,” shared Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo.

These bottles celebrating the Beam Suntory 100 Anniversary are available online at the Jebsen Wines and Spirits eshop.

Pricing

Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is presented at 48 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $22,000 (700ml).

Hakushu 12 Year Old is bottled at 43 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of  $2,400 (700ml).

Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara is bottled at 48 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $24,000 (700ml).

The Yamazaki 12 Year Old expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $2,500 (700ml).

Roca: Bathrooms that delight

Originating in 1917 as a manufacturer of cast iron radiators, Roca has evolved into the global leader in creating exquisite bathroom spaces. With 76 production plants spanning the globe, their commercial network extends to over 170 countries and they employ a workforce of over 21,000 individuals.

Ona Collection –  Captivating Mediterranean Charm

With interiors in olive green, the new Roca store in Wan Chai evokes the organic beauty of nature, allowing you to immerse in the simplistic Mediterranean lifestyle inside this piazza-inspired space. The young and stylish vibe makes shopping for sanitary wares cooler than ever.​

In our window display you will see a glimpse of a book of Wellness, turned to a page on life-size Roca signature products; a prelude to the Beach House launched at COLOURLIVING. Indeed, Roca’s new Ona Collection draws inspiration from the picturesque Mediterranean lifestyle and embodies the warmth associated with homes overlooking the sea.

Just as these coastal abodes harmonise with and reflect the natural splendour surrounding them, the Ona Collection embraces simplicity and incorporates natural materials. This versatile collection effortlessly adapts to different interior spaces, construction projects, and refurbishment scenarios.

Transform European Villa Lifestyle into Urban Living

With Roca as the new lifestyle hub, COLOURLIVING takes you on a customer journey where you can transform this European villa lifestyle into urban living. 

Whether for master bathrooms, guest bathrooms, hotel bathrooms, or public facilities, the Ona Collection offers a clean and minimalistic look, characterised by slim basins. Complemented by furniture and accessories in trendy Mediterranean colours, comfort, hygiene, and water-saving technology are paramount features, while contactless operation of flushing, faucets, and soap dispensers enhances convenience.

Ohtake Washbasin – Embracing Artistic Excellence

Roca consistently collaborates with top-tier industry professionals to create innovative products. A prime example is the Ohtake white and black washbasin collection, designed by renowned Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake.

Revered for his incorporation of captivating curves and round shapes that engage the senses, Ohtake’s expertise perfectly aligns with Roca’s dedication to craftsmanship excellence. Inspired by the grace of nature’s liquid curves and the delicacy of an egg’s exterior, this Ohtake collection offers three over countertop washbasins in four distinct finishes.

With sensual shapes that embody Ruy’s artistic style, the elegance showcased by these washbasins earned them the prestigious “Best of the Best” title at the Red Dot Awards in 2019.

Not forgetting The Inspira Collection – Vibrant and Versatile

The Inspira Collection of color washbasins captivates with a broad range of striking and unique colours, including glossy white, pearl, onyx, and beige. Like many other Roca products, this collection seamlessly blends innovative design with bold shapes and timeless style.

The contemporary Colours harmonise beautifully with the thin aluminium frames and Fineceramic® washbasins. With a focus on storage and functionality, the Inspira Collection offers flexibility through options such as floating one-drawer units or traditional two-drawer units.

Insignia Faucets – The Epitome of Elegance

Achieving recognition with an iF Design Award in 2019, Roca’s Insignia faucets collection exemplifies excellence. This esteemed design prize, presented by an independent panel of experts from around the world, acknowledges the faucets’ elegance and personality.

Available in rose & black, Cala – black, and Escuadra – black versions, these modern single-lever faucets with slim side handles add a touch of sophistication to contemporary urban homes.

Endorsed by industry professionals, they embody quality and style.

One-Stop Solution

As the sole distributor of Roca for more than 50 years, we can assure you a seamless, hassle-free after-sale service and maintenance, given the timeless and versatile ranges of Roca products.

Visit us at – 2/F, COLOURLIVING, 333 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Here your every inspiration and idea can be fulfilled while the sky is the only limit!

