Sandra‘s Closet

Happy New Year from Bangkok where I am at the moment. I hope that you started 2014 in a very fun way. Today is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one!

On the first day of the year, I am exploring the Thai city a little more with all its shrines and spirit houses. Something that you can see here on every corner. It is a truly amazing place to visit.

My look: Zebra print top by Saint Laurent, grey mid-rise skinny leg distressed jean by J Brand, studded leather loafers by Miu Miu, Donna hobo bag in vine green by Alexander Wang and floral sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana.

The Erawan Shrine (officially named Thao Maha Brahma) in Bangkok is not old, but it is an interesting testament of the role of religion in modern Thai society. In 1955, the founder of the Erawan hotel was told by an astrologist, that the time for laying the foundation stone was not really right. It could only be corrected by building a shrine in the area. Following this advice, the Thao Maha Brahma was enshrined one year later.

The Erawan Shrine is located on the northwest corner of the Grand Hyatt Erawan property, near the Chit Lom stop on the skytrain. It consists of a golden statue, the Thao Mana Brahma, that sits beneath a glittering canopy, surrounded by offerings of flowers, incese and candles. The area is crowded with worshippers day and night and always wafting with incense smoke. A very magical place to visit and a great spot to wish for a Happy New Year.

Enjoy some of my impressions and of course stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Recently, I was invited to La Réserve in Geneva, one of my favorite hotels in this area, to be pampered in their spa with the amazing products of Nescens. During my stay, I also had the honor to meet Professor Jacques Proust, a pioneer in the biology of aging and anti-aging medicine, who created fifteen years ago a center that is unique in Europe: “Centre de Prévention du Vieillissement” (Nescens Center for Preventive Medicine at the Clinique de Genolier).

Professor Proust’s passionate vision is pretty simple and easy to understand as every human being deeply aspires to enjoying the best of life for as long as possible and needless to say this is accomplished through the preservation of his or her appearance, physical fitness and health. He created Nescens to help every individual attain this legitimate desire.

Building on his years of fundamental research in the field of senescence, Professor Jacques Proust developed a deep interest in the therapeutic strategies susceptible of slowing down the effects of aging on the human body. As the largest and most exposed organ of the body, the skin naturally attracted his scientific interest. Based on his knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying the aging process, Professor Jacques Proust devised the Nescens cosmeceutical range and its product formulas which are all scientifically validated.

I can absolutely recommend a visit to the Nescens Medical Spa that is located inside the 5-star hotel La Réserve Genève. Being one of the best ones I have seen so far, it boasts 2,000 sq.m dedicated to well-being and the management of your health capital, under the supervision of a team of physicians, nutritionists and osteopaths.

I was absolutely impressed by this high performance anti-aging treatment program that combines technical prowess and ultimate comfort for long-lasting effectiveness and tailor-made support. The first diagnostic step, based on an in-depth analysis with the help of  dedicated machine, shows you the different aspects to be considered concerning skin aging, from dark spots to wrinkles, from its moisture level to its firmness. You see the now status and how it would develop if you didn’t consider working on its appearance. This enables your therapist to create a customized preventive and corrective treatment.

The big difference to other treatments is that Nescens delivers cellular regeneration, step by step, from the stratum corneum to the deep structure of the cells. An improvement is visible in just 10 sessions: the skin looks revitalized and rejuvenated; wrinkles appear visibly smoothed and diminished; the complexion is resolutely evened out and clarified. It was very impressive to see what is already possible in one hour, not to be speak of the long-term if you continue working with their products.

The Nescens range offers a resolutely innovative anti-aging approach based on the understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in the maintenance and repair of skin structures. If you are interested, check out their product range by clicking here.

I am absolutely convinced and can highly recommend the Swiss brand.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Product shot: © Nescens

From now until to February 28, 2014, the Mandarin Oriental Munich invites guests to indulge in little fashion fantasy of their own with the Mandarin Bar’s Jimmy Choo Fashion Afternoon Tea.

One of my favorite heels by Jimmy Choo for the new season is the neon elaphe pump.

The tea set takes inspiration from Jimmy Choo’s Cruise 2014 collection and highlights the popular clutch Charlize and the stiletto Sunday. The iconic hotel’s pastry chefs have specially created a range of dainty culinary treats, such aschocolate raspberry macaroons, Jimmy Choo handbags filled with chocolate, cucumber and cream cheese and grapefruit lemon and caviar shooters which are sure to win the hearts of every fashionista.

