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Transcript of Resorts Magazine 51
Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
London Paris A
stana Alm
aty Shym
kent Dushanbe U
zbekistan Kyrgyzstan
515
1
N. 51 SEPTEMBER 2014
Hotel Kainar, Shymkent
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Burana Tower, Kyrgyzstan
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Ovidio Guaita, Editor-in-Chief
EDITORIAL
Go beyond your expectations with Resorts Magazine!
EDITORIAL
A n exclusive tent in the Tajik steep at 3000 meters asl has little and a lot at
the same time. It is certainly not luxury in its essence but is exclusive because very few travelers venture out into these regions of Central Asia. Hence a place for real travelers. We went to see just what these distant lands - since ancient times frequented by merchants and nomads - have to offer. Along here passed the Silk Road, and here today are intertwined pathways of petroleum (mainly in Kazakhstan). The yurts of nomadic herders are flanked by Soviet-style apartment buildings and stylish modern towers with classy international hotels.
A land of contrasts that fascinates and intrigues, leaving room for the imagination. We propose a discovery trip that does not leave out the classic destinations such as Uzbekistan and then suggest novel stop-offs scattered among modern capitals and the ancient caravanserais.
Song-kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan
CONTENTS
26
32
36
TOP 10cruises
CITY HOTEL
The Halkin by COMO
CITY HOTEL
Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris
CONTENTS
CONTENTSCENTRAL ASIA exclusive
KAZAKHSTAN
RADISSONAstana
THE RITZ-CARLTON
Almaty
KAINAR HOTEL
Shymkent
ALMATY CITY TOUR
discovering Kazakhstan
56
64
72
76
CONTENTSCENTRAL ASIA exclusive
78
84
TAJIKISTAN
where Alexander the Great found a wife
SERENA HOTEL
Dushambe
PAMIR SILK
trekking and more
TAJIKISTAN
88
CONTENTS
TAJIKISTAN
90
98
106
CONTENTS
UZBEKISTAN
the fascination of an ancient legend
KYRGYZSTAN
in the mountains along the Silk Road
AIR ASTANA
in flight on the Silk Road
CENTRAL ASIA exclusive
Villa a Sorrento.
RM lifeStyleCONTENTS
SOTHEBY’S International Realty
best Italian properties for sale
114
Villa a Sorrento.
www.palidano.com
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N STo
p 10
0
HOTEL COLONIALI
PalidanoPress
Top 100 HOTEL C
OLO
NIA
LI
Dal Settecento fino alla seconda guerra mondiale. Due secoli di lusso ai tropici, tra ventilatori a pale, verande, tè pomeridiani e stuoli di servitori. Molti in Asia ma anche nelle colonie africane e in Centro America. Una storia affascinante di lungimiranti investitori, pionieri e avventurieri costellata di nomi eccellenti come Raffles, Peninsula e Strand. Questa directory ci mostra i migliori esempi sopravvissuti dove sperimentare esperienze e atmosfere d’altri tempi.
L’autore, Paolo Gerbaldo, è inviato di Resorts Magazine. PP To
p 10
0PalidanoPress
This directory offers an annotated and up-to-date instrument for the possible destinations for those who want to stay in the city or nearby. This because sometimes it is not only a question of price but rather attention to detail, passion and taste. Among the solutions proposed, surprises are not missing.
Questa directory offre uno strumento aggiornato e ragionato sulle possibili destinazioni per chi vuole soggiornare in città o nelle vicinanze. Perché a volte non è solo questione di prezzo ma di attenzione al dettaglio, passione e gusto. E tra le soluzioni proposte non mancano appunto le sorprese.
2013 Top 100 Places to Stay in Florence & N
earby 2013
PP
Top 100 Places to Stay in
Flo r enc e
and ne a r b y
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Cover: Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris; right: a wall in Kazakhstan.
X, n. 51 September 2014
Editor-in-Chief Ovidio GuaitaSenior Editor Lawrence Taylor
Contributors Elsa Bozzaotra, Maria Coscarelli, Paola Di Girolamo, Marco Galli, Paolo Gerbaldo, Alessandra Jovinelli, Giuseppe Lai, Daniela Libero, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Hasrudin TazepPhotos Ovidio Guaita, Lawrence Taylor, Roberto Sessoli , Angelo Tondini, Slam Hoja and published hotels and resorts
Video for iPad and iPhone appRoberto SessoliGraphic Design Niccolò Angeli www.niccoloangeli.comLayout Graphic Department Palidano PressIT Manager Riccardo Casano www.riccardocasano.com Public RelationsDaniela LiberoSubscriptions (12 issues per year)Europe 300 € Rest of the world 350 €
PublisherPalidanoPress3 More London Riverside - SE1 2RE LondonUS Office 1133 Broadway, Suite 708 - New York, NY 10010www.palidano.com
monthly publication © 2014 Palidano Press Ltd
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.ISSN 2043-6629
www.resorts.it
LAWRENCE TAYLORIn Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in the footsteps of Alexander the Great.
PAOLO GERBALDOPaolo surprises us with Oriental Paris, an unusual jewel.
