Resorts Magazine 51

Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris

8

RESORTSM A G A Z I N E

T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S

London Paris A

stana Alm

aty Shym

kent Dushanbe U

zbekistan Kyrgyzstan

515

1

N. 51 SEPTEMBER 2014

Hotel Kainar, Shymkent

8



Burana Tower, Kyrgyzstan



Ovidio Guaita, Editor-in-Chief

EDITORIAL

Go beyond your expectations with Resorts Magazine!

EDITORIAL

A n exclusive tent in the Tajik steep at 3000 meters asl has little and a lot at

the same time. It is certainly not luxury in its essence but is exclusive because very few travelers venture out into these regions of Central Asia. Hence a place for real travelers. We went to see just what these distant lands - since ancient times frequented by merchants and nomads - have to offer. Along here passed the Silk Road, and here today are intertwined pathways of petroleum (mainly in Kazakhstan). The yurts of nomadic herders are flanked by Soviet-style apartment buildings and stylish modern towers with classy international hotels.

A land of contrasts that fascinates and intrigues, leaving room for the imagination. We propose a discovery trip that does not leave out the classic destinations such as Uzbekistan and then suggest novel stop-offs scattered among modern capitals and the ancient caravanserais.

Song-kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

CONTENTS

26

32

36

TOP 10cruises

CITY HOTEL

The Halkin by COMO

CITY HOTEL

Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris

CONTENTS

CONTENTSCENTRAL ASIA exclusive

KAZAKHSTAN

RADISSONAstana

THE RITZ-CARLTON

Almaty

KAINAR HOTEL

Shymkent

ALMATY CITY TOUR

discovering Kazakhstan

56

64

72

76

CONTENTSCENTRAL ASIA exclusive

78

84

TAJIKISTAN

where Alexander the Great found a wife

SERENA HOTEL

Dushambe

PAMIR SILK

trekking and more

TAJIKISTAN

88

CONTENTS

TAJIKISTAN

90

98

106

CONTENTS

UZBEKISTAN

the fascination of an ancient legend

KYRGYZSTAN

in the mountains along the Silk Road

AIR ASTANA

in flight on the Silk Road

CENTRAL ASIA exclusive

Villa a Sorrento.

RM lifeStyleCONTENTS

SOTHEBY’S International Realty

best Italian properties for sale

114

Villa a Sorrento.

www.palidano.com

T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N STo

p 10

0

HOTEL COLONIALI

PalidanoPress

Top 100 HOTEL C

OLO

NIA

LI

Dal Settecento fino alla seconda guerra mondiale. Due secoli di lusso ai tropici, tra ventilatori a pale, verande, tè pomeridiani e stuoli di servitori. Molti in Asia ma anche nelle colonie africane e in Centro America. Una storia affascinante di lungimiranti investitori, pionieri e avventurieri costellata di nomi eccellenti come Raffles, Peninsula e Strand. Questa directory ci mostra i migliori esempi sopravvissuti dove sperimentare esperienze e atmosfere d’altri tempi.

L’autore, Paolo Gerbaldo, è inviato di Resorts Magazine. PP To

p 10

0PalidanoPress

This directory offers an annotated and up-to-date instrument for the possible destinations for those who want to stay in the city or nearby. This because sometimes it is not only a question of price but rather attention to detail, passion and taste. Among the solutions proposed, surprises are not missing.

Questa directory offre uno strumento aggiornato e ragionato sulle possibili destinazioni per chi vuole soggiornare in città o nelle vicinanze. Perché a volte non è solo questione di prezzo ma di attenzione al dettaglio, passione e gusto. E tra le soluzioni proposte non mancano appunto le sorprese.

2013 Top 100 Places to Stay in Florence & N

earby 2013

PP

Top 100 Places to Stay in

Flo r enc e

and ne a r b y



Cover: Buddha-Bar Hotel, Paris; right: a wall in Kazakhstan.

X, n. 51 September 2014

Editor-in-Chief Ovidio GuaitaSenior Editor Lawrence Taylor

Contributors Elsa Bozzaotra, Maria Coscarelli, Paola Di Girolamo, Marco Galli, Paolo Gerbaldo, Alessandra Jovinelli, Giuseppe Lai, Daniela Libero, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Hasrudin TazepPhotos Ovidio Guaita, Lawrence Taylor, Roberto Sessoli , Angelo Tondini, Slam Hoja and published hotels and resorts

Video for iPad and iPhone appRoberto SessoliGraphic Design Niccolò Angeli www.niccoloangeli.comLayout Graphic Department Palidano PressIT Manager Riccardo Casano www.riccardocasano.com Public RelationsDaniela LiberoSubscriptions (12 issues per year)Europe 300 € Rest of the world 350 €

PublisherPalidanoPress3 More London Riverside - SE1 2RE LondonUS Office 1133 Broadway, Suite 708 - New York, NY 10010www.palidano.com

monthly publication © 2014 Palidano Press Ltd

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.ISSN 2043-6629

www.resorts.it

LAWRENCE TAYLORIn Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in the footsteps of Alexander the Great.

