The Maya believed that the kakaw (cacao) was discovered by the gods in a mountain that also contained other delectable foods to be used by the Maya. According to Maya mythology, the Plume Serpent gave cacao to the Maya after humans were created from maize by divine grandmother goddess Xmucane.
There are several mixtures of cacao described in ancient texts, for ceremonial, medicinal uses as well as culinary purposes. Some mixtures included maize, chili, vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), peanut butter and honey. The first Europeans to encounter cacao were Christopher Colombus and his crew in 1502, when they captured a canoe at Guanaja that contained a quantity of mysterious-looking “almonds,”. The first real European knowledge about chocolate came in the form of a beverage which was first introduced to the Spanish at their meeting with Montezuma in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan in 1519.
Cacao had immense symbolic value. It was a rare luxury and an import that could not be grown within the boundaries of the Aztec Empire. There are no detailed descriptions of how cacao solids were prepared, but there are a number of allusions to the fact that it was eaten in some form. Cacao was most commonly drunk as xocolat ("bitter water", the origin of the word chocolate) and was the beverage of warriors and nobles. It was considered a potent intoxicant and something that was drunk with great solemnity and gravity which was described as something "not drunk unthinkingly" by the Spanish chronicler Sahagún.
Chocolate could be prepared in a huge variety of ways and most of them involved mixing hot or tepid water with toasted and ground cacao beans, maize and any number of flavorers such as chile, honey, vanilla and a wide variety of spices. The ingredients were mixed and beaten with a beating stick or aerated by pouring the chocolate from one vessel to another. If the cacao was of high quality, this produced a rich head of foam.
Hot Chili Chocolate
* 1 2/3 cups milk
* 1/2 vanilla bean
* red 1/8 tsp chili powder.
* 1 cinnamon stick
* 30/50 g bittersweet chocolate
Split red chili pepper and remove the seeds. Also split the vanilla bean, lengthwise. In a saucepan, heat milk to simmering with vanilla bean, chili pepper and broken up cinnamon stick. Continue to simmer for a minute or two. Grate chocolate, and whisk into the hot spiced milk until melted. Remove mixture from heat and let sit for 10 minutes, to steep. Strain, and heat through again if necessary. Serve hot. Serves 2.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
7th ANNUAL BALI FASHION WEEK
Fashion met art at the 7TH Annual Bali Fashion Week, November 2007.
Bali is well known for its beautiful beaches, incredible vistas, glorious sun sets, ideal location for high level conventions and summits but now also for its creative fashion event due to the continuous success of Bali Fashion Week. BFW is a unique fashion event that fuses fashion, art, culture into a fun-filled and inspiring festival that is developing into a significant world fashion event. The 7th edition of BFW opened on Nov 22, 2007 under the theme of “Fashion Meets Art”.
This four day annual event rolls fashion, art and culture into one creating an “An Arena for Excellence”.
“Besides the remarkable legacy of unique culture, friendly people and most incredible panorama, Bali is the concrete example of our efforts to blend a promotion of tourism, fashion trade and investment (TTI). With a wide support of the government and numerous private local and international enterprises and involvement of the fashion community of Indonesia, this action-packed four-day event included trade exhibition, seminars, open dialogue with designers, Going Green Handbag Design competition, fashion model award, three evening fashion shows, which built to a crescendo with the Mardi Gras, fashion carnival – FashiONtheStreet - on the last evening. On display were casual wear, resort wear, fancy party-wear of embroidery, beading and laces, textiles, knits, batik and fashion accessories such as handmade fashion jewelry, scarves, boots, shoes, zippers, as well as CAD/CAM systems for aiding apparel design and production.
A series of seminars were conducted in parallel to the exhibition, the topics of which ranged from fashion & colour trends, design technology, marketing and business skills and environmental issues. The three evening fashion shows were held at an amphitheatre with the beach & sea as backdrop. Three cargo containers provided the stage setting with bold messages - “From Bali to Paris”, “From Bali to New York”, and “From Bali to the World” - plastered on the sides. Models sashayed no less than 25 collections by 24 designers down the catwalk from traditional to modern day casual wear, leisure wear, eveningwear, children’s wear and futuristic cyber-wear.
The creative thinking atmosphere of Bali nurtured a new breed of fashion designers comprised of local Balinese and expatriates from four corners of the world who have decided to make Bali their home. Bali is home to a large expatriate community, many of them are involved in the fashion industry. Their collections showed free-thinking design expressions inspired by the resort lifestyle of Bali, and new-age electronic cyber characters.
The collection designed by children for children was indeed a charmer on the catwalk. At the carnival, 20 groups, some on horse-drawn chariots, some in open top cars, and others on foot, each with their own themes paraded through town that took more than one hour and ended on the beautiful Kuta Beach, against the backdrop of the glorious Pacific sunset, bringing BFW to a grand finale. Environmental protection is an ongoing concern of the residents of this pristine island. Several carnival costumes were statements on protection of nature, stop air pollution, promote culture and enjoy nature.
Some portrayed as people in bandages and face masks to filter the polluted air emitted from the sick earth. The winning designs of the Going Green Handbag Design competition went to designs that used recycled computer chips, newspaper and waste paper. Bali is awarded the most favoured island in the world. The idyllic setting and dynamic blend of eastern and western cultures provided Bali an ideal platform for fusion, transforming and forward-looking fashion as well as designs that respond to tropical weather, leisure lifestyle connected by the rich culture.
Owing to this good mix of local and foreign cultures and an atmosphere that encourages creative thinking, Bali has become a breeding ground for fashion creativity. The cross cultural taste in women’s fashion and the popularity of spa and resort lifestyle today supports Bali Fashion Week as an ideal place to congregate, express & present such fashion ideas by local and international designers.
Bali is well known for its beautiful beaches, incredible vistas, glorious sun sets, ideal location for high level conventions and summits but now also for its creative fashion event due to the continuous success of Bali Fashion Week. BFW is a unique fashion event that fuses fashion, art, culture into a fun-filled and inspiring festival that is developing into a significant world fashion event. The 7th edition of BFW opened on Nov 22, 2007 under the theme of “Fashion Meets Art”.
This four day annual event rolls fashion, art and culture into one creating an “An Arena for Excellence”.
“Besides the remarkable legacy of unique culture, friendly people and most incredible panorama, Bali is the concrete example of our efforts to blend a promotion of tourism, fashion trade and investment (TTI). With a wide support of the government and numerous private local and international enterprises and involvement of the fashion community of Indonesia, this action-packed four-day event included trade exhibition, seminars, open dialogue with designers, Going Green Handbag Design competition, fashion model award, three evening fashion shows, which built to a crescendo with the Mardi Gras, fashion carnival – FashiONtheStreet - on the last evening. On display were casual wear, resort wear, fancy party-wear of embroidery, beading and laces, textiles, knits, batik and fashion accessories such as handmade fashion jewelry, scarves, boots, shoes, zippers, as well as CAD/CAM systems for aiding apparel design and production.
