” Water is the symbol of pure consciousness. 

Water is the gentle way. The path of least resistance.

When it reaches a blockage, water find the easiest path around the blockage or it continues to assemble, and flows over the blockage.

Water uses itself to go beyond whatever it needs to go beyond”

Lao Tzu

In Chinese tradition, the place of honor is always at the water’s edge. Inspired by the wisdom of Chinese practices for health and well-being, water’s edge at Park Hyatt Shanghai honors life in harmony with the quite strength and fluid nature of water.

I am in China for the last 5 days but I feel completely broken due to the pitiless 12 hours  jet lag. On the desk  in my suite I see a beautiful brochure  inviting me to visit the spa at the 85th floor . I quickly put my bathing suit and head up in the spacious super speed elevator.

The door opens to a high ceiling white and taupe corridor with very dim light but I can hear from afar the relaxing noise of water running. I  love it!

Crossing the narrow corridor I arrive in a spacious relaxation zone featuring the most stunning 20-meters infinity pool, a Wellness Studio with two treatment rooms and a ultra equipped last generation gym. Behind me a tai-chi courtyard where I learn that I will be able to practice at 6 AM tomorrow and every morning at the same time if I wish to.

While drinking an infused Mineral water  I enquire about the different treatments and  complaint about my irritable condition. I am suggested to experience by a young woman in a suit a Tui Na massage. Literally translated as ‘press and rub ‘ . Apparently  Tui Na uses deep digital stimulation on vital points along the meridian to stimulate Qi and relieve pain and fatigue. This rejuvenating therapy will be used to treat any cold and my headache, relieve insomnia or intestinal upsets , and remedy the  low back pain that has been bothering me the last few days, my stiff neck, and possibly  hormonal imbalances. ‘ Please fix me”  I ask.

Once all set with my appointment , It’s time to enjoy the water. I swim in the perfect temperature pool and the sky at my left hand side is the limit! Like in a house on my left several ornamental terra-cotta vases placed  on Chinese wooden  identical armoires . The symmetry and rhythm of the designed space is perfectly aligned with the movement of my arm stokes in the pool water.

It feels like being in a home spacious entrance hall adorned with art objects and sculptures where I happen to find water and enjoy  a long peaceful swim at it’s edge. Truly maddening!

The hot and cold bubbling jacuzzis are inviting as well. I will deep for a few minutes to detox and stimulate my blood circulation and will head to the locker rooms.

The views are breathtaking. It’s a raining outside and the pollution gives a grey aspect to the small , minute houses complex at my feet. Indoor I am surrounded with Ming Style wooden chairs and ranunculus flowers bouquets in black lacquered vases, fresh linen towels for the face and couple of large towels piled up in rolls next to every individual vanity. Goes without saying that bottles of water are everywhere.

In the steaming room,  I hardly believe what I see. The most beautiful I have ever seen, showcases an  open view of the sky through a thick transparent glass wall. Vapor indoor, dizzying water  outside the best is still yet to come. Yes my friends and that is the shower!

Super large Japanese rain shower. I try to reproduce the sensation through the lens of my camera …in vain.

Ready to my Tui Na I head to the rocking chairs courtyard. My therapist Wendy confides me that it ‘s all in the rocking chair, the flow, the meditation, the Chinese tea she is serving in a tiny ceramic cup without any handle.

Through a long , very long corridor filled with several libraries of art books, I  am taken by two your girls silently to my treatment room overlooking the city at night.

From this moment on I forgot my name. I am floating weightless under the experienced 8 hands of  my female therapists searching every single meridian spot they can find.

I am like water.

Joelle’s Tips

The Spa: Water’s Edge

Park Hyatt Shanghai

The Kiwi Collection is an expert guidance on the best luxury hotels to book for a range of tastes and budgets—from Ryokans in Japan and tented luxury camps in Africa, to luxurious palaces in Europe and hip urban hotels around the globe.

The collection is curated by a team of travel experts positioned in strategic locations around the world, who carefully select properties based on a rigorous methodology to ensure the highest standards.

Every hotel in Kiwi Collection is personally reviewed to ensure it offers truly outstanding guest experiences before it is invited to join.

It’s  experts review and rate each of the selected hotels on a regular basis without regard for brand, size, or affiliation. Hotels that fall below the rigorous standards are diligently removed. As an absolute rule, no hotel is ever allowed to buy its way into the Kiwi Collection. This keeps the collection fresh, honest, and dependable.

To you our reader, the value of booking through JoelleMagazine.com kiwi Collectionwill be clear: a wide selection of pre-screened, premium hotels across the globe, special treatment, and best rates guaranteed.

If you’ll  find a better publicly available rate, we’ll match it. Also, many of f the  hotels offer a “Kiwi Advantage”. Because of close relationships with hotel owners and managers, many hotels in the Kiwi Collection will offer you, the guest,  personalized service and the little extras that transform their entire stay.

These Extras  will include perks such as complimentary upgrades, welcome gifts, early check-in and late check-out, spa or food and beverage credits, or perhaps even a bottle of champagne waiting for you on arrival.