Whether as a gift for a best friend or as a treat after a shopping tour, this special Afternoon Tea at the Mandarin Bar is a must for those with a passion for fashion who want to enjoy the sweet temptations of life.

How gorgeous is Jimmy Choo’s Cruise 2014 Candy glitter-finished acrylic clutch?!

It is priced at €39.00 per person and €55.00 per person with a glass of champagne. All guests who book the tea will a special complimentary gift set: Jimmy Choo FLASH fragrant surprise. Available from Mondays to Fridays from 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Reservations can be made through: +49 (0)89 290 98 1929.

See you there! In case that you won’t make it to Munich, check out the Prêt-à-PorTea at the Berkeley Hotel in London.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Munich and Jimmy Choo

Marking their 15th year, Louis Vuitton unveils a new look for its City Guides, now covering 15 of the world’s most exciting cities. New cities, new features, new format —the Louis Vuitton City Guides get 
a complete make-over, emerging entirely refreshed and revitalized.

Since 1998, Louis Vuitton has been sharing its insatiable urban wanderlust through its City Guides. Eagerly awaited every year 
and heralded even by the world’s most sophisticated travelers, 
they truly capture the heart and spirit of each city explored, offering a hand-picked selection of exceptional places, delivered with flair and conviction.
A great Christmas gift for a beloved friend.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Between my recent trips to China and Iceland, I flew for one day to Berlin to shoot MCM‘ s amazing new collaboration with Craig & Karl: EYES ON THE HORIZON. I love the German capital (and that is not only because I was born in this country), it’s one of the most vibrant, energetic cities in Europe. It’s the combination of two facts that can be felt everywhere: its present anything-goes-and-anything’s-possible vibe and its somber past.

Let me take you on a tour around Berlin. I had so much fun with my very talented photographer Christoph Schemel. See for yourselves:

First stop: THE KURFÜRSTENDAMM
Known locally as the Ku’damm, one of the most famous avenues in the city is home to many shops, such as the MCM boutique, hotels and restaurants. It’s often considered the Champs-Élysées of Berlin.

Second stop: DAS STUE
Located right next to the Tiergarten (central park of Berlin), the stylish design hotel Das Stue offers all the comforts of a quiet urban refuge within the heart of Berlin.

Third stop: CAFE AM NEUEN SEE
Christoph and I had a fabulous lunch at this fun place outside in the garden area with waiter service (there is also a self-service beer garden part directly by the lake) and planned the rest of our shoot. I had a piece of very yummy cheesecake (German cheesecake is the best) that went so fast I forgot to take a picture.

Fourth stop: SIEGESSÄULE
Berlin’s “Victory Column” is a famous monument and probably one of the best known symbols of the city. The “Golden Lizzie,” as it is known in local slang, was originally built around 1864 to celebrate Prussia’s victory in the German-Danish war.

Fifth stop: BRANDENBURGER TOR
Located at the heart of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is standing at the western end of the avenue Unter den Linden. It has been a symbol for both, the divided Cold War city and the country’s reunification. Today, it is one of the metropole’s most-visited landmarks.

Last stop: GRILL ROYAL
Before I flew back to Zurich, we went to Grill Royal for drinks. This see-and-be-seen restaurant is still, after opening a couple of years ago, the place-to-dine and very popular with the celebrity crowd. Below you see me before the entrance on Friedrichstrasse.

I hope that you have enjoyed my day in Berlin! Cannot wait to be back soon…

My look: Ivory blazer, cropped metallic leather motocross pants, both by Balmain, black top by Tom Ford, Audrey wayfarer sunglasses by Céline, shoes by Gucci, key ring, clutch and backpack, all from the MCM x Craig & Karl Eyes on the Horizon collection. Rose necklace and ring, both by Piaget.

LoL, Sandra

Photos by Christoph Schemel

After I had visited Iceland’s Golden Triangle in the beginning of last week, I went all around the island and drove over 2000 kilometers. I passed the most stunning sceneries and experienced breathtaking natural phenomenons, which have truly inspired me. Europe’s most sparsely populated country is so untouched with a population of about 320,000 of which two-thirds are living in the Reykjavík area. The creatures you see most are sheeps and the famous Icelandic horses. Let me show you my journey around the island:

Skaftafell has been one of the most rewarding spots for me. I hiked along the trail that leads to the glacial tongue Skaftafellsjökull where you can witness this stunning natural phenomenon.