A series of seminars were conducted in parallel to the exhibition, the topics of which ranged from fashion & colour trends, design technology, marketing and business skills and environmental issues. The three evening fashion shows were held at an amphitheatre with the beach & sea as backdrop. Three cargo containers provided the stage setting with bold messages - “From Bali to Paris”, “From Bali to New York”, and “From Bali to the World” - plastered on the sides. Models sashayed no less than 25 collections by 24 designers down the catwalk from traditional to modern day casual wear, leisure wear, eveningwear, children’s wear and futuristic cyber-wear.
The creative thinking atmosphere of Bali nurtured a new breed of fashion designers comprised of local Balinese and expatriates from four corners of the world who have decided to make Bali their home. Bali is home to a large expatriate community, many of them are involved in the fashion industry. Their collections showed free-thinking design expressions inspired by the resort lifestyle of Bali, and new-age electronic cyber characters.
The collection designed by children for children was indeed a charmer on the catwalk. At the carnival, 20 groups, some on horse-drawn chariots, some in open top cars, and others on foot, each with their own themes paraded through town that took more than one hour and ended on the beautiful Kuta Beach, against the backdrop of the glorious Pacific sunset, bringing BFW to a grand finale. Environmental protection is an ongoing concern of the residents of this pristine island. Several carnival costumes were statements on protection of nature, stop air pollution, promote culture and enjoy nature.
Some portrayed as people in bandages and face masks to filter the polluted air emitted from the sick earth. The winning designs of the Going Green Handbag Design competition went to designs that used recycled computer chips, newspaper and waste paper. Bali is awarded the most favoured island in the world. The idyllic setting and dynamic blend of eastern and western cultures provided Bali an ideal platform for fusion, transforming and forward-looking fashion as well as designs that respond to tropical weather, leisure lifestyle connected by the rich culture.
Owing to this good mix of local and foreign cultures and an atmosphere that encourages creative thinking, Bali has become a breeding ground for fashion creativity. The cross cultural taste in women’s fashion and the popularity of spa and resort lifestyle today supports Bali Fashion Week as an ideal place to congregate, express & present such fashion ideas by local and international designers.
PEACH NATURAL VERTUES
Some of the properties of this fruit are: Antitumor, Laxative, and Sedative. It's perfect for fresh use because of its lovely scent.
Peach Lotion (for dry or normal skin)
* 1 Peach
* 4 drops tincture of Benzoin (known to be STRONG sensitizer)
* 2 oz. coconut or sweet almond oil
* 1 1/2 oz. orange flower water and 1 or 2 drops orange oil
* 4 drops tincture of Benzoin (known to be STRONG sensitizer)
* 2 oz. coconut or sweet almond oil
* 1 1/2 oz. orange flower water and 1 or 2 drops orange oil
Wash, drain, mash, and then strain the juice from 1 peach through muslin or cheesecloth. Add to it 4 drops of tincture of benzoin, 2 oz. coconut or sweet almond oil, 1 1/2 oz. orange flower water and 1 or 2 drops orange oil. Beat together until it is fluffy and pour into a clean 4 oz container. It will keep for a longer period if you store it in the refrigerator. Use the lotion to moisturize your skin whenever it feels dry.
LUXURY HOTEL BALI
KUPU KUPU BARONG VILLAS & TREE SPA
7, Kedewatan, PO Box 7 -
80571 BALI- Indonesia.
Rooms : 27, Luxurious tropical wood villas, Idyllic location, Treetop spa .
Located in the heart of Bali, Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa is an idyllic 5 star hotel enclosed by three hectares of lush tropical gardens overlooking the spectacular Ayung River valley and the rice paddies. This was the first luxury hotel in Ubud, a city famed for its stunning landscape and rich cultural heritage: artist's workshops, galleries, balinese dances and remarkable architectural sights. The hotel welcomes discerning guests searching for the real heart of Bali, looking for a much-needed solace from modern life.The 20 villas of the Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa feature spacious bedrooms and balconies with stunning views of the valley and green paddy fields. The thatched roof bungalows are made of exotic red wood and surrounded by lush tropical greenery and are thoughtfully adorned with a private plunge pool, for instant invigoration. The villas showcase typically Balinese architecture, expertly constructed sloped roofs and structures that melt into the forest setting. The addition of a private butler ensures excellent personalised service.Bali is famous for its spa treatments and this hotel's spa facilities are second-to-none.
The Mango Tree Spa is a unique concept on the island: a spa located on the top branches of a mango tree overhanging the stunning valley. The extensive treatment programs include full body scrubs, massages, facials and pedicures whilst sipping a glass of champagne and absorbing the landscape.For lovers of intimate dining, the La View Restaurant is a charming split-level setting with outdoor terrace offering a menu of aromatic gourmet cuisine that transcends South East Asia with a distinct French infusion. Alternatively, the pool bar with its breathtaking vistas that sweep over the valley, also serves more traditional Indonesian culinary delights throughout the day.
Bali is a relatively small island which lies between the islands of Java and Lombok in the Indonesian archipelago. The town of Ubud is located 600 metres above sea level in the foothills, making a destination that is out of the way of the mass tourism of Kuta and Legian to the south. The nearest airport to the Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa is Ngurah Rai International airport in Kuta, about 25 km from the hotel.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
SPA'S DIAMONDS & CAVIAR BEAUTY
Hot stone facials, fruit-based body scrubs and four-handed massages used to be the ultimate in spa services just a few years ago. They were treatments that most of us would love to indulge in. But nowadays, fruit scrubs, hot stones and even four hands kneading your body sound ho-hum compared with the latest breed of massages, facials and body treatments.
In a bid to be different, dozens of upscale spas worldwide today are fashioning fancy treatments that incorporate luxurious ingredients such as diamond, caviar and gold. Of course, getting a taste of this decadence means shelling out big bucks -- you'll have to pay up to four figures in some cases.
Milana Knowles, the vice president of day spas for Spa Finder, a worldwide organization for the spa industry that represents more than 4,000 locations, says that spas are increasingly striving to create a "wow" effect for their clients. "As the beauty industry grows and the number of high-end spas grows, each place wants to distinguish itself," she says. "An easy way to do that is to offer up treatments that are the ultimate in luxury because of the rare ingredients they use."