In addition, consumers using their Visa premium cards and booking hotel stays through the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection (available through the white-labeled Visa sites and through JoelleMagazine’s  Kiwi Collection) receive seven benefits:

1) Best available rate,

2) Automatic room upgrade upon arrival, when available,

3) Complimentary continental breakfast,

4) 3PM check-out, when available,

5) VIP Guest status,

6) $25 food or beverage voucher, and

7) Free in-room Internet or Valet parking.

Kiwi Collection, with offices in New York, London, Sydney and Vancouver, offers the world’s best hotels, special treatment and numerous other perks all at the guaranteed best price.

Vancouver based  founder and CEO  Philippe Kjellgren  and I had a nice chat over the phone. Enjoy!

Joelle Magazine:  When did you start the Kiwi Collection and how did the idea come to your mind?

I started a company in 2002 that in 2003 became Kiwi Collection. As a child I had grown up in Africa and traveling was part of my DNA, by the time i was 25 i had already visited over 100 countries. As such I was always the most traveled of my friends, colleagues and customers. I was frustrated with all the travel sites that did not provide a trustworthy resource on where to stay, most were price driven. I did not see any that had put a personal touch and vetted hotels for their excellence. That was the birth of the idea of Kiwi Collection. Today we recommend over 2,350 hotels in 133 countries.

J.M : What are the advantages to book a hotel with the Kiwi Collection?

There are several advantages. First,  the diversity of the collection–ranging from small boutique to large resorts, historic, modern and hidden gems. Also when booking through Kiwi Collection you tap into our relationship with the management team at the hotel resulting in free perks like upgrades and more. You can always call us 24/7 to our in-house concierge team. And last but not least we also manage the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection http://www.visaluxuryhotelcollection.com/.  When you book using your Visa Premium card you get 7 benefits including upgrades, free internet, free breakfast, US$25$ food and beverage voucher, late check out and more all paired with a best rate guarantee.

J.M: Three ideas suggesting travel?

Argentina, one of my favorite countries, Bhutan for a truly amazing culture and hiking, and Madagascar because i lived there and love the people and it is still virtually untouched.

J.M: A memory of your first journey?

There have been ao many, but the last one I did was pretty amazing as i spent time with a tribe in Papua. It is unbelievable how this culture has not changed in the last 5000 years, amazing.

JM: Your favorite hotel?

A question i get all the time which is so hard as we recommend all the best hotels in the world, but if i had to pick one it would be COMO Shambhala Begawan Giri in Ubud because of its diverse architecture through the genius of architect Cheong Yew Kwan.

J.M: If you owned a hotel what would special service would you create ?

Not so much service but attention to detail like it was your own place.  We’d focus on having passionate people working and create an environment where guests just feel good.

J.M: A private place you would like to be opened especially for you

A resort on Madagascar, which is part of my plan one day.

J.M:  A romantic getaway?

Amanwana on MOYO Island in Indonesia, tented excellence on a small island.

J.M:  The most exotic destination?

I would say Madagascar where we currently recommend two hotels

J.M:Your next trip?

Vietnam with my wife who was boirn there but never really went back. I hear wonderful things about the country from those who have visited.

J.M: Where have you never been but would like to go?

Bhutan. I have heard so many great things about it and would love to go soon. I would especially love experiencing Amankora http://www.kiwicollection.com/hotel-detail/amankora

J.M:  is the difference between a tourist and a traveller?

Big time, i would say a tourist doesn’t always know why they are traveling  where a traveler is doing it more well planned and have an agenda.

Soon my friends you will be able to make your own reservation directly on JoelleMagazine.com. In the meantime I am checking out in China what’s available to collect.

Are you ready? Follow us un Twitter and Facebook!

Joelle’s Tips:

The Kiwi Collection

Joelle Magazine is exited to announce it’s brand new partnership with the The Kiwi Collection.

The Kiwi Collection is an expert guidance on the best luxury hotels to book for a range of tastes and budgets—from Ryokans in Japan and tented luxury camps in Africa, to luxurious palaces in Europe and hip urban hotels around the globe.

The collection is curated by a team of travel experts positioned in strategic locations around the world, who carefully select properties based on a rigorous methodology to ensure the highest standards.

Every hotel in Kiwi Collection is personally reviewed to ensure it offers truly outstanding guest experiences before it is invited to join.

It’s  experts review and rate each of the selected hotels on a regular basis without regard for brand, size, or affiliation. Hotels that fall below the rigorous standards are diligently removed. As an absolute rule, no hotel is ever allowed to buy its way into the Kiwi Collection. This keeps the collection fresh, honest, and dependable.

To you, the consumer the value of booking through Kiwi Collection on JoelleMagazine.com  is clear: a wide selection of pre-screened, premium hotels across the globe, special treatment, and best rates guaranteed.

If you’ll  find a better publicly available rate, we’ll match it. Also, many of f the  hotels offer a “Kiwi Advantage”. Because of close relationships with hotel owners and managers, many hotels in the Kiwi Collection will offer you, the guest,  personalized service and the little extras that transform their entire stay.

These Extras  will include perks such as complimentary upgrades, welcome gifts, early check-in and late check-out, spa or food and beverage credits, or perhaps even a bottle of champagne waiting for you on arrival.