MARIA COSCARELLIMaria offers us a review of the best cruise ships.
MARCO GALLIThe best Italian properties for sale at Sotheby’s.
ELSA BOZZAOTRAIn Uzbekistan, discovering an enchanting country.
OVIDIO GUAITAIn Kazakhstan, on the Silk Road now the Oil Road.
Our correspondentsAll resorts published are choosen by the editorial staff and tested by our journalists-inspectors.
London
United Kingdom
32
Paris
France
36
22 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Shymkent
Kazakhstan
73
Astana
Kazakhstan
56
Bishkek
Kyrgyzstan
100
Almaty
Kazakhstan
64
Dushanbe
Tajikistan
85
our destinations
23RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
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RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
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T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Su Cologone, Sardegna
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Milano Tallin V
ilnius Riga S
aint-Tropez S
ardegna Costa N
avarino
49
49
N. 49 LUGLIO 2014
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RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
AntiguaParis
MilanoVenezia
La PazSucre
ParoPunakhaThimphuVal d’Isère
Antigua P
aris Milano Venezia La P
az Sucre P
aro Punakha Thim
phu Val d’Isère
44
44
Song Saa Private Island, Sihanoukville
N. 44 FEBBRAIO 2014
Villa Tolomei, Firenze
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
New
York M
ilano Cannes Z
adar Salina F
irenze
48
48
N. 48 JUNE 2014
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S S
alamanca S
ardegna London Vitznau B
aja California B
anff Borobudur
47
47
N. 47 MAY 2014
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
Saint PetersburgTbilisi
AndermattGenève
LausanneAsconaLuganoWeggisZürich
OberlechPunta Ala
Saint P
etersburg Tbilisi Anderm
att Genève Lausanne A
scona Weggis Zürich Lugano O
berlech
45
45 The >Chedi, Andermatt
N. 45 MARCH 2014
8
RESORTSM A G A Z I N E
T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S
ColomboDa Nang
DubaiRas Al Khaimah
SantiagoAtacama
CourchevelZermatt
AostaVenezia
Colom
bo Da N
ang Dubai R
as Al K
haimah S
antiago Atacam
a Courchevel Zerm
att Aosta Venezia
43
43
Burj Al Arab, Dubai
N. 43 JANUARY 2014
Top 10 cruisesnever having to touch your luggage
TOP 10 | CRUISES
26 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Top 10 cruises
Maria Coscarelli
1. Europa (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises))
2. Crystal Serenity (Crystal Cruises)
3. Silver Shadow (Silversea)
4. Queen Mary II Grill Class (Canard)
5. Seabourn Legend (Seabourn)
6. Sea Cloud II (Sea Cloud Cruises)
7. Hanseatic (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises)
8. Seven Seas Voyager (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)
9. Hebridean Spirit (Hebridean International Cruises)
10. SeaDream II (Sea Dream Yacht Club)
27RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
rom five-star service to a conference on
the stars in the sky the distance is short. Sailing ships and modern vessels, capable
of giving maximum comfort and, naturally, secure with avant-garde technologies
to offer an outstanding sailing experience.
Large or small the challenge does not matter. The destination matters up to a
certain point. The service and the cuisine are what make the difference, together with
the suites available onboard. Guests must never feel bored and the onboard activities
come one after the other, alternating with the excursions in the ports of arrival.
Never having to touch your luggage; all-inclusive service; an elegant stay on
the seas of the world, one of these ships certainly affords an unforgettable trip.
Whatever your destination.
FTOP 10 | CRUISES
28 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Top
100
Reso
rts W
orld
wid
e 1 One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah
2 Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru
3 Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
4 The Estates at Pangkor Laut
5 Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace
6 Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
7 Shangri-la's Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
8 Frégate Island Private
9 Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
10 Amanjiwo
11 Four Seasons Resort at Kuda Huraa
12 Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives
13 Grand Resort Bad Ragaz
14 Verdura Golf & Spa Resort
15 Ananda in the Himalayas
16 Amanusa
17 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
18 Il Salviatino
19 Bulgari Resort, Bali
20 Al Areen Palace & Spa
21 Taj Lake Palace
22 The Oberoi Rajvilas
23 Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
24 Amanbagh
25 Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
26 Parrot Cay
27 Banyan Tree Phuket
28 The Legian
29 The Chedi Chiang Mai
30 Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
31 Amandari
32 The Chedi Muscat
33 Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
34 Cheval Blanc
35 The Fortress Galle
36 Banyan Tree Seychelles
37 Alila Villas Uluwatu
38 Four Seasons Seychelles
39 The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh
40 Beau-Rivage Palace
41 Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
42 Palazzo Sasso
43 The Oberoi Udaivilas
44 The Oberoi Cecil
45 Hotel Splendido
46 The Empire Hotel & Country Club
47 Amanpuri
48 Le Prince Maurice
49 Singita Sweni Lodge
50 Cuisinart Golf Resort & Spa
51 Amanwana
52 Amansara
53 Como Shambhala Estate, Bali
54 Shanti Maurice
55 One&Only Royal Mirage, The Residence
56 Anassa
57 Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
58 Reid's Palace
59 Amanpulo
60 Grande Roche
61 Kurland Country Hotel
62 One&Only Ocean Club
63 Aman-i-Khas
64 Amankora
65 Suvretta House
66 Madinat Jumeirah
67 Amanwella
68 Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat
69 Four Seasons Resort Nevis
70 Singita Lebombo Lodge
71 The Nam Hai
72 The Residence Zanzibar
73 Sandy Lane
74 Blancaneaux
75 Shangri-la's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
76 Amankila
77 Banyan Tree Lijiang
78 Blue Palace Resort & Spa
79 One&Only The Palm
80 Amanyara
81 The Residence Tunis
82 Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
83 Hotel Finca Cortesin
84 Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
85 Le Touessrok
86 Soneva Fushi
87 The Tides Riviera Maya
88 Wharekauhau Country Estate
89 Muse
90 Banyan Tree Ringha
91 Villa San Michele
92 Fuchun Resort
93 Kiaroa
94 Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa
95 Six Senses Ninh Van Bay
96 MesaStila
97 Banyan Tree Sanya
98 Palazzo Versace
99 K Club
100 InterContinental Carlton Cannes
29RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
a peaceful nest
CITY HOTEL | THE HALKIN BY COMO
32 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
a peaceful nest
I t seems incredible but in the ver y hear t
of London’s v ibrant center l ies a peaceful
nest enclosed among the e legant edi f ices
of the Belgravia neighborhood.