PAOLO GERBALDOPaolo surprises us with Oriental Paris, an unusual jewel.

MARIA COSCARELLIMaria offers us a review of the best cruise ships.

MARCO GALLIThe best Italian properties for sale at Sotheby’s.

ELSA BOZZAOTRAIn Uzbekistan, discovering an enchanting country.

OVIDIO GUAITAIn Kazakhstan, on the Silk Road now the Oil Road.

Our correspondentsAll resorts published are choosen by the editorial staff and tested by our journalists-inspectors.

London

United Kingdom

32

Paris

France

36

22 RESORTS MAGAZINE | SETTEMBRE 2014

Shymkent

Kazakhstan

73

Astana

Kazakhstan

56

Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan

100

Almaty

Kazakhstan

64

Dushanbe

Tajikistan

85

our destinations

23RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014

www.palidano.com to subscribe

one year (12 issues) Europe € 300 - rest of the world € 350

complete the questionnaire on the website and receive a discount code

get 10 % off

fill in the questionnaire


www.resorts.it


Su Cologone, Sardegna

8



Milano Tallin V

ilnius Riga S

aint-Tropez S

ardegna Costa N

avarino

49

49

N. 49 LUGLIO 2014

8



AntiguaParis

MilanoVenezia

La PazSucre

ParoPunakhaThimphuVal d’Isère

Antigua P

aris Milano Venezia La P

az Sucre P

aro Punakha Thim

phu Val d’Isère

44

44

Song Saa Private Island, Sihanoukville

N. 44 FEBBRAIO 2014

Villa Tolomei, Firenze

8



New

York M

ilano Cannes Z

adar Salina F

irenze

48

48

N. 48 JUNE 2014

8


T H E W O R L D ’ S M O S T E X C L U S I V E D E S T I N A T I O N S S

alamanca S

ardegna London Vitznau B

aja California B

anff Borobudur

47

47

N. 47 MAY 2014

8



Saint PetersburgTbilisi

AndermattGenève

LausanneAsconaLuganoWeggisZürich

OberlechPunta Ala

Saint P

etersburg Tbilisi Anderm

att Genève Lausanne A

scona Weggis Zürich Lugano O

berlech

45

45 The >Chedi, Andermatt

N. 45 MARCH 2014

8



ColomboDa Nang

DubaiRas Al Khaimah

SantiagoAtacama

CourchevelZermatt

AostaVenezia

Colom

bo Da N

ang Dubai R

as Al K

haimah S

antiago Atacam

a Courchevel Zerm

att Aosta Venezia

43

43

Burj Al Arab, Dubai

N. 43 JANUARY 2014

Top 10 cruisesnever having to touch your luggage

TOP 10 | CRUISES


Top 10 cruises

Maria Coscarelli

1. Europa (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises))

2. Crystal Serenity (Crystal Cruises)

3. Silver Shadow (Silversea)

4. Queen Mary II Grill Class (Canard)

5. Seabourn Legend (Seabourn)

6. Sea Cloud II (Sea Cloud Cruises)

7. Hanseatic (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises)

8. Seven Seas Voyager (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)

9. Hebridean Spirit (Hebridean International Cruises)

10. SeaDream II (Sea Dream Yacht Club)


rom five-star service to a conference on

the stars in the sky the distance is short. Sailing ships and modern vessels, capable

of giving maximum comfort and, naturally, secure with avant-garde technologies

to offer an outstanding sailing experience.

Large or small the challenge does not matter. The destination matters up to a

certain point. The service and the cuisine are what make the difference, together with

the suites available onboard. Guests must never feel bored and the onboard activities

come one after the other, alternating with the excursions in the ports of arrival.

Never having to touch your luggage; all-inclusive service; an elegant stay on

the seas of the world, one of these ships certainly affords an unforgettable trip.

Whatever your destination.