In addition, consumers using their Visa premium cards and booking hotel stays through the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection (available through the white-labeled Visa sites and through JoelleMagazine’s  Kiwi Collection) receive seven benefits:

1) Best available rate,

2) Automatic room upgrade upon arrival, when available,

3) Complimentary continental breakfast,

4) 3PM check-out, when available,

5) VIP Guest status,

6) $25 food or beverage voucher, and

7) Free in-room Internet or Valet parking.

Kiwi Collection, with offices in New York, London, Sydney and Vancouver, offers the world’s best hotels, special treatment and numerous other perks all at the guaranteed best price.

Vancouver based  founder and CEO  Philippe Kjellgren  and I had a nice chat over the phone. Enjoy!

Joelle Magazine:  When did you start the Kiwi Collection and how did the idea come to your mind?

I started a company in 2002 that in 2003 became Kiwi Collection. As a child i had grown up in Africa and traveling was part of my DNA, by the time i was 25 I had already visited over 100 countries. As such i was always the most traveled of my friends, colleagues and customers. I was frustrated with all the travel sites that did not provide a trustworthy resource on where to stay, most where to corporate or price driven, i did not see any that had put a personal touch and vetted hotels for their excellence. That was the birth of the idea of Kiwi Collection. Today we recommend over 2,350 hotels in 133 countries, hotels are removed if falling below our strict standards and only included based on a visit.

J.M : What are the advantages to book a hotel with the Kiwi Collection?

Many i would say, The diversity of the collection ranging from small boutique to large resorts, historic, modern and hidden gems. Also when booking through Kiwi Collection you tap into our relationship with the management team at the hotel resulting in free perks like upgrades and more.

The fact that you can call us 24/7 to our concierge team in house. And last but not least we also manage the visa luxury hotel collection http://www.visaluxuryhotelcollection.com/ and by using your visa premium card when booking you get 7 base benefits like upgrades, free internet, free breakfast, 25$ food voucher, late check out and more all paired with a best rate guarantee.

J.M: Three ideas suggesting travel?

Argentina, one of my favorite countries, Bhutan for a truly amazing culture and hiking, and Madagascar because i lived there and love the people and it is still virtually untouched J.M: A memory of your first journey??There has been too many but the last one i did is pretty amazing as i spent time with a tribe in Papua, unbelievable that this culture has not changed in the last 5000 years, amazing

JM: Your favorite hotel?

A question i get all the time which is so hard as we recommend all the best hotels in the world, but if i had to pick one it would be COMO Shambhala Begawan Giri in Ubud  because of its diverse architecture and genius through architect Cheong Yew Kwa

J.M: If you owned a hotel what would special service would you create ?

Not so much service but attention to detail like it was your own place, in everything, having passionate people working and create an environment where people just feel good.

J.M: A private place you would like to be opened especially for you

A resort on Madagascar, which is part of my plan one day.

J.M:  A romantic getaway?

Amanwana on MOYO Island in Indonesia, tented excellence on a small island

J.M:  The most exotic destination?

I would say Madagascar where we currently recommend two hotels

J.M:Your next trip?

Vietnam with my wife who was boirn there but never really went back, all i hear from this country is great from a traveler perspective

J.M: Where have you never been but would like to go?

Bhutan i have heard so much great things from there and would love to go soon and especially experiencing Amankora

J.M:  is the difference between a tourist and a traveller?

Big time, i would say a tourist doesn’t always know why they are traveling  where a traveler is doing it more planned and have an agenda

Soon my friends you will be able to make your own reservation directly on JoelleMagazine.com. In the meantime I am checking out in China what’s available to collect.

Are you ready? Follow us un Twitter and Facebook!

I must admit to everyone, that  I am not very comfortable with heights, tower buildings or high floors . They are definitely not  my Jasmine cup of tea !  I decide to come closer cautiously to the large floor to ceiling glass paneled window and admire  still at calculated distance what seems to be the top of  the 88-story landmark supertall skyscraper Jin Mao Tower  just  few meters below the coffee table in front of me- Weird sensation.

I still cannot do it and apparently now, my luggage has arrived and the same elegant person who checked me in is now giving directions to another quite and as distinguished ‘ servant’ of where I must be taken from this point on. I naturally ask only one question:  ” Which floor are we going to?”

Among only 174 guest rooms and 14 suites I learn that mine is located at the 84th floor. Not bad I think quietly,  looks easy, I will make it, I will make it. The elevator ride is silent,  too silent, and in my mind it takes just a little more to arrive to New York on a jumbo jet from that living room  but here we are, with a smile and several thank yous I am now shown the way  by the new person in charge to sober palette of natural colors corridor. The light accents are subtle and the general atmosphere is one of  grand serenity.

Like every room in the hotel, mine features views over  the Huangpu river and Pudong and apparently I will be spending time in one of the largest suite sof the city measuring 130 sqm . Tallest building and largest suite  are overwhelming for a simple traveler like me who is just looking for some comfort and warm hospitality. The tall doors are opened to a 3,1 meter ceiling height, and the room at first site looks pretty spacious to me.

