WOW, Part-1

Well, believe it or not I am launching a new series titled, “Words of Wisdom”. Actually, I will strive to not lecture but talk about the subtle changes I have incorporated in my life which have made a positive impact on my life and overall, have made me feel good.

Strong believer of sharing stuff for the benefit of others. So, today I am talking about retail therapy or the lack of it. For everyone who knows me- knows I have always loved to shop and obviously, I still do but without a doubt I am a much better shopper than I have been. Here are few handy tips coming with sheer wisdom for you to shop better for we all are running out of space to store at home.

  1. Handling the Sale Season- Developing a strong will power comes with time. The power of really measuring your options such as do you really need it, is it really different to what you have, will the style last long enough and so on. Do not just give into the sale price because before you know it- you would have collectively spent a lot more in the excitement of shopping at sales.
  2. Mix and Match- Believe it or not, you closest is full of creating magical looks, sometimes all you have to do is mix and match your looks. This is where investing in classics comes handy.
  3. Dig Deep- This is that one habit which has been the most beneficial. I am consciously trying to take clothes out from the back of my closet and not necessarily picking up from the ones I wear often and are kept in front. This truly helps in not getting bored of my looks and ensures wholesome use of my clothes as well as reduces the need to shop more as I am putting together different looks every now and then.

And don’t forget the ultimate rule of Marie Kondo on clothes sparking joy because if they don’t- you know what to do! Hope this helps, until next time- Have a fabulous week ahead.

More on Maldives

While my Instagram account was bombarded with posts of my Maldivian holiday thought why not blog about it too!

Hence, I finally decided to pen down my experience which was everything fabulous and memorable.

  1. So, first things first-Maldives is not at all boring if you plan your trip well. I feel you should plan to stay for four days and maybe increase the duration only if you are opting for hotel hopping.
  2. Choosing a good hotel is a must since your entire holiday is all about enjoying your hotel and making the most of the services and activities it has to offer. We chose to stay at Joali and we absolutely loved it.
  3. Make prior bookings- This is an advise you shall definitely thank me later for. Whether its the spa, their specialty restaurant or water sports- all these mostly keep busy with the in-house guests so to be able to enjoy these services at your convenience- it is best to make prior reservations.
  4. Definitely opt for personalized experiences such as a private screening or private meal by the sea.
  5. Meal plan- Basis how cost effective you want to make your trip, you should look into this aspect. Many hotels give an excellent all inclusive deal which works out more economical. But if you want a more personalized experience- then take each day and each meal as it comes.
  6. Clothing & Essentials- Before leave you will definitely check on the temperature but of course you’ll need a lot of beach wear and lounge wear. But make sure to plan your clothing well as the fabrics must be soft and soothing! Also, you would want to click lots of pictures against the beautiful natural backdrop so don’t hesitate in dressing up! And whatever you may forget but don’t forget to apply a good sunscreen. It is also very important to keep yourself well hydrated.

Address Home: Ten Glorious Years

We reckon the transformation of a house to a home takes place with love in abundance… Hence, one lands up adding some special pieces with much love to one’s haven of love. And we all like being selective and exclusive as far as our preferences for home decor are concerned as this space speaks much about us and our loved ones as well as our personalities.

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A brand which has impressed us for many years, ten to be precise is Address Home for each time around we have encountered its offerings, we have only been impressed.

Address Home like most would know-creates and curates a world-class range of premium linen, dining, accessories, lighting & furniture; focusing on quality craftsmanship with an eclectic-chic design sensibility.

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And there never has been or nor there would be lack of quality options at Address Home for there is always something for everyone- affluent or aspirational, traditional or trendy. Rajat Singhi, Founder & Creative Director says, “Each customer, each guest in our store is unique, and we respect them for their decorating style. And change is constant in design, especially in India. Our stores are usually in very high footfall areas and we have about sixty percent of repeat customers, who step into our store once every month or two. They want to see newness all the time. So, we have to be on our toes all the time, to keep offering newness and the quirkiness that Address Home stands for.”