Experience Classic New York Dining with A Curated Selection of Premium Beef from Eight Nations at New York Cut – Central’s Premier American Steakhouse

A brand-new American steakhouse called New York Cut has debuted in H Queen’s on Central. With an excellent selection of premium beef from eight different nations in Europe, America, and Asia, the restaurant specializes in serving up premium steak dishes. New York Cut is committed to upholding the best standards in beef quality, cuts, rearing practices, and aging processes. It imports beef from the United States, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, and South Korea.

New York Cut takes a contemporary and light-hearted approach to redefining the classic upscale steakhouse concept. The main dining space and bar have an excellent collection of art pieces with a New York theme that guests can admire. Each piece captures the rich cultural diversity and artistic legacy of the city. The restaurant’s unique steaks, which are expertly sourced from all over the world and have rich marbling, soft textures, and juicy delights, are the centrepiece of the menu. Every steak has a distinct flavour character, and the chef offers nine different secret sauce options in addition to making sure each steak is cooked to perfection.

In addition to its signature steaks, the steak house also offers a range of other main course dishes, including grilled whole live cod, roasted lamb chops, pan-seared pork tomahawk, and a classic grilled whole spring chicken. These specialty dishes showcase the culinary expertise of the chefs, ensuring that both steak enthusiasts and those with other preferences can enjoy an exceptional dining experience.

A variety of traditional American desserts are also available at the restaurant, including the velvety and rich “Black Hand” Tiramisu, the moist and fudgy Marilyn Brownie served with the famed Japanese CREMIA Ice Cream, the delicious New York Cheesecake served with homemade raspberry sorbet, and the fluffy Souffle with homemade mango sorbet that is the restaurant’s signature dish.

New York Cut is dedicated to giving its customers an outstanding eating experience. The beef used in the restaurant comes from a number of nations, including Argentina, South Korea, Australia, California, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The restaurant stands out from other steakhouses because of its dedication to quality and creativity.

New York Cut, 2/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong. Tel: +852 2555 0666

Hong Kong International Optical Fair

Register now for free admission

For the best and most spectacular eyewear products available in the market, the Hong Kong International Optical Fair is the place to be, an event which is sure to attract the attention of huge numbers of sourcing professionals. The Fairwill be held from 8-10 Nov 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 31st edition will return in EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, complemented by the “Click2Match”, an online smart business matching platform that will operate on 1-17 November, providing a convenient and efficient platform for traders to connect.

International pavilions

This year, the fair includes group pavilions representing Italy, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Visionaries of Style (VOS) as well as the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA). The Mainland China pavilion will gather exhibitors from Yingtan of Jiangxi Province, Danyang of Jiangsu Province, Wenzhou of Zhejiang Province and Shenzhen of Guangdong Province.

The highlighted Brand Name Gallery will house around 100 well-known brands from around the world. New exhibiting brands include ANNA SUI (US), agnès b (France), Gold and Wood (France), Santa Monica (Japan), TED BAKER (US), LASH (Korea), as well as returning prestigious international brands such as MINIMA (France) and STEPPER (Germany), etc. Eyewear Parades by professional models will be held to show different stylish outlooks of eyewear.

Hong Kong brands including BIG HORN and bTd amongst others are also not to be missed. The Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA) will set up an eyewear design gallery with the theme of “Promoting Hong Kong’s Outstanding Innovative Eyewear” to promote Hong Kong’s creative eyewear designs and the 3D technology elements involved.

Demand growth

Demand for smart glasses continues to grow in the global market. The new “Smart Eyewear” zone this year aims to answer this rising demand. Hong Kong exhibitor Solos Technology Limited and US exhibitor Zulu Inc. will showcase their latest smart glasses products. The Fair also includes other themed zones, spotlighting a wide variety of products ranging from professional eyewear, accessories, frames, lenses, diagnostic instruments to optometric instruments.

The fairs will also introduce the “Scan2Match” which enables offline-to-online connections. By using the HKTDC Marketplace App, buyers can scan the dedicated QR codes of exhibitors to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and e-floorplan, chat with exhibitors even after the fair to continue the sourcing journey.