The monochromatic palette with walls lined in linen, lacquer finish and  slatted wood panels feature a daybed for in-room massage treatment, a large walk -in dressing chamber with front and back mirrors, I like mirrors, DVD player, broadband internet on a small desk that can be perfectly used as an office,Plasma TV and a coffee machine embedded into a vanity mirror, marble freestanding double sinks, all very squared and sharp looking in Greek Thassos , and an oriental charming, charming  bathing area  with an oversized monsoon rain shower, an overflowing soaking tub where as we speak two young girls are preparing my  ” Welcoming  Aromatherapy Relaxing Bath Experience” .

Through the ‘ courtyard style’ corridor I can see a bright green grass carpet with a few little dogs, how refreshing, I learn it is a piece of art balancing the grey taped tones of the far too sober room overlooking a noisy Shanghai. After all who really minds what happens below at this point?  In fact cut from the world above and below I am now even ready  to take a peak at the panoramic landscape , one of the most impressive I have ever seen. Zen minded I am on my way to soak in that bath tub.

Joelle’s Tips

The Hotel:

Park Hyatt Shanghai

A few hours before midnight we have dinner at Travel and Leisure Asia’s top 7 restaurant and no.1 Restaurant in China / Miele guide 2011/2012, Mr. and Mrs. Bund Modern Eatery by Paul Pairet ,(I will write another full article about this marvelous restaurant part of the same group of Shanghai’s dazzling nightlife Icon, Bar Rouge.

A long line is already set in place. A body guard makes a sign with the blinking of an eye in our direction and very discretely we are transported at the top floor of the prestigious 1900 building on the Bund. This city’s hottest venue showcase since it’s entrance a combination of high style and a stunning Bund view. Antoine Pernet, the director of Bar Rouge welcomes us with a smile and invites to walk around before we reach our table VIP privileged area overlooking the colorful Pudong view.

Eric comes along greeting us for the new year saying: “ Bar Rouge is more than a bar, It is an alchemy – a magic formula that blends the crowd, music, and drinks into a fantastic venue where the night comes alive just wait a few minutes and you will see what this place is all about!

Its timeless location on top of the Bund 18, a heritage building on Shanghai’s historic waterfront, adds to the intrigue. Shanghai was the perfect place to start the Bar Rouge adventure,” says Pernet.

The Bar Rouge Team introduced to us one by one is totally international I have tested and checked the seven nationalities, eleven languages and five dialects who ensure that any of their clients request gets a tailor-made reply.

To please every thirst, the drinks list is extensive with creative cocktails, premium spirits, and an amazingly big range of Champagne in every size supported by Paul Pairet team.

In summer 2012, a made-to-order sushi bar will be added to Bar Rouge spacious terrace .Topped all of this with a fine selection of Caviar sets, Cuban cigars, and Dom Perignon by the glass, each guest shall be thrilled. “We are always looking for new ideas to please and surprise our clientele,” shares Pernet.

The lively electro /house  music is extraordinary, the best I have ever heard, I promise you guys! By the way, you can steam it on iTunes I will insert the link below!!

The crowd is wild , we are all enlaced in the spacious terrace  as one, touched by green laser beams and a central digital clock constantly reminding us like in a dream that we must be awake  and live intensely the first minutes, hours and days of  the new 2012 year.

Slowly  we fall  into the spell of the Champagne, red atmosphere and sound  alchemy  with a gorgeous crowd on comfortable seats where superstar deejays such as David Guetta, Bob Sinclar, and Dennis Ferrer have been here driving other crowd in total ecstasy.

The place hosted recently an exclusive an unmatched event for the 100 Year Celebration of Champagne Moet & Chandon in China, hosted by actress Scarlett Johansson, the party attracted celebrities and trendsetters of international renown. Bar Rouge was also the scene for the gala of Virgin Atlantic Airlines, with Sir Richard Branson in attendance as the honored guest.

Antoine and Eric confided me that Bar Rouge is considering coming to Brazil. Any ideas dear friends Sao Paulo or Rio? Check their website it is stunning like it’s team!

Good job Bar Rouge  and Sarava! See you soon in the land where God and Bossa Nova are Brazilian.!

Joelle’s Tips:

The Club: Bar Rouge

7F, 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai.
Tel: 86.21.6339.1199

Recipe for “Grape Temptation”

Ingredient:

1 whole apple (sliced),
1 whole Kiwi sliced,
Home made cinnamon syrup,
Vodka,
White wine,
Lemon juice,

Extra:

Shake & double strain…

Garnish with an apple fan, grape pick or cinnamon stick.

Surprised with such a request , God searched for the majestic 101 story construction and found it raising over  a noisy and crowded  Lujianzui financial district of Pudong  overlooking a beautiful but polluted  view of the Huangpu  River separating the intriguing city of 18 million into two distinct frenzy  and dusty centers.

After a few days of reflections God replies to mogul Mori with the following sentence: ” Go and find a New York based American- Chinese Interior designer  named Tony Chi. He will cast your dream  from the 79 to the 93 floor into a 174 room island where you’ll be able to create more than any of  your visitors will ever need… But remember!  You must follow some rules. If you agree to abide , you’ll be successful and all your  requests will come true. Go now find that man and come back to me , i will show you the way”

Mori was very pleased with the conversation with God but  slightly concerned about the hotel rules, after all the investment was quite substantial as the record -shattering blue colored glass tower also known as ‘ The Vertical Complex City”  will be a corporate power on it’s own .