Elsa Bozzaotra
The Halkin by COMO
33RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
he Halkin by COMO, boasting numerous
awards, offers a new formula for hospitality whereby the taste for the
essential merges with understated luxury. There are all the ingredients
that the Twenty-First Century traveler cannot do without. The service,
entrusted to a young and professional staff, is impeccable and the
atmosphere relaxing and cozy. The contemporary design and the
functional furnishings, enriched with some touches of Asian décor,
stand out for their high quality. A cocktail of elements which turn the 41
rooms and suites into a retreat where tranquility and comfort represent
the supreme experience for guests.
Staying at the Halkin Hotel is like a crescendo of agreeable sensations
culminating ina final coup-de-théâtre: the Ametsa restaurant. In a
highly-chic ambience, the one-Michelin-star Mikel Sorazy converts the
teachings of Juan Mari and Elena Arzac - the gurus of Basque cuisine -
into impressive compositions where the tasty solutions of the Basque
tradition are reinterpreted in a modern style. The creative fantasy,
the carefully selected ingredients, the local fresh products and an
excellent choice of Basque wines concur with a sophisticated menu. A
perfect blend of elements which changes a simple dinner into a superb
experience.
TCITY HOTEL | THE HALKIN BY COMO
34 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO HOTEL
THE HALKIN BY COMO
London, UK
www.comohotels.com
Rooms 22 - Suites 19
Villas 0 - Restaurants 1
Spa noChildren yes
Chain COMO Hotels
Affiliation none
Activitiessightseeing
Score 73
Environment 67
Design 99
Service 87
Cuisine 100
Health 69
Spa 0
Rooms 90
35RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
startling visions
CITY HOTEL | BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL
36 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Buddha-Bar Hotel
Paolo Gerbaldo
Light plays skillfully with the tone of the
rooms and suites, recreating a magical
atmosphere. An intimate retreat that, in
a moment, takes us away from the hustle
and bustle of a big city which is Paris.
startling visions
37RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
oused in a historic hôtel particulier,
urban mansion of the eighteenth century, the Buddha-Bar Hotel offers a
sophisticated and elegant environment steeped in the atmosphere and the
mysteries of the East. The intense architectural interior is made of recoveries
and inventions, combinations of rare objects, the union of contemporary
art in color and exotic charm. A taste that, drawing an innovative vision of
hospitality, never fails to impress.
This boutique hotel, located in the corner of Paris best known for
shopping, the décor is measured and precise. The different elements are in
fact combined with extreme care. Light plays skillfully with the tone of the
rooms and suites, recreating a magical atmosphere: the trait prevalent in this
intimate retreat that, in a moment, takes us away from the hustle and bustle
of a big city which is Paris.
A good reason to choose the Buddha-Bar Hotel is definitely its restaurant,
Le Vraymonde, entrusted to the executive chef Rougui Dia. Several options
are structured around a manu that offers a choice between a measured
eight starters, eight main courses and eight desserts. The cuisine celebrates a
contemporary interpretation of the original and classic dishes prepared with
unusual ingredients but without neglecting to make the flavors recognizable.
The appealing environment is furthered enhanced by impeccable service.
The right prestigious setting of Buddha-Bar Hotel makes it a new address
that has already entered the elite luxury hospitality of Paris.
HCITY HOTEL | BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL
38 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO HOTEL
BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL PARIS
Paris, France
www.buddhabarhotelparis.com
Rooms 37 - Suites 19
Villas 0 - Restaurants 1
Spa Studio SpaChildren yes
Chain Buddha-Bar Hotel Collection
Affiliation Preferred Boutique
Activitiessightseeing
Score 77
Environment 68
Design 86
Service 80
Cuisine 80
Health 66
Spa 74
Rooms 87
39RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
S P E C I A L C E N T R A L A S I A
A place for real travelers.