The brand takes pride in ensuring top quality and worthwhile creativity with each expansion step that it takes! The brand has grown to 13 exclusive stores in a decade covering 11 cities, and with their online foray they now cater to 300 cities PAN-India and have an international presence with worldwide shipping.

The brand has reached a commendable milestone of completing ten years and reflecting on its journey so far…It all started with converting a car mechanic’s shed into a hi-end retail store at Raghuvanshi Mills, Mumbai. From the look and feel of the store, to lay- outing and visual merchandising, every little detail was seen by Mr. Singhi in person. He reminisces by saying, “It was an amazing success. I remember my first few months when I was there personally, I used to attend to each and every customer and listen to their feedback. It was very enriching to hear them gasp in awe and delight that finally something like this had come to Mumbai or to India for that matter.”

Well, that is quite a success story and here’s wishing them the very best always and hoping to newer chapters of success being added to theirs for explosive growth is expected in the coming years!!!

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Also, log on to- www.addresshome.com

HIGH ON HOTELS: Swissôtel Amsterdam

It is not an unknown fact that we absolutely love and adore Amsterdam. The place has a fun and cozy vibe which is very inviting and we just cannot wait for our next visit there. Today, in our High on Hotels series, we are throwing light on a boutique hotel situated in our favourite-Amsterdam which looks extremely impressive and comfortable. So, sit back and enjoy this beauty of a property as we get chatting with its representative…

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Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Swissôtel Amsterdam offers outstanding, personalized service- making guests feel comfortable and at home. The staff goes above and beyond for their guests and has a lot of knowledge regarding the city and its activities and is always there to help and inform guests. Furthermore, the location of Swissôtel Amsterdam gives guests direct access to shopping, public transport and the main tourist attractions. A few minutes away you will also find the famous Body Worlds, Madame Tussauds and Royal Palace.

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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A:
Every room has a Nespresso machine and tea- free of charge and a mini bar at an additional charge. Furthermore, guests can enjoy complimentary wireless access and every room has a pillow menu, where people can find different pillow types that can be requested at reception.

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Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: All guests have free access to the Swissôtel Amsterdam Fitness featuring state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment and to the business centre which offers complimentary internet access and light snacks.

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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: Swissôtel Amsterdam does not have its own, in-house restaurant. However, right next to Swissôtel Amsterdam- you can find the restaurant ROYAL98, which offers seats with a view on the famous Dam Square. ROYAL98 opened up last year and offers delicious, fresh wood oven pizzas and pastas as well as more international dishes such as sandwiches, cakes, burgers and Dutch Bitterballen. And don’t forget to try the typical Dutch dessert-Trio of Stroopwafel. Hotel guests can also enjoy the buffet breakfast or A la carte breakfast for an additional charge.

Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: The prime location on the Dam Square and personalized service would be our USP.

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Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: There is a tram stop right in front of the hotel, which is connected to the most important stops in the city. Furthermore, the metro and train stations are situated on a 7 minutes’ walk, connecting to the other areas of Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport.

Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: By train, you arrive at Amsterdam Central Station within 30 minutes, then it is a 7 minutes’ walk to the hotel. Swissôtel Amsterdam can also arrange a taxi to pick guests up from the airport at an additional charge.

Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: Next to the hotel- the famous warehouse ‘De Bijenkorf’ can be found, other warehouses ‘Magna Plaza’ and ‘Hudson’s Bay’ are on a 5 minutes’ walk and the main shopping street is right behind the hotel with stores of all the popular brands such as Pull&Bear and Forever21.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Swissôtel Amsterdam offers 24/7 room service, with offerings such as pizza, pasta, sandwiches and ice cream.

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Pictures Courtesy: Swissôtel Amsterdam

 

For the love of Good Skin

It is quite well believed that the best cosmetic is great looking skin! Hence, we reckon that one should go deep into the skin-care products we use and lay utmost emphasis on the quality of what gets applied on our skin!