But with award-winning design expert Tony Chi at his side , Mori got more comfortable in the next conversation with the sky.

‘ Rule number 1-  God’s starts – One should never forget  it’s origins.

The city of Shanghai developed  in a speed I don’ necessarily approve of overwhelming the natural surrounding of ancient cabbage fields ;  your job is to re-create an eco-friendly and sophisticated modern Chinese residence that you will design with respect to traditional Chinese geometry and architecture, while providing all the comforts of a stately home  and an spiritual sanctuary of silence where  inner recollection and meditation are the core essence of human existence.”

Tai Chi  will  be practiced daily for  Yn and Yang  balance,  and a courtyard will be a must to play chess and congregate. The element of water and beauty will surround everyone and delicious healthy food will  be a blessing if consumed within in a serene and simple atmosphere overlooking the  hectic city life. ”
Five years later due to the Japan economical slow-down, the hotel is ready to receive its’s guests. Among those. Me.

It’s very early in the morning and quite cold. As we approach along a bamboo lined driveway,  our car stops in front of a dramatic 16-meters high enhance gateblue tower but I certainly cannot see the top from where I am. A few young men and women dressed in grey think coats with a furred details  greet me and lead me to a series of gates, halls and chambers and galleries displaying contemporary Chinese Art , leading to an elevator ‘ cabin’ which disk me up to a giddy 87 floor  to the reception chamber. It’s a long distance trip.

Looking directly onto Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and The Bund still illuminated in the early dark morning,  the reception floors adopts a unique residential-style approach.

I am invited to sit in a tranquil Living Room filled with books and authentic Chines works of art and  offered Westerns and Chinese  comfort food and tea while my check in takes place.

Silence is around me, I am certainly going to get some sleep before breakfast….God, thank you I am in the sky!

Joelle’s Picks:

The Hotel: Park Hyatt Shanghai Hotel

The designers:  Tony Chi

Credit is given to the ancient Egyptians for the practice of exfoliation.  In Asia, it started hundreds of years ago. The etymology of the word exfoliate comes from the Latin exfoliare (to strip off leaves).

Shanghai is an extremely polluted city. Many inhabitants walk in the streets with masks and it is very easy to get sick on arrival  if you don’t  have the right nutrition, good sleep and  daily vitamins intake.

I arrived tired from a 20 hours journey forgot to look for the vitamins at the bottom of my suitcase,  slept an average of only 5 hours a night  for the last 3 weeks and changed drastically my nutrition and routine in the last few days. I am also tremendously jet lagged with 12 hours difference ahead.

As everyone knows, new skin cells are created in the skin’s lower layer, the dermis. Over time, cells migrate to the surface of the skin and become more acidic. During their 30 day journey, they die and become saturated with keratin. Keratin is important because it protects the skin from outside elements.

My last 12 months have been an accumulation of stressful toxins due to intensive activities and overwhelming life events, and through the aging process like everyone else, my  natural process of skin erosion became uneven,  giving my  skin a dry and rough character. I realize I must do something quickly , before the New Year , tonight.

I call the reception to enquire about the spa located at the 55th floor . It is managed by ESPA and features 10 treatment rooms including 9 multi function treatment rooms and a Harmony Suite where two guests can enjoy the treatments at the same time.

I  decide to quickly put a robe on, plunge in the magnificent rooftop pool, overlooking the city  of Shanghai at distance I can feel the year slowly go by.  A long shower and a warm Jasmine tea offered by miss Sandy Wang the Spa and Fitness Manager  are the perfect starters for a life’s unforgettable experience.

Designed by renowned Richard Farnell, the spa combines striking modern lines and Art Deco detailing with extremely high quality finishes both in the spa and relaxation area. A dramatic combination of angles and unique shapes are consistent with the style and design of all other areas in the hotel.

I am now taken by a quite young Chinese woman to the waiting room.  Here, floor to ceiling windows as well  offer the same unparalleled views of the pool this time with the ‘ pearl” right in from of me .  The spacious treatment rooms and showers, are alternating hues of Amber, Aqua and Emerald mosaics probably Bisanza, matching perfectly the wooden floors.

I take time to enjoy the crystal steam room, rock sauna, and ice fountain prior to my treatment to unwind and soothe aching muscles or wash away the city in the refreshing experience shower. For the ultimate indulgence experience the Harmony Suite, complete with personal steam, spa bath and breathtaking views across the Huangpu River.

After an unformal l chat sipping my warm tea , exploring  different aromas of the ESPA essential oils,  Sandy suggests that I experiment a combination of  a 90 minutes ancient- and -modern Chinese treatment called Jade QiYun paired with an ESPA detoxifying  Body Oil whose ingredients, 100% natural. I am asked how I would like the pressure of the massage and if I am allergic to any product and let to my treatment room overlooking the legendary Bund as the night falls upon us.

Obedient, I am now lying on the most comfortable and warm massage bed.  The total body experience will apparently restore  ”Qi” and  ”Yun”, rebalancing both my mind and body.  Myy area of stress, neck and shoulder tension are being targeted with no pity releasing the effects those have on my skin. While experienced hand travels around my body with a mild pressure , I can’t help seeing ‘ the movie’ of the past year, the ups and downs, the hard and soft moments, the joys and challenging times.

