Swiss-born Anton Mosimann has lived in London for over 40 years, receiving the Order of the British Empire (OBE) along the way. His passion for food and his zest for life continues to fuel his creativity, evident in his culinary masterpieces.

COOKING FOR ROYALTY

He has cooked for Queen Elizabeth II herself, and her family, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. His Mosimann’s Club remains one of London’s most prestigious dining establishments.

Last year, the Mosimann Collection was launched at the César Ritz Colleges in Le Bouveret, Switzerland. Chef Anton’s private collection is composed of thousands of interesting culinary curio such as rare cookbooks, unusual kitchen utensils, royal menu cards and works of art. The collection also chronicles his life and serves as a valuable resource and an inspiration to the many students of the Swiss Education Group.

WHERE TO EAT IN LONDON

Read his top recommendations for London’s hot spots.

My LAST BEST MEAL in London was chicken feet at Plum Valley. It’s a Chinese restaurant where they serve two kinds of chicken feet. One is Thai style, off the bone, and I love it. The other one is in a black bean sauce. I prefer the Thai style because it’s a bit spicy.    

MY FAVORITE MARKETS for grocery shopping are Borough Market and
the Pimlico Road Farmers’ Market, which is in my neighborhood.   I usually take my wife on A ROMANTIC DATE at the Ritz Hotel.

My LATEST FOOD DISCOVERY in London is Vietnamese street food
on Wardour Street. I love Vietnamese street food.  

The MOST PICTURESQUE SPOT in all of London is Buckingham Palace. It’s still exciting, even though I’ve been there many times.   I FIND INSPIRATION FOR MY CULINARY CREATIONS in Soho where there are some very exciting international food, mainly Oriental cuisine. The Chinese Market in Soho also sells things you don’t find anywhere else.

RELAXING IN LONDON

After a long day, I LIKETO UNWIND AND RECHARGE by going running in Hyde Park. And then there will be a glass of Mosimann champagne at home.   A LOVELY DAY IN LONDON should be spent going to the wonderful art galleries and food market on Cork Street. Very often I get a coffee for my wife there on a Saturday morning – she loves caramel macchiato.  

The BEST PLACES FOR A CERTIFIED FOODIE to explore are the fantastic
markets. Food halls in London like Harrods are exciting, even to just to look around and smell. Selfridges and Harvey Nichols are good, too.  

I NEVER GET TIRED OF going to musicals. I’m a great fan. I’ve seen “Cats” and “Mama Mia” a few times. I also recently saw the Cirque du Soleil at the Royal Albert Hall and I loved it.  

TRAVELERS SHOULD VISIT the wonderful Covent Garden and do the pop tours. There are a lot of museums and so many things to see. But I don’t recommend doing everything in one day. Take your time, and come back again if necessary. Enjoy the experience and don’t rush it.

Read more about where to go in London in Travelife Magazine.

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THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE JOBURG is by hop-on, hop-off bus. Buy a ticket for the day so that you can use it as many times as you want. You can hop off and spend as much time at an attraction then hop on again when the bus is scheduled to come around. This gives you the opportunity to decide which landmarks you want to explore at your own pace.

THE BEST WAY TO START A DAY is “from the top.” Joburg is the brunch capital of the world and it has rooftop restaurants and hotels that offer brunch. And because it’s a flat and big industrial city, you can see the whole of Johannesburg over breakfast. It’s so beautiful. You won’t believe you’re in such a big city that’s just so green and peaceful.

ANOTHER GOOD SPOT TO ADMIRE THE JOBURG SKYLINE is from the decks of Sandton Sun.

ONE LOCAL ACTIVITY I NEVER MISS is the bungee jump in Joburg. It’s only 100 meters but it’s in the middle of the city. You jump off a water tower. After I did it the first time, I had such an adrenaline high. I got a sense of empowerment, I said to myself, “I made such a good decision.” That’s the kind of city Joburg is – it’s got so much color and vibrancy. It’s loud and has a very continental Africa feel to it. It’s very “in your face.”

TRENDY JOHANNESBURG

THE MOST UNUSUAL PLACE TO SEE is Maboneng which they call “The Inner City Revival Project.” They’ve revived this area after all the big businesses moved out. Entrepreneurs and young designers are given access to markets here. Even if you’ve only got four or five clothing items, you can put these on a rail that has your name.