FTOP 10 | CRUISES


Top

100

Reso

rts W

orld

wid

e 1 One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah

2 Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru

3 Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

4 The Estates at Pangkor Laut

5 Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace

6 Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay

7 Shangri-la's Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives

8 Frégate Island Private

9 Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

10 Amanjiwo

11 Four Seasons Resort at Kuda Huraa

12 Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives

13 Grand Resort Bad Ragaz

14 Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

15 Ananda in the Himalayas

16 Amanusa

17 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

18 Il Salviatino

19 Bulgari Resort, Bali

20 Al Areen Palace & Spa

21 Taj Lake Palace

22 The Oberoi Rajvilas

23 Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

24 Amanbagh

25 Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

26 Parrot Cay

27 Banyan Tree Phuket

28 The Legian

29 The Chedi Chiang Mai

30 Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

31 Amandari

32 The Chedi Muscat

33 Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita

34 Cheval Blanc

35 The Fortress Galle

36 Banyan Tree Seychelles

37 Alila Villas Uluwatu

38 Four Seasons Seychelles

39 The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh

40 Beau-Rivage Palace

41 Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

42 Palazzo Sasso

43 The Oberoi Udaivilas

44 The Oberoi Cecil

45 Hotel Splendido

46 The Empire Hotel & Country Club

47 Amanpuri

48 Le Prince Maurice

49 Singita Sweni Lodge

50 Cuisinart Golf Resort & Spa

51 Amanwana

52 Amansara

53 Como Shambhala Estate, Bali

54 Shanti Maurice

55 One&Only Royal Mirage, The Residence

56 Anassa

57 Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

58 Reid's Palace

59 Amanpulo

60 Grande Roche

61 Kurland Country Hotel

62 One&Only Ocean Club

63 Aman-i-Khas

64 Amankora

65 Suvretta House

66 Madinat Jumeirah

67 Amanwella

68 Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat

69 Four Seasons Resort Nevis

70 Singita Lebombo Lodge

71 The Nam Hai

72 The Residence Zanzibar

73 Sandy Lane

74 Blancaneaux

75 Shangri-la's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

76 Amankila

77 Banyan Tree Lijiang

78 Blue Palace Resort & Spa

79 One&Only The Palm

80 Amanyara

81 The Residence Tunis

82 Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa

83 Hotel Finca Cortesin

84 Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

85 Le Touessrok

86 Soneva Fushi

87 The Tides Riviera Maya

88 Wharekauhau Country Estate

89 Muse

90 Banyan Tree Ringha

91 Villa San Michele

92 Fuchun Resort

93 Kiaroa

94 Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa

95 Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

96 MesaStila

97 Banyan Tree Sanya

98 Palazzo Versace

99 K Club

100 InterContinental Carlton Cannes


a peaceful nest

CITY HOTEL | THE HALKIN BY COMO


a peaceful nest

I t seems incredible but in the ver y hear t

of London’s v ibrant center l ies a peaceful

nest enclosed among the e legant edi f ices

of the Belgravia neighborhood.

Elsa Bozzaotra

The Halkin by COMO


he Halkin by COMO, boasting numerous

awards, offers a new formula for hospitality whereby the taste for the

essential merges with understated luxury. There are all the ingredients

that the Twenty-First Century traveler cannot do without. The service,

entrusted to a young and professional staff, is impeccable and the

atmosphere relaxing and cozy. The contemporary design and the

functional furnishings, enriched with some touches of Asian décor,

stand out for their high quality. A cocktail of elements which turn the 41

rooms and suites into a retreat where tranquility and comfort represent

the supreme experience for guests.

Staying at the Halkin Hotel is like a crescendo of agreeable sensations

culminating ina final coup-de-théâtre: the Ametsa restaurant. In a

highly-chic ambience, the one-Michelin-star Mikel Sorazy converts the

teachings of Juan Mari and Elena Arzac - the gurus of Basque cuisine -

into impressive compositions where the tasty solutions of the Basque

tradition are reinterpreted in a modern style. The creative fantasy,

the carefully selected ingredients, the local fresh products and an

excellent choice of Basque wines concur with a sophisticated menu. A

perfect blend of elements which changes a simple dinner into a superb

experience.

TCITY HOTEL | THE HALKIN BY COMO


INFO HOTEL

THE HALKIN BY COMO

London, UK

www.comohotels.com

Rooms 22 - Suites 19

Villas 0 - Restaurants 1

Spa noChildren yes

Chain COMO Hotels

Affiliation none

Activitiessightseeing

Score 73

Environment 67

Design 99

Service 87

Cuisine 100

Health 69

Spa 0

Rooms 90


startling visions

CITY HOTEL | BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL


Buddha-Bar Hotel

Paolo Gerbaldo

Light plays skillfully with the tone of the

rooms and suites, recreating a magical

atmosphere. An intimate retreat that, in

a moment, takes us away from the hustle

and bustle of a big city which is Paris.

startling visions


oused in a historic hôtel particulier,

urban mansion of the eighteenth century, the Buddha-Bar Hotel offers a

sophisticated and elegant environment steeped in the atmosphere and the

mysteries of the East. The intense architectural interior is made of recoveries

and inventions, combinations of rare objects, the union of contemporary

art in color and exotic charm. A taste that, drawing an innovative vision of

hospitality, never fails to impress.

This boutique hotel, located in the corner of Paris best known for

shopping, the décor is measured and precise. The different elements are in

fact combined with extreme care. Light plays skillfully with the tone of the

rooms and suites, recreating a magical atmosphere: the trait prevalent in this

intimate retreat that, in a moment, takes us away from the hustle and bustle

of a big city which is Paris.

A good reason to choose the Buddha-Bar Hotel is definitely its restaurant,

Le Vraymonde, entrusted to the executive chef Rougui Dia. Several options

are structured around a manu that offers a choice between a measured

eight starters, eight main courses and eight desserts. The cuisine celebrates a

contemporary interpretation of the original and classic dishes prepared with

unusual ingredients but without neglecting to make the flavors recognizable.