We went to see lands since
ancient times frequented by
merchants and travelers and
crossed by great leaders l ike
Alexander the Great and
Genghis Khan.
CENTRAL
S P E C I A L C E N T R A L A S I A
our correspondents flew with
ASIA
Along here passed the Silk Road, and here today are intertwined pathways of petroleum.
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
44 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
A land of contrasts that fascinates and intrigues, leaving room for the imagination.
45RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
46 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Ovidio Guaita
from silk to oil
Known for its oil and the futuristic new capital of Astana,
Kazakhstan is the largest country in the world without
access to the sea as the Caspian is a lake.
Kazakhstan
47RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
It is only with the establishment of the Silk Road that the populations of this huge
region became settled. Ethnic Turks and Mongols, they converted to Islam in the
ninth century and were later invaded by the Mongols in the thirteenth century.
However, it was only in the second half of the fifteenth century the Kazakhs
gathered in a state made up of various khanates. The influence of the khans still
remained during the invasions that followed. From the end of the eighteenth
century the influence of the Russian Empire intensified and in 1820 annexation
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
48 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
began. The Russian
presence remained
with the Soviets until
independence in
1991.
Almaty was once
known as Alma Ata,
a name meaning
“the place of
apples”, and there
are a lot of them
in the summer.
Dominated by high
mountains that
delimit its expansion,
49RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
all in all it is a pleasant city. It was long the capital until it was decided that the
orographic limits ( the mountains) and the geographical ones (it is located in the
extreme south to the border with Kyrgyzstan) were such as to make it necessary to
move the capital to the center of the country. Hence for the small town of Astana
a futuristic expansion plan was studied, and it will only see its conclusion in 2030.
With the works of Kisho Kurokawa and Norman Forster, the new capital is
being transformed into an ideal city - ecological, monumental but humane
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
50 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
and surrounded by
greenery. Already
today a visit is
surprising for the
majestic proportions.
But in Kazakhstan
the past and future
coexist: palaces
and towers of glass
and concrete flank
mausoleums and
mosques,Orthodox
cathedrals and
synagogues -
especially in the
region of Shymkent,
where one of the
routes of the Silk Road
passed.
51RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
52 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
a new “ideal city”
Astana
The Presidential Palace is as large as St. Peter’s in
Rome (and looks like it too). Today, 17 years after its re-
establishment, the new capital surprises Kazakhs and
foreigners. And it wants to be the country’s image.
Ovidio Guaita
53RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
With the City Tours guide we went to explore the new capital. Fully designed, the result of an ambitious thirty-year urban development plan, it reflects the image of a country projected into the future.
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
54 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
The styles are mixed, ranging from Oriental to Western. Very green and colorful expanses of flowers of every kind that paint the squares and avenues.
55RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
56 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
In a tower of steel and glass, the first five-star of
the new Kazakh capital is renewed with a great
Italian restaurant, ready for the new challenges
of an increasingly monumental capital.
an Italian in Astana
Radisson Hotel,Astana
Ovidio Guaita
57RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
e arrive at dawn with clear skies and a light breeze. The absence of traffic reduces travel time, and in a moment we are at the hotel. Because of our jetlag, we are not sleepy in the least so we decide to try the gym, which is located in the adjacent tower and reached by way of a tunnel. Definitely one of the largest and best-equipped we have ever used during the trip. In fact, it is a public gym open to hotel guests. Whatever the case, it is a strong point among the services offered.
The rooms are well soundproofed so rest is assured. Wifi is free as in all of Kazakhstan. The décor of the public areas is classic while that of the rooms is contemporary in the style of a business hotel. Breakfast is good with everything international European guests expect. For dinner, the formal Italian restaurant, Capri, surprises us. We tried two classics: lasagna and linguine with pesto alla genovese. Both dishes were a pleasant revelation, very close to the Italian tradition (local ingredients permitting). For fans there is a brief but carefully-assembled Wine List.
The hotel extends upward so the view, while varying - depending on the category of the rooms - is always exceptional. Recently, new properties have been added to the list of five-star hotels available to demanding guests in the capital, but the Radisson is a classic and always very popular.
W SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
58 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO HOTEL
RADISSON HOTEL, ASTANAAstana, Kazakhstanwww.radissonblu.com
Rooms 170 - Suites 11Villas 0 - Restaurants 2Spa yesChildren yes
Chain RadissonAffiliation none
Activitiessightseeing
Score 75Environment 70Design 72Service 75Cuisine 81Health 80Spa 70Rooms 78
59RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
60 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
There are many churches for a Muslim country. Sign
of civil ity and tolerance. Seduced and abandoned
by the power that has preferred the more central
Astana, Almaty plays the card of the history.
the place of apples
AlmatyOvidio Guaita
61RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Too close to the border for a capital , Almaty, however, enjoys a splendid view of the surrounding mountains, populated by comfortable and numerous sk i resorts .
