Tag: Christmas

Unwrapped: What’s in your X’mas stocking?

The bling and glamour of shopping and dressing up for a X’mas celebration is one of the best parts of the festive seasons. With a wide range of products to choose from, there is something to gift to every fashionista and in fact even put a smile on them. 

X'mas

Clockwise from top left:

  • Limited-edition Happy Moon watch in rose gold with diamonds by Chopard
  • Marina evening clutch with crystal mesh by Atelier Swarovski
  • Refracted-heel sandal with crystal embellishments by Salvatore Ferragamo
  • Christmas bell ornament by Swarovski
  • Loubileopard Holiday Look 2019 collection velvet matte lip colour by Christian Louboutin Beauty
  • Happy Hearts Wings bangle in white gold with diamonds by Chopard
  • Loubileopard Holiday Look 2019 collection Tape à l’Oeil Metallic Eye Colour by Christian Louboutin Beauty
  • Happy Hearts Wings earrings in white gold with diamonds by Chopard
  • Loubileopard Holiday Look 2019 collection nail colour by Christian Louboutin Beauty

 

X'mas

Clockwise from left:

  • Karligraphy shoulder-bag in patent leather by Fendi
  • 2019 festive limited-edition The Goldenland Rouge G Guerlain double mirror cap lipstick by Guerlain
  • Ultimate bath and shower oils from Aromatherapy Associates’ Forest Therapy Festive Gift collection
  • Rhodium-plated Penélope Cruz Moonsun brooch with crystals by Atelier Swarovski
  • Salt and pepper set in bone china and stainless steel by Tiffany & Co.
  • Diamond cream by Natura Bissé
  • Limited-edition Softcore mini blush and balm set by Studio 54 for NARS
  • J’adore gelée d’or and J’adore shower and bath oil, both by Dior J’adore Divine Bath

 

X'mas

Clockwise from top:

  • Lace-up shoe by Alexander McQueen
  • Tiffany 1837® Makers chain necklace in sterling silver, Tiffany Ampersand money clip in sterling silver, both by Tiffany & Co.
  • L.U.C XPS Spirit of Nature watch in rose gold by Chopard (limited to 100 pieces)
  • Tiffany T True bracelet and wide ring in 18K gold, Tiffany 1837® Makers wide chain bracelet in sterling silver and gold, all by Tiffany & Co.
  • CD Icon pin brooch, Dior-motif pin with crystals, both by Dior Men
  • Crystal Christmas tree by Swarovski

 

X'mas

Clockwise from left:

  • Limited-edition STUDIO 54 brush set by Studio 54 for NARS
  • Veneziana Pop pumps with opal embellishments by Rene Caovilla
  • 2019 festive limited-edition The Goldenland Meteorites highlighting beads by Guerlain
  • Small Moiré Devotion bag with pearl embellishments by Dolce & Gabbana

 

X'mas

Clockwise from left:

  • Tenue de Soirée eau de parfum by Goutal Paris
  • Lady Arpels Pont des Amourex Jour watch in rose gold with diamonds by Van Cleef & Arpels
  • Rouge Dior Couture collection limited edition minaudiere clutch and iconic lipsticks from Dior’s Happy 2020 collection
  • 2019 festive limited-edition 2019 Collector Collection Rouge G Guerlain double mirror cap lipstick by Guerlain
  • Perlée™ diamond bracelet in yellow gold with diamonds, Perlée™ Clovers bracelet in white gold with diamonds, Perlée™ Couleurs bracelet in white gold with turquoise and diamonds, Perlée™ Couleurs bracelet in rose gold with carnelian and diamonds, all by Van Cleef & Arpels

 

X'mas

Clockwise from left:

  • Red Lights palette and Red Edition eyeshadow palette, both from Givenchy’s Red Line Christmas 2019 collection
  • V-Bow pumps with crystal-embellished bow by Versace
  • The Story handbag by Alexander McQueen
  • Satin pump with crystal embellishments by Manolo Blahnik
  • Cheonyuldan Signature cushion foundation by The History of Whoo

