Simply Fabulicious

JOIN US AT OUR NEW HOME: WWW.SIMPLYFABULICIOUS.COM

2011-03-15T23:07:00.000+08:00

This is our final post here!

We have officially moved!

Find us now at: www.simplyfabulicious.com

Love, Peace and Cocktails

The SimplyFab Team

Breakaways - Samsonite's Stylish Hand-Carries

2011-03-12T23:28:00.001+08:00

Throw out boring and basic. The computer bag and your work luggage should be fun. In fact, who wants it corporate black and practical when these days, your luggage should be the piece that you want to spot a mile away when its being loaded onto the belt. In which case, its time to give up the old for a piece of the new Red label from Samsonite.

The all new range of mod bags claim to be specially tailored for Gen-Yers. Ok so most of us are X Men or Gals but why be branded by a label. I am everything including 'vibrant','young' and 'casual' - words used by the PR people to describe the new collection in the Red label that Samsonite hopes to sell as 'fun and fresh'. The bags are good for school, work and play. With three different lines – Retro Campus, Young Professional and Young Formal they score high on looks.

The Retro Campus collection is a throw back to your school girl or school boy days. Take the Expander for example, a perfect carry-all and the backpack and briefcase are functional and expandable.

For the Young Professional, the G-GEN leaves you clad in vibrant red and brightens any work outfit and features a cross body, back pack and messenger bags.

If you absolutely must have formal than go for something trendy. The Reflector which combines the trendiest design with dark bold colors. Edgy and modern, the shoulder and briefcase bags with leather trim lend a touch of elegance and class.

If you find the range irresistibly comfortable then you might want to try the Ladies range. We quite liked Dazzling for the self-confident woman and is available in two designs or the Winnie, perfect for the woman who loves adventure as the backpack is built to withstand any terrain and is both strong and durable.

The Samsonite Red Label Collection is available only at ION Orchard in SIngapore at #B3-30 and Changi Airport Terminal 3 (airside).

- Elaine

Boudoir - Nature's Viagara!

2011-03-09T09:06:00.000+08:00

Not in the mood? Switch on the siren with some DAMIANA. Naturopath, Jean Luc Bun calls it 'nature's' turn on for lack lustre libidos.

Jean Luc recommends a herb called Turnera Diffusa a.k.a Turnera Aphrodisiaca or Damiana Aphrodisiaca - 'Damiana', for short. This herb has long been used to improve sexual function in both sexes. Tests in 1999 via an Italian study showed increased rates of ejaculation in a group of sexually sluggish rats (could they just have been Italian stud rats? you ask).

Well maybe, I say but they do say that the proof is in the pudding and in the US , 2 patents for this herbal formulae have been filed in the last 8 years for this herb that supposedly increases sexual response and also relieves PMS symptoms. Wow horny and not PMS-ing. I say that scores a big A in my books!

: JL Bun (B.Sc., Advanced Diploma Naturopathy, Diploma Homeopathy, Diploma Botanical Medicine, Diploma Nutrition, Diploma Remedial Medicine, Diploma Beauty Therapy, Diploma Natural Beauty Therapy, CIDESCO*)

Jean Luc's advice: "Damiana can be taken as a soothing tea, 2 to 3 times a day sweetened with a little honey and lemon peel or as a liquid extract. It has been shown to calm nerves, reduce anxiety, relieve depression, reduce blood sugar, in addition to increasing one's libido. You can also find Daimana in the form of an essential oil and it has a rich, spicy scent known to reduce stress, and get the user in the 'into the mood’."

A Bedroom Blend Recipe: "You can mix the essential oil with other favourite oils to make your own bedroom blend and a suggested blend which I really like is Damiana, Neroli, Damask Rose with just a hint of Sweet Orange to compliment the Neroli. For the macho-man, spice up the blend by leaving out the Sweet Orange essential oil and adding a bit of Cedarwood or Sandalwood. Add a few drops of this blend to some hot water over a tealight candle to add atmosphere, or give your loved one a slow massage after diluting out the blend in some good quality base oil, like Apricot Kernel oil (1 teaspoon of blend into 200ml of base oil)."

What to buy: "When buying Damiana, make sure you get the right plant, i.e. Turnera Diffusa. This plant has some similar-looking or sounding cousins which are used herbally for other conditions."

Order Online: Can't find it at your local pharmacy. Try UK Eve Taylor at www.eve-taylor.com

Now, go forth and make love happen.

- Elaine

Binge - Japanese Dining That Won't Kill Your Prada

2011-03-06T18:04:00.000+08:00

So many new restaurants sprouting up around Singapore, Madam is in a tizzy trying to keep up! Not too long ago, I tried out Akari, a new Japanese restaurant in the Marina Bay financial district. (With all the construction going on and the relatively new roads and buildings, I swear I am a dinosaur in stilettos trying to plod my way around this new swanky neighbourhood.) Let’s say on the outset that unless I had some reason to be in that glitzy outpost of town, I probably won’t make a special trek to that area….but Akari is surely a Good Thing to people who are already working in the vicinity.

Marinated black pork with miso

That’s cos Akari, just by the big water buffalo statue on the plaza of Marina Bay Link Mall, is a smart, quiet restaurant which would serve the office crowd there well enough especially if they need to entertain at mid-levels. While the décor is nothing to shout about – it won’t leave you gobsmacked in design heaven – the menu is actually very interesting indeed. If you’d venture beyond the predictable sushi and sashimi route and cast your eyes at the a la carte options, you’ll find lots of pretty intriguing dishes to tickle your fancy.

My dining companion and I had a parade of dishes which, by grazing, made up for a heavy lunch. Cutting to the chase, the dishes I liked the most by far was the simmered duck with spinach salad ($18) – lovely raw Chinese spinach which was surprisingly sweet and substantial in mouth feel, paired with pink, juicy slivers of duck breast. Very nice! The deep fried burdock was sweet and crunchy, and went so well with the smoky, mellow flavour of black sesame seeds ($7, above). Surprisingly, something as simple as Japanese rolled omelette paired with spicy cod roe ($8, below) was really excellent and I rather rudely polished off most of that dish! Just sweet enough, but well balanced with the savoury; and the eggs were nicely springy and tender.