They certainly sound extravagant, but whether these pricy services actually have some aesthetic benefit is the big question. The spas, naturally, tout their merit. Places offering treatments with gold, for example, advocate the metal's anti-aging potential. The spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas has a new Golden Body Treatment, and Patrick Huey, spa director there, says that there are proven benefits to using gold on the skin. "Gold is a major anti-oxidant so it combats free radicals, one of the major culprits in the aging process," he says.
Experts are slightly more skeptical. Dr. Jennifer Levine, a facial plastic surgeon in Manhattan, says that diamonds are known to refine the skin surface and many gems do have the mechanical properties of sloughing but that's about as far as it goes. "A lot of these treatments only sound glamorous," she says. "In science, there are no miraculous effects to using gems or other rare ingredients for beauty."
Whatever the merits may be, the free-spending set seems willing to part with the money to satisfy curiosity about this unprecedented kind of spa experience. An informal polling of 10 spas with these ultra-luxurious treatments revealed that these new services are among the most popular on their menus and, in some cases, are outselling all other offerings.
Here are five spots where hot stones just won't cut it. For those who can afford it, go ahead and indulge. The rest of us will have to settle with living vicariously though these descriptions.
Four Seasons, Las Vegas.
Golden Body Treatment, 80 minutes, $240 Four products with gold are used in this service, which starts with a vigorous exfoliation using a body scrub with gold traces. After a quick shower, your body is massaged with a gold lightweight cream gel and wrapped in foil and a blanket for 20 minutes so the precious metal can work its magic. The therapist massages your face, scalp, neck and shoulders while you're in the cocoon. After being unwrapped, your body is massaged with a gold-flecked massage oil. Finally, a gold powder is dusted all over the skin. All products used are courtesy of Fleur's.
Peninsula's Spa, Beverly Hills.
Precious Ruby Massage, 120 minutes, $385 This is the first hotel spa in North America to offer services using Shiffa precious gem oils. In this two-hour rubdown, clients are drenched in oil made with genuine rubies. The gem represents passion and love, and supposedly brings about happiness and clears negativity. The spa says this massage will balance your energy. If you're not the ruby type, you can pick from massages using sapphire, emerald or diamond oil -- each gem is said to offer a different benefit.
Spa V at Hotel Victor, South Beach, Florida.
Evian Bath, As long as you like, $5,000 Yes, spring water is also considered precious. In this case, the 350-gallon, infinity-edge tub in the hotel's penthouse is filled with a 1,000 bottles of Evian water and sprinkled with Gerber daisies. For maximum pleasure, indulgers also get a bottle of champagne, a dessert and a choice of two spa treatments.
Ritz-Carlton, NYC.
Caviar Firming Facial, 90 minutes, $285 Proponents have long insisted that fish eggs are more than just a culinary delicacy, and boast a host of beauty benefits including lifting sagging skin and giving it a glowing appearance. With regular use, caviar beauty products may be anti-aging. This facial uses the ultra-pricey La Prairie caviar face and eye cream and promises that skin will immediately be more lifted, luminous and firm.
The Observatory Hotel, Sydney, Australia.
Diamond Body Perfection, 120 minutes, $280 It's a triple whammy of precious jewels in this body treatment -- in addition to diamond, the service uses pearls and quartz crystals. The first step is a full-body microdermabrasion using a puree of diamonds, crushed freshwater pearls and crystals. Clients are then treated to a deep body massage. Finally, the body is slathered with a caviar body cream. The jewels are said to infuse your skin with an instant glow, and the caviar takes care of lifting any sagging body parts.
In a bid to be different, dozens of upscale spas worldwide today are fashioning fancy treatments that incorporate luxurious ingredients such as diamond, caviar and gold. Of course, getting a taste of this decadence means shelling out big bucks -- you'll have to pay up to four figures in some cases.
Milana Knowles, the vice president of day spas for Spa Finder, a worldwide organization for the spa industry that represents more than 4,000 locations, says that spas are increasingly striving to create a "wow" effect for their clients. "As the beauty industry grows and the number of high-end spas grows, each place wants to distinguish itself," she says. "An easy way to do that is to offer up treatments that are the ultimate in luxury because of the rare ingredients they use."
They certainly sound extravagant, but whether these pricy services actually have some aesthetic benefit is the big question. The spas, naturally, tout their merit. Places offering treatments with gold, for example, advocate the metal's anti-aging potential. The spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas has a new Golden Body Treatment, and Patrick Huey, spa director there, says that there are proven benefits to using gold on the skin. "Gold is a major anti-oxidant so it combats free radicals, one of the major culprits in the aging process," he says.
Experts are slightly more skeptical. Dr. Jennifer Levine, a facial plastic surgeon in Manhattan, says that diamonds are known to refine the skin surface and many gems do have the mechanical properties of sloughing but that's about as far as it goes. "A lot of these treatments only sound glamorous," she says. "In science, there are no miraculous effects to using gems or other rare ingredients for beauty."
Whatever the merits may be, the free-spending set seems willing to part with the money to satisfy curiosity about this unprecedented kind of spa experience. An informal polling of 10 spas with these ultra-luxurious treatments revealed that these new services are among the most popular on their menus and, in some cases, are outselling all other offerings.
Here are five spots where hot stones just won't cut it. For those who can afford it, go ahead and indulge. The rest of us will have to settle with living vicariously though these descriptions.
Four Seasons, Las Vegas.
Golden Body Treatment, 80 minutes, $240 Four products with gold are used in this service, which starts with a vigorous exfoliation using a body scrub with gold traces. After a quick shower, your body is massaged with a gold lightweight cream gel and wrapped in foil and a blanket for 20 minutes so the precious metal can work its magic. The therapist massages your face, scalp, neck and shoulders while you're in the cocoon. After being unwrapped, your body is massaged with a gold-flecked massage oil. Finally, a gold powder is dusted all over the skin. All products used are courtesy of Fleur's.
Peninsula's Spa, Beverly Hills.
Precious Ruby Massage, 120 minutes, $385 This is the first hotel spa in North America to offer services using Shiffa precious gem oils. In this two-hour rubdown, clients are drenched in oil made with genuine rubies. The gem represents passion and love, and supposedly brings about happiness and clears negativity. The spa says this massage will balance your energy. If you're not the ruby type, you can pick from massages using sapphire, emerald or diamond oil -- each gem is said to offer a different benefit.
Spa V at Hotel Victor, South Beach, Florida.