Though I love my basic make-up but I also truly appreciate natural beauty, I mean we would all love it if we could just step out more often in our no make-up look. For if the skin is glowing and radiating- who needs loads of make-up? Anyways, even if we do apply make-up often, there is still no missing on a regular skincare routine.

Up your confidence in your skin by upping the quality of products in your beauty closet.

Now accelerating focus on a brand we came across few days ago and got a chance to unravel more about… Sharing all from our chat with Zahara Gizelle Nedou, CEO, Zahara Skincare. Let me tell you the brand sure looks promising and I am thoroughly enjoying applying their refreshing Spring Scrub and before calling it a day, I love to apply their Walnut Oil on my face and body for some nourishment!

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Q: Tell us the story behind Zahara and what led to the coming up of the brand?
A: My English and Kashmiri grandmothers were my biggest influences, watching them every day make something out of pure recall of what their cultures of parents did-was for a 6 year old almost a miracle! At the age of 9, I already knew what Cleopatra did as a beauty regime and I would fill my bathtub with milk and roses and was very well aware that it would moisturize and lighten my skin! So, I grew up replicating and adding to what I knew about organic skincare. With my diverse family culture and all my travels and knowledge and love for organic skincare regime grew. However, it was not until recently that I decided to commercialize it.

Q: How has the response been so far?
A: Fantastic! I tested my products in Dubai when I first started making them and it was there where I realized what Zahara Skincare is actually capable of and what it can do as an organic skincare company. I came back to India with the same zest and it has been a positive if not a similar response like I had internationally. It is slower but very positive as the awareness of using or switching to an organic lifestyle is still in its initial stages in India. But we are growing as a brand on a daily basis and it’s becoming a really fun journey!
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Q: What is the uniqueness of Zahara products which sets it apart from the rest?
A: I do understand that each organic brand has a few things that sets them apart. At Zahara Skincare, we grow most of our ingredients and harvest them on family run farms across the valley and our very own orchards. We also pay detailed attention that everything is grown chemical-free and most importantly, we are reviving and modernizing traditional beauty regimes and recipes from the Middle-East as well as Kashmir. These are tried and tested methods from the past, which we re-introduce today!

Q: Tell us about the hot buys of Zahara and what makes them must try products?
A: Hot buys would be-
1. Shine Bright like a Diamond- It’s a glow pack with a history of hundreds of years of Kashmiri culture!
2. Spring Scrub- It’s a rose and oatmeal scrub with just the right amount to give you a scrub and a soft rosy glow!
3. The Bow-tox in the Bottle- This is a traditional Arab recipe for removing fine lines and shall plump your skin for that young look.
4. Our rare product “Mulberry Silk Worm Cocoons” that no one in the country has and we at Zahara skincare, have got a raging response for that.

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Q: One unhealthy beauty routine according to you which must be done away with right away?
A: I can sit here and list a million routines that we still practice in India which really aren’t very good for our health or bodies. But if I had to choose the worst according to me, then it would be the constant use of “Skin Bleaching Creams/Products”. Some cosmetic products, including skin-lightening creams contain high levels of mercury.

Mercury is primarily used in skin-lightening creams because it blocks the production of the skin pigment melanin. It can damage the kidneys and the nervous system, and interfere with the development of the brain in unborn children and very young children.

Q: The healthy home beauty routine which must be a part of our routines?
A: First up, not many people are strict about their water intake, so- hydrate, hydrate and hydrate yourself! If you find it difficult to have plain water, add some lemon or mint or even fruit. Add whatever but have water! Most people don’t realize how water affects a human body.

About the beauty aspect of it, try to reduce the use of chemicals on your skin. Try applying organic turmeric with coconut oil on the face at least 2-3 times a week- it eradicates acne, any toxins or any form of infections that may start to begin on your skin and the coconut oil hydrates and lightens your skin.