The bestsellers though were none of these, but the deep fried simmered tender pork rib bone ($24) which was, to me, nice but didn’t call to me. The other is the marinated black pork with miso ($24) – also pleasant, tender, flavourful, but I guess there’s so much kurobuta hype that its perhaps a case of too much of a good thing. Not that either were disappointing – they just didn’t move me. You might like it though.

Definelly worth mentioning is the taikikomi gohan ($4.50) which varies with seasonal ingredients. I can’t quite remember what there was in my bowl but I remembered piquant, interesting flavours and textures and I really enjoyed the dish. Ingredients that the chef would pop in include perilla leaf, gingko nuts, bonito flakes, mushrooms, soy bean, beancurd, etc depending on the seasons.

Premium Bento Delivery which comes with a service staff for more than 10 orders

What I thought was pretty cool is their bento box takeaways and office deliveries, particularly the premium bento box which comes in a pretty wooden box ($50). If you have a delivery of over 10 orders of the premium box, a service staff comes along to pour your tea and serve it up nicely….then he hangs around to collect the boxes when you’re done and bring it back to the restaurant. I think this is pretty nifty if you are stuck in a power meeting over lunch in the office. Might as well eat well while you slog on. But this service is only available to offices in Marina Bay Financial Centre and one Raffles Quay. Another thing that caught my attention is the course meals which the restaurant offers. Starting from $35, these are ‘mini kaiseki’ with a range of dishes cooked in different styles. Omakase is available for dinner.

Mini Keyaki from $38

Good to know: On the wine list are over 20 types of sake and lots of Shochu and Japanese beers and plum wines. But corkage is attractive at $25. Closed on Sundays. Quiet in the evenings, so a good place for dinner without the crowds. The owners are also the people behind Tomo Izakaya and Tempura Bar at Clarke Quay.

8A Marina Boulevard #01-02

Tel: 66340100

Breaking News - Join us at www.simplyfabulicious.com after 14 March 2011

2011-03-05T19:57:00.000+08:00

We have moved and have informed all our followers and friends so if you seeing this for the first time, please do migrate with us to: www.simplyfabulicious.com

To join us as a follower or subscriber means that you get an email update from us on our various posts each week - just key in your email under the BE FABULICIOUS column on the right hand side of our Home Page. Our new address is: www.simplyfabulicious.com

Our last post here on blogspot will be on 14 March 2011. So do please hurry - pack and move with us to our new site.

There is a special contest to win a *3D2N holiday at Club Med Cherating on our new website exclusive to our database of readers so make that move now.

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See: http://www.simplyfabulicious.com/win-a-club-med-holiday

Love, Peace and Cocktails

The SimplyFab Team

Beauty - Portable Make-Up with Built-In Brushes!

2011-03-05T19:41:00.000+08:00

Brush it on this season with a fun palette of colours that come in a portable make-up case complete with built in brushes. These make their debut at The Body Shop's counters this season and the new limited edition collection is aptly called "Brush with Fashion" as this season's look is awash with vivid colour, drama and bold looks that you will need some abandon and a large serving of personality to carry off.

For the socially conscious amongst us, all ingredients used in producing the make up have also been community traded ie. bought from ethnic merchants rather than the big boys out there in a company wide effort to help sustain struggling economies and communities. Also everything including the brushes were produced free from animal testing - two admirable things for which have become The Body Shop's brand sign offs.

Getting all fashionable and edgy, the brand that every teen (including my fab self) grew up in the 80s partnered with The London College of Fashion to create the edgy packaging and a catwalk show that shows off some of the College's ex alumna's fashion creations including up-coming British designer William Tempest. Sorry folks, no sign of Jimmy Choo and Patrick Cox, also incidentally ex-alumna.

Engaging the skills of Nikki Palmer, professional UK based make up artist and ex-alumna, the look for Spring is all about colour and a celebration of the bright and bold.The focus is on the eyes and the season's palette offers gorgeous matte shades of chocolate, fawn and apricot, pearlised hues of white, pink and silver complemented with dramatic matte black with lashes beautifully defined; cheeks are rose-tinted; and lips are dressed in glossy shades of pink and peach.

Watch their catwalk show and four fashion-forward looks created by make-up artist Nikki Palmer!www.youtube.com/watch?hl=en&v=9QB5FYPqfP4&gl=US

The range comprises for the Face, an Illuminating Face Base (S$29.90) in Apricot Glow that adds warmth to your complexion.

For the Eyes, two Limited Collection Palette For Eyes (both S$39.90) - one called Boho Beauty with nude, apricot and browns and the other called A La Mode that shows off pearlised white, pink and silver with intense matt black to add drama to the eyes. Each of these come in a compact of four complementary eye colours packaged with a mini eye definer, a mini eye shadow brush and an integrated mirror. There is also Super Volume Mascara (S$22.90) that has a specially designed brush to make it smudge resistant with a clump free formula.

Lip gloss comes in the form of two best-selling Hi-Shine Lip Treatments (S$18.90) in Pink Cream and Juicy Peach. They each come in a limited-edition pack with integrated brush which allows you to squeeze the gloss through the brush and apply following the contours of the lips.

For the Cheeks, there is a Tailored Cheek Tint (S$19.90) in Hot Pink.

Just in case you want some accessories, there is a Nail File (S$4.90) and Nail Buffer (S$5.90), and The Body Shop's famous Lightening Touch (S$28.90) which features a magic little wand that gives light relief to dark circles and fine lines and instantly brightens the skin especially when used around the eye area after applying foundation so as not to reduce the effect of the ingenious little light-diffusing particles that minimise fine lines and dark shadows.

- Elaine

By The Way - Sleeping with the Merlion, Papaya Sisters and the LBD

2011-03-04T18:22:00.001+08:00

There are lots of really fun cultural events taking place this month and beyond which caught our eyes. We picked out a few which qualify as must-go’s in our books!....