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
62 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Churches but also theaters, monuments and ancient quarters. In addition to the ministries and other corridors of power in Soviet-style.
63RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
64 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
The Alatau Mountains are the frame for a
horizon where the view is always unobstructed.
We are in the tallest and most modern tower
in the city. Below we find the most glamorous
mall with the best international brands.
a tower with a view
The Ritz-Carlton
Ovidio Guaita
65RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
he Ritz-Carlton in Almaty is not only the best hotel in town. Throughout the country it has no rival. Perched atop this modern tower, it is now the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Kazakhstan. Crossing its threshold is to put a foot in the new country that the current presidency is designing.
The design is very contemporary even if you recognize traditional motifs - surely, sophisticated, bright, elegant and exclusive. Among the restaurants, Vista, of course, offers a superb panorama and international cuisine with Mediterranean accents without omitting references to traditional cooking. The LT Grill, instead, is the steak house of excellence in the city now. The menu and choice of meat are served by chef Laurent Tourondel in person. The large spa, instead, is signed by Six Senses and available to guests with a structured menu.
If you are thinking of entering the lobby and checking in you are mistaken. We are not in a normal hotel but we are entering in the Esentai Tower. Apartments and offices fill the first floors up to the tenth which is where the hotel begins. So we go up and when the elevator doors open, we are amazed by the view. The city is at our feet. The full-wall windows enchant us. The bustle of the city center, the traffic, the noise all disappear in a sea of light and we almost miss seeing the courteous receptionist awaiting us at the desk.
T SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
66 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO HOTEL
THE RITZ-CARLTON ALMATYAlmaty, Kazakhstanwww.ritzcarlton.com
Rooms & suites 145 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2Spa Six Senses Children yes
Chain The Ritz-CarltonAffiliation none
Activitiessightseeing
Score 81Environment 75Design 90Service 78Cuisine 84Health 78Spa 80Rooms 82
67RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
68 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
To the south of the country, on one of the routes
of the caravans that carr ied s i lk and spices
f rom China to Europe, near the city you wi l l f ind
important mausoleums and madrasas.
madrasas and mausoleums
ShymkentOvidio Guaita
69RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
A n a n c i e n t l a n d w h e r e m u c h r e m a i n s t o b e
d i s c o v e r e d . I t s s t r a t e g i c p o s i t i o n h a s a l w a y s
p l a y e d a n i m p o r t a n t r o l e i n t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f
t h e r e g i o n . S o m e t e s t i m o n i e s t o t h e p a s t h a v e
b e e n h e a v i l y r e s t o r e d . M a y b e n o t s o p h i l o l o g i c a l
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
70 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
b u t t h e r e s u l t
i s e n j o y a b l e
a n d r e a d a b l e
e v e n t o
t h o s e w h o
d o n o t h a v e
a s p e c i f i c
p r e p a r a t i o n .
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SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
72 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
O n a h i l l a b o v e t h e c i t y , a
p a l a c e - h o t e l w e l c o m e s g u e s t s ,
i s o l a t i n g t h e m i n a n o a s i s o f
p e a c e a n d t r a n q u i l i t y .
the windy hill
Kainar Hotel
Ovidio Guaita
73RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
n the evening the breeze quickly turns into the wind - enveloping and engaging at the same time. A wind that makes the sky clear and shows the city lit up as it is. Not particularly beautiful, certainly lively and active. The wind of history has swept away a union - along with its legendary Kainar Restaurant that once stood here - that no one really wanted any longer. Tonight, however, the real wind will free us of unwanted thoughts. For a brief but intense moment we are suspended in time. While down below us, daily activities continue to frantically interweave.
The Kainar is an exclusive hotel, however, perhaps in making the architecture in the form of a palace, little hotel details were sacrificed. But these are details. The experience on the whole is remarkable. From the pick-up at the airport to the in-room check-in. Excellent restaurant, great spa, with a fully equipped wellness center. Very inviting indoor pool with city views. If one wants to linger for an after dinner drink, the lounge on the top floor has the best view of the city.
The Kainar is the hotel in Shymkent and one of the best in the south of Kazakhstan. The charming general manager, the young Dina Temirgaliyeva, conducts an orchestra that is working on the movements for a symphony, which is, perhaps, not yet complete, but we found its melody totally charming.
I SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
74 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO HOTEL
KAINAR HOTELShymkent, Kazakhstanwww.kainarhotel.kz
Rooms 44 - Suites 20Villas 0 - Restaurants 1Spa yesChildren yes
Chain noneAffiliation none
Activitiesexcursions
Score 77Environment 80Design 77Service 78Cuisine 78Health 75Spa 75Rooms 77
75RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
76 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
D e s p i t e w e l l - d e v e l o p e d
i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , t r a v e l i n g o n
o n e ’ s o w n i n K a z a k h s t a n c a n
b e c o m p l i c a t e d , a b o v e a l l ,
d u e t o E n g l i s h , w h i c h i s s t i l l
n o t d i f f u s e . I t i s b e t t e r t h e n
t o e n t r u s t o n e s e l f t o a t o u r
o p - e r a t o r . A m o n g t h e m a n y
p r e s e n t , C i t y T o u r i s t h e m o s t
t r u s t w o r t h y . N e w v e h i c l e s ,
d r i v e r s a n d g u i d e s f l u e n t i n
E n g l i s h a n d k n o w l e d g e a b l e o f
t h e t e r r i t o r y a r e t h e i r s t r o n g
p o i n t s . I t i s a l s o q u i t e e a s y
t o b o o k , t h a n k s t o a n e f f i c i e n t
w e b s i t e .
