Sandra‘s Closet

Jaume Plensa was born in Spain in 1955, and shares his residence between Paris and Barcelona. Between his first exhibition in his hometown in 1980 and today, he has been living and working in Germany, Belgium, England, France and the US. Also, teaching at the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where we celebrated recently his artwork for Ruinart. Today, he shares with us his favorite spots in Spain, his home country.

Your favourite city?
BARCELONA. It is my city where I found home, a place where I could develop my work. It has the perfect size, it is not too big and not to small. It is right in front of the sea which is important for me.

Your favourite hotel?
VILLA REAL in MADRID. I feel at home. I could never separate a place from the people and I love the ones that are working there. They have taken me as a friend. I always stay there when I am in Madrid. It is a very charming place right in front of the congress.
Plaza de las Cortes, 10, 28014 Madrid, Phone: +34 914 20 37 67

Your favourite restaurant?
There is a beautiful restaurant in BARCELONA near my studio that has become like my office where I meet my friends, LA PART DELS ANGELS. The name stands for this little quantity in the wine that evaporates in the barrel, it is the angel’s share. For me, it is such a beautfiul name as I am always working with invisible emotions.
Passeig Bertrand, 27, 08980 Sant Feliu de Llobregat, Barcelona, Phone: +34 936 66 66 44

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
I love the little city of SITGES, little town nearby Barcelona, right in front of the sea. It is the perfect place to spend the afternoon, very picturesque.

Your favourite museum?
The MUSEO DEL PRADO in MADRID because they have something fantastic collection, they have art works from Velázquez, Goya and Hieronymus Bosch, which belong for me to the most important artists of all times.
Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid

Your favourite piece of art?
LAS MENINAS, a 1656 painting in the Museo del Prado in MADRID, by Diego Velázquez, the leading artist of the Spanish Golden Age. It is the first time in history that somebody had the capacity to paint space, just the emptiness. It is a remarkable piece of art.

Your favourite shop?
L’ILLA DIAGONAL – it is a small commercial center where you can find a little bit of everything.
Avinguda Diagonal, 557, 08029 Barcelona, Phone:+34 934 44 00 00

Your must-have accessory?
When you come to Spain, the best you can bring is an OPEN MIND and to be completely free of prejudices. We are very welcoming, we love to share. It is a great place for conversation.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
FLAMENCO, it is important for my country, a very emotional way to express especially in the South of Spain.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
DON QUIJOTE by Miguel Cervantes Saavedra. Last year was the Cervantes year as we celebrated 400 years since he died in 1616. It is a key book for Spain, a concept of our history, Cervantes is equivalent to Shakespeare.

Thank you, Jaume Plensa, for sharing your insider scoop on Spain with us!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Locations, © Sandra Bauknecht

Born in Colombia and raised between Miami and London, EDGARDO OSORIO combines his eye for drop-dead glamour, his passion for modern design and his hand for luxury craftsmanship into desirable footwear. After attending the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins, he made his first strides in the footwear world within some of the most prestigious luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Sigerson Morrison, René Caovilla, and Roberto Cavalli. In 2011, after working in the industry for 10 years, and at just 25 years old, Edgardo launched his luxury footwear brand AQUAZZURA. Striking the perfect balance between modern design and impeccable craftsmanship, Edgardo creates stylish yet wearable footwear for the modern woman. Today, he shares his insider scoop on the city he is living in with us!

Your favourite city?
FLORENCE – My home. My headquarters are situated in the historical Palazzo Corsini along with the Florentine flagship store (see photo above). Along the Arno River, in the heart of Florence and near the best shoemakers and craftspeople in the world.
Aquazzura Store, Lungarno Corsini, 42, 50123 Florence, Phone: +39 055 291242

Your favourite hotel?
J.K. PLACE FIRENZE – This small boutique hotel is the most stylish address to stay in Florence.
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 7, 50123 Firenze, Phone: +39 055 2645181