A stimulation deep- cleansing back exfoliation follows , the aromas of the Juniper berry,  Grapefruit, Lemon, Eucalyptus and Cypress are acting as powerful agents removing the outer layer of my dead skin to reveal the newer skin beneath, and like a Kafkian’s  Metmorphosys the shedding of the outer layer unclogs my pores, keeping my skin clean, and helping reducing breakouts.

Like the old year, slowly my old skin is blending with the salts of the prepared scrub to finally be dissolved in water leaving my pores open, releasing unwanted water and receptive for new  nourishment and fresh moisture. The wrinkles are left to the past.

Fresh and clean, I fall asleep during the treatment, a profound dream showcases hope and premises for the new year to come. Pure like a child I am now ready to face the elevator who will take me back to the world’s best suite life can offer tonight.

2012 is young and my skin too.

Joelle’s Tips:

The Spa: Ritz Carlton Shanghai Pudong

The Products: ESPA

The Designer: Richard Farnell

In this spectacular location with high ‘vaulted ‘ceilings and a mezzanine level masterly designed by Steve Leung from Hong Kong,  the very best cuisine is proudly showcased as a discerned choice for social and business dinners alike.

I have decided to meet with chef Lok and top executive chef,  French Thierry Marais early this afternoon  for  few questions  before I enjoy this overwhelming experience at 8.

JM: What is the difference between Mandarin and Cantonese cuisine and what provinces they come from?

 Chef Lok:  Cantonese cuisine is characterized by its freshness and lightness. For haute Cantonese cuisine it usually adopts superior dried seafood ingredients such as sea cucumber, fish maw, abalone and bird’s nest, etc.  In fact, Chinese cuisine from other China provinces (e.g. Sichuan, Hunan) are more saucy. Another good illustration is double-boiled soups are more common for Cantonese cuisine whilst Northern China enjoy soup with heavier tastes.

JM: What is the difference from Cantonese cuisine in China and the ones Westerners eat in their cites restaurants

 Chef Lok: Cantonese cuisine in China can suit the taste buds of the Chinese but the ones that Westerners can enjoy in their cities’ restaurants have been modified and are no longer authentic.  It may due to the lack of proper sauces or ingredients.

 JM: Does the name Jin Xuang mean anything?

 Jin Xuan means Golden House and this name is adopted as Steven Leung, the interior designer of this Chinese restaurant originated from Hong Kong has used GOLD as major element in his design for the opulent setting, and gold (which also means fortune) is very auspicious for the Chinese in particular for those businessmen.

JM: What is the most sophisticated Chef Lok’s signature dish in the restaurant ? 

 The most signature dish of Chef Lok at Jin Xuan is Signature Steamed Assorted Vegetables, Brown Sauce (the beautiful fan-shaped dish of which you’ve savored the other night at Jin Xuan).

JM: What are it’s main ingredients ?

 Its main ingredients are Morel Mushrooms (imported from France), Brown Fungus (only available in China), Wild Bamboo Pith, Bailing Mushroom, Lotus Root and Baby Bak Choi.  The brawn sauce complementing the ingredients is the eight-hour double boiled soup.

 JM: Everyone hears about  cuisine incorporates almost all edible meats, including organ meats, chicken feet, duck tongue, snakes, and snails sometimes even dogs and cats consumption on Tv shows and travel guides, how true is that?

 At Jin Xuan fine-dining Cantonese Restaurant we don’t serve most of the meats which you’ve mentioned as we need to take care of the cultural differences between the west and the east.  However, Chef Lok points out that Duck’s Tongue has been well-known as Imperial Ingredient in the ancient time of China.

JM: How is the cholesterol factor taken care of , and what are the  ”fats” used in the cooking process?

 Chef Lok is health conscious and he uses as little salt and oil in his cooking process as possible. In menu of Jin Xuan you can rarely find oily or deep-fried cuisine as they are not so healthy. What is more, Chef Lok considers the best way to cook fish is to steam it to retain its original freshness and tastes.

 JM:What is the net plus ultra factor of the Jin Xuang menu?

 Jin Xuan menu is health focused and Chef Lok also focuses on not only the tastes, but presentation of the dishes.  For business functions, his Cantonese cuisine can be presented in individual portion whilst request for family-style grouped portion can still be taken care of at Jin Xuan.

 JM:How many people do you manage at the hotel’s kitchen?

Chef Lok: A total of 35 persons.

 JM: Would you define the Ritz- Carlton Chinese Nouvelle Cuisine? if yes why?

 Chef Lok: No, I would rather name them modern Cantonese cuisine since they are not fusion dishes.  For instance, I still us Chinese wok to stir fry the beef instead of using pan-fry method.

JM: The next big thing for Chef Lok’s?

 Chef Lok: To go further beyond the dining expectations of the rich and famous and to have my autobiography published before long.

The dinner was supreme, the dish decoration was spectacular, the service was impeccable. apart from showcasing a few images on this post, I strongly suggest you book you flight and come to check the place. After all it’s highest cuisine at a high floor – almost impossible to get higher.