Holiday Spirits: Usher in the festive season with classic Christmas cocktails

It’s no secret that the unstoppable rise of high-end cocktail bars has birthed countless bespoke beverages to suit the taste buds of even the most discerning drinker. A happy byproduct of this is the spawning of a surfeit of splendid seasonal tipples to suit every occasion, big or small. Indeed, one needs to look no further than the recent Halloween celebrations to find countless night spots serving spookily-themed drinks – no doubt with an eye covertly on the cash counter.

cocktail

However, there is one particular season of the year that – rather surprisingly – seems to proffer a paucity of such ‘trendy’ thematic tipples – Christmas. Indeed, when it comes to the most joyful time of the year, cocktail enthusiasts are more inclined towards traditional offerings to quench their thirst, ones that are delicious, nostalgic and – most importantly – warm.

We are, of course, talking about the hot toddies, eggnogs and mulled wines that have long been a staple of Yuletide gatherings for many European nations and their once-colonies. Hot toddy, one of modern Britain’s best-loved seasonal beverages, for example, is a descendant amalgam of the palm wines of India, American spiced rum and Scotch whisky.

Mulled wines, meanwhile, can trace their roots back to the Ancient Romans, who imbibed on heated wines to ward off the harsh winter cold. As their empire spread across the globe, so too did the love of this delicious drink, with ensuing generations adding spices, herbs and flowers to enhance its flavours to its current-day form.

cocktail

Finally, eggnog, that most quintessential of Christmas cocktails, first originated as ‘posset’ – a warm, milky, ale-like libation brewed by 13th-century British monks. Eggnog eventually became tied to Yuletide cheer when it was transported to the Americas in the 1700s, with Mexico and Puerto Rico adopting the tipple as their own soon thereafter.

Today, these classic alcoholic refreshments and their countless derivatives remain an indispensable part of any Christmas celebration, with their fulsome flavours and soulful warmth all but ensuring their popularity for generations to come.

RECIPES

HOT TODDY

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz whisky
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 tea bag

 Directions:

  • Boil water and steep tea bag for 3-5 minutes
  • In serving glass, add honey
  • Pour whisky, lemon juice and tea
  • Mix well to incorporate the honey
  • Garnish with lemon wedge

EGGNOG

cocktail

Ingredients:

  • 6 eggs (yolks and whites separated)
  • 1/2 cup superfine sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 2 cups brandy
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg

Directions:

  • Beat yolks, 1/4 cup of sugar, salt, vanilla and nutmeg until very thick and light yellow
  • Slowly beat in brandy and milk
  • Cover and chill in fridge overnight
  • Before serving, beat egg whites to soft peaks
  • Beat in remaining sugar
  • Pour over chilled brandy mix and fold gently
  • Garnish with nutmeg

Getaway Destinations – Best cities to visit this Christmas

The Christmas holidays are nearing which means the year is coming to an end. Honestly, who doesn’t like the idea of escaping from one’s daily lives one last time before 2020. Be it visiting some spectacular monuments or taking part in a leisure sport like surfing, we have got you covered. Check out our top getaway destinations to get an idea of where you can go to bid 2019 a fond farewell.

top getaway destinations
©Prague City Tourism

Prague, Czech Republic

Also known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague is one of the most picturesque and beautiful cities to visit. The capital city of the Czech Republic is rich with historical and cultural attractions like the Prague Castle, Dancing House, Prague Jewish Museum and more. Moreover, don’t forget to take a stroll on the Charles Bridge. Additionally, in time for Christmas, there is the Christmas Market at Prague Castle where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the city. The market will be open till January 6, 2020. 

top getaway destinations

Crete, Greece

The Greek island of Crete is often described as a magical and warm paradise. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty of adventure sports – canyoning, canoeing and hiking to name but three – to keep you occupied, all while taking in Crete’s stunning panoramas. Afterwards, energise yourself with mouth-watering delicacies like Dakos, Chochlioi boubouristi (fried snails), Gamopilafo or Lamb with stamnagathi. Moreover, you should not miss out on visiting the Palace of Knossos, one of the most famous historical locations in the island.