The appealing environment is furthered enhanced by impeccable service.

The right prestigious setting of Buddha-Bar Hotel makes it a new address

that has already entered the elite luxury hospitality of Paris.

HCITY HOTEL | BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL


INFO HOTEL

BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL PARIS

Paris, France

www.buddhabarhotelparis.com

Rooms 37 - Suites 19

Villas 0 - Restaurants 1

Spa Studio SpaChildren yes

Chain Buddha-Bar Hotel Collection

Affiliation Preferred Boutique


Score 77

Environment 68

Design 86

Service 80

Cuisine 80

Health 66

Spa 74

Rooms 87


S P E C I A L C E N T R A L A S I A

A place for real travelers.

We went to see lands since

ancient times frequented by

merchants and travelers and

crossed by great leaders l ike

Alexander the Great and

Genghis Khan.

CENTRAL

S P E C I A L C E N T R A L A S I A

our correspondents flew with

ASIA

Along here passed the Silk Road, and here today are intertwined pathways of petroleum.

SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA


A land of contrasts that fascinates and intrigues, leaving room for the imagination.




Ovidio Guaita

from silk to oil

Known for its oil and the futuristic new capital of Astana,

Kazakhstan is the largest country in the world without

access to the sea as the Caspian is a lake.

Kazakhstan


It is only with the establishment of the Silk Road that the populations of this huge

region became settled. Ethnic Turks and Mongols, they converted to Islam in the

ninth century and were later invaded by the Mongols in the thirteenth century.

However, it was only in the second half of the fifteenth century the Kazakhs

gathered in a state made up of various khanates. The influence of the khans still

remained during the invasions that followed. From the end of the eighteenth

century the influence of the Russian Empire intensified and in 1820 annexation



began. The Russian

presence remained

with the Soviets until

independence in

1991.

Almaty was once

known as Alma Ata,

a name meaning

“the place of

apples”, and there

are a lot of them

in the summer.

Dominated by high

mountains that

delimit its expansion,


all in all it is a pleasant city. It was long the capital until it was decided that the

orographic limits ( the mountains) and the geographical ones (it is located in the

extreme south to the border with Kyrgyzstan) were such as to make it necessary to

move the capital to the center of the country. Hence for the small town of Astana

a futuristic expansion plan was studied, and it will only see its conclusion in 2030.

With the works of Kisho Kurokawa and Norman Forster, the new capital is

being transformed into an ideal city - ecological, monumental but humane



and surrounded by

greenery. Already

today a visit is

surprising for the

majestic proportions.

But in Kazakhstan

the past and future

coexist: palaces

and towers of glass

and concrete flank

mausoleums and

mosques,Orthodox

cathedrals and

synagogues -

especially in the

region of Shymkent,

where one of the

routes of the Silk Road

passed.




a new “ideal city”

Astana

The Presidential Palace is as large as St. Peter’s in

Rome (and looks like it too). Today, 17 years after its re-

establishment, the new capital surprises Kazakhs and

foreigners. And it wants to be the country’s image.

Ovidio Guaita


With the City Tours guide we went to explore the new capital. Fully designed, the result of an ambitious thirty-year urban development plan, it reflects the image of a country projected into the future.



The styles are mixed, ranging from Oriental to Western. Very green and colorful expanses of flowers of every kind that paint the squares and avenues.




In a tower of steel and glass, the first five-star of

the new Kazakh capital is renewed with a great

Italian restaurant, ready for the new challenges

of an increasingly monumental capital.

an Italian in Astana

Radisson Hotel,Astana

Ovidio Guaita


e arrive at dawn with clear skies and a light breeze. The absence of traffic reduces travel time, and in a moment we are at the hotel. Because of our jetlag, we are not sleepy in the least so we decide to try the gym, which is located in the adjacent tower and reached by way of a tunnel. Definitely one of the largest and best-equipped we have ever used during the trip. In fact, it is a public gym open to hotel guests. Whatever the case, it is a strong point among the services offered.

The rooms are well soundproofed so rest is assured. Wifi is free as in all of Kazakhstan. The décor of the public areas is classic while that of the rooms is contemporary in the style of a business hotel. Breakfast is good with everything international European guests expect. For dinner, the formal Italian restaurant, Capri, surprises us. We tried two classics: lasagna and linguine with pesto alla genovese. Both dishes were a pleasant revelation, very close to the Italian tradition (local ingredients permitting). For fans there is a brief but carefully-assembled Wine List.

The hotel extends upward so the view, while varying - depending on the category of the rooms - is always exceptional. Recently, new properties have been added to the list of five-star hotels available to demanding guests in the capital, but the Radisson is a classic and always very popular.

W SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA


INFO HOTEL

RADISSON HOTEL, ASTANAAstana, Kazakhstanwww.radissonblu.com

Rooms 170 - Suites 11Villas 0 - Restaurants 2Spa yesChildren yes

Chain RadissonAffiliation none


Score 75Environment 70Design 72Service 75Cuisine 81Health 80Spa 70Rooms 78




There are many churches for a Muslim country. Sign

of civil ity and tolerance. Seduced and abandoned

by the power that has preferred the more central

Astana, Almaty plays the card of the history.

the place of apples

AlmatyOvidio Guaita


Too close to the border for a capital , Almaty, however, enjoys a splendid view of the surrounding mountains, populated by comfortable and numerous sk i resorts .



Churches but also theaters, monuments and ancient quarters. In addition to the ministries and other corridors of power in Soviet-style.




The Alatau Mountains are the frame for a

horizon where the view is always unobstructed.

We are in the tallest and most modern tower

in the city. Below we find the most glamorous

mall with the best international brands.

a tower with a view

The Ritz-Carlton

Ovidio Guaita


he Ritz-Carlton in Almaty is not only the best hotel in town. Throughout the country it has no rival. Perched atop this modern tower, it is now the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Kazakhstan. Crossing its threshold is to put a foot in the new country that the current presidency is designing.

The design is very contemporary even if you recognize traditional motifs - surely, sophisticated, bright, elegant and exclusive. Among the restaurants, Vista, of course, offers a superb panorama and international cuisine with Mediterranean accents without omitting references to traditional cooking. The LT Grill, instead, is the steak house of excellence in the city now. The menu and choice of meat are served by chef Laurent Tourondel in person. The large spa, instead, is signed by Six Senses and available to guests with a structured menu.

If you are thinking of entering the lobby and checking in you are mistaken. We are not in a normal hotel but we are entering in the Esentai Tower. Apartments and offices fill the first floors up to the tenth which is where the hotel begins. So we go up and when the elevator doors open, we are amazed by the view. The city is at our feet. The full-wall windows enchant us. The bustle of the city center, the traffic, the noise all disappear in a sea of light and we almost miss seeing the courteous receptionist awaiting us at the desk.

T SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA


INFO HOTEL

THE RITZ-CARLTON ALMATYAlmaty, Kazakhstanwww.ritzcarlton.com

Rooms & suites 145 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2Spa Six Senses Children yes

Chain The Ritz-CarltonAffiliation none






To the south of the country, on one of the routes

of the caravans that carr ied s i lk and spices

f rom China to Europe, near the city you wi l l f ind

important mausoleums and madrasas.

madrasas and mausoleums

ShymkentOvidio Guaita


A n a n c i e n t l a n d w h e r e m u c h r e m a i n s t o b e

d i s c o v e r e d . I t s s t r a t e g i c p o s i t i o n h a s a l w a y s

p l a y e d a n i m p o r t a n t r o l e i n t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f

t h e r e g i o n . S o m e t e s t i m o n i e s t o t h e p a s t h a v e

b e e n h e a v i l y r e s t o r e d . M a y b e n o t s o p h i l o l o g i c a l



b u t t h e r e s u l t

i s e n j o y a b l e

a n d r e a d a b l e

e v e n t o

t h o s e w h o

d o n o t h a v e

a s p e c i f i c

p r e p a r a t i o n .




O n a h i l l a b o v e t h e c i t y , a

p a l a c e - h o t e l w e l c o m e s g u e s t s ,

i s o l a t i n g t h e m i n a n o a s i s o f

p e a c e a n d t r a n q u i l i t y .

the windy hill

Kainar Hotel

Ovidio Guaita


n the evening the breeze quickly turns into the wind - enveloping and engaging at the same time. A wind that makes the sky clear and shows the city lit up as it is. Not particularly beautiful, certainly lively and active. The wind of history has swept away a union - along with its legendary Kainar Restaurant that once stood here - that no one really wanted any longer. Tonight, however, the real wind will free us of unwanted thoughts. For a brief but intense moment we are suspended in time. While down below us, daily activities continue to frantically interweave.

The Kainar is an exclusive hotel, however, perhaps in making the architecture in the form of a palace, little hotel details were sacrificed. But these are details. The experience on the whole is remarkable. From the pick-up at the airport to the in-room check-in. Excellent restaurant, great spa, with a fully equipped wellness center. Very inviting indoor pool with city views. If one wants to linger for an after dinner drink, the lounge on the top floor has the best view of the city.

The Kainar is the hotel in Shymkent and one of the best in the south of Kazakhstan. The charming general manager, the young Dina Temirgaliyeva, conducts an orchestra that is working on the movements for a symphony, which is, perhaps, not yet complete, but we found its melody totally charming.

I SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA


INFO HOTEL

KAINAR HOTELShymkent, Kazakhstanwww.kainarhotel.kz

Rooms 44 - Suites 20Villas 0 - Restaurants 1Spa yesChildren yes

Chain noneAffiliation none

Activitiesexcursions





D e s p i t e w e l l - d e v e l o p e d

i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , t r a v e l i n g o n

o n e ’ s o w n i n K a z a k h s t a n c a n

b e c o m p l i c a t e d , a b o v e a l l ,

d u e t o E n g l i s h , w h i c h i s s t i l l

n o t d i f f u s e . I t i s b e t t e r t h e n

t o e n t r u s t o n e s e l f t o a t o u r

o p - e r a t o r . A m o n g t h e m a n y

p r e s e n t , C i t y T o u r i s t h e m o s t

t r u s t w o r t h y . N e w v e h i c l e s ,

d r i v e r s a n d g u i d e s f l u e n t i n

E n g l i s h a n d k n o w l e d g e a b l e o f

t h e t e r r i t o r y a r e t h e i r s t r o n g

p o i n t s . I t i s a l s o q u i t e e a s y

t o b o o k , t h a n k s t o a n e f f i c i e n t

w e b s i t e .

A l m a t y C i t y T o u r

B a i t u r s y n o v S t r e e t ,

A s t a n a I n t e r H o t e l , 2 n d F l o o r A l m a t y 0 5 0 0 2 2

+ 7 ( 7 2 7 ) 2 - 9 0 0 - 7 7 7

w w w . c i t y - t o u r . k z

discovering Kazakhstan


where Alexander the Great found a wife



Among the descendants of Alexander the Great

and Darius of Pers ia. Not a popular country but

certainly an intr iguing one. From the mountains of

the Pamir to the madrasas, mauseoleums, mosques

and palaces on the S i lk Road.

TajikistanLawrence Taylor



Green, very green, with high mountains and large water resources. A country crossed

throughout history, left to itself, and then rediscovered. Since independence in 1991 there

have been many events leading to the current stability. Here Alexander the Great, during

his unstoppable run to the conquest of the known world, took a break and found his wife,

as he was fascinated by the enigmatic beauty of the local women.

The culture is similar to that of other regions of Central Asia. Cuisine, music, architecture -

albeit with different nuances - share motifs of inspiration. On the other hand, ethnic groups


differ, as already

mentioned, and the

difference is apparent.

The similarities with

the people of Persia

are obvious, as are

those of the Balkan

descendants of

Macedonian troops.

Whether you are

visiting the country to

retrace the ancient

caravan routes or to

climb the mountains,

contact with nature

is inevitable. Moving

from one area to the

next will always lead

to crossings and along

the valleys, to stop-offs

in villages where the

dodging populace

will observe you with

discreet curiosity. The

sense of hospitality is

ingrained and having

overcome the initial

suspicion, it is difficult

to decline an invitation



for a tea or even to share a meal. Over a century of Russian rule did not affect traditions

and beliefs. The sense of belonging is strong and every Tajik, if able, will endeavour to

showcase the best of the country.

Among the centers to visit are Hisor or Hissar, once an independent khanate and also

the summer home of the governor of Bukhara. There are the remains of a fortified palace

- in particular the front door - heavily restored. Opposite is an important and ancient

madrasa. After a five-hour drive from the capital, Dushanbe, you can visit Khujand, one


of the oldest cities of

Central Asia which is

also on the Silk Road.

This is a city which was

not only rich but also

an important cultural

center, especially

during the Persian

period.

In European

Tajikistan, the Near

and Far East meet on

what remains of the

caravan routes, which

were the Internet

of today. On their

paths traveled not

only goods, but art,

culture and religions.

Distant peoples came

face to face, and

today as yesterday

a journey through

these mountains is an

encounter between

East and West.




In the city center a cloud of steel and glass

gently inlaid envelops the traveler. Immersed

and isolated, contemporary and Tajik, the

Serena Hotel in Dushanbe puts one at ease.

a Tajik touch

Serena Hotel Dushanbe

Lawrence Taylor


hey are awaiting us at the entrance as soon as we get out of the car after being picked up at the airport. Gently at attention and formal but friendly, certainly efficient. The receptionists accompany us to our rooms on the seventh floor for check-in. In a moment we have completed checked in formalities. From the large window the eye sweeps first across the hotel’s garden and then the city. A composite profile that consists of a lot of green and low-rise buildings that permits great visibility. In the rooms, as in public areas,we find are traditional decorative motifs, as is customary in the properties of the chain that always wants to highlight the local culture. In particular, there are colorful decorations on walls and ceilings, carved furniture, colorful fabrics and carpets that contextualize the hotel. Hence guests do not wake up wondering where they are. The brother of Aga Khan, owner of the chain, Prince Amyn Aga Khan, guided the decorative choices of this property which opened in 2011.

The major thoroughfare that runs before the hotel runs right through the heart of the city. It recalls the boulevards of Lisbon and also the Ramblas of Barcelona in form and passers-by. Absolutely inviting for a stroll after dinner at the Rudaki Restaurant ormaybe after a training session at the gym on the top floor, right where the pool is located - the only rooftop pool in the city.

At check-out we find the same friendly efficiency that has characterized our entire stay. Concise and friendly - as you would expect in an exclusive property. We cross the city with its contrasts to arrive at the airport. Slightly chaotic, vague in directions and extemporaneous in procedures. But the new terminal is almost ready and we imagine that it will help to define a new standard of service.