Joelle’s Tips:

The Restaurant: Jin Xuan

The Designer:  Steve Leung

It is absurd, I know, but it is what it is. Our driver Xi, sent by a good friend of ours who lives in town ,  is waiting at the airport exit with our name  on a white paper card. The traffic is dense due to the Holiday Season and  the coming Western New Year but strange enough discipline is a key factor  here and no annoying horns are blown like you would expect  in any developing country.

We are now in the area of Pudong, ( lit ”Huangpu East Bank“), located along the east side of the Huangpu River, across from the historic city center of Shanghai in Puxi. Formerly a little-developed agricultural area linked only by ferries, Pudong has grown rapidly since the 1990s and emerged as China’s financial and commercial hub.

Slightly dizzy, I look through the windows and notice speechless the showcase of ultra modern skylines competing with each other like Rio de Janeiro’s old Schools of Samba at the Sambodromo during Carnival time. The contest price would be for hight, lights and creative shape.

Driver Xi, who speaks some English ( a grand rarity in China) , explains that Pudong is home to the Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone and the Shanghai Stock Exchange and many of Shanghai’s best-known buildings, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Jin Mao Building, the Shanghai World Financial Center. It is also the site of the future Shanghai Tower. These modern skyscrapers face directly across from Puxi‘s historic Bund, the remnant of Shanghai’s former concessions.

We have arrived at the future. In this future a gigantic architectural facade decorated with white metal panels , the Prada store , lies next for to the majestic entrance hallway of architect Cezar Pelli masterpiece  The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong,  whose impressive building integrates luxury offices, residential and retail space.

At the top 18 floors of this ultra-modern 58-story, lies the hotel whose prime location overlooks the Bund,  and where my friends I chose to spend the New Year transition in Peace , Health and Wealth!

The car has barely stopped,  a young man opens the door  quickly  and says  without one single pause to catch breath:”Welcome miss Joelle Maslaton! my  English name is William Hua , I am the guest relation of the Ritz Carlton- come with me – you do not need to check out at the front desk, I will take care of everything for you – you must be tired- I will personally take you to your suite- that I hope you will enjoy- it’s very special” He adds with enthusiasm.

I pause in disbelief, how in heaven would this man know who I am since I have never requested a hotel car,  nor I ever told them at what time and which flight and from where I would arrive! ” Later ,  Spanish Xavi Gonzalez the hotel’s general manager  who waited for me at the suite replied my questions with a simple answer, the one of a Conquistador : ”  Miss Maslaton here, we have our ways!”

I walk across  the marbled hallway of the Sky Lobby at the sound of Billy Holiday and notice an exquisite ambient scent traveling directly from my nostrils and reaching the depth of  my senses. Relaxed and happy I sign twice  the check in papers sitting comfortably on the Aura lounge’s  sophisticated aquamarine velvet  couch surrounded  by exotic plants and  heavily detailed cushions matching luxurious wall-to-wall carpets in the same tones. I notice from far ( never too comfortable with heights)  that those colors blend in with the sky and the river below.

I walk through mosaics of  mirrors and thick glass of the Jazz Bar, deco style wall lamps and pagoda style chandeliers into an elevator whose threatening wind noise can be felt in the space of a few seconds due to the floor ‘s height.

We stop at the 51st level. The Ritz Carlton Suite opens it’s door to my tired soul. Bright light coming for the windows strike my eyes while I am literally blown up  in awe by the 410 square meters and 5.8 ceiling height ceilings. William smiles,  looking proudly almost happier than me.  Renowened world designer  Richard Farnell  was very successful in blending sleek elegance with 1930  glamour  Shanghai Art Deco touches harrmonicslly blend with the contemporary interiors.

The bathroom is a charming and luxurious knockout!. It’s bath tab especially designed for the hotel group have all what one needs to soak in and get lost in translation, a remote controls for a  small embedded wall TV, bath salts and Aqua di Parma toiletries, all sorts of useful amenities and delicious comfy silky embroidered  bath robes you want to take home in your suitcase without telling anyone.  State-of-the-art-technology, consisting in high definition  LCD flat panels with dual speakers  , surround  blue Ray dec player, wireless internet are part of the Suite menu.

But the real piece de force in this place is the surrounding view! The Pearl of the Oriental TV tower reigns supreme against a background of hundreds of buildings which can be easily identified one after the other on an elegant long and narrow sepia print of a hand drawing. The center piece of this landscape is the Shanghai rchitectural landmark, the  historic Bund.

24 hours service and a dedicated butler promise to be attentive anything I might need from this moment on.

But now, please get out everyone, I want to dream high!

Joelle’s Tips:

The Hotel:

 The Ritz Carlton Pudong

Alemagou is a bar and restaurant on the sands of Ftelia Beach, in Mykonos.The concept is holistic, with every element of the project telling a common story and coming together to create an inspirational yet laid-back atmosphere, perfectly suited to the site.

The menu revisits traditional, well-loved Greek recipes to produce simple but intriguing new dishes. The cocktails and the music selection also offer new combinations of favourite ingredients.

The architectural design is an extension of the same approach, creating an exciting reinterpretation of tried and tested, traditional building techniques. Taking inspiration from typical Cycladic architectural elements such as whitewashed, smooth-edged houses; drystone walls that blend into the scrubby landscape; practical, hardwearing screed floors; and natural reed-thatched roof insulation, the familiar textures are applied to contemporary, organic forms to create a unique character.