A selection of exhibitors are shown below:

Exhibitor: Arts Optical Company Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: STEPPER

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-J03

Exhibitor: Mech-Tronic Precision Manufacturing Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: bTd

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-R10

Exhibitor: Mondottica Asia Trading Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: Anna Sui

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-E12

Exhibitor: Wenzhou Conway Light Industry Co. Ltd

Country/Region: Mainland China

Brand: CONWAY

Zone: Smart Eyewear

Booth: 1CON-054

Exhibitor: RayMaterials Co., Ltd

Country/Region: Korea

Brand: RayFog

Zone: Korea Pavilion

Booth: 1C-F15

Exhibitor: Wing Fung Optical International Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: Big HORN

Zone: Frames, Lenses & Parts

Booth: 1D-G02

Exhibitor: Interojo Inc.

Country/Region: Korea

Brand: Clalen

Zone: Contact Lenses & Accessories

Booth: 1C-F01

Exhibitor: Astucci International Limited

Country/Region: Hong Kong

Brand: ASTUCCI

Zone: Eyewear Accessories

Booth: 1D-D23

Exhibitor: Neway Macao Commercial Ltd

Country/Region: Macau

Brand: Natura

Zone: Brand Name Gallery

Booth: GH-E30

Register now for free admission

Valcucine: Discover the values of luxury kitchens with well-being, timelessness, innovation and sustainability

Italy’s Valcucine is a well-known global manufacturer of kitchen cabinets. With a sense of modernism and avant-garde playfulness, its designs challenge the conventional notion of kitchen cabinets and set the pace for the European home furnishing trend. Valcucine has made a name for itself internationally and is recognized as a pioneer in Italian furniture design in just 40 years. It has received multiple accolades for its international designs, including the GOOD DESIGN AWARD, ICFF Furniture Award, and ADI-FAD Award. The headquarters and manufacturing facility of Valcucine are situated in Pordenone, an area well-known for its Italian kitchen cabinets.

In addition to Europe, the United States, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and South Africa, Valcucine distributes its goods to approximately 370 specialty stores annually. Four gifted Italian architects created Valcucine in 1988, and the company’s design team is presently led by Mr. Gabriele Centazz. He oversees the core team’s annual research, development, and production of kitchen designs that adhere to the wellness (putting people at the center), innovation (embracing innovation), and timeless (creating designs that never go out of style) tenets.

Under the direction of Gabriele and his team, Valcucine’s technical design and material selection go through intensive testing and improvement in the laboratory, from various design series to small hardware accessories. In their pursuit of ergonomics and efficient use of space, they mix the use of materials that are secure for both people and the environment. In the global market, Valcucine occupies a dominant position unlike any other.

Genius Loci, which offers a variety of finishes, precious metals, rare jewelry, and unprocessed marble, is the “secret luxury” of personalization. It reflects the tastes of those who buy it with its hand-crafted workmanship and timeless aesthetic. The outcome is elegant and sophisticated.

The wall device that is AIRLIGHT! The opening and closing principle use a balanced structure to make use of gravity’s pulling power. Valcucine glass has increased scratch resistance thanks to a nanotechnology-based impregnating agent.

Valcucine tempered glass, which has been impregnated with nanotechnology, melts after being subjected to an additional heating process and then abruptly cools down. Valcucine glass is extremely impact-resistant and won’t break even after being struck by a 0.5 kg steel ball that is dropped from a height of 2 meters.

They use state-of-the-art technological innovation to ensure that the glass is flawlessly ground and cut using Glazier’s diamonds chilled in water. The very precise embellishments that are born from this delicate, priceless fusion of strength and ostensibly fragile transparency stand out for their expertly sculpted, authentic, and captivating personalities.

The first aluminum kitchen ever created used only natural materials on an aluminum frame and was fitted with an anti-dust rubber soft-close cover, which allowed for countless design possibilities. From lacquered surfaces to the sophisticated use of glass in every color and delivers intense tactile sensations.

To find out more about Genius Loci, V-Motion, or other standout kitchen fittings created by Valcucine, please visit www.caal.com.hk/valcucine

Cruise the Mediterranean on board Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ magnificent new ship – Seven Seas Grandeur

Premium travel agents Miramar Travel are offering the chance to book an unforgettable eight-day cruise on board Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ magnificent new ship –Seven Seas Grandeur– for the 7 Nights Iconic Italy and a Taste of Spain (Cruise Only) voyage.