I’m all for local comedy theatre which has the undeniable ability to identify and connect with Singaporeans at our most fundamental, multiracial core, and appeals to our our inner (and fabulous) auntie. The “881 The Musical” by Toy Factory, which plays from 15 April - 1 May at the Esplanade Theatre, is a must go in our books. It takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through the lives of the Papaya Sisters who want to rule the ‘getai’ circuit with assistance from an intriguing celestial being. But their success is threatened by the entrance of the Angmoh Durian Sisters! Sung in Mandarin and unapologetically in Hokkien (with English subtitles), it promises great music, choreography and eye-popping costumes. The first time a local movie has been adapted for the stage, it features a strong cast that includes Joanna Dong, Judee Tan, Nat Ho, Sebastian Tan, Dennis and a creative team of Beatrice Chia-Richmond (In-theatre Director), Royston Tan (Creative Consultant), Elaine Chan (Musical Director and Conductor). Tix from $40.

www.sistic.com

Merlion Hotel

You know what they say about seeing an old familiar face from a different perspective?...So how about this? As part of the Singapore Biennale, Japanese artist Tatzu Nishi is turning the merlion into a luxury hotel suite as a one-of-a-kind installation piece! It will be open in the day for public viewing and in the evening for overnight stays. Crazy, huh? But that’s a new look at the merlion if ever there was one. Imagine waking up in the morning eye to eye with the merlion. Certainly beats buying a plastic merlion key chain!

The hotel is taking in reservations from now for one-night stays between 4 April and 5 May, for two adults at $150 nett. The hotel suite is fully furnished with a double-bed, bathroom, amenities, personalised room check-in, dedicated Merlion Hotel Butler as well as breakfast at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore! To spread the love and ensure no one hogs the fun, each person can only book a one night stay for two. Check in at 8.30pm and check out bright and early at 8.30am.

Merlion Hotel Reservations Tel: (+65) 6332 9870, between 10am – 5pm Mondays to Fridays. Reservations will only be confirmed on receipt of payment by the Singapore Art Museum.

LBD At The Museum

I didn’t know that the Little Black Dress has been around since the 1920s. Such an iconic wardrobe necessity, no wonder it’s become the stuff of museum exhibitions! If you want to see what fashionistas over the last century have been putting on for their cocktail parties, pop down to the National Museum in Singapore from 16 March – 13 June and see Beauty in Black, a showcase of 18 vintage LBDs from the 1950s to the 21st century. Designers include Balenciaga, Givenchy, Karl Lagerfeld and Thierry Mugler, as well as local designers Benny Ong and Thomas Wee. Comprising acquisitions and donations, these dresses explore the colour black in today’s fashion! What to wear to the exhibition? Your own little black dress, of course!

The Balcony, Level 2

National Museum of Singapore

93 Stamford Road

- Ee Waun

Buys - Crocodile and Calf Leather are IN!

2011-03-02T20:49:00.001+08:00

Quality leather continues to be IN this Spring/Summer 2011 and the look is all about supple calf leather and precious crocodile and python skins that play with colour. We caught up with the folks from Tods to ask what's new on their bag racks this season:

First up the Tod's Shirt Bag, great if you are traveling and want something light, easy, ruin-proof and folds easily. Crafted in ultra soft leather with a drawstring closure that gives the silhouette an appearance of lightness.

Their is also the new Tote bag that has an elegant and linear design. Also in calf leather or crocodile skin, it is timeless, stylish and practical. Available in three sizes, it is large and roomy for the daylight hours and available in a smaller version with a shoulder strap for the evening.

The iconic D Bag is presented this Spring in a new luxurious reversed sheepskin or croc, enriched with platinum-plated hardware.

If its a clutch that you prefer, the new Clutch bag with buckle is crafted in colourful python skin and makes a great cocktail bag, but is also suitable for the day thanks to its hidden shoulder strap.

Want a one of a kind design?.. then make your own!

Tods launches a new 'Custom-Made' corner in it's Singapore flagship boutique at Paragon for you to create your very own customised accessory from the Icons collection which includes custom making your own colours and materials for the D Bag and shoes like the Tod's Gommino and the Ballerina. The same service is also available in Paris and Hong Kong at the Tod's Landmark and Tod's Harbour City stores.

- Elaine

Beauty - New Organic Skincare at Watsons!

2011-03-02T19:55:00.002+08:00

I personally love Watsons' new range of Avalon Organics Haircare. Now a Organic Skincare range joins the fold of this best selling US brand stocked at Watsons. Reasonable pricing and great smells all at one go make this brand a winner. My personal favourite is the Peppermint Haircare range as I am the kind of gal that needs a strong wake up call each morning so nothing like a mint shower drenching your naked head and butt! LOL!

Two new ranges for Skin have hit the shelves to join the existing Haircare range and they are the Avalon Organics Lavender and Vitamin C Skincare Ranges. From only S$13 to $38.90 (in Singapore), thats a small price to pay to get some all natural radiance for your skin. Designed for sensitive skin and for the environmentally conscious, the formulations are inherently pure, safe and effective, free from parabens, artificial colours or fragrances.

The Lavender line is good for skin renewal and vitality and ideal for all skin types even those with sensitive skin and reactive complexions. It combines the calming and balancing properties of Organic Lavender, with the powerful anti-oxidants contained in Organic White Tea and Grape Seed Polyphenols. In addition, certificated organic herbs, botanicals and lipid-rich vegetable oils provide weightless hydration. Great for irritated skin and trouble spots caused by inflammation, the range offers a Facial Cleansing Gel, Cleansing Milk (which is next to impossible to find in Hong Kong as alot of stores here stock washes that deep cleanse but don't (in my humble opinion) do a thorough job at cleansing). There is also a Moisture Plus Lotion with SPF 18 that contains Vitamin C and E to protect skin from harmful free radicals and UVA and UVB rays for day and a Ultimate Moisture Cream for night.

The Vitamin C line is good for those with normal to oily skin and delivers active protection against aging caused by sun exposure. The antioxidant agent Vitamin C also stimulates collagen production, while promoting cellular renewal and increased circulation. Their formulation boasts an enhanced antioxidant ‘cocktail’ of Melatonin, Lemon bioflavonoids, Vitamin C and E and White Tea Extract to protect skin from UV damage. To effectively nourish and hydrate sun-exposed skin, Organic Lavender, Organic Borage, Flax and Sunflower Oils, Hyaluronic Acid, and Lipo-Filling Complex were also included to ensure a soft, even complexion with a healthy, youthful glow. The range comprises a Refreshing Cleansing Gel,a Hydrating Cleansing Milk, a Rejuvenating Oil-Free Moisturizer and a pampering Revitalizing Eye Cream that nourishes the delicate eye area to improve circulation and tone for smoother and younger looking eyes.