top getaway destinations

Bali, Indonesia

Another place to treat your adventurous side during the holidays is the Land of the Gods, Bali. The endless waves and the tropical climate makes the city an ideal destination for surfing or relaxing on the sands of the beach. The Nusa Lembongan island will be an extraordinary place to go for a great surfing experience, or you can go to the Menjangan island for diving. If you are not into water sports, you can also enjoy trekking the West Bali National Park. There are also Balinese spas that would be perfect the day after the aforementioned activities. Moreover, Bali is a colourful place that brims with culture.

top getaway destinations

Marrakech, Morocco

A perfect fusion of ancient history and cosmopolitan modernism is what you can experience in Marrakech. The city is home to ornate mosques, bustling markets and wonderful museums, making it a very attractive and loved destination among tourists. On your trip to this Moroccan city, you can visit the city’s popular museums like Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech, Berber museum and Maison de la Photographie. For a spot of retail therapy, visit markets like Jemaa el-Fnaa and The Medina which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Moreover, don’t forget to try some of the world’s tastiest dry fruits and nuts from these markets.

top getaway destinations

Cairo, Egypt

Founded over four millennia ago, the Egyptian capital of Cairo is simply brimming with history and culture. A must-visit destination on many travel lists, no trip could be complete without visiting the awe-inspiring Pyramid of Giza. A stroll along the Nile river in Zamalek, the Northern part of the Gezira island and a bird’s eye view of the city from the Cairo Tower are some of the activities you shouldn’t miss. When you are there, make sure you taste their cuisine that includes Ful, Koshary, Shawarma and other delicacies.

Festive Flourishes: Upping the oomph factor of your ho-ho-home decor

With the weather turning cooler and the shopping malls, restaurants, pubs and shops all selling attractive wares, deals and more to usher in the end-of-the-year revelry, it’s safe to say that Christmas is on everyone’s minds. To make the festive season even more fun, now would be a good time to start decorating your house with festive flourishes. Whether you prefer traditional decor or something more modern, there’s no better way to get into the holiday mood than by adding a touch of red, green and white to your home.

Festive Flourishes - Christmas Decor

While the sheer variety of decorations available in the stores, from lights and ornaments to indoor and outdoor decor, can cater to every theme – be it rustic, vintage, glamorous or contemporary – it’s easy t o feel overwhelmed by the plethora of options available. To help you resist the urge to go overboard, we have put together a list of accessories to help you welcome the holiday in true style.

Festive Flourishes - Tree

Christmas tree
Nothing makes your home look merrier than a cheerful Christmas tree. For a truly authentic touch, choose a Noble fir sourced directly from sustainable North American tree farms. Not only do they come in a huge range of sizes, there are several florists in Hong Kong that offer to pick up your tree after the holiday season for it to be recycled, so that you can fully enjoy the verdant seasonal centrepiece in your home while still caring for the environment.

Festive Flourishes - Ornaments

Christmas ornaments
Once you’ve found the perfect spot to show off your festive foliage, the next important step is to make it look as stylish as possible. Bedeck your perfect Christmas tree with baubles, ornaments, figurines and lights, all perfectly coordinated to match your central theme. If you want to glam it up further, just spritz some metallic spray paint to ensure the branches and leaves sparkle. A tree-top ornament is also a beautiful way to enhance its inherent appeal. Although time-honoured festive flourishes such as angels, fairies, stars and ribbons are popular choices, for a touch of uniqueness, you can even create your own customised ornament, ensuring your tree-topper is a true showstopper.

Festive Flourishes - Stockings

Christmas stockings
One of the most enduring Christmas Eve traditions is to hang stockings from mantels or bedposts for Santa Claus to fill up with gifts. Putting aside the myth of Father Christmas, these woolly accoutrements can go a long way in adding festive cheer to your home. From classic reds and greens to colourful pompoms, whatever it is that catches your fancy, make sure to hang up a holiday stocking that is just as envy-worthy as the goodies inside.

