Sandra‘s Closet

Still looking for a hotel in Munich for the last Oktoberfest 2023 weekend? I have a great tip for you as the new highly anticipated ROSEWOOD MUNICH opens for reservations starting September 29, 2023. Combining magnificent architecture with state-of-the-art design and unparalleled experiences, it is the first German property for the ultra-luxury Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® collection, the 7th property in Europe, and the 32nd in the collection, worldwide.

Housed in two landmark, historical buildings which were formerly the headquarters of the State Bank of Bavaria and the grand aristocratic residence Palais Neuhaus-Preysing, ROSEWOOD MUNICH is ideally situated in Kardinal-Faulhaber-Strasse. Its location offers guests premier access to several of the city’s most iconic sights, such as the famous Marienplatz and the elegant shops of Maximilianstrasse and Theatinerstrasse.

The property will feature an array of luxurious guestrooms, suites, and spacious houses, each adorned with bespoke furnishings and offering breath-taking views of the city skyline or into the courtyards. Gastronomic experiences will include an inviting lobby lounge, a distinct full-service brasserie and a vibrant bar. For ultimate relaxation, the hotel will house a full-service Asaya® spa with six treatments rooms, as well as an indoor pool and fitness area.

A BLEND OF HISTORIC GRANDEUR AND CONTEMPORARY LUXURY
Munich-based architectural firm, Hilmer Sattler and London interior architectural design studio, Tara Bernerd & Partners worked in close collaboration to bring the spirit of Rosewood into the Bavarian metropolis. Their overarching objective was to bring the historic past of the legacy buildings into the modern world of today. To this end, the hotel is a contemporary interpretation of Baroque architecture; the sophisticated design blends seamlessly with the historical elements of the building to convey an expressly modern yet timeless Bavarian style.

The historic entrance hall of the hotel, which features impressive, vaulted ceilings and frescos, is original to the former bank building and has been carefully preserved. Purposeful lighting draws attention to the archival elements, with highlights including an ornate ceiling fresco. Juxtaposed with newly constructed doors and windows, the entrance exudes a stately yet contemporary feel. The central courtyard, which is a typical feature in Munich’s old town, has also been carefully restored, letting the building breathe while at the same time adding a completely new experience to the space.

The interior impresses with a mansion-like ambience. Furniture and carpeting merge history with modern influences, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for the ideal urban oasis.

ASAYA SPA
At Asaya® spa, guests will enjoy unique moments of relaxation. Extending over two floors and covering an area of 1,300 sqm (13,993 sqft), the facilities will boast a vitality indoor pool, two saunas, one steam room, six treatment rooms, a wellness suite for private spa experiences, and a round-the-clock fitness center equipped by Technogym. Spa memberships and offers will be available for local residents as well as visiting guests not staying at the hotel.

A SENSE OF TASTE
An epicurean journey will unfold at the hotel’s Alpine-inspired brasserie, CUVILLIÉS, where tradition merges with modernity. Open seven days a week, the restaurant will welcome patrons for a relaxing breakfast, a casual lunch, or a decadent dinner. Classic Alpine dishes, rooted in the cultural heritage of the region and the neighboring states of Austria and Italy, will bring something truly unique and exciting to Munich’s culinary scene. All offerings will highlight seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers.

Bar Montez will offer a refined selection of handcrafted signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, and premium spirits. The cocktail menu will feature both tried-and-true classics as well as innovative original concoctions, all emphasizing fresh ingredients. As an additional highlight, the bar will offer a varied music program with a roster of unique artists and performers.

MEETING & EVENT SPACES
The hotel will encompass six event spaces, including a spacious ballroom (234 sqm / 2,519 sqft), and a historic ballroom (123 sqm / 1,324 sqf), as well as four flexible meeting and breakout rooms. Both ballrooms will offer outdoor space. With over 600 sqm (6,450 sqft) of indoor meeting space, ROSEWOOD MUNICH can cater to all sizes and types of gatherings, from corporate meetings to intimate dinners, lifestyle events or social celebrations. All spaces boast complimentary wireless high-speed internet access and on-site audio visual and production services.

For more information, please visit the hotel website here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Rosewood Hotels © Davide Lovatti
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After a long hiatus, The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia is proud to announce its much-anticipated return to the rails in February 2024. Offering a reimagined adventure of Southeast Asia in motion, the train will launch two new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and travelling through Malaysia’s ever-changing landscapes and vibrant cities: the Essence of Malaysia (September to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to August). The iconic train’s 15 dark green carriages will leave Singapore’s Woodlands station, taking in destinations like Penang, Langkawi and for the first time the Taman Negara National Park, before heading back to the garden city.