Evian Bath, As long as you like, $5,000 Yes, spring water is also considered precious. In this case, the 350-gallon, infinity-edge tub in the hotel's penthouse is filled with a 1,000 bottles of Evian water and sprinkled with Gerber daisies. For maximum pleasure, indulgers also get a bottle of champagne, a dessert and a choice of two spa treatments.
Ritz-Carlton, NYC.
Caviar Firming Facial, 90 minutes, $285 Proponents have long insisted that fish eggs are more than just a culinary delicacy, and boast a host of beauty benefits including lifting sagging skin and giving it a glowing appearance. With regular use, caviar beauty products may be anti-aging. This facial uses the ultra-pricey La Prairie caviar face and eye cream and promises that skin will immediately be more lifted, luminous and firm.
The Observatory Hotel, Sydney, Australia.
Diamond Body Perfection, 120 minutes, $280 It's a triple whammy of precious jewels in this body treatment -- in addition to diamond, the service uses pearls and quartz crystals. The first step is a full-body microdermabrasion using a puree of diamonds, crushed freshwater pearls and crystals. Clients are then treated to a deep body massage. Finally, the body is slathered with a caviar body cream. The jewels are said to infuse your skin with an instant glow, and the caviar takes care of lifting any sagging body parts.
STRAWBERRY VERTUES
This fruit contains several polyphenols that have high antioxidant capacity. They are also high in Vitamin C which is also a potent antioxidant.
Strawberry Hand and Foot Exfoliant
* 8-10 Strawberries
* 2 tablespoons Apricot Oil (you may substitute olive oil)
* 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, such as Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt
* 2 tablespoons Apricot Oil (you may substitute olive oil)
* 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, such as Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt
Mix together all ingredients, massage into hands and feet, rinse, and pat dry. Strawberries contain a natural fruit acid which aids in exfoliation.
Strawberry Cream (for oily or normal skin)
* 1/2 oz. white beeswax
* 1 1/2 oz. sweet almond oil
* 1 oz. apricot kernel oil
* 1 oz. strawberry juice (or apricot or peach or honey-dew melon)
* 8 drops tincture of benzoin (known to be STRONG sensitizer)
* 1 1/2 oz. sweet almond oil
* 1 oz. apricot kernel oil
* 1 oz. strawberry juice (or apricot or peach or honey-dew melon)
* 8 drops tincture of benzoin (known to be STRONG sensitizer)
Wash, drain, and mash 4-5 large strawberries. Squeeze out the juice and strain through muslin or cheesecloth. Heat the beeswax and the oils together in a double boiler until the wax is melted. Remove from the heat and add the juice quickly. Beat the mixture until it is fluffy. Add the benzoin and beat until it is cool. You must beat the mixture until it cools or else it will separate.
EXOTIC FASHION TREND 2008
Exotic Fashion Trend
Global Style Unites Safari & Tribal Flair,
Bollywood & Asian Charm
Globe-trotting trends borrow elements from African, Asian & East Indian fashion like tribal prints, safari clothes, bold colors and patterns, chunky jewelry and turbans.
The global village of fashion is one of the hottest places to be this spring, and designers primed your wardrobe for a safari adventure with a wild assortment of African field jackets, safari suits, zebra and leopard prints, khaki, and chunky tribal jewelry. And round out the style with a dash of colonial military attire. Once you've had a taste of tribal styles, the fashion powers that be sent you off to the Far East for a taste of Bollywood glam.The global fusion fashion trend juxtaposes earthy neutrals with brilliant ethnic influences, and makes for an exciting ride.
Safari Down the Runway
Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez – the talented design duo behind Proenza Schouler – rocked the trend, sending safari and tribal styles down the runway for their spring 2008 collection. The designers showed tailored jackets and vests vaguely inspired by colonial military garb and a touch of ethnic style. Tightly cinched hemp waistcoats and abbreviated vests were paired with sexy short skirts and stilettos, and the look was completed with cavalry hats, brass buttons and shiny buckled belts. The duo also delved into Asian style with the use of gorgeous ikat patterns.
Mixed in amid the brightly hued and ultra glam black and white designs of the Lanvin spring/summer 2008 collection were a few tribal offerings of nude and neutral silky numbers punctuated with leather belts and garnished with chunky ethnic jewelry.
Fashion history and global street style from all over the world come together to form one single trend as fast fashion giant H&M celebrated tribal style. In a breakdown of their Spring/Summer 2008 Collections, H&M explained how they mix and match Oriental, Asian and African inspiration to form a modern ethnic look that can be combined with tailored and sports-inspired pieces. Think 1920s Oriental with patterned and embellished shirts, tunics and dresses, worn with harem pants, and linen or khaki separates. Or create combinations that work by painting African patterns and finishes on couture classics.
Safari Fashion
Key features of the trend include:
Waistcoats, jackets, double-breasted blazers, vests, trousers, riding pants, walking shorts and skirts made from breathable natural fabrics like cotton, khaki, hemp, raw silk and linen, sharply tailored and cinched with leather or woven belts.
Neutral Colors found in nature, like skin tones, khaki, olive green, beige, brown and black contrasted with crisp white and splashes of wild colors like bright red, yellow, and orange. Colonial military details and accessories such as cavalry hats, wire-frame sunglasses, brass buttons, riding boots, gauze weave, cravats and neck scarves.
Tribal Trend & Bollywood Style
To master the tribal trend, incorporate some of these key African and Asian elements:
Let some wildlife into your closet by tastefully tossing in a few splashes of animal print; black-and-white wonky zebra stripes and giraffe prints are especially hot, as are snakeskin, leopard and cheetah spots.
Add some ethnic flavor to your vacation wardrobe with a dress, blouse, kaftan, tunic or scarf in an exotic and bold African or Asian print. Look for African geometric prints or a dazzling, multicolored West African kente cloth. Imitate this basket weave by picking a fabric with a kente-style print or track down beautiful zigzag patterns of Asian ikat weaves.
Feathers and beads are a fabulous and dramatic way to embellish the tribal look.
To accessorize the tribal style, look for wooden jewelry, chunky necklaces and bracelets, large hoop earrings, and stacks of bangles. Top it off with a straw hat or go all out and wrap up an African headdress or East Indian turban.
Take some inspiration from the Indian sari and Japanese kimono next time you're looking for a formal outfit. Raw silk, bold, rich colors, intricate embroidery and unique wrapping will give you a chic, sophisticated look that sets you apart from the crowd.
Global Style Unites Safari & Tribal Flair,
Bollywood & Asian Charm
Globe-trotting trends borrow elements from African, Asian & East Indian fashion like tribal prints, safari clothes, bold colors and patterns, chunky jewelry and turbans.