INFO HOTEL

SERENA HOTELDushanbe, Tajikistanwww.serenahotels.com

Rooms 80 - Suites 5Apartments 10 - Restaurants 2Spa Maisha SpaChildren yes

Chain Serena HotelsAffiliation none

Activitiesexcursions



trekking and morein Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan



The speciality of this tour operator is

indubitably the tours in Pamir, as one would

easily guess from the name. The offering is

rich and includes visits to the caravanserais,

mosques, and madrasas which are still

located on the ancient silk road. It is

brilliantly managed by Shagarf, ex-official

of the Soviet Union embassies, polyglot,

great traveler and expert on his territory.

However, Pamir Silk also goes to northern

Afghanistan - now safe for travelers - up to

the center of Mazar-i Sharif, where we find

very important monuments.

Pamir Si lk Travel

tel . +992 3522 22277

info@pamirsi lk .travel

w w w.pamirsi lk .travel


Statesmen like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane have molded its history while Averroae, Al-Khwarizmi (the inventor of Algebra) and Ulugbek (the eminent astronomer) have shaped its culture.

UZBEKISTAN

the fascination of an ancient legend



Elsa Bozzaotra


The Uzbekis are hard-working people, tightly attached to their traditions and live on agriculture and craftsmanship in accordance with their original values and pace of life.

W SPECIALE | CENTRO ASIA


ho has not dreamt at least once of tracing the ancient merchants’ footsteps along the Silk Road, being filled with the intense scents of spices, or of penetrating into the mysteries of Tamerlane’s legendary court? A journey in the places that were once scenes of that legendary world conjure up these magic emotions. A journey in Uzbekistan is like a virtual itinerary backwards in time. A journey that starts in the modern capital, Tashkent, goes across Nineteenth Century Khiva, “the city of clay”, proceeds through the splendid Bukhara of the Sixteenth Century, to reach the zenith in a crescendo of intense emotions with the enticing Samarkanda, chosen by Tamerlane as the opulent capital of his great empire. It is here that history and legend merge. Elaborated patterns of multi-colored majolica tiles define the façades of the mausoleums enclosing - like precious cases - the mortal remains of Amir Timur (Tamerlane) and Ulugbek, its notable founders.

W93RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014

Uzbekistan is a vivacious kaleidoscope of languages and races – Iranian, Turkish, Mongolian. The different origins of the nomadic tribes characterize the beautiful countenance of the fair-skinned women as well as their silky dark hair, wrapped in the traditional scarves.



These are not only the stages a long the S i lk Road, but an enchant ing and evocat ive tour which a l lures the senses : f rom the re laxing sand-hued wal ls of the Ichan-K hala for tress in K hiva to the chromatic var iat ions of the blue and turquoise majol icas which cover the numerous madrasahs and mosques, down to the yel low and green streaks which stand out on the palaces, domes, and the minarets. I ntr icate car v ing work creates embroider ies on the stunning wooden doors and columns which suppor t the bui ldings in a c lear Arabian st y le.

A ver i table t r iumph of br ight colors surround the v is i tor, though not only those of the bui ldings and their decorat ions. One is stunned by the many


These a re no t on l y t he s t ages a long t he S i l k Road , bu t an enchan t ing and evoca t i ve t our wh ich a l l u re s t he s ense s .



colored bazaars, where f rui ts and spices mix in a blaze of joyful shades and exot ic scents.

The cur ta in draws over our journey back wards in t ime. The dream of this ancient legend nostalgical ly fades away in Tashkent , where the glor ious past and the l ively industr iousness of the present merge. But the splendid magic of th is ancient wor ld stays in the hear t forever.


A country dominated by greenery, framed by high peaks and dotted with the yurts of Kyrgyz nomads. Crossed by the Silk Road, it has experienced ups and downs and various rulers. A rich history that is reflected in the culture, architecture, languages, and even in the cuisine.

KYRGYZSTAN

in the mountains along the Silk Road



Lawrence Taylor


The high mountains and large lakes dominate the geography, making a visit varied. From the ethnographic point of view, Kyrgyz nomads are by far the biggest attraction.



he name seems to derive from the Turkish word that indicates forty, l ike the clans united by the national hero, Manas, to defend the country ’s independence in the ninth century. The first inhabitants of the region, however, were the Scythians who settled here between the sixth and fifth centuries BC. The area then became part of the Persian Empire until it entered the orbit of the Macedonian rule of Alexander the Great. In the fourth century the Turks arrived. Traditionally, the population has been

T101RESORTS MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2014

The stop in the summer yurts along the path of transhumance in the north of the country is an experience not to be missed. The herds of cattle and horses grazing dot the velvety hills surrounding the tented fields.



tolerant of different faiths, so much so that in that period Buddhism and Zoroastrianism spread until the Muslim invasions of the eighth century. In 1207, the territory came under the empire of Genghis Khan. There followed various invasions until its annexation to the Russian Empire in 1876, a domination that then continued during the Soviet government until independence in 1991.

