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Zén, Björn Frantzén’s first international venture, is now led by Austrian Executive Chef Martin Öfner, who is transforming the finest seasonal produce through Frantzén’s signature innovative techniques.  Zén in Singapore is the sister restaurant of Chef Björn Frantzén’s three Michelin-starred Frantzén in Stockholm. Opened in November 2018, Zén was awarded two Michelin stars in 2019 and the ultimate third in 2021. This intimate 24-seater restaurant is spanning all three floors of a heritage shophouse (c1926, see image below) in the Tanjong Pagar District. Zén blends Nordic, French and Japanese cuisines via Chef Björn’s Scandinavian philosophy. The tasting menu elevating the rich diversity of the produce from Japan and Scandinavia across nine meticulously crafted courses and canapés. Austrian Executive Chef Martin Öfner (above) leads the kitchen. From scenic Alps to soaring seas Öfner was born in Innsbruck and raised in the village of Stans in the Karwendel Alpine Park, Austria’s largest nature park located in the stunning region of Tyrol. Immersed in year-round tourism, processions, and festivals, he was surrounded by family and a community with a strong cultural focus on seasonality. One of his first positions outside of Austria was in Zurich, Switzerland, at Restaurant Parkhuus, at Park Hyatt hotel. Focused on local Alpine Swiss produce and freshwater fish, the restaurant is known for their open-fire grilling and asado-style approach which has earned them one Michelin star. Martin returned home to the Tyrol and Kirchberg, just outside Kitzbühel, and the two Michelin-starred restaurant Rosengarten under Chef Simon Taxacher. He was taken up by a residency just over the border into the Italian Tyrol, at the then two Michelin-starred St Hubertus under Chef Norbert Niederkofler in the Hotel Rosa Alpina, tucked into Italy's spectacular UNESCO-protected Dolomites. The two restaurants shared a common philosophy when it came to sourcing and preserving and one that resonated strongly with Martin. Joining as Senior Chef de Partie, by the time he left Rosengarten, he held the position of Sous Chef and then headed to Denmark, to much talked about restaurant Geranium under Chef Rasmus Kofoed that was named No1 in the World. It was 2017 and Geranium had just gained its 3rd Michelin star in 2016. Hereafter he joins De Librije in the Netherlands under Chef Jonnie Boer (3 Michelin stars since 2004). A chance opportunity for an internship at Frantzén under Chef Björn Frantzén took Martin to Stockholm at the end of 2018. Within two weeks, he was offered a permanent position as Chef de Partie and never looked back. From royal Stockholm to sizzling Singapore By 2023, he was Senior Sous Chef at Frantzén, and Björn had set his sights on China. Martin was asked if he would like to lead the team there. He travelled from province to province, absorbing everything from banqueting and Fujian seafood to Peking duck masters in Beijing. Björn offered him the opportunity to work in Singapore, in early 2024. Now in 2025, Martin is the lead Executive Chef working closely with Björn on all things Zén.  French toast ‘Grande Tradition 2008’ (Truffle French Toast). Image |Lavender Chang.  Read also Davos, Switzerland January 20-22, 2026 A Premier Platform for Technology, Investment & Global Impact Climate Change investment Forum XI edition 5-6 December Paris 
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 The official opening of a new Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC) at fast-growing Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier flyadeal's Jeddah HQ. With a four times bigger capacity, the IOCC was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Engr. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, and Chairman of the airline’s parent Saudia Group.
flyadeal's new Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC) has been officially opened by His Excellency Engr. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, who also serves as Chairman of the airline’s parent Saudia Group. He is pictured with His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Saudia Group Director General and flyadeal Chairman, together with flyadeal CEO Steven Greenway and employees at the company's Jeddah HQ, see image above.  The magical Winter season returns at The Alpina Gstaad, Alex Lange
As the season unfolds, Gstaad takes on a gentle magic of its own: rooftops dusted in white, lanterns flickering in the evening glow, the comforting scents of evergreen and winter spices drifting through the air. Sleighs glide through the festive village, where charming wooden huts sparkle beneath strings of delicate lights. It’s a setting that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover a sense of pure calm, the very essence that makes a stay at The Alpina Gstaad truly unique. The Alpina Gstaad BOOK YOUR WINTER HOLIDAYS NOW Festive Times in the Mountains The most magical time of the year has arrived at The Alpina Gstaad, where the spirit of the season meets the warmth of Swiss Alpine hospitality. Throughout December, our hotel transforms into a winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, unforgettable moments, and exceptional culinary experiences. Celebrate Christmas in the elegant ambience of our restaurants with a special festive menu crafted by our chefs. Reserve your Christmas Dinner. On December 31, ring in the New Year with sophistication and sparkle at The Alpina Gstaad. The evening opens at 7.45 pm with a refined aperitif, setting the tone for what follows: an indulgent Gala Dinner buffet featuring exceptional dishes inspired by both local flavours and world-class cuisine. Throughout the night, captivating live performances by our talented musicians will create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a night of joy, celebration, and memorable moments. Reserve your table Live Music Evenings are back This winter, The Alpina Gstaad transforms its evenings into a stage of sound, soul, and sparkling moments. Settle in, sip something warm, and let our Live-Music Sessions