Maboneng has everything from clothes, shoes, and handbags to furniture and household items. There are also restaurants and food stalls as well.

It’s the greatest place to shop in Johannesburg because of all these unique things nobody else has. It has a cool temperament because the interior design is interesting, and there’s good food and music spilling out.

TOURISTS SHOULD ALSO NOT MISS little-known Liliesleaf Farm in northern Johannesburg for a bit of history and mystery. The farm was secretly used by African National Congress activists in the 1960s. It’s where many prominent African National Congress leaders were arrested. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT OUT, go to Teatro where international performances are showcased in its massive theaters. Or to the Back O’ the Moon in the Gold Reef City. This is one of the best jazz clubs.

AFTER A LONG DAY, I LIKE TO UNWIND AT the Four Seasons in Westcliff which is up on the hill in Joburg. When you sit at the Four Seasons, you actually look over the Joburg Zoo.

CULTURE CLUB

I LIKE LISTENING TO LIVE MUSICAL PERFORMANCES at Tanz Café. It has an electric atmosphere every night. Its gig guide features the South Africa’s best musical talent. This venue has hosted artists such as Jesse Clegg, Arno Carstens, and Civil Twilight.

AFTER TOURING THE TRADITIONAL ART MUSEUMS, I TELL MY FRIENDS TO GO TO the Johannesburg Art Gallery in Joubert Park. It is the largest gallery on the subcontinent with a collection larger than that of the Iziko South African National Art Gallery in Cape Town.

I book an early morning meditative session in the garden of Satyagraha House in Orchards TO CONNECT WITH MY INNER SELF.

The MOST STRIKING ARCHITECTURE IN JOBURG IS CIRCA on Jellicoe in Rosebank, a gallery renowned for featuring the works of top South African artists like Dylan Lewis and Zwelethu Mthethwa.

INSIDER INFORMATION

MY SECRET SPOT FOR A PICNIC IN JOBURG  is across the road from the Johannesburg Zoo. It’s right next to the lake, on one of the massive lawns. It’s really quiet, but since you’ve got the zoo literally in front of you. You can hear the animals from a distance. On weekends, amateur artists, sculptors, and painters display and sell their works there.

The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens is also an inspiring mix of open spaces. It includes marshlands, grasslands, trees, and cultivated gardens. It’s the world’s biggest man-made forest, with over 10 million trees.

MY FAVORITE BOUTIQUE HOTEL is 10 Bompas Hotel, because all the rooms look different and special. Even their menu changes daily as they only serve what’s in season.

WHERE TO GO OUTSIDE JOHANNESBURG

Maropeng is the site of the Cradle of Humankind. This is where you’ll discover the bones of our ancestors. It’s the place where we all come from. If you want an anthropological adventure, you can actually go to the caves themselves. It’s still an active dig, so visitors put on hard hats and everything to go further.

At the Maropeng Visitor’s Center, there are interactive exhibits and programs for kids that show the animals that lived in each particular period. They’ve taken paleoanthropoligism and made it into a science. It’s such a special way of explaining where we come from. Kids will also learn how much damage we’ve done to the earth and how we need to be careful and change the way we do certain things. They’ve taken
science and made it human.

WHAT TO EAT IN JOBURG

One must indulge in boerewors. This is a traditional South African sausage made from beef mixed with either pork or lamb and a
mixture of spices. Also, traditional Joburg street food is a must try. It’s healthy, fresh, and yummy.

For a traditional meal, don’t miss going to an African restaurant like Moyo. Or you can try a traditional Soweto township restaurant. Or, better yet, get yourself invited to a braai (barbecue).

WHAT’S THE BEST SOUVENIR A VISITOR MUST BRING HOME FROM SOUTH AFRICA?

Sidewalk art made from recycled items. You can get these at the Art Market in Zoo Lake, full of stunning local artifacts and craft work.

Read more about traveling around Africa in Travelife Magazine.

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Cycling legend enjoys Vietnam

The two-day race featured contrasting compelling elements. On the first day, cyclists pedalled in the Bach Ma Laguna Challenge, which took place in Bach Ma National Park.

The next day riders vied for supremacy by the Gran Fondo Hue route. After passing through some of Vietnam’s most beautiful scenery, the race concluded in Hue, in front of the city’s citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

That was Evans’ first visit to Vietnam. Then he left the country, entranced by his experiences.