Q: What are the future plans for the brand and where can one get their hands on Zahara products?
A: As for now, we take orders and are very efficient on both our social media platforms, i.e., Facebook and Instagram. Just “like us” on either of the pages and send us a message and we would guide you through your skin concerns and offer you a few of our products and BOOM within the next 24-48 hours, our jars of joy will be with you! We will be now available on various other platforms just for the comfort of our clients like Amazon, Scootsy, Sublime Factory and many more. We also plan to be available on ground across the country in many organic/multi-brand stores! And we are even available in Dubai, Oman and New York at selected stores.

 

Well, I can only sense goodness for the brand and being offering by the brand. Here is wishing them the very best, always! And I am almost running to try out their Shine Bright like a Diamond pack!
Best,
Sonali

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIGH ON HOTELS:KC Beach Club & Pool Villas

Okay then, having issues beating the Monday morning blues?  Breathe a sigh of relief, as we are all set to virtually take you to a true paradise called the KC Beach Club & Pool Villas at one of the most gorgeous places on Earth- Koh Samui… Hence, sit back and enjoy this latest post in our series on- High on Hotels where we get talking with their representative!

Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Our chic retreat is located in the heart of Chaweng Beach which is known to be the best party place on Koh Samui. This amazing beach has soft, white sand, a shallow turquoise sea and a big variety of leisure and sports programs.
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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: This new stylish Beach Club Hotel has a total of 42 units: each room has a king-size bed and sofa, bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and rain shower. The rooms are equipped with in-room technology such as 42” LCD Satellite and Cable TV. Each room also disposes of air condition, in-room safe, minibar, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, hair dryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.
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KC Beach Club located on central Chaweng beach, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand

Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: In our resort, guests can experience two swimming pools, NEO Restaurant, Pool Bar or massage at beachfront sala. There is free shuttle bus to our sister 5 star resort where guests can utilize local spa and fitness center. Not to forget mentioning about the Saturday Pool Party with professional DJ, hostesses to serve delicious cocktails, plus excellent entertainment from saxophone players, drummers and dancers, also there is an international buffet prepared by our Chef.
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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: Savour the delectable flavours of fine cuisine at Neo Restaurant, Koh Samui’s most fashionable dining venue located at KC Beach Club & Pool Villas. Feel the sea breeze from the open air dining terrace and gaze in awe at the panoramic views of Chaweng Beach as you browse through the mouthwatering menu of carefully selected dishes. Our experienced chef creates classic flavors with the freshest local ingredients including seafood, herbs, chilies and more and presents them in a way that looks almost too good to eat.
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Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: If you are looking for a prime location, fashionable beach club, great music club, entertainment, bar and restaurant, modern accommodation, friendly staff and guests from all over the world-KC Beach Club & Pool Villas is the best choice for a perfect vacation!

Q: What is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: The easiest way to get to KC Beach is to book airport transfer provided by hotel or take outside taxi. We are located just 10 minutes away from the Koh Samui airport.

 Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: The closest shopping mall “Central Festival Samui” is situated in the heart of Chaweng and it is only 5 minutes from our resort. This mall describes itself as “the most complete and largest lifestyle shopping complex in Samui”.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Our resort take last order at 22:30, however around us you can find many restaurants and small shops, which you can reach within walking distance.

 

Pictures Courtesy: KC Beach Club & Pool Villas

 

 

WITH LOVE FROM THE MOST ROMANTIC CITY OF INDIA-UDAIPUR

I am a complete dreamer and I don’t shy away from admitting to it either. I love to dream…Dream about countries, cities, beaches, mountains, lakes and so much more. So, while conversing if you feel that I have switched off, maybe I actually have switched off… And have commenced my day-dreaming probably about being on this beach I came across while glancing through my social media account.

For many of these dreams have turned to reality and many are on the wish-list but I am in a happy space as I gradually want to unravel these places spread through the length and breadth of the World Map. Eagerness to visit any destination makes me think more, makes me read more and most importantly it make me work more (harder) so that I can savour the destination in its true spirit.

