- Thu
- Oct 3, 2013
- Updated: 10:48pm
Encounters Summer 2013
SCMP's regional travel magazine, Encounters, takes readers on rich journeys that are up-close and personal.
Things we like - luxury
Must-have luxuries and hideaways for the holidays of your dreams
Art deco on The Bund
Located in IFC Mall and soon connected underground to Jin Mao Tower, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, offers panoramic views of The Bund from its lobby on the 52nd floor. The hotel has a modern interpretation of 1930s Shanghai art deco, which is echoed throughout each of the 285 rooms and suites. Be sure to have a relaxing soak in the free-standing tub while enjoying the view. For soothing treatments, The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA's 90-minute Jade Qi Yun treatment targets the head, neck, shoulder and back. After a deep-cleansing back exfoliation, aromatic oils are used for a massage followed by an ESPA facial using jade facial rollers, leaving you radiant and stress-free. There are four restaurants to choose from - the interpretation of Cantonese cuisine at Jin Xuan is delicate, and check out Flair, where you can have an outdoor view of the city while sipping drinks on the terrace.
Romance in the Seychelles
A haven for romantics, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is set on a remote hillside overlooking the bay of Petite Anse, just 18km from Mahé international airport. Comprising 67 treehouse villas and suites, and 27 residences set on jungle slopes near a shoreline of white sand, the scenic resort is a favourite spot for luxury weddings, honeymoons and marriage proposals. Butlers are trained by the chefs to prepare breakfast in the privacy of the suites and residences, and there is an on-site marine educator for daily talks followed by a guided snorkel tour in the bay. Eco-friendly golf is available on the hotel's mini-driving range. Guests can drive special golf balls into the ocean, where within 48 hours, they release fish food into the water.

Style of the Latin Quarter
Inspired by the elegance of the Sorbonne, a historic building in the University of Paris's Latin Quarter, the Sorbonne portfolio case by La Maison Goyard is a stylish carrier for electronic tablets or papers while on the road. The unisex case looks professional and comes in colours such as black, tan and grey. Other colours are available upon request. Also usable as a clutch or handbag, the Sorbonne comprises two large storage spaces with zippers and a smaller outside pocket.

Marriage of style and functionality
The Zephyr by Louis Vuitton bears a resemblance to the designer's iconic Pegase range of suitcases. This addition ties the knot between style and functionality. The Zephyr enables one to travel rough with the elegance Louis Vuitton offers. The four wheels roll 360 degrees, making handling easy, and the inside provides ample space neatly divided into compartments. The suitcase has soft, rounded corners with a cane handle, a fibreglass frame, cowhide leather trim and a gold padlock. Available in 55cm and 70cm sizes.