Your favourite restaurant?
BUCA MARIO – Traditional Florentine cuisine in the heart of the historic city centre, housed in a sixteenth-century buca. In Florence, buche were typical cellars situated beneath imposing historic palazzos often owned by aristocratic families. They were used to store salted meats, ham and salamis, and, above all, to house precious wine. Enormous oak vats lined the thick walls, which maintained an ideal temperature. As you make your way down the old entrance stairs of Buca Mario, it is impossible not to step into the past.
Piazza degli Ottaviani, 16r, 50123 Firenze, Phone: +39 055 214179

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
LA TERRAZZO LOUNGE BAR on the rooftop of HOTEL CONTINENTALE – From the rooftop bar you get a magical view of the cathedral and other historic buildings located in Florence.
Vicolo dell’Oro, 6R, 50123 Firenze, Phone: +39 055 27262

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
The VASARI CORRIDOR, a hidden corridor used by the Medici family to get between the Pitti Palace and the Palazzo Vecchio. It is one of the most unique places in Florence, with a one of a kind collection of self-portraits from the 16th century.
Uffizi Gallery, Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze

Your favourite park?
BARDINI GARDENS – It has three sections: a great baroque flight of steps, fringed with irises. It ascends to a belvedere and with expansive views of Florence, an English garden with its Channel of the Dragon and a farming area with almost-medieval hillside terraces planted with olive trees.
Costa S. Giorgio, 2, 50125 Firenze, Phone: +39 055 2006 6206

Your favourite shop?
OFFICINA PROFUMA FARMACEUTICA DI SANTA MARIA NOVELLA – It is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world.
Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze, Phone: +39 055 216276

Your must-have accessory?
A BORSALINO PANAMA HAT – stylish and iconic.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
Old italian songs by RAFFAELLA CARRA to put you in a great mood!

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
«SAVING ITALY» by Robert M. Edsel – An unforgettable story of epic thievery and political intrigue, a testament to heroism on behalf of art, culture, and history.

Thank you, Edgardo, for sharing your insider scoop on Florence with us!

TO SHOP AQUAZZURA, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the different locations, © Edgardo Osorio/Aquazurra and © Sandra Bauknecht

For AERIN LAUDER, Founder & Creative Director of the beauty and lifestyle brand AERIN, MOROCCO is a magical destination that inspires her in many ways – a melting pot of cultures and colors, with café-lined streets of Art Nouveau and Deco architecture, and a labyrinthine Moorish medina, its long mesmerized artists, writers, and bohemians. Today she tells us a little bit more about her favorite spots.

Your favourite city?
MARRAKECH – from the palaces and gardens to the legendary bazaars, there’s always something new to explore – it’s full of mystery and splendor. This became the inspiration for my most recent AERIN fragrance, Tangier Vanille.

The beautiful Tangier Vanille collection.

Scent is always tied to a memory and all of the ingredients we have chosen for Tangier Vanille, remind me of my travels to Morocco. The scents of spices from everywhere – like vanilla, cinnamon and saffron – fill the air.

Your favourite hotel?
We stayed at the incredibly beautiful FOUR SEASONS RESORT MARRAKECH. It is the perfect balance of familiar and exotic. If you are looking for a little taste of home, you can order American comfort food like fried eggs and bacon, but if you want a traditional Moroccan meal, they offer delicious local dishes. I loved the artfully arranged plates of dates, figs, and nuts.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech, Avenue de la Ménara, Marrakech
Phone: +212 5243-59200

I’d also love to stay at the PEACOCK PAVILIONS on the outskirts of Marrakech and the chic riad hotel EL FENN.
Peacock Pavilions, km 18 route N9 Marrakech, Marrakech, Douar Ladaam
Phone: +212 5244-84617

El Fenn Hotel, Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian, 2, Marrakesh 40000
Phone: +212 5244-41210

Your favourite restaurant?
LE MAROCAIN restaurant in the La Mamounia. One of the most stunning hotels in the world is La Mamounia, designed by the very talented Jacques Garcia. The hotel is a dazzling example of Moroccan style. To get to their wonderful restaurant Le Marocain, you have to walk through their gardens. The setting is magical, lots of rich colors, low lights, and red velvet. They have the most amazing lamb couscous. The night we were there, local musicians came in and played. My father requested an Arabic lullaby that my grandfather used to love called “Moustafa“.
La Mamounia, Avenue Prince Moulay Rachid, Marrakech
Phone: +212 5243-88600