Today, I am going to throw some light on my very first holiday and trip of 2017… The trip was made to Udaipur- the city of lakes where I had been to-long time ago. But yet again there was something about it which was making me want to visit it sooner than soon and so it happened! Having a loved sister in company just added the right colour and laughter to the trip.

So, without any further delay-sharing as much from our trip…

  1. When visiting this rather romantic city- best is to stay closest to the lakes. I love the water, so there was no way that I was going to be away from the water. We chose- Udai Kothi to be our home for 2 nights and 3 days. Yes, you can see the lake from several parts of the hotel and I must share that our stay was cozy and comfortable. Though we didn’t eat much here, but we would certainly look forward to the breakfast area by the pool to just sit and relax. We clicked umpteen pictures, for the property is gorgeous in white and gets decorated with gorgeous marigold flowers in the common areas. I must add our room was much bigger than expected and was stocked with all the essentials.
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  2. We had amazing gastronomic experiences, like each meal surpassed the one before. For the very reason that we ate to our heart’s content- we are actually happy that we got to walk quite a bit! Hear me out on this one-whenever you decide to visit the City Palace Museum- you must make time to eat at the Palki Khana as this restaurant lets you enjoy the view of the overwhelming structure.
    Also, when both of us were wanting to try out a nice café- we landed in front of the Udai Art Café which was established by Meropi, a vibrant lady hailing from Greece who is a photographer, a coffee connoisseur, a chef and an adventurer. Wow, impressive right? She impressed us equally while she passionately helped us decide our order. We binged big on their pesto pasta and crepe with mushrooms, tomatoes, cheese and bell peppers. We loved our meal which was light on our tummies and pockets!
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  3. For our evening meals we opted for the Aravali Lakeview Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Hotel where we binged on some Laal Maas and the second evening we ate our all-time favourite, Chicken Biryani at this spectacular restaurant right opposite our hotel called Hari Garh. In both cases, we enjoyed views of the lake (both were different lakes), had amazing food and didn’t land up paying all that much. At Radisson Blu, while we enjoyed a live flute performance, the next evening- we played and enjoyed some soothing music from our own phones as we got the best table which only made us pray that the time should freeze as we were having the best time ever!

    Glimpses from  Aravali Lakeview Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Hotel-
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  4. Two things which must feature on your itinerary when in Udaipur- the Lake Pichola Boat Ride and a visit to the City Palace Museum. You are able to soak in much of the city on opting for these two!

    Views from the boat-
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  5. When in Rajasthan, you would certainly have a strong urge to shop everything colourful that meets your eyes. At the Hathipole market– we shopped dupattas like there’s no tomorrow. Also, while passing through several lanes. we picked up jhumkas and lovely neckpieces! Ghewar and Pyaazki kachori are must buys from the Jodhpur Misthan Bhandar for all loved ones back home.
  6.  So, here’s the funniest account-just when someone advised us to head to Sajjangarh for a picturesque panoramic view of the city- we did get there but without looking around much straight away got the tickets for their biological park. Yes, you got that right!!! Little did we know that the very next gate leads to their rather pretty Monsoon Palace… Want to know what next? We were on a golf cart scaling through the park and giggling like little girls spotting the lion, tiger and much more…

  7. For our divine calling, we headed to the Jagdish Temple which is a large Hindu temple in the middle of Udaipur…And we were thoroughly satisfied with our visit.
  8. We thought of ending our trip on a high note and hence, headed to The Oberoi Udai Vilas. Words fall short to describe the beauty that this place is. We had made a reservation for their restaurant-Chandni and post arrival,were soon guided to our table which was facing the lake on one side and gave us a beautiful view of the property on the other. The quality and taste of the food was extremely impressive and we enjoyed every bit of it.
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    Here are few handy tips if you are planning to visit Udaipur anytime soon-

    1. Be ready to scroll around with your luggage in case your hotel is situated in some narrow lane as sometimes the taxi drivers don’t want to risk taking their cars through the congested routes.
    2. Some of the locals take art classes which seem very interesting. Make sure if interested, you keep aside approximately 3 hours for it.
    3. Commuting isn’t an issue, you’ll find autos mostly everywhere…We also made good use of Uber!
    4. Make sure you take reservations in case you are planning to visit one of the plush properties and even check if they allow non-residential guests at all.
    5. We did hear much about the Bagore ki Haveli for its popular evening show with a variety of Indian dance- maybe you could check it out!