Available at Watsons' main stores in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea and Indonesia.

- Elaine

Binge - Meet Nobu Masahisa in HK 17 to 19 March!

2011-02-27T23:30:00.000+08:00

Forget about flying to New York. A flight to Hong Kong booked for 17th through to 19th March will do nicely if you want to meet Nobu Matsuhisa and his friend, Chef Yasajima Sasajima, Japan's best known 'Italian' Chef owner and Chef at the Il Ghiottone in Kyoto and Tokyo. Together they will serve and Italian-inspired Japanese menu at NOBU InterContinental in Hong Kong.

We recommend the 8 course Omakase menu available from 17 to 31 March. For Italian and Japanese inspired fusion try the Light Smoked Lobster and Potato Potage, Battarga or dried fish roe withPotato Cappuccino and Green Sauce, Fresh Salmon Confit, Asparagus and Ikura or Salmon Roe Salad, Japanese Wagyu Beef Tagliata, Chinese Kale, Daikon Cake, Tapanade and for dessert Matcha Tiramisu and Kuromame Catalanai.

From Master Chef Nobu himself, try Kue or seasonal Japanese Garoupa Sashimi, Blood Orange Caviar, Sateamed Local Garoupa in a new style, Clear soup with Bamboo Shoots and Sakura Ebi Shinjyo or seasonal small shrimp from Japan cooked in cherry blossoms followed by an assortment of Sushi. For dessert, try the Peanut Crumble, Nobu Beer Ice Cream and Jasmine Peach Soup.

If its ala carte you prefer then there is Uni and Bamboo Shoot Spaghetti, flavoured with kinome as well as Crab and Yellowtail Leek Carbonara, Spinach and Pidan Spaghetti, Prosciutto and Parmigiano and Minced pork, brussel sprouts and white azuki bean risotto flavoured with fennel. A sake-pairing option is also available at HK$1,688 per person + 10% service charge showcasing 4 different sakes. Please click here for the special Nobu & Friends: Omakase menu and a la carte menu. NOBU InterContinental Hong Kong is on the 2nd floor of the InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong. Tel: (852) 2313-2323.

Whilst you are at the Intercontinental, you may like to sign up for the various cooking classes that cover from classic to specialty cooking techniques that they have. Each class includes lunch from the dishes in the class plus wine pairing and tasting and an apron and certificate:

Click here for profiles of the chefs. Classes are on Saturdays from 10:30am- 2:30pm at HK$1,288 per person.

Click here for the 2011 Cooking Class Schedule or call the Restaurant Reservations Hot Line at (852) 2313 2323.

- Elaine

Body - A Tip to curb those Sweet Cravings!

2011-02-27T23:13:00.000+08:00

Chinese New Year’s over and Valentine’s Day is done. You have landed back on the ground on two feet with a belly heavier than it was before. But the sugar cravings are still there. A friend of Simplyfab, and practicing Naturopath Jean Luc Bun shares a secret to keeping the sugar fairy at bay.

His advice: “Head to the pharmacy and get yourself a bottle of Gymnema. Gymnema Sylvetre is a plant supplement that helps the body stabilize blood sugar levels as well as decrease sugar cravings.

To get full benefits, you need to taste the herb. That means either getting a liquid extract or you having to chew the tablets that they come in. The taste is fairly unpleasant, as are most herbs, but the effects discourage eating sweet foods.

A friend once described eating a piece of chocolate after having a spoonful of gymnema extract ‘like eating a squishy warm piece of fat’. Taken properly as a supplement, gymnema can help you wean off sugary foods and stay on track to a heathier waistline.”

Nothing to lose except the calories, so I say go try!

JL Bun (B.Sc., Advanced Diploma Naturopathy, Diploma Homeopathy, Diploma Botanical Medicine, Diploma Nutrition, Diploma Remedial Medicine, Diploma Beauty Therapy, Diploma Natural Beauty Therapy, CIDESCO*)

Meet Jean-Luc Bun, a Singaporean who lives in Vancouver, Canada and is a qualified clinical therapist, naturopathic physician and Spa Consultant.

He has worked in a wide range of roles in the science, healthcare, beauty and wellness industry and for international brands like Aveda, Décleor, Dr. Hauschka, Guerlain and EIG in raising their product and brand-awareness.

A consultant for international spa and wellness developments, in Australia, China, Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore, he has sat on the panel of judges for the prestigious Asia Spa Awards.

His first degree was surprisingly in molecular biology. But his personal passion for growing herbs and an interest in medicinal plants and alternative medicine led him to pursue a second degree in naturopathic healthcare.

What’s that? Naturopathy, or naturopathic medicine, is a medical system that focuses on the body’s ability to heal and maintain itself, minimizing the need for measures like surgery and unnecessary drugs to keep you on an even keel!

Have a question for Jean Luc? Email us at simplyfabulicious@gmail.com or leave your questions in our comments box below.

- Elaine

Buys - Bringing Back the 70s!

2011-02-27T23:09:00.001+08:00

Its officially back - a revival of the 70s - flair pants, flouncy sleeves, denims that don't quite look denim and stripes (heaven forbid), platform heels .. but here they are in all the stores ... ok so you were not a fan of that 70s show (minus Ashton Kusher who admittedly only got cuter and noticed ... after he gained star status for marrying a Demi goddess in her 40s - all hail) but then again there are variations to the look that though campy, can still be charming so here goes, a glossary of the 70s that will walk past you at the MTR or MRT station, depending if you are in HK or SG. Outfits available at Top Shop , Karen Millen and Warehouse.

- Elaine

Girls Only Getaways!

2011-02-27T22:10:00.000+08:00

Oh my! Aren’t we are just aflush with lurvely getaways galore! Time to round up your best friends, lay down the ‘to-do’ list for the hubby and kids, and run off for a well deserved holiday. We have a few tempting options…..

Mid-Air Spa

First and nearest is Indigo Pearl, a delicious luxury resort in Phuket, Thailand and one of the most stylish resorts in the world. There’s one great reason to go: Coqoon Spa. Just opened, it’s a cutting edge designer spa. What’s so special? How about a suspended treetop treatment room for mid-air pampering? Designed by internationally renowned designer, Bill Bensley, it’s set amid lush tropical rainforest and uses a banyan tree as the hanger for its signature treatment room! It’s piece de resistance, The Nest (top), is a luxurious spa suite suspended midair and accessed by a flying bridge. Beyond that, Coqoon Spa features six deluxe treatment rooms and an exclusive ‘Coqoon Suite’ complete with private pool, rain shower, steam room, sauna and Vichy shower available for private hire for up to 3-days, and even a spa butler!