Your perfect escape?
My dream is to stay next at THE ROYAL MANSOUR. King Mohammed VI built it an exquisite example of Moroccan style. The spaces are very decadent, gold leaf ceilings, intricate carved floral motifs, beautiful tiles. The level of detail is extraordinary. Last time I was there, I had lunch there with my father in their garden restaurant La Table. It was lovely, the air smelled like jasmine and orange blossom.
The Royal Mansour, Rue Abou Abbas el sebti،, Marrakesh 40000
Telefon: +212 52980-8080

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
FREDERICK VREELAND, the son of Diana Vreeland and the former American Ambassador to Morocco, has a fantastic house in Marrakech. The riad boasts 5 acres of gardens and features a wonderful mix of Morroccan, European, and Asian design. The house was the backdrop for a photo shoot I did – it was a very memorable trip.

The cover shoot was shot by Jonathan Becker for Town & Country Magazine. I love those photographs, they really capture a sense of place—I wore an amazing brown and blue Rochas dress that echoed the backdrop of the Moroccan desert and sky.

Your favourite park?
I was blown away and inspired by JARDIN MAJORELLE. I love places with so much history and creativity. The color combinations in this must-see twelve-acre botanical garden are absolutely magical.
Jardin Majorelle, Rue Yves Saint Laurent، Marrakesh 40090
Phone: +212 5243-13047

Your favourite shop?
The SOUKS in Marrakech. They are famous for the incredible array of Moroccan treasures like embroidered tunics, colored glass, jewelry, spices, and ceramics. I found a striking terracotta tagine serving platter that I still wish I had taken home with me. It is on my wishlist for when I return (hopefully soon!).

Your must-have accessory?
The AERIN Brown Rose Weekender – I don’t travel anywhere without it. It fits all of my essentials, while still feeling feminine and stylish. Some of my travel essentials include my iPhone which goes everywhere with me, my travel size gold AERIN brush and comb and my pink AERIN batik makeup bag.

Your go-to style?
I pack white pants, great tunics, a great pair of flat sandals for all of the walking and a big tote bag.

Beauty essential?
The new AERIN Tangier Vanille body cream and rollerball, the AERIN Rose Lip Conditioner
always helps my lips stay hydrated and the AERIN bronzer helps me look fresh and sun kissed.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
Local magazines – I like to pick up local magazines upon arrival and read through for inspiration.

Your best travel tips?
Visit the market, go for a hike in the dessert, go on a camel ride and have an authentic dinner in a tented room drinking mint tea after a day of shopping.

Thank you, Aerin, for sharing your insider scoop on Morocco with us!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Locations, © Aerin Lauder, via Town & Country and Vogue, © Frederic Ducout

Indian actress and Audemars Piguet ambassador FREIDA PINTO who rose to prominence through the 2008 British drama «Slumdog Millionaire» was born and raised in Mumbai. Today she lives in Los Angeles where along with working on her film career, she promotes humanitarian causes and is vocal about women’s empowerment. Calling herself a «global citizen», she is still very proud of her Indian roots, the rich culture, heritage and family values she grew up with. Therefore she was happy to share her travel tips for INDIA with us. Enjoy!

Your favourite city?
UDAIPUR, the city of the lakes, it is in Rajasthan in Northwest India. It is romanticism at its highest level, it is not only romantic, it is about the whole concept of romanticism, color, light, architecture and texture of fabrics.

Your favourite hotel?
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE in Jodhpur which is also a very beautiful city. I have always wanted to do an event there, watever the event might be. I love how it is perched on the top of a cliff and expansive regarding the history behind. All palaces in India that got transferred into hotels have this old world charm that you wouldn’t find in a modern retreat.
Circuit House Rd, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006
Phone: +91 291 251 0101

Your favourite restaurant?
MAHESH LUNCH HOME in Mumbai. It is a seafood restaurant that serves Mangalorean food.
For example next to J.W.Marriott, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049
Phone: +91 22 6695 5554

Your favorite dish?
My favorite dish is NEER DOSA with the fish curry.