    Happy Travelling, always!!!
    -Sonali

HIGH ON HOTELS: 137 Pillars House,Chiang Mai

Well, for all those who have been waiting for the latest post in our “High on Hotels” section- the wait is over!!! And we are certain that you would be quite pleased with what is coming your way… Thailand is a favourite with many of us, and this time around we have explored a beauty in Chiang Mai called 137 Pillars House. Towards, the close of this post- we are certain that you would agree that it is a beauty with a difference! Here is all that we found out…

Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: In addition to the naturally gracious Thai hospitality, exquisite cuisine and sensational spa treatments, the boutique experience at 137 Pillars House is unique due to its rich colonial history as it is built around an original teak homestead that dates back to the late 1800’s which has been lovingly restored.  It evokes an experience that goes back to a bygone era which is still evident throughout the house.  As the winner of the coveted Travel + Leisure’s Best Resort in Asia Award which is voted by the readers, this perhaps is a testimony to its memorability; together with its high year round occupancy and a high percentage of return guests.

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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: 137 Pillars House has 30 suites all of which are white, contrasting with the rich wooden teak homestead and furnished with rich Jim Thompson silks and fabrics in a deep green, a vibrant red or a dark teal.  Suites have high polished wooden floors, black and white mosaic tiles in the bathroom, a deep soak standalone claw footed bathtub, outdoor showers, large verandahs complete with the signature 137 rocking chair and exquisite furnishings throughout, with stunning orchids and bespoke amenities. Modern comforts and a contemporary interpretation of colonial design that marries the old and new.

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Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: The hotel houses the Jack Bain Bar, Wine Cellar and Dining Room among others.  Recreation facilities include the Spa, Gymnasium and Swimming Pool.  The hotel’s cooking classes are very popular and guests find it hard to stop at just one spa treatment! Although an intimate footprint guests can immerse themselves in the resort with in-suite dining, multiple dining areas and cuisine options, spa, wellness programs and classes.

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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: The hotel has two restaurants and they both offer different experiences, one with Thai food which is hugely popular worldwide and which most guests want to experience and keep coming back for more (as well as doing the cooking class so they can recreate their favorite dishes when they get home for their family and friends).  Palette – a intimate dining experience for up to 20 people, also exhibits local artworks and offers exquisite western food options and daily specials, using organic ingredients.

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Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: Rich Colonial History, gracious Thai hospitality, bespoke experiences such as- delicious cuisine, the spa –actually hard to name just one.  Also, a great location in an historic area of Chiang Mai and within literally 5 minutes walking distance of upmarket boutiques, galleries and restaurants along the river. Personalized guest experience with all guests assigned a butler who remains in touch with guests both on property and off property. Thoughtfully designed, spacious suites and balconies offering guests a “private residence feeling” instead of a guest room. It is an Oasis in the city or even, a Sanctuary in the city.

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Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: Guests who stay in a hotel of this caliber prefer to use the hotel transportation, but the hotel is easily accessible by those who want to use the local tuk tuks and other local transport options.

Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: By hotel limousine which even has free wifi and is a seamless, relaxing and elegant way of getting in and out.

 Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: Literally around the corner from the hotel is a renowned artisan store -Villa Cini showcasing the best of Thai silk products, ceramics and weaving (bespoke handbags, lifestyle items) then, vintage and traditional Thai sarongs at  Fai Sor Kam and Sop Moei Arts for handicraft items. The street offers wonderful colonial era architecture.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A:
Currently the kitchen closes at 11.30pm and re-opens at 5.30am as there has been no demand in the last 4 years of operation – but this is also under review to consider some menu options to be made available at such hours.