“I had been looking forward to riding in Vietnam. And I have to say I was blown away by the experience,” he said. “From a rider’s perspective it is totally unique. One minute you are cycling on flat roads past rice paddies and water buffalo; the next you are climbing up mountains covered in pristine jungle. It was really exhilarating.”

What’s great about Laguna Lang Co

The cycling wasn’t the only thing Evans loves about Vietnam. Along with other competitors, he bedded down at Laguna Lang Co, a main sponsor of the Coupe De Hue. During his stay, Evans gained an appreciation for another of Vietnam’s most potent drawcards: its legendary hospitality.

“The people in Vietnam are second to none,” he said. “For anyone looking for a unique destination for a cycling holiday, I can’t recommend the place highly enough.”

Active adventure in Vietnam

Evans’ endorsement is a boost for Laguna Lang Co; as well as Coupe de Hue supporter, leading inbound adventure travel operator Indotrek as they help Central Vietnam become a mecca for active adventure in Asia.

In addition to its support to Coupe De Hue, Laguna Lang Co developed other experiences for cyclists and other adventure seekers.

About the Bach Ma Laguna Challenge

Guests can ride climbs such as the famed Hai Van Pass or enter the next Bach Ma Laguna Challenge. Alternatively there is the flat fast circuit around picturesque Lap An Lagoon Lang Co. Many non-cycling activities also also include hiking, sea kayaking, and ATV and PWC safaris.

“We were delighted by the success of this year’s Coupe de Hue,” said Les Walters, Director of Activities at Laguna Lang Co. “The fact that it went so smoothly and was such a hit with riders — including with a racing legend like Cadel Evans who knows a great cycling destination when he sees one — really helps us to promote the area and showcase its natural beauty and incredible potential for active tourism.”

“As the Coupe de Hue showcased, Central Vietnam is a real hotspot for cycling and adventure travel,” said Adam de Lancey, Brand Manager at Indotrek, which played a leading role in organizing this year’s Coupe de Hue. With tougher rides complimented by simpler rides around destinations like Hoi An and Hue, there’s something for every ability.”

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They have everything from safari tents with a private chef in Georgia to tree houses in Spain with a view of the coast. Here are our top picks for glamping in 2020.

1

Georgia, USA

Offering coastal beaches, forests to explore, and the best glamping sites, Georgia is one of the best places for glamping in 2020. Whether you are looking for a tree house for two tucked in the Chattanooga National Forest or a safari tent on your own private island, glampers will find some incredible options in this area. 

Where to Stay

Luxury camp on a private island in the golden isles of Georgia

2

South Island, New Zealand

Known for its natural landmarks, glaciers, and adventure sports, the South Island of New Zealand is the ultimate glamping getaway. The larger of the two New Zealand islands, South Island offers over 850 unique glamping sites. Glampers can also enjoy adventure activities, from mountain and glacier climbing to surfing and paddleboarding.

Where to Stay

Incredible tiny house with amazing views in Akaroa, South Island

3

Galicia, Spain

Tucked away in Spain’s Northwestern corner is one of the country’s best gems, Galicia. This green country is not only known for its stunning and epic coastal hillsides and cliffs, similar to those of the Cliffs of Moher, but also its eco-friendly glamping sites.

In keeping with the flora and fauna of this region, these glamping sites are nestled beautifully into the heart of nature without disturbing the vast forests around them. Most importantly, you don’t want to miss the delicious seafood of Galicia while relaxing in the comfort of a luxurious tree house. 

Where to Stay

Modern eco-friendly tree house in woodlands of Galicia, Spain

4

British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia is an adventurous glamper’s dream location. From kayaking and canoeing, to whale-watching and ziplining, a visit to the island region of Canada will be the trip of a lifetime.

With over 200 accommodations to choose from, nothing screams glamping more than deluxe tented cabins with a view of Halfmoon Bay. Book a cabin here and start your morning with a cup of coffee and a walk along the picturesque shores of British Columbia.

Where to Stay

Stunning Luxury Tent Site in British Columbia

5

Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal

Step inside this forest haven for the glamping getaway you have been craving. The site is completely surrounded by greenery and trees in Peneda-Gerês National Park, one of best national parks of Portugal. At the same time, glampers have everything they want for a comfortable weekend away from the bustle of city life.