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS, formerly Victoria Terminus, and better known by its abbreviation CST, is a historic railway station in Mumbai and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I went to college very close by and we shot the last scene of «Slumdog Millionaire» there. So it has a lot of memories for me.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

Your favourite beach?
I like the beaches in GOA because I like Goan food which is this beach shack kind of food but to be honest my favourite beaches are outside of India.

Your favourite shop?
AMRAPALI JEWELS. They have beautiful jewelry with locations everywhere in India (for store information, please click here). They even have a shop now in London.

Your must-have souvenir?
SILVER or PRECIOUS GEMSTONES anything in terms of jewelry that you would find only in India or that you would find in other countries but sold at ten times the price.

The best book to read about India?
THE SHADOW LINES by Indian writer Amitav Ghosh as it gives you a piece of history of my country. The novel is set against the backdrop of ancient events like the Swadeshi movement, Second World War, Partition of India and Communal riots of 1963-64 in Dhaka and Calcutta.

Thank you, Freida, for sharing your insider scoop on India with us!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Locations, ©Archana’s Kitchen, via Slumdog Millionaire, © AUDEMARS PIGUET, © Sandra Bauknecht

“The freshness of an early morning. The sparkle of a grand soiree. I live in the rhythm of this magical, luminous Paris. I love those special moments which have inspired me to create these two perfumes – a fragrance journey into the heart of the City of Lights. ” – Francis Kurkdjian

Accompanying the launch of his two new fragrances dedicated to Paris, Petit Matin and Grand Soir, which will both be available in September 2016, the famous perfumer shared his favorite spots in the French capital with us. (If you are in Zurich, you can find his creations at the newly opened counter at Jelmoli or at Perfumery Osswald. To shop his creations online, click here please.)

Your favourite city?
PARIS, because it is Paris. It is my hometown.

Your favourite hotel?
HOTEL LA PROVIDENCE in the 10th arrondissement. A charming small boutique hotel with a great restaurant, good food and a lovely bar.
90, Rue René Boulanger, 75010 Paris, Phone: +33 1 46 34 34 04

Your favourite restaurant?
LA DAME DE PIC by Anne Sophie Pic, who is one of the best chefs in the world and France’s first woman to win three Michelin stars.
20, Rue du Louvre, 75001 Paris, Phone: +33 1 42 60 40 40

Your favourite nightclub?
SILENCIO because I love the decor.
142, Rue Montmarte,  75002 Paris, Phone: +33 1 40 13 12 33

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
The rooftop of the restaurant GEORGES which has the best view over the city.
6th floor, Palais Beaubourg, Place Georges Pompidou, 75000 Paris, Phone: +33 1 44 78 47 99
The view from the PLACE DU TROCADERO with the Eiffel Tower in the back is spectacular, especially at night as well as the PONT ALEXANDRE III (pictured), the beautiful deck arch bridge that spans the Seine. It is so Parisian.

Your favourite park?
I adore the PALAIS ROYAL GARDEN, not a real parc, more a garden between my office and my home. Very French but not too touristy like the Tuileries that are just across.
6 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, Phone:+33 1 47 03 92 16

Your favourite shop?
ATELIER REYNARD. It is more a secret spot, an atelier. It is the place where I get all my leather goods. The owner is so talented.
3 Place du Palais Bourbon, 75007 Paris, Phone: +33 1 45 51 77 87

Your must-have accessory?
My SCENTED CARD WALLET that is hand made and that can be exclusively found in my Paris store.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian, 5, rue d’Alger, 75001 Paris , Phone: +33 1 42 60 07 07

Your favorite museum?
MUSEUM NISSIM DE CAMONDO. It was owned by a banker, Count de Camondo. I love the spirit of it. It had been a private mansion that was turned into a museum. It houses a spectacular collection of French decorative art from the second half of the 18th century.
63 Rue de Monceau, 75008 Paris, Phone: +33 1 53 89 06 50

Your favourite piece of art?
I like the work of SOPHIE DELAUNAY that you can explore at the Musée d’Art Moderne. Her art is colorful, avantgarde and deconstructed.
11 Avenue du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris, Phone: +33 1 53 67 40 00
ELIAS CRESPIN (pictured) – very contemporary, he does mobiles floating in the air with very centric movements full of electronics. It is to die for.
Galerie Denise René Espace Marais, 22 rue Charlot, 75003 Paris

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
Poetry by GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE. I love his universe. His poem LE PONT MIRABEAU is my favourite. It is about the Seine.