A l m a t y C i t y T o u r
B a i t u r s y n o v S t r e e t ,
A s t a n a I n t e r H o t e l , 2 n d F l o o r A l m a t y 0 5 0 0 2 2
+ 7 ( 7 2 7 ) 2 - 9 0 0 - 7 7 7
w w w . c i t y - t o u r . k z
discovering Kazakhstan
77RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
where Alexander the Great found a wife
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
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Among the descendants of Alexander the Great
and Darius of Pers ia. Not a popular country but
certainly an intr iguing one. From the mountains of
the Pamir to the madrasas, mauseoleums, mosques
and palaces on the S i lk Road.
TajikistanLawrence Taylor
79RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
Green, very green, with high mountains and large water resources. A country crossed
throughout history, left to itself, and then rediscovered. Since independence in 1991 there
have been many events leading to the current stability. Here Alexander the Great, during
his unstoppable run to the conquest of the known world, took a break and found his wife,
as he was fascinated by the enigmatic beauty of the local women.
The culture is similar to that of other regions of Central Asia. Cuisine, music, architecture -
albeit with different nuances - share motifs of inspiration. On the other hand, ethnic groups
80 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
differ, as already
mentioned, and the
difference is apparent.
The similarities with
the people of Persia
are obvious, as are
those of the Balkan
descendants of
Macedonian troops.
Whether you are
visiting the country to
retrace the ancient
caravan routes or to
climb the mountains,
contact with nature
is inevitable. Moving
from one area to the
next will always lead
to crossings and along
the valleys, to stop-offs
in villages where the
dodging populace
will observe you with
discreet curiosity. The
sense of hospitality is
ingrained and having
overcome the initial
suspicion, it is difficult
to decline an invitation
81RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
for a tea or even to share a meal. Over a century of Russian rule did not affect traditions
and beliefs. The sense of belonging is strong and every Tajik, if able, will endeavour to
showcase the best of the country.
Among the centers to visit are Hisor or Hissar, once an independent khanate and also
the summer home of the governor of Bukhara. There are the remains of a fortified palace
- in particular the front door - heavily restored. Opposite is an important and ancient
madrasa. After a five-hour drive from the capital, Dushanbe, you can visit Khujand, one
82 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
of the oldest cities of
Central Asia which is
also on the Silk Road.
This is a city which was
not only rich but also
an important cultural
center, especially
during the Persian
period.
In European
Tajikistan, the Near
and Far East meet on
what remains of the
caravan routes, which
were the Internet
of today. On their
paths traveled not
only goods, but art,
culture and religions.
Distant peoples came
face to face, and
today as yesterday
a journey through
these mountains is an
encounter between
East and West.
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SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
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In the city center a cloud of steel and glass
gently inlaid envelops the traveler. Immersed
and isolated, contemporary and Tajik, the
Serena Hotel in Dushanbe puts one at ease.
a Tajik touch
Serena Hotel Dushanbe
Lawrence Taylor
85RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
hey are awaiting us at the entrance as soon as we get out of the car after being picked up at the airport. Gently at attention and formal but friendly, certainly efficient. The receptionists accompany us to our rooms on the seventh floor for check-in. In a moment we have completed checked in formalities. From the large window the eye sweeps first across the hotel’s garden and then the city. A composite profile that consists of a lot of green and low-rise buildings that permits great visibility. In the rooms, as in public areas,we find are traditional decorative motifs, as is customary in the properties of the chain that always wants to highlight the local culture. In particular, there are colorful decorations on walls and ceilings, carved furniture, colorful fabrics and carpets that contextualize the hotel. Hence guests do not wake up wondering where they are. The brother of Aga Khan, owner of the chain, Prince Amyn Aga Khan, guided the decorative choices of this property which opened in 2011.
The major thoroughfare that runs before the hotel runs right through the heart of the city. It recalls the boulevards of Lisbon and also the Ramblas of Barcelona in form and passers-by. Absolutely inviting for a stroll after dinner at the Rudaki Restaurant ormaybe after a training session at the gym on the top floor, right where the pool is located - the only rooftop pool in the city.
At check-out we find the same friendly efficiency that has characterized our entire stay. Concise and friendly - as you would expect in an exclusive property. We cross the city with its contrasts to arrive at the airport. Slightly chaotic, vague in directions and extemporaneous in procedures. But the new terminal is almost ready and we imagine that it will help to define a new standard of service.
T SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
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INFO HOTEL
SERENA HOTELDushanbe, Tajikistanwww.serenahotels.com
Rooms 80 - Suites 5Apartments 10 - Restaurants 2Spa Maisha SpaChildren yes
Chain Serena HotelsAffiliation none
Activitiesexcursions
Score 79Environment 75Design 80Service 88Cuisine 78Health 75Spa 77Rooms 80
87RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
trekking and morein Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
88 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
The speciality of this tour operator is
indubitably the tours in Pamir, as one would
easily guess from the name. The offering is
rich and includes visits to the caravanserais,
mosques, and madrasas which are still
located on the ancient silk road. It is
brilliantly managed by Shagarf, ex-official
of the Soviet Union embassies, polyglot,
great traveler and expert on his territory.
However, Pamir Silk also goes to northern
Afghanistan - now safe for travelers - up to
the center of Mazar-i Sharif, where we find
very important monuments.
Pamir Si lk Travel
tel . +992 3522 22277
info@pamirsi lk .travel
w w w.pamirsi lk .travel
89RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Statesmen like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane have molded its history while Averroae, Al-Khwarizmi (the inventor of Algebra) and Ulugbek (the eminent astronomer) have shaped its culture.
UZBEKISTAN
the fascination of an ancient legend
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
90 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Elsa Bozzaotra
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The Uzbekis are hard-working people, tightly attached to their traditions and live on agriculture and craftsmanship in accordance with their original values and pace of life.
W SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
92 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
ho has not dreamt at least once of tracing the ancient merchants’ footsteps along the Silk Road, being filled with the intense scents of spices, or of penetrating into the mysteries of Tamerlane’s legendary court? A journey in the places that were once scenes of that legendary world conjure up these magic emotions. A journey in Uzbekistan is like a virtual itinerary backwards in time. A journey that starts in the modern capital, Tashkent, goes across Nineteenth Century Khiva, “the city of clay”, proceeds through the splendid Bukhara of the Sixteenth Century, to reach the zenith in a crescendo of intense emotions with the enticing Samarkanda, chosen by Tamerlane as the opulent capital of his great empire. It is here that history and legend merge. Elaborated patterns of multi-colored majolica tiles define the façades of the mausoleums enclosing - like precious cases - the mortal remains of Amir Timur (Tamerlane) and Ulugbek, its notable founders.
W93RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Uzbekistan is a vivacious kaleidoscope of languages and races – Iranian, Turkish, Mongolian. The different origins of the nomadic tribes characterize the beautiful countenance of the fair-skinned women as well as their silky dark hair, wrapped in the traditional scarves.
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
94 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
These are not only the stages a long the S i lk Road, but an enchant ing and evocat ive tour which a l lures the senses : f rom the re laxing sand-hued wal ls of the Ichan-K hala for tress in K hiva to the chromatic var iat ions of the blue and turquoise majol icas which cover the numerous madrasahs and mosques, down to the yel low and green streaks which stand out on the palaces, domes, and the minarets. I ntr icate car v ing work creates embroider ies on the stunning wooden doors and columns which suppor t the bui ldings in a c lear Arabian st y le.
A ver i table t r iumph of br ight colors surround the v is i tor, though not only those of the bui ldings and their decorat ions. One is stunned by the many
95RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
These a re no t on l y t he s t ages a long t he S i l k Road , bu t an enchan t ing and evoca t i ve t our wh ich a l l u re s t he s ense s .
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
96 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
colored bazaars, where f rui ts and spices mix in a blaze of joyful shades and exot ic scents.
The cur ta in draws over our journey back wards in t ime. The dream of this ancient legend nostalgical ly fades away in Tashkent , where the glor ious past and the l ively industr iousness of the present merge. But the splendid magic of th is ancient wor ld stays in the hear t forever.
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A country dominated by greenery, framed by high peaks and dotted with the yurts of Kyrgyz nomads. Crossed by the Silk Road, it has experienced ups and downs and various rulers. A rich history that is reflected in the culture, architecture, languages, and even in the cuisine.
KYRGYZSTAN
in the mountains along the Silk Road
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
98 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
Lawrence Taylor
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The high mountains and large lakes dominate the geography, making a visit varied. From the ethnographic point of view, Kyrgyz nomads are by far the biggest attraction.
T SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
100 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
he name seems to derive from the Turkish word that indicates forty, l ike the clans united by the national hero, Manas, to defend the country ’s independence in the ninth century. The first inhabitants of the region, however, were the Scythians who settled here between the sixth and fifth centuries BC. The area then became part of the Persian Empire until it entered the orbit of the Macedonian rule of Alexander the Great. In the fourth century the Turks arrived. Traditionally, the population has been
T101RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
The stop in the summer yurts along the path of transhumance in the north of the country is an experience not to be missed. The herds of cattle and horses grazing dot the velvety hills surrounding the tented fields.
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
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tolerant of different faiths, so much so that in that period Buddhism and Zoroastrianism spread until the Muslim invasions of the eighth century. In 1207, the territory came under the empire of Genghis Khan. There followed various invasions until its annexation to the Russian Empire in 1876, a domination that then continued during the Soviet government until independence in 1991.