The global village of fashion is one of the hottest places to be this spring, and designers primed your wardrobe for a safari adventure with a wild assortment of African field jackets, safari suits, zebra and leopard prints, khaki, and chunky tribal jewelry. And round out the style with a dash of colonial military attire. Once you've had a taste of tribal styles, the fashion powers that be sent you off to the Far East for a taste of Bollywood glam.The global fusion fashion trend juxtaposes earthy neutrals with brilliant ethnic influences, and makes for an exciting ride.
Safari Down the Runway
Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez – the talented design duo behind Proenza Schouler – rocked the trend, sending safari and tribal styles down the runway for their spring 2008 collection. The designers showed tailored jackets and vests vaguely inspired by colonial military garb and a touch of ethnic style. Tightly cinched hemp waistcoats and abbreviated vests were paired with sexy short skirts and stilettos, and the look was completed with cavalry hats, brass buttons and shiny buckled belts. The duo also delved into Asian style with the use of gorgeous ikat patterns.
Mixed in amid the brightly hued and ultra glam black and white designs of the Lanvin spring/summer 2008 collection were a few tribal offerings of nude and neutral silky numbers punctuated with leather belts and garnished with chunky ethnic jewelry.
Fashion history and global street style from all over the world come together to form one single trend as fast fashion giant H&M celebrated tribal style. In a breakdown of their Spring/Summer 2008 Collections, H&M explained how they mix and match Oriental, Asian and African inspiration to form a modern ethnic look that can be combined with tailored and sports-inspired pieces. Think 1920s Oriental with patterned and embellished shirts, tunics and dresses, worn with harem pants, and linen or khaki separates. Or create combinations that work by painting African patterns and finishes on couture classics.
Safari Fashion
Key features of the trend include:
Waistcoats, jackets, double-breasted blazers, vests, trousers, riding pants, walking shorts and skirts made from breathable natural fabrics like cotton, khaki, hemp, raw silk and linen, sharply tailored and cinched with leather or woven belts.
Neutral Colors found in nature, like skin tones, khaki, olive green, beige, brown and black contrasted with crisp white and splashes of wild colors like bright red, yellow, and orange. Colonial military details and accessories such as cavalry hats, wire-frame sunglasses, brass buttons, riding boots, gauze weave, cravats and neck scarves.
Tribal Trend & Bollywood Style
To master the tribal trend, incorporate some of these key African and Asian elements:
Let some wildlife into your closet by tastefully tossing in a few splashes of animal print; black-and-white wonky zebra stripes and giraffe prints are especially hot, as are snakeskin, leopard and cheetah spots.
Add some ethnic flavor to your vacation wardrobe with a dress, blouse, kaftan, tunic or scarf in an exotic and bold African or Asian print. Look for African geometric prints or a dazzling, multicolored West African kente cloth. Imitate this basket weave by picking a fabric with a kente-style print or track down beautiful zigzag patterns of Asian ikat weaves.
Feathers and beads are a fabulous and dramatic way to embellish the tribal look.
To accessorize the tribal style, look for wooden jewelry, chunky necklaces and bracelets, large hoop earrings, and stacks of bangles. Top it off with a straw hat or go all out and wrap up an African headdress or East Indian turban.
Take some inspiration from the Indian sari and Japanese kimono next time you're looking for a formal outfit. Raw silk, bold, rich colors, intricate embroidery and unique wrapping will give you a chic, sophisticated look that sets you apart from the crowd.
LUMILINNA Snowcastle
On the Northern coast of the Gulf of Bothnia the SnowCastle of Kemi is a magnificent example of the great talent and skills of local architects and their builders. Inside the towering walls of the SnowCastle both children and adults can find unforgettable experiences. The Artwork of ice and snow with lights and sound effects is a delight for the age and soul in this wintry scenery.
Hotel of ice and snow
Snow Hotel with its arctic surroundings is a unique place. It is an excellent way to experience the coldness of an arctic night. Temparature in the hotel rooms is approximately – 5 º C, but a guest will have a good night sleep in a warm sleeping bag.The sleeping bags of the Snow Hotel are designed for winter tours, extreme climate zones and expeditions. These sleeping bags do not only guarantee the survival of the SnowHotel clients, but they quarantine an inappreciable amount of comfort and a large measure of cosiness.SnowHotel 2008 will have 20 double rooms, three group rooms for five persons and a weddingsuite.
SnowRestaurant 2008
The SnowRestaurant offers an unforgettable experience for its visitors. Tables are made of ice and the seats are covered with reindeer skin. SnowRestaurant serves hot and cold drinks, lunch, snacks and naturally á la carte.SnowRestaurant will be opened on 26th January.From 27th January until 6th April the SnowRestaurant is open during the opening hours of the SnowCastle. The Restaurant is opend also on other times on reservation.Please note that lunch and dinner reservations must be made at least two days in advance.
SnowChapel 27.1. - 6.4.2008
The chapel has been very popular in every eleven SnowCastles. The chapel is the place to go if you want to spend a peaceful moment.The chapel is Ecumenical, which means it's in use of every religion. Several couples from all around the world have had a magnificent wedding ceremony in the chapel.There are approximately 50 seats in the chapel.
Oy LumiLinna KemiSnowCastle Ltd.
Tel. +358 (0)16 259 502
Telefax +358 (0)16 259 708
E-mail: info@snowcastle.net
Monday, February 18, 2008
WORLDWIDE MASSAGES
Writings on massage have been found in many ancient civilizations such as Rome, Greece, Japan, China, Egypt, and India. [5]Hippocrates wrote in 460 BC that "The physician must be experienced in many things, but assuredly in rubbing." [8] The 27th century BC Chinese book called Huangdi Neijing by the Yellow Emperor recommended "massage of skin and flesh
Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage
Ayurveda is a natural health care system originating in India over 5000 years ago. It incorporates massage, yoga, meditation and herbal remedies. Ayurvedic Massage, also known as Abhyanga part of Panchakarma is usually performed by one or two therapists using a heated blend of herbal oils that are believed to be based on the body's dosha.The aim is to loosen the excess doshas through techniques such as kneading, rubbing, and squeezing. The feet are used in chavutti thirummal, a specialized technique where the therapist suspends himself by a rope from the ceiling to apply extra pressure with his feet.
Lomilomi
Main article: Lomilomi
Lomilomi is the traditional massage of Hawaii. As an indigenous practice, it varies by island and by family. The styles most known today are those of Auntie Margaret Machado of the island of Hawaii, Uncle Kalua Kaiahua of Maui and Oahu, and Kahu Abraham Kawaii of Kaua'i, who called his style Kahuna Bodywork. Other names given to massage performed in Hawaii are temple style, lomi lomi, lomi lomi nui, romi kapa rere, romi romi and ma-uri. Some of these styles may be traditional, and others may have been influenced by or created in modern times. The purported Lomilomi massage given by Barbra Streisand to Robert De Niro in "Meet the Fockers" was not an accurate representation of the style.