The smell of Paris?
The SUBWAY. When you walk through the streets, you can smell the ventilation. For me, this is very French!

Thank you, Francis, for sharing your insider scoop on Paris with us!
My dear readers, if you like to know more about Francis, I have some great news. An amazing interview will be coming up shortly. So stay tuned please!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the locations, © David Lynch, © Sylvain Leurent and © Sandra Bauknecht

Childhood friends Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief have always shared a passion for fashion and travels. In 2003, they started to implement their vision into developing their own brand: Ba&Sh (the letters of their first names). Their collection is inspired by hippie chic and rock influences and revolves around the idea of the everyday ‘ideal closet’. Their favorite vacation destination? Of course Ibiza – it is known for its bohemian vibe, a way of life that Barbara and Sharon absolutely exude.

Your favourite place on earth?
Barbara & Sharon: IBIZA! For its freedom, its nature and its perfect time. Each location is associated with a memory. For us, Ibiza is happiness!

Your favourite hotel?
Barbara & Sharon: Definitely, the ATZARO hotel!
Why? It’s simple, go to their website. You’ll understand why. Quiet and sublime!
Carretera Sant Joan, km 15, 07800 Santa Eularia des Riu, Eivissa, Phone: +34 971 33 88 38

Your favourite restaurant?
Sharon: Truly, we really have same tastes with Barbara. For both of us, it’s CIPRIANI.
Barbara: This is an italian restaurant with great music and good fresh products. Very hype!
Passeig Joan Carles I, 17, 07800 Eivissa, Phone: +34 971 59 90 50

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
Barbara & Sharon: PACHA IBIZA! Lots of memories there. It’s a classic but once you listen to electro music, enjoy the good atmosphere, you will dance all night long!
Av. 8 d’Agost, 07800 Ibiza, Phone: +34 971 31 36 12

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
Barbara & Sharon: The EXPERIMENTAL BEACH! Crazy sunset there!
Playa des Codolar Salinas, s/n, 07817 Ibiza, Phone: +34 664 33 12 69
Is this your favourite beach?
Barbara: All the beaches are our favorites in Ibiza!
Sharon: Especially with music!

Your favourite shop?
Barbara & Sharon: We often go to SLUIZ for local products. SHANTY within the BLUE MARLIN (see photo above) is the perfect spot for after beach buying. The selection is perfect with many ideas of decoration, clothes, etc…
Sluiz, PM-804, s/n, 07814 Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, Phone: +34 971 93 12 06
Shanty at Blue Marlin, Cala Jondal, s/n, 07800 Eivissa, Phone: +34 971 07 00 15

Your must-have accessory?
Barbara: My iPAD! Too practical.
Sharon: My iPHONE! There is everything on it!

The best soundtrack for this destination?
Sharon: For sure, SOLOMUN. I love his energy!
Barbara: MARVIN GAYE for me! He really has an incredible voice and a crazy soul.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
Barbara: BELLE DU SEIGNEUR by Albert Cohen
Sharon: No reading, just partying!

Thank you, Barbara and Sharon, for sharing your insider scoop on Ibiza with us!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Locations and © Sandra Bauknecht

Raised in Germany, England and France, Jasmin Khezri studied at the renowned Parsons School of Design in Paris and Los Angeles and went on to become one of the youngest award winning art directors in Europe. Besides a successful career in magazines and retail, she became famous for her unique illustration style and especially for IRMA, the famous character with big eyes and French-fries legs that you might know from mytheresa.com besides many other things. It took Jasmin more than 7 years to develop her look in a complete way. Today, she shares her insider scoop on Munich in Germany with us.