Treatments here are steeped in Thai tradition, offering Andaman elixirs and Thai herbal spices for in-the-culture rejuvenation, detoxification and total zen out sessions. What’s more, you can avail yourself to custom-designed ‘D-Buk’ spa suites, where spa executives can design individual treatment programmes for you, incorporating diet, exercise, activity, and spa treatments!

More good news: to mark the launch of the new spa. Indigo Pearl is offering the “Coqoon Revival” package available at THB 22,500 (S$935 or HK$75,2300) net until 15 April 2011. You get a 120-minute Detox Body Treatment for two people per stay, two-night accommodation in a D-Buk Suite, and special in-room breakfast, complimentary airport transfer, 30 percent discount on additional treatments and a 30 percent discount on additional nights in a D-Buk Suite.

Email reservations@indigo-pearl.com

Tel: +66 (0)76 327 006

Lara Crofting in Luxury

Our next option: get in touch with your inner Lara Croft! Check in to the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap and drink in the world famous Angkor Wat, with the ‘Girlfriends Getaway’ package, a luscious 3-night escapade for four girlfriends. It includes spa treatments, gourmet meals, escorted shopping (oh my heaving bosom!) and temple outings at US$1,955 (S$2,490 or HK$15,236) per night.

Picture this: after your leave the respective hubbies and kids at home, you and your friends arrive in Siem Riep and are “whisked from the airport in style by stretch limousine to your private two-bedroom villa at the refined French-colonial retreat where Raffles Butlers offer round-the-clock assistance to ensure the delivery of Raffles’ hallmark style of attentive and heartfelt service”!

On your itinerary are daily Champagne breakfasts, a private cocktail party, two gourmet dinners, including a ‘Royal Khmer’ tasting-menu of imperial cuisine at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant Le Grand, and a private culinary class led by a Raffles chef. Is there more? Can we survive the decadence?! Assault us further with in-villa manicure and pedicures, facial and reflexology treatments, a meditation session and aromatherapy or traditional Khmer massage, a private guide and driver to explore the ancient Angkor Wat, and a day and a night customized shopping tour! And if you are reluctant to go home – who wouldn’t? – take heart that you have a late check out at 3pm.

The ‘Girlfriends Getaway’ requires a minimum three-night stay for four ladies, with a 25 percent discount for subsequent extensions.

For more information, visit www.raffles.com/siemreap

London Laboutin

If you prefer something a little more fast paced, wing off to London and live it up with your gal pals at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in Knightsbridge with its Paint the Town Red’ package. This is put together with Christian Laboutin which means there are shoes on the horizon!

Let’s walk you through it: after check in, you get a mani/pedi nail paint and polish treat by their spa team. Then once you’re ready, hop into a cab for a ride to Christian Louboutin’s flagship London store in Mayfair. Imbibe in complimentary champagne and nibbles while you shop in the private ‘Library Room’ in the heart of the boutique, designed to be invisible to other shoppers through a series of mirrors and Perspex alcoves!

Continue with drinky-poos in the evening with specially-created ‘Paint the Town Red’ cocktails at Mandarin Bar, and get treated to brunch the next morning at Bar Boulud, London (yes, of Daniel Boulud fame)with a bottle of wine thrown in!

The ‘Paint the Town Red’ package starts from £495++ based on twin sharing, and is available until Dec 2011.

Call +44 (0) 207 235 2000 or log onto www.mandarinoriental.com

- Ee Waun

Binge - HK$10 Sunday Brunch Deal

2011-02-24T22:31:00.001+08:00

Here's a deal for the cheap and hungry (with gourmet inclinations for 100% New Zealand grass-fed beef). If you are in Lan Kwai Fong for Sunday brunch then get in queue at the Gourmet Burger Union there. Newly launched this is probably Hong Kong's best value offer - aUnbelievable HK$10 Sunday Sale on their signature GBU Kick Ass Burger which basically is a good-sized BLT (regular price HK$48). OK so there is a catch to it (isn't there always?) - you have to be the first 100 customers to visit their store each Sunday. Opens at 12pm and offer valid till 3pm.

Gourmet Burger Union LKF is located at The Plaza, 19 Wing Wah Lane, Lan Kwai Fong. Tel: + 852 2147 2866

- Elaine

Buys - Short Dresses this Season - Part 2

2011-02-23T09:03:00.000+08:00

More 'Go-Short' options with these simplyfab numbers that redefine flirty! We also found these at Top Shop and Dorothy Perkins.

- Elaine

Buys - Short Dresses this Season - Part 1

2011-02-22T09:59:00.001+08:00

Weather getting warmer? Hemlines are also getting shorter. No more sober LBDs for 2011. This Spring, get ready for flounce, a bit of flair, brighter colours and the shirt dress which I see everywhere around me this year. Which only means that the thunder thighs that grew several inches thicker over the festive season have just got to go and soon! Here are some lovelies that we spotted at Warehouse and Karen Millen.

From Warehouse S/S 2011

From Karen Millen S/S 2011

- Elaine

Beauty - Make-Up Tutorials Online

2011-02-20T21:33:00.002+08:00

The beauty junkie in me has been having huge fun with make up in the last few weeks. I have been investing in white eye liner, a neutral shade lip liner, a new set of makeup brushes and skin primer and it is all because I recently discovered Michelle Phan and her truly fab online tutorials which are free and just too good not to share.

There is nothing that I like more than to experiment with different looks so bored, jaded and totally tired of what I call my 2010 'look', I decided one late night in October last year to trawl You Tube to get some ideas for a variation of those stunning smokey eyes that you see only in magazines but can never quite replicate in real life, by yourself.

That's when I stumbled upon Michelle Phan. Youthful, doe-eyed, fresh faced and extremely entrepreneurial, this up and coming makeup artist with the Disney princess voice has over one million subscribers and is one of You Tube's hottest exports with a sponsorship by Lancome and her own line of make-up brushes and accessories. She also has what I consider some of the best tips that I have found on-line or anywhere to date, from how to experiment with different looks to how to clean your makeup brushes and properly dry and store them.