Festive Flourishes - Table Setting

Christmas tableware
While a hearty spread goes hand in hand with any celebration, go the extra mile to ensure your Christmas table setting does your dinner justice. From festive flourishes and colour-coordinated plates and mugs to red-hued crystal glasses and ornate napkin holders, nothing creates a more lasting impression on loved ones than a wonderfully decorated table. Pay attention to the little details, however, as a mishmash of objects and clashing themes can take away from the allure of the whole experience.

Festive Flourishes - Lights

Christmas lights
Brighten up the holidays – and your home – with those merry, twinkly lights that lift up the mood with the click of a power switch. No matter your mode of illumination, be it mini LEDs or retrostyle globe strands, there’s no going overboard in  this department. For the tree, drape the trunk andthe branches with as many strings of light as you want. You can also wrap some strands on wreaths and mistletoes for a touch of extra warmth, while longer strands can be used as a curtain of light on the windows. Mix and match with colours for an element of fun or to create a calm, soothing ambience. Those looking to add a vintage touch to their Christmas cheer may also opt for traditional candles with ornate candleholders as centrepieces for the tables. When it comes to festive flourishes, brighter is truly better…

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay
Photos: AFP

Give Joy: Emphasising on the joy of shopping and gifting with DFS Group

In time for the holiday season, DFS is back with its annual Give Joy campaign to celebrate the festive mood and the happiness of gifting. From November 15th to December 31st, customers can enjoy shopping from a selection of more than 90 brands including Johnnie Walker, Prada, Dior and more. The specially-curated 2019 collection for Give Joy has a variety of more than 150 products across the retailer’s luxury product pillars, including watches, accessories, wines, cosmetics and much more besides.

Give Joy wines and spirits

Moreover, with the campaign taking place in downtown T Galleria and airport locations worldwide, the luxury travel retailer has set up pop-up stores that allow customers to add a personal touch to the items purchased. Take, for instance, one can stop at a Christian Dior counter in one of the aforementioned locations and get unique gift boxes with personalised ribbons, bespoke name engravings and customised wrapping papers enhanced with evocative fragrances.

Give Joy personalised gifts

Furthermore, the DFS stores will also showcase theatrical events that range from visits by Santa and his crew to performances by local musicians to highlight more on the festiveness of this most joyful time of the year.

Give Joy gifts for her

“The holiday season is all about sharing and spreading joy. Every year, we are delighted to be able to excite and inspire our customers with an array of heart-warming experiences, pop-ups and activations that celebrate the pleasure of gifting,” said Ariel Gentzbourger, DFS Group Executive Vice President, Merchandising.

Give Joy Red Gold products banner

For more information on this festive promotion and the wonderous gifts of the Give Joy campaign, visit www.tgalleria.com.

Mistletoe Maker: Florist extraordinaire Gemma Hayden Blest on Christmas decor

Gemma Hayden Blest has been a part of making Hong Kong beautiful for nearly seven years now. Hailing from the UK, the floral designer built up a not-too-shabby resume working under brands such as Alexander McQueen and Burberry before finding her true passion – flowers. We took a stroll with Gemma down the streets of Central, and had the floral connoisseur give us tips on how to make our Christmas budding with beauty.

Flowers GHB

Gemma Hayden Blest

Tell us a bit about yourself and your work…

I work as a floral designer. My work ranges from events to shop installations to editorial. I specialise in communicating ideas through flower power, creating a mood or ambiance through flora or using them to help create a concept.

You studied fashion design; so, at what point did you know you could use that experience and expertise to channel it into floral designs and arrangements?

I love fashion and a huge amount of what I do stems from my fashion background. I think I found the lag times in fashion frustrating and prefer the speed that’s required for flowers. They have to be designed, created and enjoyed in the moment.

Gemma Hayden Blest
Arrangements by Gemma Hayden Blest

Since the holidays are typically a time of indulgence, can you give us suggestions on how to incorporate eco-friendly arrangements in decoration?

Definitely. There is no need to be excessively plastic with your designing. Invest in good-quality products that can be stored each year. The beauty in flowers is that it’s so easy to make a set of vases of candle holders look completely different each year. Pine, berries and eucalyptus are pretty long-lasting, so a few sprigs can last a few weeks.