Your favourite city?
I enjoy living in MUNICH during the week and for the weekend I like to go to the countryside. That is the best part of the city…

Your favourite hotel?
I like the LOUIS HOTEL right at the Viktualien Markt and in the morning I either enjoy breakfast in their restaurant daydreaming while looking apon the merchants getting ready for the day or go around the food market which has all the delicacies you are dreaming off for breakfast.
Viktualienmarkt 6, 80331 Munich, Phone :+49 89 41119080

The MANDARIN ORIENTAL is great if you want to have dinner at their newly opened restaurant NOBU and drop right into bed afterwards.
Neuturmstrasse 1, 80331 Munich, Phone:+49 89 290980

Your favourite restaurant?
In Munich I dine at THERESA and like to go next door to THERESA BAR for an after dinner vodka. You will be surprised what you will find behind a very common house facade, a true jewel of  interior design.
Theresienstrasse 29, 80333 Munich, Phone: +49 89 28803301

On a rainy Saturday in winter I have lunch at LA OSTERIA ITALIANA and order a Bollito Misto, sitting in their Italian room.
Schellingstrasse 62, 80799 Munich, Phone :+49 89 2720717

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
For Techno/Deep House, ROTE SONNE and KONG, for Hip Hop Downtown Flash and for a chilled night with friends for drinks JAMES T. HUNT, KISMET, GOLDENE BAR (photo above) and BEVERLY KILLS.
Rote Sonne, Maximilianspl. 5, 80333 Munich, Phone:+49 89 55263330
Kong, Prielmayerstr. 6, 80335 Munich
James T. Hunt, Schellingstrasse 32, 80799 Munich, Phone:+49 89 27373038
Kismet, Löwengrube 10, 80333 Munich, Phone:+49 89 220352
Goldene Bar, Prinzregentenstrasse 1, 80538 Munich, Phone:+49 89 54804777
Beverly Kills, Müllerstrasse 43, 80469 Munich

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
HAUS DER KUNST (especially their guided tours made by IRMASWORLD.COM guest editor Marion von Schabrowsky) and ALTE PINAKOTHEK for the splendour and old masters.
Haus der Kunst, Prinzregentenstrasse 1, 80538 Munich, Phone: +49 89 21127113
Alte Pinakothek, Barer Str. 27, 80333 Munich, Phone: +49 89 23805216

KUNSTHALLE HYPO-VEREINSBANK for their very different exhibitions showing everything from Jean Paul Gaultier recently to JOAQUÍN SOROLLA now.
Fünf Höfe, Theatinerstrasse 8, 80333 Munich, Phone:+49 89 224412

Your favourite park?
The northern part of the ENGLISCHER GARTEN is almost deserted and you can almost go Military Horseback Riding without running into someone.

Your favourite shop?
In Munich I love to buy my food and beverages at DALLMAYR.
Dienerstrasse 14, 80331 Munich, Phone:+49 89 2135100

LODENFREY for special selected items, you can also buy small luxury presents designed by IRMA exclusively for Lodenfrey.
Maffeistrasse 7, 80333 Munich, Phone:+49 89 210390

I am very much into men’s shoes at the moment and I buy them at LUDWIG REITER.
Burgstrasse 8, 80331 Munich, Phone:+49 89 94301370

For coats and jackets (I have too many and still need more )I love the first floor of THERESA.
Maffeistrasse 3, 80333 Munich, Phone: +49 89 224845

Your must-have accessory?
My IRMA iPHONE COVER by Caseable, a very, very small handbag and an outstanding piece of ANTIQUE JEWELRY. You can wear everything separately but it can look very cool all mixed together.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
GIORGIO MORODER 1970 DISCO. Munich was one of the disco epicentres, just think of Donna Summer.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
Annette Kolb, DIE SCHAUKEL. Probably the best description of the bohemian art crowd in early 1900, the competing Prussian and French influence and the famous “Liberalitas Bavariae”.

Thank you, Jasmin, for sharing your insider scoop on Munich with us.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Ute Zscharnt, © Jasmin Khezri and via the different locations

Designer duo Viktor Horsting & Rolf Snoeren were both born in 1969 in the Netherlands not far away from each other. They met during their studies at the Arnhem Academy of Art and Design and began working together upon graduation. In 1993, they won a talent contest and launched their namesake label VIKTOR & ROLF.

Today, they focus on their creative Haute Couture collections and their bestselling fragrances. Below you can enjoy their insider tips for their vibrant hometown Amsterdam.