From mountain biking to whitewater rafting to horseback riding, this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve offers the most. These tree houses made from shipping containers are the perfect home away from home.

Where to Stay

Luxury tree houses in beautiful Portugal countryside

6

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Glampers heading in this direction will have their hands full with exploration, relaxation, and luxury. They can kill two birds with one stone as well. They can visit one of the most incredible national parks in the world and also experience a luxurious glamping holiday.

From massages in the morning to hot air balloon rides across the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in the afternoon, glampers will find their days here full and fun.

Furthermore, luxury travelers can relax because the deluxe cabins have modern amenities, and even fireplaces and hot tubs.

Where to stay

Luxury Cabins Neighboring Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

7

Machu Picchu, Peru

Meanwhile glampers with “The 8 Wonders of the World” on their bucket lists, must add glamping in Machu Picchu to the top. If you’re visiting one of the world’s most enchanting landmarks, why not add these luxurious camping domes?

Built to withstand the climate and winter temperatures, these domes satisfy modern needs and allow guests to explore Machu Picchu, in an incredible way.

Where to Stay

Luxury domes with trail access near Machu Picchu, Peru

Read more about glamping in 2020 around the world in Travelife Magazine.

The post Where to go glamping in 2021 appeared first on TRAVELIFE Magazine.

Museums, Monuments, and Galleries

Cyprus has a rich culture that spans 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest civilisations in the Mediterranean; evidenced by the captivating cultural sights, museums, monuments, and galleries.

There are also several themed exploration routes on the island. From discovering its ancient past on an antiquity tour, or taking the Byzantine route to see epic churches.

Outdoor pursuits in Cyprus

With serene coasts, rolling mountain and rugged headlands, Cyprus is blessed with the beauty of nature. From the shores of the mainland to the Troodos mountain range, explorers will delight in its waterfalls, coves, woodland, and winding trails.

Beaches 

The beaches in Cyprus are widely reachable to tourists with special access needs. The island also boasts the cleanest bathing waters in Europe and now has 64 Blue Flag beaches (widely considered the top accolade when it comes to beach quality). In fact, TripAdvisor name Cyprus’ Fig Tree Bay beach as number 13 its round up of the best beaches in the world for 2018.

Golf all-year round

The stunning natural surroundings and the opportunity to enjoy golf all-year-round are just two reasons travelers head to Cyprus.

The courses are integrated into the magnificent natural landscape of dramatic ravines, cliffs and sea vistas. For golfing in Paphos visit Secret Valley; Aphrodite hills Golf – PGA National; or Eléa Estate. For those deep in the mountains, try Minthis Golf Club.

Hearty food

Cypriot Mezes are the best way to sample the very best of local produce; with varied authentic style dishes of Halloumi, Ofto Kleftiko (oven-baked lamb and potatoes), and Pastourma (spicy sausages).

The ‘Mediterranean diet’ is also healthy thanks to its heart-healthy olive oil, lean meat, local herbs, and freshly grown produce.

Wellness escapes

Sometimes all you need is some R&R. And Cyprus definitely caters to this with its wealth of luxury spa resorts and rural retreats. Many Cypriot spas intertwine health with comfort. They offer pampering, holistic therapies, beauty treatments and a general sense of wellbeing to visitors. Many work on the ethos of escaping the day to day and focusing solely on yourself without any distractions.

The post Older travelers are heading for Cyprus appeared first on TRAVELIFE Magazine.

Where to go in Central America

Belize

Belize will be a leading eco-tourism destination following the launch of campaigns in 2018. The country’s approach to sustainable practices was reinforced following the news that a legislation has been passed banning single-use plastic items as of April 22, 2019, coinciding with Earth Day.

Where to go in Central America

An influx of hotels and resorts greatly boosted Belize’s luxury offerings. Many new properties will open their doors in the next few years including Itz’ana Resort and Residences (spring 2019); Unscripted Belize (2019); Autograph Collection Hotel Alaia (2020); and the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel (2021).