How do holiday arrangements in Asia differ from say the UK, where you’re from?

We’re lucky to live in HK where imports are easy to get. I struggle with the loss of scent though. Boxed-up goods just never smell like freshly cut pine from the garden. I tend to give imports a helping hand with scented candles or room mist. Jo Malone does a beautiful Pine & Eucalyptus candle that helps bring back the aroma.

Gemma Hayden Blest
Arrangements by Gemma Hayden Blest

What flower is the most popular around Christmas time with your clients, and what is your personal favourite?

The Queen Amaryllis is always a popular favourite. Grand and colourful, there’s also a lovely anticipation in waiting for the bulbs to bloom that reflects the anticipation of waiting for Christmas day to arrive.

What tips can you give our readers about Christmas decorations?

A running element throughout your home will hold everything together – maybe it’s a type of ribbon or floral element or focal colour. Also a wreath on your front door sets a lovely welcoming tone for what’s inside.

Thank you.

Interview by: Bailey Atkinson
Image courtesy: Gemma Hayden Blest

A Cartier Christmas: French jeweller embraces festive spirit at Tai Kwun

With a Christmas celebration that would make even Père Noël proud, French maison Cartier transformed Hong Kong’s iconic Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts recently, ushering in the festive spirit for the community and holiday lovers alike.

Cartier

Not your typical caroling carousal, a Cartier Christmas wowed patrons with a festive assortment of entertainment and vibrant attractions, kicking off the show with a lighting ceremony officiated by the brand’s Regional Managing Director of Cartier North Asia, Nigel Luk. What followed was surely a delight to the ears of those gathered, a musical performance led by renowned musician Vicky Fung, known for social enterprise Every Life is a Song (ELIAS). 

In line with its avowed mission to support and showcase local talent, Cartier invited children’s choir group Red Vocal Academy, capella group Senza A Cappella and award-winning singer Andy Leung Chiu Fung to perform for the evening. 

Cartier Christmas

In addition to the scintillating music, party-goers were also wooed with the gigantic 12-metre high Christmas tree, decorated with an impressive 4,000 ornaments and 20,000 LED lights. Those interested in cherishing the moment forever could also take photo keepsakes with Cartier’s ornamental bellboys in front of the towering tree. Non-profit organisation Hong Chi Association also presented cookies, spreading the joy of sharing, as befits the charitable holiday.

From 14 December 2018 to 1 January 2019, fans of the of both Cartier and Christmas can visit the spectacular display, replete with 110 lavish gift boxes, to celebrate holiday cheer, and of course, take a picture keepsake.

While Cartier’s Christmas tree may certainly be classic, the lavish jewellers are also keeping up with the digital age by encouraging guests to interact with the brand online by taking their photos with the four bespoke Facebook filters of Cartier, available in the boutique, next to the Christmas tree, and online.

Cartier Christmas at Tai Kwun
Date: 14 December 2018 – 1 January 2019
Venue: Parade Ground, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
Time: 10:00AM – 11:00PM

Perrier-Jouët joins The Conrad Hong Kong for Afternoon Tea

Unveiling its latest collaboration, luxury champagne brand Perrier-Jouët presents The Conrad Hong Kong’s latest afternoon tea set. Nestled in the hotel lobby, Executive Chef Claudio Rossi and Pastry Chef Billy Yuen invite you to escape the cold of winter and the rush of the holiday season and celebrate the joy of Christmas.

Perrier-Jouët

The delightful selection of dishes are made with deluxe ingredients that elevate the festive mood. Sweets lay atop the spread, offering an exciting palate of French cocktail-inspired treats, many with a berry twist. The classic dessert of mini chestnut Mont Blanc stands out as a seasonal favourite, offering an unmatched sweetness to compliment the champagne.

Perrier-Jouët

Placed in the centre and bottom of the festive spread lay the savoury items. Among the marvellous assortment of items, the braised wagyu beef short rib with truffle mashed potato stands out and takes you back to Grandma’s holiday cooking. Another holiday favourite the roasted turkey sandwich with cranberry cream that blends together the nostalgia for autumn and the excitement for Christmas – all in one bite! 