So if you are looking for simple, clear and easy to follow instructions then her snappy made-at-home videos which are actually quite professionally put together by her are worth checking out. Just to save you some time trawling through her 100 over You Tube tutorials, here are some of my favourite 'how-tos' for:

Dewy Skin and Polished Eyes for a Simple and Clean look: http://www.youtube.com/user/MichellePhan#p/u/5/9hCMD02t3nc

Seductive Smokey Eyes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zupy7R4uR2g&feature=relmfu

Club Night out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-joBOHlg5J0&feature=related

How to clean your makeup brushes properly: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVdciJkmb7o&feature=related

And if those don't keep you sufficiently entertained, her friend Chriselle, a US based fashion stylist has great tips on what to wear and how. My recent favourite is 7 different ways to wear a scarf as it is still relatively cool in Hong Kong. At 12 degrees celcius this week - this is perfect scarf weather indeed! See: http://www.youtube.com/user/MichellePhan#p/u/4/KzPV0iXBANs

- Elaine

Binge - It's All About The View At Salt Grill

2011-02-19T12:32:00.000+08:00

Such an influx of high profile chefs into Singapore, it’s hard to keep up! Plus loads of really great, non-celeb restaurants opening up around town as well…one thing I realised a long time ago…..celebrity status doesn’t always translate to a better experience.

Salt Grill opened not long ago at the top of ION Orchard. Honestly, I don’t like going to that mall as it is such a labyrinth, and the journey to this new restaurant is no different. You go up to the 4th level of the mall, squirm past the info counter, down a narrow side corridor that looks like an afterthought, then take the lift up to the 58th storey.

The lift lobby is interesting – so dark and disorientating that I almost walked into a wall, but I guess the contrast makes for a dramatic entrance. For when you finally get to the top floor, the blast of light and visual feast from the spectacular floor-to-ceiling glass walls, soaring ceiling and gobsmacking, wraparound bird’s-eye view of Orchard Road and the central district is truly a moment of orchestrated drama. Must get a window seat, as the view is absolutely fabulous.

It’s all Australian stylishness in there, from the smart waiters to the tablescape set in front of you. Of course, Mangan himself isn’t here and the kitchen is helmed by Kathy Tindall, head chef and Mangan protege.

We started with the yellowtail kingfish sashimi with ginger eschalot dressing ($29) – a fresh, lightly balanced morsel of tender firm slivers of fish that went down well with our sauvignon blanc – and the Salt Salad ($28) of vegetable with poached eggs, mozzarella and walnuts. It was a moderately sized portion, with crisp vegetables, but nothing out of this world except for its price. The crab omelette ($29) was surprisingly bold – something so simple yet well executed, sitting in a mellow broth redolent of miso and a slight tinge of mustard. Not too bad and makes for a light meal.

For mains, the snapper ($49) with tomatoes, capers and parsley presented a fairly large portion of delectably juicy fish, while the ribeye ($49) was pretty decent. I must say the mains, while good and pleasant, was nothing to shout about.

The mains are not served with too many sides, so order a few extra if you’re hungry. Particularly good were the thick cut fries with rosemary salt ($7) and the carrots with dukkah. The latter is also served with bread and is particularly delightful. I wish the restaurant bottled and sold it for it’s definitely worth bringing home!

We had a tangy passionfruit soufflé ($18) paired with banana ice cream – an odd couple which actually worked very nicely together. Chocolate 3 Ways ($18) was good too – a Valrhona fondant, wattleseed chocolate mousse and white choc salted caramel semifreddo – but once again, nothing to knock my socks off. I am told the liquorice parfait is also excellent, but we didn’t have a chance to taste it.

The restaurant serves degustation at $140 per head, and a two course lunch set at $40. Wines by the glass is steep – pushing $20 per glass of Aussie tipple, and $29 for Champers, but per bottle pricing is all right. No surprises that most are new world wines, mainly Australian and NZ.

As for the service? Hmm…..Put it this way. We had a waiter forget to clear the table after he asked us if we wanted it cleared, and went on his way to chat with colleages at the bar instead; and when he finally got round to it, dropped a plate on the table almost having the remaining gravy splashing out on us.

In subsequent days, I asked around, and those who had gone shared similar views. The final verdict? Be prepared to pay a premium for the view, get decent food and don’t expect stellar service. With that mindset, you won’t be disappointed.

55th floor ION Orchard

Tel: 65925118

By the way, do migrate with us to our permanent website at www.simplyfabulicious.com Joing our mailing list and stand to win a Club Med holiday! We'll be posting here til 15 March after which we will be posting only on our website. So come over to our new place. It's loads prettier and all are welcome!- EW

Binge - One Night, Three Chefs

2011-02-17T15:42:00.000+08:00

Can you really do three men in one evening? Here's a deal that gets you there and in your personal limo too!

The next time you potter off to Hong Kong with the girls, make a reservation for a five-Michelin-starred eating safari for some necessary indulgence. (Yeah, sorry - not as kinky as it actually sounded...but no less delicious.) Three of Hong Kong’s Michelin starred Cantonese restaurants, together with their masterchefs, have combine woks to serve up a meal across three destinations.

Travelling in your personal limo, the first stop for dins is Yat Tung Heen in Wanchai where you’ll start the menu with suckling pig and deep-fried pumpkin with pomelo sauce served with pancakes, deep-fried prawns with goose liver and honey-roasted glazed duck breast, and steamed beancurd with crab claw in crab roe sauce.

Then it’s off to The LanghamT’ang Court in Tsim Sha Tsui for stewed crab claw with black truffle mushrooms, stir-fried lobster with spring onions, red onions and shallots and baked seafood rice with cream sauce in crab shell. And finally, end off at the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred Ming Court with giant garoupa stuffed with shrimp paste, crispy boneless chicken with fried Yunnan ham and walnuts, and baked rice with diced abalone and cheese. Squeeze in some Chinese petit fours, and you’re finally done!

What makes this experience even more fun is that you’ll get to meet the masterchefs of each restaurant before you settle down to eat.

That’s a pretty special night on the town, isn’t it? Plus I guess you could bring your own bubbly?