Pictures Courtesy: 137 Pillars House

 

KlosetEdit- For the love of Fashion & More…

The whiff of dreams packed with determined and passionate efforts in realizing a unique vision into reality was instantly reflected when I came across the website- KlosetEdit for the very first time.

I readily related to the need for such a platform as we all have some outfits which only stare at us from our closets and seldom meet the cut for our, “Out of the Day” – so it sounds nothing less than amazing to be actually getting to sell them off. Or how about getting an opportunity to buy our most desirable labels at extremely attractive prices only because one of us decides to part ways with it. Yes, KlosetEdit gives closet management a whole new meaning. And that is exactly why I chose to indulge in tete-a-tete with Deepal and Kanika, the lady bosses who made it all happen…

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Kanika Khurana and Deepal Gandhi

Q: Did you both always wanted to turn fashion entrepreneurs? Please share with us on what eventually led to the KlosetEdit?
A: We met at LSE Summer School in 2010 and bonded over our love for all things fashion. One casual conversation of how “we feel like we have nothing to wear and yet have no space in our overflowing closets, wish we could just sell our closet for cash” led us to wonder if more women feel the same way! Post college, we took up full time corporate jobs while never leaving our idea behind.  After conducting extensive market research, we realized that due to increase in demand for aspirational brands, better logistical support and changing mindset of the consumers, India was maturing as a market for pre-loved fashion. The thrill of building a brand to solve the closet needs propelled us to leave our jobs and plunge into the start-up life!

Q: For the benefit of our readers who have several items hanging in their closets lying unused for the longest time, please explain how they can benefit through KlosetEdit?
A: It is a well surveyed fact that women only end up using 20% of the apparel from their closets, rest of the items make up for impulse purchases, unwanted gifts and sizes that don’t fit anymore. While we actively encourage women to donate items they no longer use, branded handbags and designer dresses that aren’t used anymore are hard to just give away! Thus, they keep lying in our closets, gathering dust and taking up space in our precious ‘real estate’. This is where KlosetEdit comes in the picture. We help women sell their ‘too tight’ impulse purchased jeans, barely used dresses and seasonal buys for something more chic, on point and affordable. In order to sell pre-loved fashion, a seller simply fills a simple seller form with a few details of the products being sent along with a few photos. We arrange a pick-up of the styles which are selected by our in-house stylist. Once the item comes to the warehouse, it goes through an extensive quality and authenticity check and a resale price is quoted to the seller, (only once the seller agrees to the pricing) we start the listing process. Everything from photography, hygiene to maintenance is taken care of by our team. As and when the product sells, we forward the money to the seller in form of a bank transfer or store credits.

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Q: Most of us are familiar with the concept of vintage shops being in existence but how has the response been in the virtual world and particularly in the Indian market as far as purchasing a previously owned item is concerned?
A: It has been overwhelming! Sure, there is still apprehension with pre-owned items, but the mindset is fast changing. Buying pre-loved is smart shopping. Why should you pay full retail price when you can buy new items from a variety of brands at up to 80% off? Our excessive focus on QC and curation has led to customers calling us to appreciate the quality of items they have received. Maintaining high quality standards and being extremely transparent about the condition of the items has helped us win loyal customers all over India. We are constantly working towards making buying and selling of fashion as informative and hassle free as possible.

Q: Do you accept only high-end labels? How does one decide what to send for selling and what not?
A: We love all brands from Zara to LV! One can sell anything from a Mango dress to a Hollister skirt to MK bag to Jimmy Choo shoes. We accept most brands from high street to high-end fashion, simply because we don’t want to restrict our collection and we believe each pre-loved item that is in a great condition deserves to be loved again! That being said, we request each seller to look at our list of brands we love and detailed quality standards before scheduling a pick-up with us.

Q: What would you like to say to all those young girls who have a dream but are not able to take it to the next level?
A: Make it happen! Life is too short to miss opportunities. It is always tough to take the plunge, but have a plan, work with a focus and no matter what, don’t stop believing! Starting up has its own highs and lows but the highs are so rewarding. There is no feeling in the world better than seeing your dream turn into a reality.