Perrier-Jouët
Those who enjoy the tea set will also take home a complimentary Perrier-Jouët Anemone bracelet as a special Christmas gift.

Complimenting the sweet and savoury dishes of the tea-set perfectly is the Grand Brut Champagne from Perrier-Jouët. Served in a signature flute glass, the beautiful bubbly is the perfect way to usher the festivities with your near and dear ones. 

The Bubbly Perrier-Jouët Champagne Afternoon Tea Set is available from 1 December to 6 January.

Text: Bailey Atkinson

Evergreen Feelings: this season’s best Christmas tree ornaments

According to psychologists, families who put up their Christmas decorations early are generally happier than their counterparts who hold off until the last minute, and here at Gafencu, we don’t need to be told to be jolly twice. With the festive season mere weeks away, we’re setting out to embrace the holiday spirit in full by sharing our recommendations for the season’s most darling Christmas tree ornaments, alongside a complimentary history lesson of the beloved holiday tradition. 

Most know that bringing home and decorating an Evergreen tree is a cherished holiday tradition, but where exactly did this long-held custom originate from? While the roots of today’s modern Christmas tree can be traced to Northern Europe thousands of years ago, the first documented use of such foliage for the festive season dates back to the 15th-16th century in Estonia and Latvia. A few decades later in medieval Livonia and early-Modern Germany, the custom of decorating trees in their homes was started by local Protestants. Fast forward to today, and families the world over have adopted the practice, including our very own Hong Kong.

In the 19th century, upper class families in the Western World began to partake in the tradition too, sprucing up their Christmas trees with ribbons, ornaments, tinsel, and sweets. In modern times, Christmas trees are a staple of many a household’s living room, decorated not only with heirloom ornaments from the past but with contemporary decor such as peppermint candy-canes and string lights.

With such a wide assortment of ornaments and decorations to choose from, we’ve put together our list of the prettiest items to hang from your Christmas tree.

 

Text: Bailey Atkinson

Dreaming of a Green Christmas: The Most Luxurious Forest Destinations

Globally and historically, frosty Evergreens has been a shared symbol of solace, hope, and everlasting life to many cultures. This Christmas we present the most luxurious travel destinations surrounded by the most gorgeous National Forests, frosty or not.

Green Christmas

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Nestled away on the edge of Costa Rica’s National Park, an old 1965 Boeing 727 has been completely revamped from an aircraft to an one-of-a-kind, two-bedroom jungle canopy, perched on a 15m high platform and expertly furnished with hand-carved furniture from Java, Indonesia, to resemble a suite at The Ritz, London. Celebrate the holiday season with a glass of wine in hand, in what is surely an unforgettable destination that brings you the best of modern technology and primitive nature.

Green Christmas

Hampshire, United Kingdom

Located deep within the New Forest National Park, The Rhinefield Hotel is an impeccable country hotel, surrounded by one of England’s most enchanting forests. This quaint hotel offers its visitors a magical Christmas destination, with its combined décor of Tudor and Gothic architecture. Built in 1887, The Rhinefield may just transport you to Victorian England with its festively themed afternoon tea and pampering.

Green Christmas

Colorado, United States

Although certainly colder than our other recommendations, the ultimate glamping experience of Dunton Hot Springs is worth the less-than-tropical environment. Stationed in the San Juan Mountains, it’ll be impossible to not enjoy the great outdoors at this small, exclusive resort, with its offer of tranquility coming courtesy of its hot springs, pampering massages and the irresistible charm of America’s Old Wild West.

forest destinations

Sun City, South Africa

Located in South Africa, The Sun City Resort is the perfect holiday escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy work schedules. Bordering the Pilanesberg National Park, this resort offers plenty of attractions that are sure to keep your mind off from the stresses of day-to-day life. Take your pick from safari adventures, hot air balloon rides, golf games and, of course, everyone’s favourite pastime of lounging next to the gorgeous pools.

Text: Bailey Atkinson