With restyled interiors, elevated on board experiences, and enthralling journeys encompassing culture, gastronomy, architecture and the arts, the Eastern & Oriental Express continues to take railway travel in the region to new heights, while setting a new standard of excellence in Southeast Asia.

ESSENCE OF MALAYSIA: A GATEWAY INTO MALAY CULTURE
The Essence of Malaysia is a three-night journey through the country’s western wonders, from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and finally to the colourful island of Penang. After a relaxing first day of on-board indulgence, guests will disembark the train in Alor Setar and join a private cruise to Langkawi. For the first time, the Eastern & Oriental Express will offer guests the chance to go on a snorkelling excursion and rub shoulders with the sprawling underwater life that populates the Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi’s prime snorkelling spot.

The third day is dedicated to discovering Penang, a multicultural island whose capital, George Town, boasts century-old UNESCO World Heritage sites, lively street art, and a thrilling food scene. Delving deep into the essence of Penang, guests can visit cultural highlights such as local art galleries and ancient temples in George Town’s Old Quarter; shop in the local markets and partake in an authentic Peranankan cooking class in a private hillside residence followed by a traditional tea ceremony; or soak up the views of George Town’s picturesque streets at their own pace, hopping on traditional tri-shaws and touring the surroundings in the company of local insiders, before rejoining the train and travelling south towards Singapore.

WILD MALAYSIA: EXPLORING SIGHTS UNSEEN
A brand new destination for the Eastern & Oriental Express, the Wild Malaysia itinerary covers the untouched areas surrounding the ‘Jungle Railway’, towards the Eastern side of the peninsula, and gives guests the unique opportunity to visit the Taman Negara National Park. Devised in collaboration with global tiger conservation organisation, Save Wild Tigers, the journey combines blissful moments of relaxation on the train with a dash of adventure. One of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world and a true explorer’s paradise, the Taman Negara National Park is home to hundreds of species such as tigers, leopards, and Sumathran rhinos. Here, guests can embark on a variety of excursions: from learning about the safeguarding of the Malayan Tiger, to a one-of-a-kind photography masterclass and a foraging experience in the jungle.

After an inspiring immersion in the rainforest, on day three guests will travel to the west side to visit Penang. With a choice of three different activities to explore Penang’s artistic, culinary and historic heritage, guests will immerse into local culture before getting back on the train for their last night on board.

LIFE ON BOARD: A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL CULTURE
As they step on board the Eastern & Oriental Express, guests are invited to live and breathe the captivating culture of Southeast Asia at every moment. Days are punctuated by exciting encounters with local characters and passionate artisans, who will unveil the secrets of the region as they teach ancient crafts and tell century-old tales, while the sound of Nanyang jazz and vintage Malay tunes will accompany guests throughout the evenings.

An elevated menu of contemporary dishes rooted in the Peranakan culture awaits guests of the Eastern & Oriental Express. A blend of Chinese, Malay, and other Southeast Asian culinary influences that originated in the Straits Settlements of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore, Peranakan cuisine is known for its bold flavours, intricate preparation methods, and the sapient use of local ingredients. The train’s Executive Chef will celebrate this long established gastronomic tradition while adding a modern twist to ancient recipes turning every meal into a journey through Southeast Asia’s culinary suggestions.

RESTYLING OF AN ICON
The Eastern & Oriental will return to the rails with 15 restyled carriages including eight sleeping cars, two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar Car and the iconic open-air Observation Car. From ornate marquetry, to Malaysian embroidery and oriental silks, the train will sparkle with a sense of contemporary grandeur, bringing in a layered and vibrant experience of Southeast Asia through carefully curated design details and colour schemes.

Warm sanctuaries of cherry wood panelling, the three different cabin categories – Pullman, State and Presidential – are all complete with air-conditioning and private bathrooms. The Pullman cabins are inspired by the radiance of Kuala Lumpur, boasting red sofas juxtaposed with blue cushions, drapery and pelmets that reflect the city’s dramatic skies, while the State cabins reflect Penang’s marine locale with a bright blue and green colour palette. The Presidential cabins celebrate regional opulence, with hues of gold and embroidered décor elements. Further design highlights include the eye-catching green carpet with a Tiger Orchid blooming across the entire length of the Piano Bar Car, carpets infilled with traditional Malay batik in the Malay restaurant, and the Observation Car’s laid back interiors paired with natural wicker details, colourful cushions and hand-painted pots that add a playful layer to the train experience.