The caravan routes crossing the country with goods from the Orient numbered two. Today not much remains of that period but the few traces are worth seeing. Some are located in the north not far from the capital. Others are near the city of Osh. However, the main reason for a trip to the country is undoubtedly nature. The high mountains and


Traditionally, the population has been tolerant of different faiths, so much so that in that period Buddhism and Zoroastrianism spread until the Muslim invasions of the eighth century.



large lakes dominate the geography, making a visit varied. From the ethnographic point of view, Kyrgyz nomads are by far the biggest attraction. The stop in their summer yurts along the path of transhumance in the north of the country is an experience not to be missed. Their herds of cattle and horses grazing dot the velvety hills surrounding the tented fields. Their skill on horseback surprises, especially that of women and children.

A trip from real travelers - not easy but scalable, also according to one’s tolerance for the altitude and frugal hospitality. An “exclusive” trip because it is outside the big circuits, in places that are stil l l ittle known. Indubitably a fascinating adventure.


here once caravans with goods from the East bound for the Mediterranean markets transited, today a modern company connects the Caucasian steppes with the capitals of Europe and the Far East.

In Central Asia Air Astana is imposing itself for the network that it has developed and the service it provides. I t has two hubs: one in the new capital Astana and one in Almaty, the former capital. The planes are modern and on board passengers are offered full service even on domestic fl ights, something which is rare today. In fact, delicious buns are offered along with soft drinks.

We tried the Business Class on the Almaty- Kuala Lumpur flight on August 17. The departure is scheduled for 23.45 and promptly half an hour before boarding begins. We did

W Air Astana



in flight on the Silk Road Air Astana

Ovidio Guaita




INFO

AIR ASTANAAlmaty, Kazakhstan

www.airastana.com

not take advantage of the common VIP lounge, but those who departs from Astana have available the one reserved for Air Astana passengers, airy and with a great view of the runway. After taking off we are offered cocktails followed by dinner. The menu was varied as was the wine list.

Entertainment is on the i-Pad. Even though the selection is not particularly large, it does include the most recent films. The staff is friendly and efficient. The seats, while not becoming per fectly horizontal, do have an inclination sufficient for a good night ’s sleep. They are increasingly replacing them with full beds. We arrived in Kuala Lumpur early in the morning on time and per fectly rested.

Air Astana is a rapidly expanding company, one to watch as it is able to compete with the big si-sters of the Continent.


resort nuovo formato asia_Layout 1 24/09/14 14:55 Pagina 1

RMRESORTS MAGAZINE

lifeStyle

1

In exclusive and charming location,

overlooking the crystal clear sea

of Sorrento, beautiful apartment

finely decorated comprising: three

big halls , two bedrooms and three

bathrooms. A magnificent terrace

of 100sqm on the same level with a stunning

view completes and enhances the property.

Location Sorrento

Bedrooms 2

Bathroomes 3

Interior 280 mq

Price 15.000.000 euro

Agent [email protected]


2

3

Marco Galli

From Sorrento to Anacapri, from Lerici to Santa Margherita Ligure passing by Milan. A selection of the best properties for sale. Sotheby’s International Realty presents on these pages five must-see bargains.Location Sorrento

Bedrooms 2

Bathroomes 3

Interior 280 mq

Price 15.000.000 euro

Agent [email protected]


Beautiful villa with swimming pool set over two floors in Anacapri located within an exclusive residential area in the countryside not far from the famous Blue Grotto and five minutes from the heliport Damecuta . The villa boasts an excellent location with panoramic views and a large private parking area.

Location AnacapriBedrooms 7Bathrooms 5Interior 450 mqGarden 750 mqPrice 5.400.000 euroAgent [email protected]

Boasting panoramic views over the bay and strategically located only 15 minutes walk from the local town of Lerici, this unique residence provides connection with nature and landscape, becoming a blissful oasis in any season of the year.

Location LericiBedrooms 4Bathrooms 3Interior 300 mqPrice € 5.250.000 euroAgent [email protected]


In 1700s building, beautifully renovated in the common areas, apartment of 320 sqm plus charming balconies. The property enjoys unique and exclusive views of the Basilica of St Nazaire and gardens. Inside, the elegant quality materials make the unit very valuable. Quadruple exposure, very quiet and bright. Parking.

Location MilanoBedrooms 4Bathrooms 5Balconies 5Interior 320 mqPrice 3.900.000 euro Agent [email protected]

Magnificent villa with panoramic vistas between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. This one-of-a-kind property enjoys a privileged view over the bay of Santa Margherita Ligure and is surrounded by a lush garden of 20,000 square meters overlooking the sea. The main villa, which embodies the typical style of the Portofino Riviera, has recently been renovated.

Location Santa Margherita LigureBedrooms 6Bathrooms 5Interior 300 mqTerrace 20.000 mq Price upon request Agent [email protected]


in the next issue

Maldive AND OTHER EXCLUSIVE DESTINATIONS TESTED FOR YOU

Documents

Resorts Magazine 51