Your favourite city?
Amsterdam

Your favourite hotel?
No idea, we never stay in a hotel in Amsterdam, we live here! Having said that, the new WALDORF ASTORIA seems nice. Quiet, and with a lovely big garden.
Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, Phone: +31 20 718 4600

Your favourite restaurant?
We always end up at GEORGE on the Leidsegracht because it’s around the corner and convenient. DE GOUDFAZANT in Noord is also nice, we should go more often. Great atmosphere and food in a laid back setting.
Café George, Leidsegracht 84, 1016 CR Amsterdam, Phone: +31 20 626 0802
Restaurant Hotel de Goudfazant, Aambeeldstraat 10 H, 1021 KB Amsterdam (Noord), Phone: +31 20 – 63 65 170

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
PARADISO because it has such a varied programme, from café chantant via indie pop to hardcore gay technoclub.
Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG Amsterdam, Phone: +31 20 626 4521

Your favourite museum?
THE RIJKSMUSEUM. All the Dutch masters under one roof.
Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Phone: +31 900 0745
HET STEDELIJK MUSEUM. Cutting edge contemporary art + an amazing collection of modern art
Museum Het Schip (Amsterdamse School architecture). Great example of this particularly Dutch style of architecture.
Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Phone:+31 20 573 2911

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
HET STADSARCHIEF BY DE BAZEL. An underrated monument.
Vijzelstraat 32,1017 HL Amsterdam, Phone: +31 20 723 0560

DE REGULIERSGRACHT. It doesn’t get more picturesque than this.
Reguliersgracht 78c, 1017 LV Amsterdam, Phone: +31 20 344 9247

Your favourite park?
VONDELPARK. Anything goes in there.
1071AA Amsterdam, Phone+31 20 678 1678

Your favourite beach?
ZANDVOORT, behind beachbar ELDORADO. Because clothing is optional.
Strandpaviljoen, Zuidstrand 6, 2042 AD Zandvoort, Phone: +31 23 571 8229

Your favourite shop?
All the FLOWER SHOPS and stalls in town! You gotta love ‘em.

Your must-have accessory?
SPICEBOMB!

The best soundtrack for this destination?
IBIZA SONICA RADIO. Happy vibes.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
ALI SMITH «THERE BUT FOR THE». One of the best contemporary authors.

Thank you, Viktor & Rolf, for sharing your insider scoop on Amsterdam with us!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Viktor & Rolf, ©Kristina-D.C.-Hoeppner, © Barbara Walsh

OLIVIER ECHAUDEMAISON, Make-up Creative Director at Guerlain, is one of the most handsome, charming and entertaining men I have ever met in the industry. Since 2000, he constantly aims to reveal and accentuate feminine beauty with his most innovative creations. Olivier is constantly travelling around the world for his job. Among all destinations, he adores Tokyo and shares with us his favorite spots of the Japanese metropole.

Your favourite city?
After Paris, I love TOKYO: a city which is so modern with a great civilisation and culture.

Your favourite hotel?
Until the still on-going renovation, I loved the HOTEL OKURA. I hope they will keep its unique mood.
2 Chome-10-4 Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo 105-0001
Phone: +81 3-3582-0111

Your favourite restaurant?
I love small, traditional, non-trendy places. I went to TEN–ICHI RESTAURANT last time and I really liked it. It is known for its superb, remarkably light tempura specialties.
1-1, Uchisaiwaicho 1-Chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8558
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, Tower Bldg., LL1
Phone: +81-3-3503-1001

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
I less and less go to night-clubs; as for the bars, I prefer popular, informal cafés.

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
There are two places that really impress me in different ways: TSUKIJI MARKET and EDO-TOKYO MUSEUM (pictured).
Tskiji Market: 5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo, Tokyo 104-0045
Edo-Tokyo Museum: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida, Tokyo 130-0015 

Your favourite park?
As I love trees, bonsais and flowers, I really enjoy walking around the IMPERIAL PALACE GARDENS KOKYO.
1-1 Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-8111

Your favourite shop?
ITOYA – an amazing stationery store. I also like big department stores with floors dedicated to porcelain.
〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo, Ginza, 2 Chome−7-15
Phone:+81 3-3561-8311

ISETAN – for the men fashion floors because they have a great selection!
〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku, 新宿3-14-1
Phone:+81 3-3352-1111
I also like the ‘bonsai‘ shops. But I couldn’t say any specific name because there are small stores in various areas.