Fjallsárlón is a glacier lake near Vatnajökull that has some floating icebergs, very similiar but smaller than Jökulsárlón, which was my next stop:

Personally speaking, the large glacial lake Jökulsárlón in southeast Iceland was my favourite sightseeing spot on my trip. One of the natural wonders of the country, it developed into a lake after the glacier started receding from the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

The stunning scenery has been the setting for different Hollywood movies, such as Die Another Day, Tomb Raider and Batman Begins. I could have stayed there forever watching the icebergs floating towards the sea.

I passed some very cute fishing towns such as Höfn in the south-eastern part of the country.

Driving further east, I saw the mountain Búlandstindur that is truly breathtaking due to its pyramid-shaped stack of basaltic strata.

Dettifoss, located on the Diamond Circle, around Húsavík and Lake Mývatn in North Iceland, is an amazing waterfall. I even spotted a beautiful rainbow above its spray.

Watching whales has become one of the most common activities among foreign visitors to North Iceland. In fact, the cute town of Húsavík offers those excursions.

Being in the Lake Mývatn area, I decided spontaneously to hike to the top of the Hverfjall volcanic cone. Walking along the rim of the crater was pretty impressive.

My last stop before heading back to Reykjavík, was the waterfall of the gods, Goðafoss. The photo was taken around midnight. Isn’t it amazing how light it still was?!

Iceland has been an amazing experience, so different from what I had seen before in my life.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

After two days in Reykjavík, I have started my trip around Iceland. The so-called Golden Triangle, “the three great destinations” for the Icelandair travelers that visit the country are Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir and were first on my “to-see list”. Believe me, they are absolutely worth the visit. Step off luxury and explore paradise! Enjoy my photo diary.

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park

The Þingvellir area is an area of sea-floor spreading, displaying the close association of crustal rifting and volcanism. Þingvellir is next to the Great Rift Valley of Eastern Africa the only site on earth where the effects of two major plates drifting apart can be observed. Almannagjá that you can see above is pherhaps the most dramatic structure at Þingvellir.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss (translated as “Golden Falls”) is to my opinion one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls (and I have seen Niagara falls in Canada!). The light, the scenery is just breathtaking.

Geysir – Strokkur

Strokkur is one of Iceland’s famous fountain geysers, erupting about every 4-8 minutes 15-20m high, sometimes even up to 40m high. It is part of a whole geothermal area next to the famous Great Geysir which was the first one described in a printed source and which is the name giver for this natural phenomenon.

It was freezing cold and I experienced very strong winds that day.

My look: White padded gilet by Moncler Grenoble, pink sweater and checkered shirt, both by Abercrombie & Fitch, large studded backpack by MCM, sunglasses by Katie Grand ♥ HOGAN, printed silk scarf by Gabriele Frantzen, suede classic short boots by UGG Australia and Le Skinny de Jeanne mid-rise skinny jeans by Frame Denim. Hat and gloves, both souvenirs from Iceland.

Skógafoss

On my drive further east, I passed by Skógafoss, a waterfall situated in the south of Iceland at the cliffs of the former coastline. It probably rivals Gullfoss as Iceland’s most famous waterfall.

Dyrhólaey

The small peninsula Dyrhólaey is located on the south coast of Iceland. The view from up there from the cliff is gorgeous with black lava columns coming out of the sea.

Travelling through Iceland feels a little bit like being on luxury withdrawal therapy. The accommodations are pretty basic and you don’t find fancy restaurants. But you find something here that is absolutely unbeatable, breathtaking nature, an amazing light as it barely gets dark these months and peace for your mind.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

On Saturday morning, I flew to Reykjavík, the largest city in Iceland. The world’s northernmost capital of a sovereign state has been on my “places to see” list since a very long time.

I have completely underestimated the climate. The city’s coastal location makes it prone to wind and it is freezing cold here. As I spent the last weeks only in hot temperatures, it feels even worse. During my first few hours in this beautiful and very colorful city , I went shopping and got myself a wool hat and sweater.