The 7-night sailing will depart from Rome on 1 May 2024, with disembarkation in Barcelona 7 nights later. Cruising the Mediterranean, the ship will call in Naples, Italy; Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Valletta, Malta; the island of Mallorca; Valencia, Spain, before ending at Barcelona on Day 8.

The all—inclusive package ranges from $58,799 (Deluxe Veranda Suite, 28.6-33.5 sq. m) to $62,299 (Superior Suite, 38.6-43.1 sq. m)per person.

These are some of Europe’s finest tourist hotspots from the Roman splendour of the Eternal City with its coliseum and magnificent vistas, to the historic harbour of Malta’s charming capital, Valletta, full of Baroque palaces, to the beautiful island of Mallorca, and lastly the elegance and visual splendour of Valencia and Barcelona. This is a cruise whose destinations and melting pot of captivating cultures will combine to leave a lasting impression.  

Seven Seas Grandeur is the newest luxury liner of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, who have been delivering top-of-the-range cruise experiences for over 30 years. The ship’s maiden voyage is set for November 2023 and promises to feature unrivalled space, unparalleled service, epicurean indulgence, and transformative experiences for guests as soon as they step on board.

It will elevate the cruising experience to a new level of luxury and refined indulgence. With a gross tonnage of 55,500 and only 746 guests, Seven Seas Grandeur provides among the highest space and staff to guest ratios in the industry.

Accommodation categories on offer for the all-inclusive packages include the lovely Deluxe Veranda Suite (28.6-33.5 sq. m) from $58,799 (price per person upon twin sharing), featuring a private balcony, plush sofa, large desk space and a slew of superb amenities, including a Welcome Bottle of Champagne and 24-hour room service.

The stunning Superior Suite (38.6-43.1 sq. m) from $62,299 (price per person upon twin sharing) is beautifully appointed and spacious, featuring a walk-in closet, sitting area to unwind and dual sinks in the bathroom. 

Guests may savour the best of world cuisine with Serene Spa & Wellness Selections in the many restaurants on board. These culinary dishes offer an extensive array of innovative options that inspire healthy living, featuring exquisite dishes influenced by a myriad of global fares including delectable plant-based cuisine.

The signature steakhouse aboard Seven Seas Grandeur is Prime 7. Designed by Studio DADO, the fully re-imagined venue takes its cues from the classic New York steakhouse at the turn of the 19th to 20th century. Prime 7 may embrace its roots but this is a restaurant designed to cater directly to Regent’s sophisticated, worldly guests who expect only the finest culinary experiences.

There plenty of other ways guests can be pampered to the hilt. The ship’s Serene Spa & Wellness™ experience will enhance relaxation at sea with an indulgent treatment menu that integrates best-in-class techniques and luxury ingredients from around the world, including new treatments utilizing the restorative power of an amber and quartz crystal bed, and an advanced treatment table for a Zero Gravity Wellness Massage.

Guests could book a Hot Mineral Body Boost to alleviate muscular pain and remove toxins, while the Poultice-Powered Muscle Release works away sore, aching muscles with an invigorating treatment that targets tension and finishes with a restorative facial massage.

For a completely unique experience, the Zero Gravity Wellness Massage is an option. Producing a zero-gravity effect, the body is suspended on an advanced treatment table that allows for ergonomic workflows and a seamless series of sophisticated techniques.

The Serene Spa & Wellness Hydrothermal Suite allows spa-goers to relax before or after spa treatments and enjoy Regent’s multisensory aromatherapy steam room, chill room, infrared sauna and experiential showers.

On land, Serene Spa & Wellness Tours enhance wellness through immersive and restorative shore excursions where guests can, for example, soak in mineral-rich thermal springs in Rome, Italy, or balance themselves in a yoga class overlooking the picturesque seaside town of Taormina, Sicily.

Guests could also admire the ship’s awe-inspiring multi-million-dollar art, including an exquisite Fabergé egg, a meticulously hand-crafted objet d’art known as Journey in Jewels and spawning from Seven Seas Cruises’ partnership with Fabergé, the world-renowned jewellers.

For bookings, click here.

Miramar Travel Website: www.hkmiramartravel.com

Cruise Hotline: 3960 0386

Email: mecruises@miramarexpress.hk