Reflexology massage
Reflexology, also called Foot zone therapy, is traditionally practiced without lotion, as the pressure points on the feet are stimulated by thumb and finger walking, as well as static pressure. Foot massage practitioners believe that the ailment of an internal organ will be associated with the nerve ending on the sole of the foot. As pressure is applied to the sole, theory holds that a healthy patient should not feel any strong pain. This theory is based on a perceived energetic flow of "meridians" in the body, also known as Chi.
Before the massage, the patient's feet are soaked for about ten minutes in a foot bath, typically a solution of hot water and Chinese herbs. The practitioner rubs and massages the painful spots to break down rough spots and accumulated crystals which have not been scientifically researched. Based on this idea, some shoe liners are made with pressure points to stimulate the soles of the feet.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu (指圧) is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure and works along the same energy meridians as acupressure and incorporates stretching. While receiving Shiatsu, you are fully clothed while laying on a mat on the floor.
Stone massage
Heated stones were used by Egyptians, Native Americans and in Lomilomi massage. Smooth hot or cold stones, usually basalt or marble, are used to massage the body. When heated stones are used muscles relax allowing the massage therapist to work deeper into the muscle. Energy medicine is sometimes incorporated into stone massage. Stones are heated in hot water and are placed under the back, along both sides of the spine, and on top of the torso and are believed to heat the chakra or meridians centers. Heated stones coated in oil are then used directly in the hands of the therapist delivering various massaging strokes.
Swedish massage
This style utilizes long, flowing strokes, often but not necessarily in the direction of the heart. There are six basic strokes: effleurage from the French effleurer, 'to skim over', petrissage from the French pétrir, 'to knead', friction, tapotement, compression, and vibration. Petrissage is a kneading movement with the whole palm or finger tips, using wringing, skin rolling, compression, and/or lifting. Petrissage is usually applied vertically to the muscle tissue. Oil, cream, or lotion is applied on the skin to reduce friction and allow smooth strokes. Effleurage consists of long, flowing or gliding strokes, performed with open hands. In many massage sessions, effleurage is used as the initial type of stroking, as it has a calming effect when performed slowly.
Thai massage
Known in Thailand as นวดแผนโบราณ (Nuat phaen boran, IPA [nuɑt pʰɛn boraːn]), meaning "ancient/traditional massage", Thai massage is also known as Thai ancient massage, traditional Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, yoga massage, Thai classical massage, Thai bodywork, passive yoga or assisted yoga. Thai massage originated in India based and is based on Ayurveda and yoga, thereafter becoming popular in ancient Siam, now known as Thailand. It was believed that the massage art was brought over to Thailand by Shivago Komarpaj (Jivaka Kumarabhacca), a contemporary of Gautama Buddha over 2500 years ago. The receiver is put into many yoga like positions during the course of the massage. In the northern style based out of Chiang Mai, Thailand there is a lot of stretching movements, unlike the southern style where acupressure is emphasized.
Traditional Chinese massage
Tui Na (推拿) focusing on pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle. Zhi Ya (指壓) is similar to Tui Na massage except it focuses more on pinching and pressing at acupressure points. They are both based off principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage
Ayurveda is a natural health care system originating in India over 5000 years ago. It incorporates massage, yoga, meditation and herbal remedies. Ayurvedic Massage, also known as Abhyanga part of Panchakarma is usually performed by one or two therapists using a heated blend of herbal oils that are believed to be based on the body's dosha.The aim is to loosen the excess doshas through techniques such as kneading, rubbing, and squeezing. The feet are used in chavutti thirummal, a specialized technique where the therapist suspends himself by a rope from the ceiling to apply extra pressure with his feet.
Lomilomi
Main article: Lomilomi
Lomilomi is the traditional massage of Hawaii. As an indigenous practice, it varies by island and by family. The styles most known today are those of Auntie Margaret Machado of the island of Hawaii, Uncle Kalua Kaiahua of Maui and Oahu, and Kahu Abraham Kawaii of Kaua'i, who called his style Kahuna Bodywork. Other names given to massage performed in Hawaii are temple style, lomi lomi, lomi lomi nui, romi kapa rere, romi romi and ma-uri. Some of these styles may be traditional, and others may have been influenced by or created in modern times. The purported Lomilomi massage given by Barbra Streisand to Robert De Niro in "Meet the Fockers" was not an accurate representation of the style.
Reflexology massage
Reflexology, also called Foot zone therapy, is traditionally practiced without lotion, as the pressure points on the feet are stimulated by thumb and finger walking, as well as static pressure. Foot massage practitioners believe that the ailment of an internal organ will be associated with the nerve ending on the sole of the foot. As pressure is applied to the sole, theory holds that a healthy patient should not feel any strong pain. This theory is based on a perceived energetic flow of "meridians" in the body, also known as Chi.
Before the massage, the patient's feet are soaked for about ten minutes in a foot bath, typically a solution of hot water and Chinese herbs. The practitioner rubs and massages the painful spots to break down rough spots and accumulated crystals which have not been scientifically researched. Based on this idea, some shoe liners are made with pressure points to stimulate the soles of the feet.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu (指圧) is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure and works along the same energy meridians as acupressure and incorporates stretching. While receiving Shiatsu, you are fully clothed while laying on a mat on the floor.
Stone massage
Heated stones were used by Egyptians, Native Americans and in Lomilomi massage. Smooth hot or cold stones, usually basalt or marble, are used to massage the body. When heated stones are used muscles relax allowing the massage therapist to work deeper into the muscle. Energy medicine is sometimes incorporated into stone massage. Stones are heated in hot water and are placed under the back, along both sides of the spine, and on top of the torso and are believed to heat the chakra or meridians centers. Heated stones coated in oil are then used directly in the hands of the therapist delivering various massaging strokes.
Swedish massage
This style utilizes long, flowing strokes, often but not necessarily in the direction of the heart. There are six basic strokes: effleurage from the French effleurer, 'to skim over', petrissage from the French pétrir, 'to knead', friction, tapotement, compression, and vibration. Petrissage is a kneading movement with the whole palm or finger tips, using wringing, skin rolling, compression, and/or lifting. Petrissage is usually applied vertically to the muscle tissue. Oil, cream, or lotion is applied on the skin to reduce friction and allow smooth strokes. Effleurage consists of long, flowing or gliding strokes, performed with open hands. In many massage sessions, effleurage is used as the initial type of stroking, as it has a calming effect when performed slowly.