Goes without saying that my grandmother told everyone that  her specialties came from Turkey and we believed her, but much later all of us realized we would find our  childhood flavors in Greek restaurants all over  the world.

Greek cuisine  like Turkish, originated during the Byzantine empire, are well-known for their  Taverna-Style Mezés , a collective name for a variety of small dishes, typically served with wines or anise-flavored liqueurs as ouzo or homemade tsipouro.

Orektika is the formal name for appetizers and is often used as a reference to eating a first course of a cuisine other than Greek cuisine. Dips are served with bread loaf or pita bread. In some regions, dried bread (paximadhi) is softened in water. Greek desserts are characterized by the dominant use of nuts and honey. Some dishes use Filo pastry.My favorite of all!

Greek cuisine is very diverse and although there are many common characteristics amongst the culinary traditions of different regions within the country, there are also many differences, making it difficult to present a full list of representative dishes. Many food items are wrapped in Filo pastry, either in bite-size triangles or in large sheets: kotopita (chicken), spanakotyropita (spinach and cheese), chortopita (greens), kreatopita (meat pie, using minced meat), etc.

I have broadened the gastronomical map of Mykonos and checked out bar-retsaurants, taverns,and spots that will lead you to an orgasm of delight.

Thioni

The romantic renovated restaurant of the Semeli Hotel respects its reputation as one of the best restaurants of the islandm its advantages are unobstructed views over Chora, the posh profile and the original dishes of Greek gourmet cuisine.The chef , Dimitri Makrimidimitris , has included to menu innovative recepis , and foreign vineyards.  Greek wines , terrifically combined with carried out with great creativity terrifically combined with Greek and foreign vineyards. Semeli Hotel Chora =30 22 890 27466-7 www.semelihotel.gr

Rouvera

The favorite joint of the beach is ideal for loitering on people who wander around Gialos as well as on the deep blue sea. Like every all day bar. Rouvera is at your disposal from early in the morning . with breakfast, coffee beverages and light meals in a blue background.  Gialos + 30 22890 28858

To Ma’erio

A bookshop with a modern decoration.Housed in an Old Mykonian house which is simple, well-maintained and without unnecessary ornaments. It offers generous portions of traditional cuisine.  Kalogera street Chora +30 22890 288 25+30 22 890 28858

Allegro

Cheerful. friendly, high spirited, just as its name implies, the known coastal cafe-restaurant constitutes a benchmark for Gialos. Br

ackfast, lunch and light snaks . Mediterranean dishes in the evening. Gialos +30 22890 25030

V.I.P

The a la carte V.I.P. restaurant with its unique impressive dome, a magnificent view of the Aegean offers exquisite Greek creations with international gastronomic tastes and an impeccable service.

A wide selection of Greek and international wines will contribute to your great dinning experience. Opening for Breakfast and Dinner and giving the option of an exterior veranda or an elegant interior, makes it an ideal choice for an ultimate breakfast or a gala dinner.

Petasos Beach Resort & Spa Platis Yialos

Nikos Taverna

This tavern is one of the most popular taverns at the port of Mykonos. Most times it is full of customers because it is the most suitable place to try the typical Greek cuisine. All dishes are delicious and the prices are very reasonable. Porta by the waterfront + 30 22890 28750

Avra

This restaurant can satisfy the requirements of the most demanding visitors. Customers are given a number of options on where to sit between a beautiful terrace, the street front or the restaurant’s interior. The level of service is excellent as is the food without being over priced.

Sale & Pepe

 Is the city’s authentic northern Italian gourmet restaurant. Operating since 19 years in Myconos Island and 17 years in Kolonaki, its owner Ivan Ottaviani, has uniquely combined Italian recipes with rare ingredients and popular wine happenings as the “SALE & PEPE BACCANALIAE”. The restaurant has one of the best wine lists in the world, as evidenced by over thirteen years of continuous award from the American magazine Wine Spectator in recognition BEST AWARD Of EXCELLENCE The menu changes according to the seasons and the wine list features over 1.500 wine labels to choose from. +306944376776 +302289024207 http://www.saleepepe.gr/

Tagoo

Tagoo Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurant in Mykonos Island. Our expert chefs draw their inspiration from traditional Greek cuisine, fusing other cultural influences to take diners on a culinary journey. We insist on nothing less than using the freshest and finest ingredients in order to ensure maximum sensory satisfaction.
With their superb service, excellent fare, remarkable wine list, al fresco dining, and beautiful vista there is no place you’d rather be, to catch the fiery Mykonos sunset or admire the gentle glimmer of distant villages. Strongly advised to book in advance,  your Tagoo Restaurant table  Coast Road, Mykonos 86400  +30 2289020100 http://www.cavotagoo.gr

 Squalo

Located at the old port, next to the archaelogical museum. Squalo  restaurant has a wonderful panoramic view to Mykonos town, old port, Delos island and to the marvellous sunset. Old Port, Mykonos Town, Mykonos 84600 +30 2289022955. Check the lounge music  

Sources: Wikipedia, booklet Mykonos edition , Mykonos exclusive.