Where to go in Central America

Panama

Panama is featured on Lonely Planet’s top 10 countries to visit in 2019. The country is predicted to be lively throughout the year thanks to the celebrations for the capital’s 500th anniversary since its founding. There’s an expectation of large visitor numbers as a result of the landmark event combined with continued development in tourism infrastructure. Plans include a children’s park, new visitor center, and an operational cable car to encourage visits to the canal. Panama has also seen investment in its inbound transportation links; Air Europa will launch a new flight route from Madrid Barajas airport to Panama’s Tocumen International in June 2019.

Where to go in Central America

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s top golf destinations of 2019; it received the award, “Best Golf Destination for Latin America and Caribbean 2019” at the International Association of Tour Operators of Golf (IAGTO). This is the fourth time the island nation received the prestigious title in a six year period, thus firmly securing its status as a top golfing retreat for 2019.

Where to go in Central America

Honduras

Honduras’ continued investment in its tourism infrastructure shows the country’s commitment to the industry. As such, the Honduran Tourism Board recently launched a new video campaign to highlight the beauty and diversity of Honduras; under the slogan “you can’t leave Honduras without really knowing Honduras.” Diversifying the tourism portfolio is strong on the priority list with the launch of the new Marina Copán Convention Centre. The new center will significantly boost Honduras’ MICE offering.

It is in a unique location minutes away from the Mayan Copan Ruins. And it will have the capacity of 800 people. Further infrastructural developments include the construction of the Aloft hotel in San Pedro Sula opening 2020; as well as the Hilton Garden Inn Tegucigalpa set to open in 2021, marking the debut of the brand in Honduras.

The post Where to go in Central America appeared first on TRAVELIFE Magazine.

Kiroro is an alpine resort in the heart of Hokkaido, away from the crowds. It offers Japan’s deepest snow and untouched scenery. With over 20 meters of powder snow every winter, Kiroro offers a ski and snowboard haven around every corner.

The ski resort features two peaks with 22 groomed runs and acres of off-piste powder and tree skiing. The resort’s Mountain Center coordinates activities on and off the mountain. This includes a snow park, guided snow cat, and snowshoeing tours.

Visitors to Kiroro resort can choose from two properties: Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort and The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Located at the base of the slopes, Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort caters to skiers and adventurers with 140 guestrooms and suites and three restaurants. The resort is adjacent to the mountain center, with easy access to the ski and snowboard academy, rental shop, and ski valet. The Kiroro is a classic luxury alpine resort with breathtaking views of the Asari and Nagamine peaks. The 282-room hotel offers mountain vistas from every room, world-class facilities, and five dining options ranging from Japanese to Italian.

Kiroro Big Package

Spring in Kiroro is filled with bluebird days and plenty of snow. Arrive with no gear or wear, and enjoy discounts on rentals, meals and accommodations. The package includes:

• 3 nights’ accommodations for the price of 2. Offered through April 26, 2019 at The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel; through April 14 at Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort
• Complimentary breakfast
• 50% discount on wear and gear rentals, including skis and snowboards
• Complimentary access to resort pool and Fitness Center

About Kiroro Resort

Kiroro is a premier year-round resort destination in the heart of the Hokkaido. Originally known by ski aficionados, Kiroro is emerging as a world-class resort and one of the best all-season destinations in Asia. With two five-star hotels and luxury ski-in ski out private residences, Kiroro is an ideal getaway vacation for families, couples and visitors of all ages. For more information about the resorts and experiences, visit www.kiroro.co.jp For more information about Yu Kiroro private residences, visit www.yukiroro.com

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Renovating Fundació Miró Mallorca

The workshop, which is connected to his house, became the artist’s main studio in 1956. He created most of his work here until his death in 1983. The artistic venue will re-open with new content to further reflect the life and work of the pioneering Catalan artist; and to further convey the spirit of the artist whilst showing how it was before Miró passed away.

The renovated ‘Taller Sert’ further enhances the visitor experience by showcasing the real environment in which the artist worked. This plays a key role in understanding Miró’s art.

The Fundació Miró Mallorca has introduced a new video, produced by Spanish production agency ‘La Perifèrica’. This explains the motifs behind the renovation of the workshop by showing a discussion between Sert and Miró about the building’s architecture. The video plays a key part in answering questions about the workshop and the role it plays in highlighting the life and work of Joan Miró.

What’s New

A new entrance is on the east side of the building. This first leads into a small room (previously a storage space) before continuing into the main workshop, designed to reflect Miro’s artistic ritual of confronting the creative process before he started to paint.