*The Essence of Malaysia itinerary (3 nights) starts at US$3,410 (£2,754) per person in a Pullman cabin and includes all meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, on board entertainment, onboard and offboard activities as per the itinerary. For information or to book, please visit belmond.com.
*The Wild Malaysia itinerary (3 nights) starts at US$3,410 (£2,754) per person in a Pullman cabin and includes all meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, on board entertainment, onboard and offboard activities as per the itinerary. For information or to book, please visit belmond.com.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Belmond
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Unlocking the secrets behind French women’s style, the effortlessness, the attitude, the enigmatic and ever-so-coveted «je ne sais quoi». Simplicity is, apparently, key, as French women are never overdone or overdressed. It’s all about hyper-engineered minimalism, and by the way who said men’s shirts are only for men? Combine classic pieces in your wardrobe with something edgy, like breton stripes, a great pair of jeans with a cool sailor cap and you will feel like a true Parisian!

My look: Striped cardigan jacket with leather details, flared jeans in dark union wash twill, cropped boyfriend shirt in blue chambray, and Triomphe wool sailor cap, all by Celine, Mini Dauphine bag by Louis Vuitton, Le Loafer leather penny loafers by Saint Laurent, and polarized pilot sunglasses by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Anouk Bauknecht / Sandra Bauknecht
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This post is for all watch lovers. Are you looking for a great and fun model for the summer? I spotted one you might like … I couldn’t resist myself.

The MADEMOISELLE and J12 story continues with a limited-edition version inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s Mediterranean villa. An exclusive creation that evokes the carefree, easygoing and relaxed spirit of the French Riviera.

Dressed in a marinière and sailor’s trousers, Mademoiselle’s silhouette adorns the dial and indicates the time on this 38 mm steel watch. Available in highly resistant black or white ceramic, a material which is highly resistant and color-proof. The watch is equipped with the self-winding mechanical Caliber 12.1 movement and is water-resistant up to 200m. Available for CHF 9700.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of CHANEL, © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson 
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Since the collaboration between Fendi and Tiffany & Co. hit the runway for Resort 2023, fashionistas around the globe have been craving for those exclusive re-editions of the iconic Baguette bag in the signature Tiffany Blue™, that is embellished with a Return to Tiffany™ circular bag pendant and a sterling silver label engraved with «The Tiffany Baguette».

However no need to cry if you missed out on the opportunity to order one. There are plenty of stunning turquoise bags on the market to accompany you through the summer and the next years to come.

LoL, Sandra

Turquoise logo embossed medium Baguette bag by Fendi

Small Lola crossbody bag by Burberry

Small First clutch bag by Fendi

Goya small puffer bag by Loewe

Nano Speedy by Louis Vuitton

Cassette small intrecciato leather shoulder bag by Bottega Veneta

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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Today’s look was photographed inside my beautiful suite at Maison des Champs-Elysées. What I love about this combination is that it is extremely comfortable, yet super stylish. I hope you will like it as much as I do.

My look: Cropped top with crystal logos, and matching wide knitted pants (both Pre-Collection S/S 2023), black satin pochette (Métiers d’Art 2023 Collection Paris – Dakar), crystal embellished mesh shoes with bows (S/S 2023), head band with bow, leather bracelet, J12 Mademoiselle La Pausa watch, pearl necklace, long necklace with blue stones and matching earrings, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Paris Couture Week is always amazing, especially in the summer, when the weather is nice. One of my favorite places to stay and a true insider tip is the hotel Maison des Champs-Elysées. Located in the heart of Paris’ «Golden Triangle», parallel to the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, this very special non-conformist 5-star hotel teases your expectations, with theatrical elements in a relaxed atmosphere.

Celebrating an elegant marriage of contemporary lines and unobtrusive luxury, the impressive decoration of the hotel can be seen in every detail. It is the result of the collaboration with iconic fashion designer Martin Margiela. Each corner is full of surprises and creates a magnificent setting for your stay in Paris. Offering a peaceful atmosphere and all the facilities of modern luxury comfort for good value of money, the hotel has 57 tastefully furnished rooms and suites. There is also a smoker’s lounge called the «Blind Bar» across from the lobby area that is dressed all in white, and even an outdoor terrace where you can relax and meet from morning to night in the midst of the city.

This month, I stayed at the Gilded Lounge Suite, in which artistic pretence is given perfect expression, whose walls are covered with wallpaper made from black and white photographs of the gilded lounge on the second floor. The perspectives and ornamental richness of the Napoleon III style are thereby reproduced in trompe-l’œil fashion throughout the suite. In the bedroom, a large bookcase filled with books covers the wall above the bed.

Last time, I booked the White Cover Suite. The lower part of the classic Haussmann walls with picture rails, surrounds and plinths breaks with the upper part which consists of large panels of stretched white cotton. The pictures, objects and furnishings are delicately covered with white cotton. A series of Ural alabaster lights on the bedroom ceiling become visible in the evening and frame a broad mirror, creating a magical setting.

The team is so lovely and always very happy to help with anything. I can absolutely recommend the hotel. By the way, I pay my stays and this post is not sponsored, but fully authentic.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Anouk Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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Help! «Everybody’s talking about inflation,» Jeremy Scott said backstage to Vogue when he presented his S/S 2023 Moschino collection. «The cost of everything’s going up: housing, food, life. So I took inflation into the collection.» So are you ready for some inflatable fun fashion to take a dip in the newest trend?! Imbuing joy in the vein of lifesavers and inflatable accessories, this outfit was my favorite to wear on board of Christina O.

If you ever feel like you’re drowning, hold on to fashion! That’s my advice!

My look: Life vest cropped jacket, stripe-detail high-waisted skirt, lifesaver hat, 105mm pointed-toe pumps, inflatable heart-charm earrings, logo sunglasses and J12 Mademoiselle La Pausa watch, both by CHANEL, tattoo tights by Calzedonia, and black bustier top by Versace.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson 
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Belmond unveils a partnership with Dior for a new wellness experience in the legendary gardens of Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina, in celebration of the iconic property’s 150 year anniversary. From now to October 2023, the hotel’s storied gardens will welcome two Dior treehouse treatment cabins perched in the majestic cypress trees, offering guests and visitors exclusive skincare treatments in a verdant oasis, overlooking the sea.

In Timeo’s six-acre gardens, designed by English gardener and pioneering wildlife conservationist Florence Trevelyan at the end of XIX century, many artists and writers have found meditative peace and inspiration over the last 150 years. Today Grand Hotel Timeo and Dior Spa are fostering the same spirit, inviting guests to enjoy a moment of wellbeing in the hotel’s lush enclave.

LUXURIOUS WELLNESS COCOONS AMONGST THE CYPRESS TREES
Guests are invited to climb a few steps up a wooden staircase to access two highly sophisticated treatment cabins, one double and one single, perched in the cypress trees. These vibrant green wooden treehouses are elevated with the famous Toile de Jouy curtains, in a matching shade.
The decor takes inspiration from the fragrant flora and fauna which envelopes the pop-up spa. Maria Grazia Chiuri, Creative Director of Dior, has reimagined the iconic Dior fabric decorating the cabins in a bold leaf-green to blend seamlessly with the lush surroundings. The Dior Toile de Jouy wallpaper, the bamboo seating and the modern design lamps with brushed brass finishes, create an intimate and refined atmosphere.

Each cabin, designed by Thirtyone Design + Management, has its own individual terrace with sea views complete with a parasol in matching fabric, rattan furniture and plants, offering guests the privacy to extend this moment of well-being in absolute serenity.

ICONIC TREATMENTS TAKEN TO NEW HEIGHTS
The menu of signature face and body treatments draws on the skills and expertise of Dior skincare, created to help the skin and the senses blossom during the summer. The signature Dolce Vita Solar Glow, a one-hour face and body treatment ensures a perfectly enhanced and extended sun tan. Depending on the time of the treatment, it concludes with either a head-to-toe application of protective sun cream, lotion or oil before sun exposure, or with a soothing after-sun balm or shimmering oil, at the end of the day.

Beauty-enhancing treatments, all characterised by iconic Dior techniques that combine the best of traditional Eastern and Western methods with powerful, targeted movements, include: Dior Prestige Haute Précision, a major holistic face treatment using the Dior Prestige product line and combining the regenerative power of the Granville Rose with enveloping massage techniques to blend pleasure with visible correction of the signs of age; and Constellation, a deeply relaxing holistic body massage, for perfect harmony between body and mind.

To see the spa menu and prices, click here please.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Pierre Mouton for Parfums Christian Dior
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I still have so much to show you from my amazing trip on the Christina O yacht. So let’s get started. The beauty of being on a boat is that you can wake up each morning somewhere else. One of my favorite parts of our route was Corsica and this cute little place at the beach.

Tucked away on Aaron Beach, known for its pristine white sand and sparkling turquoise waters, Café de la Plage is a beautiful beachfront restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere and French, Mediterranean and European cuisine, if you are in Corsica, don’t miss it.

My look: Zamia bead-embellished embroidered tulle-paneled printed halterneck swimsuit, and Zamia fringed crochet-trimmed printed chiffon pareo, both by PatBO, Rockstud PVC jelly sandals by Valentino, Scarab Mustique 24kt gold-plated choker by Begüm Khan, butterfly sunglasses with rainbow letters, long necklace with coin charms, earrings with coin charms, and logo brooch, all by CHANEL, triangle-logo claw hair clip by Prada, and vertical Dior book tote by Dior.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson 
We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.