Thai massage
Known in Thailand as นวดแผนโบราณ (Nuat phaen boran, IPA [nuɑt pʰɛn boraːn]), meaning "ancient/traditional massage", Thai massage is also known as Thai ancient massage, traditional Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, yoga massage, Thai classical massage, Thai bodywork, passive yoga or assisted yoga. Thai massage originated in India based and is based on Ayurveda and yoga, thereafter becoming popular in ancient Siam, now known as Thailand. It was believed that the massage art was brought over to Thailand by Shivago Komarpaj (Jivaka Kumarabhacca), a contemporary of Gautama Buddha over 2500 years ago. The receiver is put into many yoga like positions during the course of the massage. In the northern style based out of Chiang Mai, Thailand there is a lot of stretching movements, unlike the southern style where acupressure is emphasized.
Traditional Chinese massage
Tui Na (推拿) focusing on pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle. Zhi Ya (指壓) is similar to Tui Na massage except it focuses more on pinching and pressing at acupressure points. They are both based off principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
LIGHT JAPANESE FOOD
Japanese food is light and cooked without much grease. Fresh fish, seafood, rice and vegetables are intrinsic to most Japanese food recipes. Most Japanese food recipes can be classified as rice dishes, seafood, noodle, yoshuku, soya bean, tofu, nabe, sashimi and sushi dishes. Red meat did not figure much on the Japanese cuisine till the end of the 19th century. The meals consist more of grains, beans, seaweed, vegetables and seafood. Seaweed, fish, clams and fish cakes are used in most Japanese food recipes. Probably this accounts for the higher life expectancy among the Japanese people. A Japanese meal usually ends with green tea. There are regional variations even in a small country like Japan. While the Japanese food recipes from the Kanto region have a stronger taste, the recipes from the Kansai region are lightly seasoned.
Japanese food
While typically Japanese meals are eaten with chopsticks, forks, knives and spoons are also used. A Japanese meal setting includes a bowl of steamed rice on your left and miso soup on your right. Nabe dishes are prepared hot at the table and include ingredients such as negi (Japanese leek), hakusai (Chinese cabbage), mushrooms, seafood and meat. Sukiyaki, Oden, Chanko Nabe and Shabu-Shabu are popular nabe dishes. Tsukemono or Japanese pickles are served with most Japanese meals.
Edamame or young soybean boiled and seasoned with salt is a popular Japanese snack. Ohitashi or boiled greens can be eaten with soy sauce. Alternatively you can coat vegetables with sesame paste. This Japanese dish is called goma ae. Tempura dishes are seafood, vegetables and mushrooms coated with batter and deep-fried.
Rice forms a core element in most Japanese meals. In fact, it is eaten for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast. Rice used in Japanese cuisine is sticky and short grained. While white rice is served at Japanese meals with a variety of toppings, there are other combinations such as Domburi, Kare Raisu (Curry Rice), Chahan (Fried Rice), Kayu (Rice gruel) or Onigiri (Rice balls with vegetables or seafood in the middle). In fact rice balls wrapped in seaweed are a popular snack and available easily. Kare Raisu is also a popular take away dish. Rice cakes (mochi) are another popular Japanese food item.
Japanese noodle dishes are made with soba noodles (buckwheat and wheat flour) or udon noodles (wheat flour). Somen noodles are relatively thinner and eaten cold while yakisoba noodles are served fried with vegetables and meat. Seafood is eaten grilled, steamed, boiled or even raw as in Sashimi.
Pungent sauces and delicate flavors are used to whip up dishes that tantalize the taste buds and look appetizing too. Japanese food recipes primarily make use of seasonings such as shoyu (soybean sauce), mirin (sweet sake), vinegar, myoga (ginger) and wasabi (Japanese horseradish). Ground sansho seeds and yuzu also find place in Japanese food recipes. Miso paste is made with soybean and used to marinate fish and flavor soups. Fermented soybeans or Natto are usualy served with chopped onions and mixed with rice. Its characteristic pungent smell and stringy texture needs some getting used to.
Sake or Japanese rice wine is made with brewed rice, water and malt. This Japanese wine complements the cuisine. Other Japanese beverages include ume – an alcoholic beverage made with Japanese plums and shochu – a distilled spirit made with sweet potatoes, rice and sugar cane. Typical Japanese sweets are made with rice, sugar and red azuki beans. Yokan, higashi and manju are served as desserts. Chawanmushi is steamed egg custard.
Japanese food recipe
Recipe for Teriyake sauce
Mix ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup mirin and 2 tbsp sugar. Simmer in a pan for a few minutes and cool. Store for use later.
Japanese food recipe for Atsu Yaki Tamago
You can prepare this thick sweet omelet for a meal. Serve it with rice or fish.
½ cup dashi
½ cup of sugar
2 teaspoons shoyu
2 teaspoons sake
½ teaspoon of salt
Mix sugar, dashi, shoyu and sake and salt. Simmer on low flame. Cool and add beaten eggs. Pour a ladle full of mixture on a heated frying pan. Spread it evenly. Use oil as required. Cook both sides till done. Serve chilled. This omelet is usually made on a square pan.
Japanese food recipe for Chawanmushi
2 eggs
1 cup dashi
sugar and salt
tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp sake
fish cakes
Beat eggs and add dashi, soy sauce, salt, sugar and sake. Pour this mixture into individual serving bowls. Place mitsuba on each bowl.
Japanese food recipe for Chicken sake
Chicken fillet pieces
Sake
Lemon juice
Ginger
soy sauce
Mirin
Marinate chicken with sake, lemon juice and ginger. Prepare a sauce with soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil and spring onion. Cook chicken till tender. Cut into pieces and serve drizzled with sauce. Garnish with pepper strips and chopped spring onions.
Japanese food
While typically Japanese meals are eaten with chopsticks, forks, knives and spoons are also used. A Japanese meal setting includes a bowl of steamed rice on your left and miso soup on your right. Nabe dishes are prepared hot at the table and include ingredients such as negi (Japanese leek), hakusai (Chinese cabbage), mushrooms, seafood and meat. Sukiyaki, Oden, Chanko Nabe and Shabu-Shabu are popular nabe dishes. Tsukemono or Japanese pickles are served with most Japanese meals.
Edamame or young soybean boiled and seasoned with salt is a popular Japanese snack. Ohitashi or boiled greens can be eaten with soy sauce. Alternatively you can coat vegetables with sesame paste. This Japanese dish is called goma ae. Tempura dishes are seafood, vegetables and mushrooms coated with batter and deep-fried.