A minimum reservation of two guests is required. And be prepared to fork over HK$1,880 per person.

For reservations and inquiries, call Ming Court at +852 3552 3300

or email hkg.lph.mingcourt@langhamhotels.com

NOBU In Town
Still on the topic of star spangled men, Nobu Matsuhisa will be back at NOBU InterContinental Hong Kong from 17-19 March with his friend, Guest Chef Yasajima Sasajima known for his blend of Italian-Japanese cuisine served up at the latter’s Il Ghiottone restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo.

They’ll be collaborating to bring diners a special 8-course Omakase menu (HK$1,288+) where courses alternate between Chef Sasajima’s Italian-Japanese and Nobu-san’s mod-Jap dishes.

Expect to feast on Sasajima’s light smoked Lobster and Potato Potage, Fresh Salmon Confit, Asparagus & Ikura (Salmon roe) Salad; Japanese Wagyu Beef Tagliata with Kale, daikon cake and tapenade; and for dessert, Matcha Tiramisu & Kuromame Catalanai.

Nobu himself will be offering yummies like kue (seasonal Japanese garoupa) sashimi with blood orange and caviar; soup with bamboo shoots and sakura ebi shinjyo (seasonal small shrimp from Japan cooked in cherry blossoms), and peanut crumble, Nobu beer ice cream and jasmine peach soup. This menu is available from 17-31 March, with a sake pairing option at HK$1,688+.

There’s also a la carte options for the delicate eaters. On 17-19 March, taste Chef Sasajima signature a la carte dishes such as his most famous dish – Uni and bamboo shoot spaghetti with kinome (HK$320); crab and yellowtail leek carbonara (HK$238); and minced pork, brussel sprouts and white azuki bean risotto (HK$228).

Second Floor, InterContinental Hong Kong
18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2313-2323
E-mail: nobuhongkong@interconti.com

Buys - We're Blown Away By Asiatique

2011-02-17T09:40:00.000+08:00

I’ve often driven past Asiatique Collections along Dempsey Road, and always wanted to pop in, but never got down to doing it until yesterday. And you know what? I asked myself why I didn’t do so earlier! Why? Such wonderful furniture and décor thiiiiings!! And not crazy expensive either.

What was happening there was a press introduction to the shop – it’s been around for some time, but only recently expanded to a 5000 square feet space – and the launch of our friend Carolyn Kan’s jewellery, Carrie K., which has found a permanent home there. In short, an afternoon of pretty things!

Such a discovery, Asiatique is full of lovely home accessories and furniture, all impeccably tasteful, lusciously unique yet practical, which its equally exotic owner Chin Chelliah Bottinelli, personally sources from her travels. She works with some select artisans and “influences’ the design of many pieces, and you can see she’s very thoughtful in her picks.

Contemporary and elegant, they blend east and west in a very stylish, elegant way. What stands out are the clean lines and interesting textures. Everything would fit into a modern Asian home – I would buy these things, and I can imagine them in my friend’s houses too. In other words, they are modern pieces nicely designed for a ‘real’ home – not a showhouse. Most of the pieces are in muted neutrals, too, so it’s easy for you to work it into your home’s existing pieces.

I love the armchairs, railroad wood coffee tables, leather dowry cupboards, and huge, elaborate mirrors framed in all sorts of material, and mirrored Istanbul inspired sideboards. If you’re looking for candle holders, lamps and artisan jewellery, this is also the place to go. There are lots of small accessories too like little cake stands and platters; art pieces, sculptures – love the oversized mangosteen! – and assorted tableware. I salivate over a silver, coral shaped candle holder; a Victorian inspired “mirrored mirror”, and a huge silver vase which would look great at my dining table. Horrors! I could buy half the things in the shop! Nothing is ridiculous; if I didn’t take to any of the pieces I saw, it was likely because it wasn’t my taste – not that they are intrinsically ugly.

I found myself flipping over price tags, and was pleasantly surprised. It’s not Ikea, but it’s a very fair premium you pay for these unique pieces – not once did I feel that anything was overpriced and out to fleece you. I can imagine just getting one or two dramatic items to revive the look of any one of my rooms. Then there’s a section of bold artisan jewellery too by up and coming designers, of which Carrie K is the latest. Definitely a place to find fab gifts for a close friend.

We declare this shop ‘Simply Fabulicious!’

14A Dempsey Road

Tel: 6471 3146

11am – 7pm daily

- Ee Waun

Beauty - Extreme Blotting

2011-02-17T09:36:00.000+08:00

Blotting paper is just blotting paper, right? It’s got as much glam potential as a sink stopper right? WRONG!

Tatcha aburatorigami is affordable luxury at its most extreme. It blows the mind how something as mundane as a little pieces of paper to blot our your facial sebum can be made into an item of coveted luxury. But here it is – delicate little squares of finest grade abaca leaf flecked with gold! The abaca leaf is apparently very strong, yet super soft and offers mega absorbency to lift off excess shine. Handmade in Japan, fragrance- and powder-free, with no animal testing involved, it is blots without disturbing your make up.

Why do we absolutely need this? Its soft, ‘plant-like texture’ means we don’t need to fiddle with stiff, scratchy cheap blotting paper that looks more like baking paper; and for a touch of frou-frou, it’s a little ‘Geisha’ beauty legacy. Apparently, these ladies discovered that the handmade paper used by gold artisans to protect the metal as they hammered it into thin leaves, was great for taking oil off delicate skin. And so the rest is history, as they often say.

The gold doesn’t flake out on your face, we are assured – but that’s a shame isn’t it? A little too precious just to blot and toss. Post-blotting art and craft, anyone?

S$15.60 for a packet of 30 sheets

Pure Tincture Simple Organic Beauty Boutique

1 Raffles Place #04-22B

http://www.puretincture.com/

Breaking News - Simply Fabulicious Has Moved!

2011-02-11T22:54:00.000+08:00

Thanks for being part of the SimplyFab community these last two years! In the Year of the Bunny, we're thrilled to have finally built a permanent home on our very own website at http://www.simplyfabulicious.com/

We're so excited about this, we've tied up with the great people at Club Med to start off our the Simply Fab website on a luscious note!

Here's your chance to pack your teeniest-tiniest red bikini and run away on a 3 DAY 2 NIGHT escapade to Club Med Cherating! (valid for a stay from 1 April to 30 September 2011).