Q: On a lighter note, when was the last time you got tempted to buy something one of your seller’s sent for the website?
A: EVERYDAY! Honestly, if someone was to ask us on what is the biggest challenge? It sure is this! We get such amazing styles that we really have to control each other from not buying products ourselves!

Q:  Lastly, tell us about the future plans for KlosetEdit?
A: We have been overwhelmed with the response we have got thus far, winning buyers and sellers trust has been the most exhilarating part of our journey. Future plans include geographical expansion, we have seen interest from varied parts of the country and vertical expansion. We also plan to add more styles and categories so people are always looking forward to pre-loved fashion. All of these plans are centered around the customer and ensuring that we provide the best to them.

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So, as I wrap up, it is best that you now straight head to check out their phenomenal endeavor @klosetedit.com

Best,
Sonali

 

 

HIGH ON HOTELS: KC Resort & Over Water Villas

Hey! So for those who were waiting to know all about yet another exotic destination, the wait is finally over. This time around we are sharing all that we have unravelled about this gorgeous property situated in a paradise called Koh Samui- KC Resort & Over Water Villas. Knowing about this place has only pepped up our love for Thailand. When you shall read this post, you shall know exactly what we are talking about…

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Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Feel on top of the world from the exclusive paradise retreat KC Resort & Over Water Villas as you admire the views of Chaweng Bay, the stunning sapphire Gulf of Thailand and tropical Matlang Island. The luxury hillside hotel is a romantic hideaway nestled amongst lush nature with exotic accommodation, a sublime infinity-edge pool and elegant dining venues in the sky.

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Over Water Villa Outdoor View (1)

Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: Each room has king size bed and sofa, large bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and rain shower. The rooms are equipped with in-room technology such as 42” LCD satellite and cable TV. Each room also disposes of air condition, in-room safe, minibar, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, hairdryer and complimentary wi-fi.

Grand Deluxe Jacuzzi Room (3)
Deluxe Jacuzzi Suite (3)

Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A:
In our resort you can experience infinity swimming pool, fitness center, the View restaurant, Wine lounge, Panorama bar, Mayang Sari spa, Sauna and Steam room.

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Fitness Center
Outdoor Thai Massage Salas

Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: The View restaurant offers a relaxing retreat for those who seek a definitely different dining destination. With a fresh new concept, and an innovative team of chefs, you can experience home-crafted cuisine like no other, taking simple food to another level. In keeping with the spirit of home-crafted cuisine, much of our produce is locally sourced and a selection of cured meats and breads are crafted in-house for use in the restaurant. Tasty flights are also on hand with a selection of three progressive wines, aptly paired with tasting bites.

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Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A:
KC Resort is situated on Koh Samui’s most exciting beach, the resort offers tranquility and unforgettable scenery just minutes away from soft white sands and the lively Chaweng Centre, a hotspot for shopping, dining and dancing.
The divine accommodation includes our signature range of over water villas designed with relaxation and indulgence in mind. Offering a total of 95 rooms, suites and villas all guests are pampered with a full range of modern in-room amenities.

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Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A:
On Koh Samui Island, there is no public transport but only taxi. We provide daily shuttle service to the Chaweng beach, which is located in the center of Koh Samui. Shuttle service operates 4 times per day and it’s free of charge for all in-house guests.

 Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: The easiest way to get to KC Resort is to book airport transfer provided by hotel or take outside taxi. We are located only 10 minutes away from the Koh Samui airport.

 Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: The closest shopping mall “Central Festival Samui” is situated in the heart of Chaweng and its only 10 minutes from our resort. This mall describes itself as “the most complete and largest lifestyle shopping complex in Samui”.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Our resort take last order at 22:30, however around us you can find many restaurants and small shops which you can reach within walking distance.

It looks like a true beauty with incredible offerings to make the overall experience a memorable one, what say?

Pictures Courtesy: KC Resort & Over Water Villas, Koh Samui