Sixty-five exact replicas replaced the previously featured original Miró paintings and sculptures, due to concerns with the conservation of the pieces. Some of the originals are still inside the Fundació Miro Mallorca.

The Department of Collections of the Fundació Miro Mallorca conducted research into the life and work of Joan Miró. They examined photographs, videos, artifacts, and personal objects left behind by the artist, in order to exactly replicate his creative thinking, as well as the way he worked within the space.

The studio photographed and documented each tile and paint stain in the workshop during the renovation project to develop a future cataloguing project. This will allow the Fundació Miró Mallorca to attribute each mark to a specific work of art.

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Renowned for its medieval and renaissance art, Italy is home to a number of spaces – both public and private – dedicated to these historic and enriched periods of art. But aside from the popular and typical art attractions in the country, Italy also has a developing contemporary art movement. In this day and age, with how fast everything moves, contemporary art gives a glimpse of the prevailing issues and problems that artists – and the people around them – grapple with.

“People are familiar with contemporary art even if they do not realize it. Contemporary art is the art of today, the art linked to the facts we all read in the newspapers or on internet, art which emerges from today’s life,” shares Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino of the Embassy of Italy.

Ludovico Pratesi shortlists a number of spaces for contemporary art across the country that travelers can visit; from national museums and regional galleries, to private foundations established by influential local brands.

NATIONAL

MAXXI is the first Italian national institution founded for contemporary creativity. Found in Rome, the name of MAXXI is a play on words; the word means very big in Italian, but it also stands for “Museum of Art from the 21^st century,” using the Latin numerical “XXI” for 21. MAXXI has a dynamic and unconventional design home to contemporary art and architecture. It has a collection of 300 works of artists and architects from 1960. Zaha Hadid designed MAXXI’s spectacular architecture.

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna is one of the most important and prestigious museums in Italy. The National Gallery has a collection of more than 20,000 works from 1850 to 2000. It has the biggest collection in the country, which includes contemporary and modern art; which tackles works from the 20th century. Unlike other galleries that place works chronologically or by movement, the exhibits at the National Gallery are in thematic order. In one room, visitors will see diverse works focused on the idea of “the laying woman.”

REGIONAL

The Castle of Rivoli or Castello di Rivoli Museo d’Arte Contemporanea in Torino was built by architect Filippo Juvarra in 1714. Restored in 1984 as a contemporary art museum, the first two floors of the castle maintain its 18^th century design. It serves as interesting juxtaposition to the contemporary pieces displayed in the castle.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Trento and Rovereto, also known as “The Mart”, currently operates through three different sites: the museum’s main campus in Rovereto; the Casa d’Arte Futurista Depero, also in Rovereto; and the Galleria Civica in Trento. It identifies itself as a “cultural hub” that constantly displays exhibitions, and hosts events and workshops.

Found in the historic heart of Naples, Museo Madre was originally a monastery in the 19^th century before transforming into a museum in 2002. It is home to a permanent collection, with specific site-installations, and also temporary exhibitions.

FOUNDATIONS

Fondazione Prada in Milan and Venice opened in 2015 as a private contemporary art foundation. It has a collection of more than 3,000 works from 1945 to today.

Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo (FSRR) in Torino was the first foundation made for contemporary art. In 2002, Architect Claudio Silvestrin specifically created FSRR as a center for contemporary shows. It also hosts many temporary exhibitions, and highlights young international artists.

Today, there are more than 20 foundations in Italy. According to Pratesi, this has been a very good influence, in the context of the local contemporary art scene. There is a growing interest in the younger audience, especially since contemporary art resonates deeply with the issues people face today.

The post Where to Find Spaces of Contemporary Art in Italy appeared first on TRAVELIFE Magazine.

WINTER ACTIVITIES IN HOKKAIDO

Last winter, we decided to officially join the Club Med family by signing up for a week of fun winter activities. I was pensive during the 90-minute ride on the Club Med shuttle from Shin Chitose International airport to Club Med Tomamu.

This was our very first Club Med experience. I don’t sing songs around a campfire or enjoy group lessons. And I prefer room service to big breakfast buffets. Of course I wondered if Club Med would be a good fit for me. But my daughter wanted to learn how to snowboard so we went on our way. You can also learn more about snow bindings.