All you have to do is log onto our new website and join our mailing list for free by 14 March 2011. To do that, look for the subscription window ('Be Fabulicious!') on the right hand side of our home page

The prize includes:

One twin-share accommodation in a Superior room

Daily sumptuous Buffet Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with free flow of red and white wine and beverages during Lunch and Dinner

Participation in all sports activities with instruction for adults and children to Mini Club Med (4 to 11 years old)

Terms:

Travel must be completed by 31 October 2011 and no extension is allowed.
Prize is non-transferable and non-refundable.
This package excludes flights, land transfers, taxes and the compulsory Club Med membership of S$60 per adult.
Room confirmation is subject to availability.
Not valid for High Season
This prize letter cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or discounts.
The original copy of the prize letter must be presented with your Singapore Identity Card or valid passport for verification when claiming your travel package. Restricted to Singapore residents only.

In the meantime....
We'll still be posting on blogger until March 14, after which this site will no longer be active. We hope you'd join us and all the other fabulicious readers in our new home at www.simplyfabulicious.com
If you need to contact us, please email us at elaine@simplyfabulicious.com or eewaun@simplyfabulicious.com
You can also follow us on our facebook page and twitter. Do drop us a note whenever you like to tell us what you want to see, your comments, thoughts, anything that hits you.

Peace, Love and Cocktails!
The SimplyFab Team

BTW - The Next Big Thing in Kitchens!

2011-02-09T11:11:00.000+08:00

The next time you think of doing it on the kitchen counter top, you should imagine a shiny, sleek and cool surface like Valcucine and not ... heaven forbid... Ikea! Do what you ask? Why fix a gourmet meal of course .. tsk, tsk... what were you thinking?

So who or what are Valcucine? This ultra fashionable Italian kitchen brand looks set to be the next big thing in designer kitchen brands. Established by Giobanni Dino Cappellotto, Gabriele Centazzo, Franco Corbetta and Silvio Verardo in 1980 at a time when kitchen design was stiff, lack lustre and defined by lacquered boards, plastic, wood and stainless steel, the trio introduced materials like tempered alloy and tempered glass, carbon fibre and stain-proof stainless steel and also incorporated environmentally friendly materials in their design.

They emerged last year's winners of the ADI Italian Industrial Design Index 2010 for their outstanding quality, functional and typological innovation, production processes and use of materials and also bagged the ‘Best Kitchen & Materials Design Award’ with ELLE Magazine's Decoration International Design Awards (EDIDA), held in Beijing.

Distributed by Mooi Living Ltd exclusively in Hong Kong, China and Macau, check out their stunning split level 6000 square foot flagship store at 69 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong. Tel: (852) 2893-8198. See: http://www.valcucine.com.hk/

- Elaine

Breakaway - Marathon Stays and Rugby Sevens in Hong Kong

2011-02-05T09:16:00.001+08:00

Even as I write, I know I have eaten too much and consumed waaay too many martinis and Champagne last night. CNY has this effect on you – obligatory binges that I am not complaining about, but which I will regret later when the fat sets in. I wish I had paid my dues earlier, and ran more, did more push ups, etc. I am still trying to bust my underarm hang. Sigh…but how to you go jogging while nursing a hangover?

I guess those who are planning to run the Hong Kong Marathon on 20 Feb have no such issues, fit as a fiddle and all ready to leap on the plane to fly there to run all 42.7 kilometres, if the smog doesn’t get to you first.

The Excelsior Hong Kong is offering a ‘Get Ready for the Marathon’ package between 18 and 28 February. For HK$1,600 per night, it gives you accommodation in a Superior Room, daily brekkie for two, complimentary InBody body composition analysis, HK$220 body treatment credit at the hotel’s fitness centre to relax and recuperate after the run, a training session at HK$400 per hour by the hotel’s personal trainers and 20% discount on F&B including room service. This deal requires a minimum two nights’ stay. It’s an old hotel, mind you, but it’s centrally located in Causeway Bay – lots of pre and post run shopping and eating – and if you get the larger rooms, you can get the great view of the harbour!

281 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay

Call +852 2837 6840

e-mail at exhkg-reservations@mohg.com

or book online at www.mandarinoriental.com/excelsior

Still on Hong Kong, lots of people around the region potter over for the annual international Rugby Sevens each year. This time it falls on 24-28 March. Award winning boutique hotel The Fleming in Wanchai, is offering a special package from HK$2,280 a night to HK$3,680 for Executive rooms with fully-equipped kitchens, based on a three-night minimum stay.

Apart from smart digs, this gets you daily breakfast, complimentary cocktails every evening, 20% discount on room service and 50% discount on all drinks except wine at signature restaurant Cubix, where the 3-course set dinner is priced at just HK$150. There’s also complimentary broadband Internet access, local calls, and access to the California Fitness Centre located nearby. Why stay here? It’s a 5-10 minute taxi ride from the Hong Kong Stadium, and steps away from Lockhart Road where fans celebrate after games.

41 Fleming Road, Wan Chai

Tel: (852) 3607 2225

E-mail: rsvn@thefleming.com

www.thefleming.com.hk

- Ee Waun

Breakaway – Need An Excuse To Go Tokyo?

2011-02-04T09:25:00.000+08:00

Here’s a perfect excuse to pack your bags and escape to Tokyo – which we all love for its food and shopping! The new five-star Capitol Hotel Tokyu has a two nights for the price of one opening offer at US$360 for two nights! That translates to about S$225 per night for luxury digs in Akasaka in downtown Tokyo. This deal gives you free wifi and access to the fitness centre and swimming pool, too.

Overlooking the city’s historic Hie Shrine, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu’s got panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline from the 18th to 29th floors, five restaurants and bars, as well as the necessities like spa facilities, etc. Designed by the world famous Kengo Kuma, it sits on the site of the former Tokyo Hilton Hotel, which has since been demolished. Need to know: the hotel is a 10-20 minute subway ride from Tokyo Station and the major shopping and dining areas of Ginza, Roppongi, Shinjuku and Shibuya.

The deal stands until end April. Only down side is, it’s capped at only 10 rooms per day.

2-10-3, Nagata-cho, chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan

Email: capitol.ma@tokyuhotels.co.jp

www.capitolhoteltokyu.com