My look: White padded gilet by Moncler Grenoble, green sweater by Abercrombie & Fitch, 620 Photo Ready mid-rise leggings-style jeans by J Brand, large studded backpack by MCM, sunglasses by Marc Jacobs and Jenny brushed-suede ankle boots by Isabel Marant. The hat is a souvenir from Iceland.

Here in Reykjavík, there are many things to do and explore. One of the big highlights is whale watching.

The meat of this large mammal can be found on almost every menu in this country.

View of Harpa concert and conference center from the old harbour.

City center

Panorama of the city and the largest church in Iceland

Central Reykjavík seen from…

… the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church.

Colorful rooftops line Reykjavík.

Approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Reykjavik is the famous Blue Lagoon, a place that you don’t want to miss. Set in the pure heart of the Icelandic landscape, it offers a complete spa experience. The warm waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulphur and bathing is reputed to help some people suffering from skin diseases such as psoriasis. I felt too cold to go swimming but the scenery itself has been worth the visit.

Now, I am off to see some geysers and more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

The last stop of my trip through China was one of my favourite cities in the world: HONG KONG. This cultural melting pot offers a little of everything, from beaches to the best restaurants and nightlife, from culture to art and entertainment. As I know the metropole very well, I refrained from sightseeing and went on a shopping spree.

My look: Printed tee and sunglasses, both by Dolce & Gabbana, mid-rise cut-off denim shorts by Saint Laurent,coral Pashli medium leather bag by 3.1 Phillip Lim, criss-cross ankle strap sandals by Miu Miu and earrings by Gucci.

I stayed at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Built in 1963, as the famous chain’s first opening, this is one of the few hotels in this futuristic city with a history. Located in the heart of Central’s most fashionable shopping district, The Landmark, Harvey Nichols and many other luxury brands are just within walking distance. An absolute prime location with great service!

In the afternoon, I took the ferry to Kowloon, which is also quite the place for shopping lovers. Next to the Star Ferry pier is Harbour City, a gigantic mall in Tsim Sha Tsui. In the tiny side roads, you can also experience fascinating local shops and markets, such as the Ladies’ Market.

In the evening, I partied at the highest bar in the world – Ozone at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. The stunning rooftop location provides a stylish venue for a glass of bubbly complimented by a picturesque bird’s eye view of Hong Kong. My absolute favourite spot!

My trip to China has come to an end. I arrived back in Zurich yesterday morning, filled with amazing memories. It was such a great experience but also quite exhausting. But I never stop… next week, I will be off to Iceland. Might not be the place to wear my shorts again though…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

So many of you have been asking me for more updates from China. I had been chilling for one week at the Mandarin Oriental Sanya, before I flew yesterday to Hong Kong. Experiencing the power of zen, I have become fully aware, here and now, all of my senses alert. I did a lot of yoga classes and enjoyed many Chinese spa treatments which are truly special, absolutely amazing. This exclusive retreat on the tropical island of Hainan Island has got a location on a private bay that offers no equal. I stayed in one of the huge luxurious villas with my own pool and outstanding service. I found new friends, from monkeys to geckos to grashoppers. What a beautiful spot on earth, a hidden paradise and I am truly thankful for the time and enlightenment! A resort that I can absolutely recommend!

Let me show you a little more…

Me on a beach walk before sunset wearing Juicy Couture and my Katie Grand ♥ HOGAN sunglasses.

A warm welcome in my own two-storied villa. Every day, I received a new basket with fresh fruits.

Diving in my own private pool in a Chanel bikini.

In the outdoor shower

Bath room amenities by Acqua di Parma.

If you are staying in one of the resort’s villas, you are having exclusive access to the Cliff Lounge, where complimentary champagne breakfasts, afternoon tea and evening cocktails are served daily. It feels very calm, relaxed and you are never confronted with too many people.

The food was divine. Here you see my daily breakfast.

Next to the beautiful private beach, you can relax at one of the three gigantic outdoor swimming pools. I preferred staying at my own villa where I met some new animal friends…

The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Sanya is one of the best I have ever been to. I had a lot of treatments and each of them was amazing. Try the Chinese Detox massage where herbs are applied to your body, the Lava Sea Shell massage using self-heated shells together with local coconut oil, and the Oriental Foot treatment for the ultimate wellness experience.

The light was very special in Sanya, especially in the evening… a true paradise.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht