In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news around the world. This week’s highlights: Louis Vuitton’s first exclusive women’s store, Vietnam Golf Coast clubs welcome visitors to stay and play, and the British Pullman gets a murderous twist
Need for speed
The Gulf Historic Dubai GP Revival celebrates the very essence of classic racing in December at the Dubai Autodrome. The motorsport event will host live music, cuisine and exhibitions in 1970s style for a true feel of vintage racing. Visitors can get close to legendary cars and drivers before they hit the track, including iconic vehicles like the Williams FW07C, Tyrell 08, and Ford GT40, honouring the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Early bird tickets with discounted rates for the full weekend are now available.
Pretty sweet
Renowned French pastry chef Cedric Grolet, famed for his whimsical, hyper-realistic confections, will be opening his first pastry shop in Singapore this September at Como Orchard. As World’s Best Pastry Chef of 2018 with 7.8 million Instagram followers, Grolet gained recognition for his trompe l’oeil creations and modern twists on classic French pastries. The Singapore outlet marks his first venture in Asia and will feature exclusive menu items alongside breakfast and afternoon tea, with dine-in and takeaway options.
Wild ride
Award-winning sports car Emira V6 has been hailed as the most accomplished Lotus has ever made. The latest addition of a state-of-the-art four-cylinder engine supplied by Mercedes-AMG comes on top of a two-litre turbocharged unit delivering 360 hp and 430 Nm, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for smooth and rapid shifting. The Emira retains its superb agility and aerodynamically beautiful design while offering improved efficiency and reduced emissions, a testament to Lotus’ legacy of iconic sports cars.
Pour femme
Following a revamp, the Louis Vuitton boutique at Takashimaya Shopping Centre now reopens as the brand’s first exclusive women’s store. Besides a curated selection of ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, leather goods, luggage and fragrances along with watches and jewellery, clients can immerse in the artful interior design which takes inspiration from the travelling spirit the Maison is celebrated for.
Big swings
Vietnam Golf Coast clubs are highlighting the region’s allure with various stay-and-play options. Among the top-ranked courses are Laguna Golf Lăng Cô designed by Sir Nick Faldo, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club by Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald. Notable designers like Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie, Robert Trent Jones Jr and Jack Nicklaus have also contributed to the region’s golf offerings. Accommodations, such as Banyan Tree Lăng Cô, Angsana Lăng Cô, and Mercure French Village Ba Na Hills, complement the golf experience.
Classic whodunnit
Belmond’s British Pullman and its lovingly restored 1920s carriages (including one re-designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson) now feature a new immersive Moving Murder Mystery experience, Dead on Time. Blending its heritage with a captivating theatrical production performed by actors from London’s West End, the British Pullman continues to hosts intimate dinners by celebrated chefs, with a focus on female chefs this year, complemented by Dom Pérignon Champagne.
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