Rice forms a core element in most Japanese meals. In fact, it is eaten for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast. Rice used in Japanese cuisine is sticky and short grained. While white rice is served at Japanese meals with a variety of toppings, there are other combinations such as Domburi, Kare Raisu (Curry Rice), Chahan (Fried Rice), Kayu (Rice gruel) or Onigiri (Rice balls with vegetables or seafood in the middle). In fact rice balls wrapped in seaweed are a popular snack and available easily. Kare Raisu is also a popular take away dish. Rice cakes (mochi) are another popular Japanese food item.
Japanese noodle dishes are made with soba noodles (buckwheat and wheat flour) or udon noodles (wheat flour). Somen noodles are relatively thinner and eaten cold while yakisoba noodles are served fried with vegetables and meat. Seafood is eaten grilled, steamed, boiled or even raw as in Sashimi.
Pungent sauces and delicate flavors are used to whip up dishes that tantalize the taste buds and look appetizing too. Japanese food recipes primarily make use of seasonings such as shoyu (soybean sauce), mirin (sweet sake), vinegar, myoga (ginger) and wasabi (Japanese horseradish). Ground sansho seeds and yuzu also find place in Japanese food recipes. Miso paste is made with soybean and used to marinate fish and flavor soups. Fermented soybeans or Natto are usualy served with chopped onions and mixed with rice. Its characteristic pungent smell and stringy texture needs some getting used to.
Sake or Japanese rice wine is made with brewed rice, water and malt. This Japanese wine complements the cuisine. Other Japanese beverages include ume – an alcoholic beverage made with Japanese plums and shochu – a distilled spirit made with sweet potatoes, rice and sugar cane. Typical Japanese sweets are made with rice, sugar and red azuki beans. Yokan, higashi and manju are served as desserts. Chawanmushi is steamed egg custard.
Japanese food recipe
Recipe for Teriyake sauce
Mix ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup mirin and 2 tbsp sugar. Simmer in a pan for a few minutes and cool. Store for use later.
Japanese food recipe for Atsu Yaki Tamago
You can prepare this thick sweet omelet for a meal. Serve it with rice or fish.
½ cup dashi
½ cup of sugar
2 teaspoons shoyu
2 teaspoons sake
½ teaspoon of salt
Mix sugar, dashi, shoyu and sake and salt. Simmer on low flame. Cool and add beaten eggs. Pour a ladle full of mixture on a heated frying pan. Spread it evenly. Use oil as required. Cook both sides till done. Serve chilled. This omelet is usually made on a square pan.
Japanese food recipe for Chawanmushi
2 eggs
1 cup dashi
sugar and salt
tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp sake
fish cakes
Beat eggs and add dashi, soy sauce, salt, sugar and sake. Pour this mixture into individual serving bowls. Place mitsuba on each bowl.
Japanese food recipe for Chicken sake
Chicken fillet pieces
Sake
Lemon juice
Ginger
soy sauce
Mirin
Marinate chicken with sake, lemon juice and ginger. Prepare a sauce with soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil and spring onion. Cook chicken till tender. Cut into pieces and serve drizzled with sauce. Garnish with pepper strips and chopped spring onions.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
LUXURY HOTEL BUTHAN
UMA PARO
Po Box 222 - PARO - Bhutan
Uma Paro is an inland retreat, with an understated philosophy of quiet comfort in a culturally rich location. The setting, in all-Buddhist Bhutan, couldn’t be more spectacular: flower-filled valleys, jungle, terraced hills and dramatic ranges wrapped in mist. Uma Paro, a member of the unique Como Shambhala Retreats, is designed for guests seeking greater health through yoga and Asian-inspired treatments. There’s a yoga room overlooking the Paro Valley that can be opened up to catch the mountain breeze, a Jacuzzi, and an indoor pool with sundeck and gym. Also, the surrounding pine forest is home to a 90-square-metre bathhouse, which includes a private massage room for couples…
Accommodations range from rooms with views of the surrounding pine forests or beautiful Paro valley to Suites to luxurious Villas with private spas, hot stone bathtubs and their own private butler service.The restaurant, Bakhari, serves the wholesome cuisine (Western, Bhutanese and Indian) typical of Como Shambhala resorts. There’s also a bar, offering all-day dining and a meeting room with a capacity for 10 guests. The Spa offers Asian inspired holistic therapies including reflexology, Ayurveda and facials and features 4 treatment rooms, an indoor yoga studio with panoramic views of the mountains, gym, steam rooms and indoor pool with outdoor sundeck. Additionally, with Uma Paro, the Bhutanese countryside is easily accessible. Experienced guides provide the expertise to embark on fully-serviced treks, gentle or challenging mountain bike tours, or guided day walks around the cultural highlights of the surrounding hills.
Po Box 222 - PARO - Bhutan
Uma Paro is an inland retreat, with an understated philosophy of quiet comfort in a culturally rich location. The setting, in all-Buddhist Bhutan, couldn’t be more spectacular: flower-filled valleys, jungle, terraced hills and dramatic ranges wrapped in mist. Uma Paro, a member of the unique Como Shambhala Retreats, is designed for guests seeking greater health through yoga and Asian-inspired treatments. There’s a yoga room overlooking the Paro Valley that can be opened up to catch the mountain breeze, a Jacuzzi, and an indoor pool with sundeck and gym. Also, the surrounding pine forest is home to a 90-square-metre bathhouse, which includes a private massage room for couples…
Accommodations range from rooms with views of the surrounding pine forests or beautiful Paro valley to Suites to luxurious Villas with private spas, hot stone bathtubs and their own private butler service.The restaurant, Bakhari, serves the wholesome cuisine (Western, Bhutanese and Indian) typical of Como Shambhala resorts. There’s also a bar, offering all-day dining and a meeting room with a capacity for 10 guests. The Spa offers Asian inspired holistic therapies including reflexology, Ayurveda and facials and features 4 treatment rooms, an indoor yoga studio with panoramic views of the mountains, gym, steam rooms and indoor pool with outdoor sundeck. Additionally, with Uma Paro, the Bhutanese countryside is easily accessible. Experienced guides provide the expertise to embark on fully-serviced treks, gentle or challenging mountain bike tours, or guided day walks around the cultural highlights of the surrounding hills.
The hotel is located on a 38-acre site atop a tree-clad hill, close to the town of Paro, which is one of the main cultural centres of Bhutan. It is also where the nation’s only airport is located with flights to and from Bangkok, Calcutta, Delhi, Dhaka and Kathmandu with Bhutan's national airline, Druk Air.
Site : http://www.splendia.com/
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