Your must-have accessory?
My OMAS FOUNTAIN PEN with red ink, because people recognize my handwriting immediately.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
Today: DAVID BOWIE, but classic music relaxes after a duty day.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
Nothing specific while being in Tokyo. I mostly read in the plane, during long flights. I never watch plane programs, I prefer to read, and on paper; novels or essays like “IN PRAISE OF SHADOWS” by Jun’ichiro Tanizaki. So “enlightening“…

Thank you, Olivier, for sharing your insider scoop on Tokyo with us.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hiroaki Fukuda, © Omas, © Sandra Bauknecht and the different locations

Marcell Pustul, the mastermind behind the young label MARCELL VON BERLIN, studied fashion design at the famous Parsons School in New York City and gathered professional experience at Michael Kors and Donna Karan. In 2011, he founded his own label that brings red carpet looks and couture from the capital of cool, BERLIN. Enjoy his tips for the famous German metropole.

Your favourite city?
BERLIN – A city that never sleeps. Berlin has its very own style and is a cultural hotspot. It’s a small New York.

Your favourite hotel?
HOTEL AM STEINPLATZ – A beautiful boutique hotel with lovely individually designed rooms in a contemporary style. Always a nice destination to go for a drink at the bar or just have a relaxing spa day.
Steinplatz 4, 10623 Berlin, Phone +49 30 5544440

Your favourite restaurant?
DUDU31 – It’s a new cool, fashionable, trendy place with one of the best sushis in town (photo above).
Bleibtreustrasse 31, 10707 Berlin, Phone+49 30 57795577
DOKMAI – Traditional, puristic, cosy – the best Thai restaurant in Berlin.
Muthesiusstrasse 38, 12163 Berlin, Phone +49 30 70096185

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
THE PEARL – Another hotspot in Berlin and the place to be if you want to party and have a great time with friends and just want to dance (photo above).
Fasanenstrasse 81, 10623 Berlin, Phone +49 30 31518890
BERGHAIN – Everybody who comes to Berlin has once to go to the iconic Berghain. It’s the ultimate place in the city. You will never find something like this anywhere else. A must- experience… a place where you can party 24/7.
Am Wriezener Bahnhof, 10243 Berlin, Phone +49 30 29360210

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
HACKESCHER MARKT – Small shops, unique items, young Berlin labels, famous designers, cafés and restaurants, you have everything you need for a fun day at this shopping hotspot.
10178 Berlin

Your favourite park?
TIERGARTEN – The miniature version of Central Park with small lakes. I love walking through this beautiful area with my dog, visiting a biergarten or renting a pedal boot and discover small areas of the park you can’t find by foot.

Your favourite beach?
CAPPUCCINO KU’DAMM BEACH – Berlin doesn’t have a real beach, except for example Wannsee. But the Ku’damm Beach is a great combination of restaurant, bar and beach at Halensee at the end of the Kurfürstendamm.
Koenigsallee 5B, 14193 Berlin, Phone +49 176 74120828

Your favourite shop?
MIENTUS – Great concept store, that sells international labels.
Schlütergasse/Kurfürstendamm 52, 10707 Berlin, Phone +49 30 3239077
SHIZARU – The best place to find extraordinary and rare outfits (photo above).
Meinekestrasse 5, 10719 Berlin, Phone +49 30 65833008

Your must-have accessory?
ROLEX WATCH IN GOLD – A luxurious statement, a true status symbol. A must-have that adds a chic contrast to my tattooed skin. Elegant and cool in one.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
«SKY & SAND» by PAUL & FRITZ KALKBRENNER – The song is from the movie «Berlin Calling» and is a hymn to Berlin and its flair.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
«NACHT LEBEN BERLIN 1974 BIS HEUTE» by WOLFGANG FARKAS – A great book to get to know the different facets of Berlin’s nightlife. It’s amazing to see how many locations have been trendy over many years.

Thank you, Marcell, for sharing your insider scoop on Berlin with us.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Marcell von Berlin, the different locations and via MrWallpaper.com