The caravan routes crossing the country with goods from the Orient numbered two. Today not much remains of that period but the few traces are worth seeing. Some are located in the north not far from the capital. Others are near the city of Osh. However, the main reason for a trip to the country is undoubtedly nature. The high mountains and
103RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Traditionally, the population has been tolerant of different faiths, so much so that in that period Buddhism and Zoroastrianism spread until the Muslim invasions of the eighth century.
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
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large lakes dominate the geography, making a visit varied. From the ethnographic point of view, Kyrgyz nomads are by far the biggest attraction. The stop in their summer yurts along the path of transhumance in the north of the country is an experience not to be missed. Their herds of cattle and horses grazing dot the velvety hills surrounding the tented fields. Their skill on horseback surprises, especially that of women and children.
A trip from real travelers - not easy but scalable, also according to one’s tolerance for the altitude and frugal hospitality. An “exclusive” trip because it is outside the big circuits, in places that are stil l l ittle known. Indubitably a fascinating adventure.
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here once caravans with goods from the East bound for the Mediterranean markets transited, today a modern company connects the Caucasian steppes with the capitals of Europe and the Far East.
In Central Asia Air Astana is imposing itself for the network that it has developed and the service it provides. I t has two hubs: one in the new capital Astana and one in Almaty, the former capital. The planes are modern and on board passengers are offered full service even on domestic fl ights, something which is rare today. In fact, delicious buns are offered along with soft drinks.
We tried the Business Class on the Almaty- Kuala Lumpur flight on August 17. The departure is scheduled for 23.45 and promptly half an hour before boarding begins. We did
W Air Astana
SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
106 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
in flight on the Silk Road Air Astana
Ovidio Guaita
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SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA
108 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
INFO
AIR ASTANAAlmaty, Kazakhstan
www.airastana.com
not take advantage of the common VIP lounge, but those who departs from Astana have available the one reserved for Air Astana passengers, airy and with a great view of the runway. After taking off we are offered cocktails followed by dinner. The menu was varied as was the wine list.
Entertainment is on the i-Pad. Even though the selection is not particularly large, it does include the most recent films. The staff is friendly and efficient. The seats, while not becoming per fectly horizontal, do have an inclination sufficient for a good night ’s sleep. They are increasingly replacing them with full beds. We arrived in Kuala Lumpur early in the morning on time and per fectly rested.
Air Astana is a rapidly expanding company, one to watch as it is able to compete with the big si-sters of the Continent.
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resort nuovo formato asia_Layout 1 24/09/14 14:55 Pagina 1
RMRESORTS MAGAZINE
lifeStyle
1
In exclusive and charming location,
overlooking the crystal clear sea
of Sorrento, beautiful apartment
finely decorated comprising: three
big halls , two bedrooms and three
bathrooms. A magnificent terrace
of 100sqm on the same level with a stunning
view completes and enhances the property.
Location Sorrento
Bedrooms 2
Bathroomes 3
Interior 280 mq
Price 15.000.000 euro
Agent [email protected]
114 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
2
3
Marco Galli
From Sorrento to Anacapri, from Lerici to Santa Margherita Ligure passing by Milan. A selection of the best properties for sale. Sotheby’s International Realty presents on these pages five must-see bargains.Location Sorrento
Bedrooms 2
Bathroomes 3
Interior 280 mq
Price 15.000.000 euro
Agent [email protected]
115RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Beautiful villa with swimming pool set over two floors in Anacapri located within an exclusive residential area in the countryside not far from the famous Blue Grotto and five minutes from the heliport Damecuta . The villa boasts an excellent location with panoramic views and a large private parking area.
Location AnacapriBedrooms 7Bathrooms 5Interior 450 mqGarden 750 mqPrice 5.400.000 euroAgent [email protected]
Boasting panoramic views over the bay and strategically located only 15 minutes walk from the local town of Lerici, this unique residence provides connection with nature and landscape, becoming a blissful oasis in any season of the year.
Location LericiBedrooms 4Bathrooms 3Interior 300 mqPrice € 5.250.000 euroAgent [email protected]
116 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014
In 1700s building, beautifully renovated in the common areas, apartment of 320 sqm plus charming balconies. The property enjoys unique and exclusive views of the Basilica of St Nazaire and gardens. Inside, the elegant quality materials make the unit very valuable. Quadruple exposure, very quiet and bright. Parking.
Location MilanoBedrooms 4Bathrooms 5Balconies 5Interior 320 mqPrice 3.900.000 euro Agent [email protected]
Magnificent villa with panoramic vistas between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. This one-of-a-kind property enjoys a privileged view over the bay of Santa Margherita Ligure and is surrounded by a lush garden of 20,000 square meters overlooking the sea. The main villa, which embodies the typical style of the Portofino Riviera, has recently been renovated.
Location Santa Margherita LigureBedrooms 6Bathrooms 5Interior 300 mqTerrace 20.000 mq Price upon request Agent [email protected]
117RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014
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Maldive AND OTHER EXCLUSIVE DESTINATIONS TESTED FOR YOU