Loud pop music was playing when our bus entered the driveway. Happy people stood in the cold to greet us, clapping their hands enthusiastically as they sang. Each of them singled out a group of guests. Our “welcoming committee” was a young man who gave us the low-down on the 145-hectare Club Med Tomamu resort complex.

THE CLUB MED EXPERIENCE

There’s a system for everything at Club Med, you see. There’s even one for signing up for ski lessons. You must register for each lesson during a two-hour window the night before.

There’s also a system for borrowing equipment; and still another for eating at Hakku, the specialty yakiniku restaurant of Club Med. Booking a table at Hakku is on a first-come, first-served basis via a sign-up paper in the lobby.

When I first arrived, I honestly thought I would never get all the times and procedures right. But by the second day, I was a pro at booking the whole family’s ski lessons and ski equipment. Eventually I even managed to get us a table at Hakku for our last evening.

DINING OPTIONS AT CLUB MED

Then, of course, there’s Itara, the main restaurant of Club Med Tomamu with three buffet spreads everyday. Itara is a large venue with four dining areas, and this is the daily source of nourishment at Club Med Tomamu.

Itara certainly turned out to be a happy surprise for a picky eater like me. The menu varied for each meal. And chefs who prepared the food a la minute to ensure freshness staffed most of the stations. The food was so good we often went back for seconds.

DELICIOUS JAPANESE FOOD IN HOKKAIDO

The biggest surprise was the their Japanese food station. I didn’t expect a resort run by an international hospitality chain to serve delicious Japanese food. But their local dishes all passed our tests. The tonkatsu was crispy on the outside and moist inside. Meanwhile the tendon had perfectly fried tempura and excellent dashi. There was even a special rice cooker for Japanese rice.

Wine and other drinks are part of the package, too, with an option for guided whisky and sake tastings.

COLORFUL AND VIBRANT DESIGNS AT A LUXURY FAMILY RESORT

Meanwhile, the accommodations at this family resort were designed by French architect and designer Jean Philippe Nuel reminded me of a luxury camp. The contemporary interiors are bright and tasteful, with comfortable furniture that can withstand rough and tumble.

But it also had nice accents like photos of nature in Hokkaido on its brightly colored walls. The spacious deluxe family rooms, with a master bedroom and an adjoining twin bedroom, are among the best accommodations in these parts. The big bathrooms (by Japanese standards) are a plus for families.

WINTER ACTIVITIES

The highlight of a stay at Club Med Tomamu is the outdoor winter activities. These are considered the best winter activities in Hokkaido. Tomamu boasts of some of the best powder snow in Asia, so guests come here for group lessons and snow activities. These are already part of the stay package so you can check out the daily schedule and join as many as you wish. The list of lessons is as long as a menu, and there’s a smiling instructor for every level.

My husband tried his hand at snowboarding, while, my daughter signed up for snowboarding for children at the beginner’s level. She was lucky to be the only student in the scheduled class for three days running, making it more like private lessons.

Meanwhile, I joined a small group to hike around the surrounding forests with snow shoes. It took a while to adjust to the clumsy shoes, but eventually I got the hang of it and enjoyed the scenery of picturesque birch tree forests.

The resort also offers indoor activities. I went to yoga at the gym every afternoon. Walking between our room, the restaurant, and the ski center was more than enough to keep the calories off, actually. But if I wanted to indulge in more serious fitness activities, I could avail of the all-day cardio and body toning classes.

DANCING IN HOKKAIDO

Club Med Tomamu is one big happy place. Even if you’re not the smiling type, the all-around enthusiasm of the team is infectious. Unused to touchy-feely group dynamics, I stayed glued to my seat during the variety show on the first night, gawking at the people onstage who were singing and dancing with gusto and glancing at my watch every few minutes, conscious of bedtime.

But by midweek, we’d made friends with a family from Hong Kong and we were all up front dancing to “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. At the end of that evening and two conga lines later, it was close to midnight but it wasn’t my watch I was checking; it was my Fitbit. I’d clocked in 16,000 steps on my Fitbit and I wasn’t ready to go to bed yet. In fact, I felt ever so fine and alive, ready to book my next holiday with Club Med.

Read more about winter activities at the best family resort in Hokkaido in Travelife Magazine.

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