accompany your night as talented artists fill the air with gentle acoustic rhythms. From smooth jazz to spirited swing, each performance brings its own charm. The perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day in the mountains. Discover theLine-up. Detox Packages in January After the indulgence of the festive season, January at The Alpina Gstaad invites you to reset, restore, and return to balance. Our Detox Packages are designed to help you start the new year feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply rejuvenated. Experience a curated selection of Six Senses Spa treatments that support detoxification and overall well-being, ranging from purifying body therapies to calming rituals that revitalise both body and mind. Where Winter Thrills Come to Life Get ready for snow-filled fun this winter at The Alpina Gstaad! We’re looking forward to a season covered in fresh powder, perfect for unforgettable alpine adventures. Whether you choose skiing, snowshoe hiking, paragliding through the crisp mountain air, or simply soaking in the beauty of our winter landscape, your stay promises excitement, energy, and pure Swiss magic. Discover winter activties. The Power of a Wish: Heddy Rassekh on Compassion, Purpose & Giving Back  Make-A-Wish France Gala in Paris, attended by Heddy Rassekh. All images all rights reserved. At this year’s Make-A-Wish France Gala in Paris, elegance met purpose, and few embodied that union more poignantly than Heddy Rassekh. A designer, philanthropist, and mother whose life has been shaped by an unwavering compassion, Heddy stood among the guests not as a figure of glamour alone, but as someone who intimately understands the stakes behind every child’s wish. Her presence at the gala illuminated a simple truth: granting a wish is far more than a moment of joy, it can be a lifeline. In our conversation, Heddy reflected on the transformative power of hope, the resilience she has seen in children and families navigating unimaginable challenges, and the responsibility she feels to champion causes that restore dignity and possibility. With clarity, gentleness, and a sense of purpose rooted in lived experience, she invites us to rethink what it truly means to give back, and why even the smallest act of kindness can ripple into something life-changing. What moved you most about the Make-A-Wish France Gala this year, and what inspired your decision to support the foundation? Heddy Rassekh - What moved me the most was witnessing the transformative power of hope in action. At the gala, I saw children who are navigating incredibly difficult medical journeys, yet their eyes carried pure joy simply because someone believed in their dream. Make-A-Wish doesn’t just grant wishes—it restores strength, emotional resilience, and dignity. Supporting the foundation was not a decision; it was a calling. No child should ever feel limited by illness when their imagination is infinite. As a mother, how did witnessing the stories of the children and families at the gala resonate with you personally? As a mother who has walked through the unthinkable, every story at the gala reached a place in my heart that words rarely touch. I’m not only aware of the emotional and medical stages these families endure, I have lived them. Their fears, their hopes, their endless hospital hours, the language of medical charts and waiting rooms… it is all deeply familiar. Losing my child reshaped the way I see purpose, fragility, and strength. It taught me that while pain may change you, love must continue to lead you. So when I witness a child’s wish being granted, I don’t see a moment of celebration — I see a lifeline, a breath of relief, a reminder that even in the hardest journeys, joy is still allowed to exist. That is why I stand with these families not only as a supporter, but as someone who understands, fully and quietly, the weight they carry and the light they still deserve. What do you think the world needs to know about the powerful impact of granting a child’s wish? A wish is not a luxury—it is a lifeline. When a child receives a wish, their emotional and physical state shifts. Their motivation to heal strengthens, their spirit lifts, and their sense of possibility expands. Scientific studies have shown that joy and optimism truly affect recovery outcomes. A wish tells a child: You deserve magic, even in hardship. And that message alone can change their world. You’ve long been active in philanthropic work. What values or experiences shaped this commitment to giving back? My upbringing instilled in me the belief that blessings carry responsibility. We are not here merely to succeed individually, but to widen the path for others to rise. Throughout my career, I’ve met individuals whose lives changed because someone cared enough to step in—that is where my sense of duty was shaped. Giving back is not a chapter in my life; it is its foundation. How do you choose the causes you support, and what criteria matter most to you when aligning with a foundation? I align with causes that are transparent, child-centered, and impactful beyond a single moment. I look for organizations that create real emotional and social change, not only symbolic support. Integrity, purpose, and measurable effect are essential. When a foundation truly transforms the lives of children, families, or marginalized communities, I feel compelled to stand with them.  In your view, how can high-profile events like this gala encourage more people, especially in the region, to engage in meaningful philanthropy? High-profile platforms shift philanthropy from quiet generosity to collective responsibility. When leaders, artists, and influencers use their visibility to advocate for children’s causes, philanthropy becomes accessible—not reserved for a few. In our region specifically, showcasing the success of initiatives encourages more people to participate, donate, or volunteer. It normalizes giving, and that cultural momentum is invaluable. How has your journey as a fashion designer influenced the way you approach community work and social responsibility? Fashion teaches storytelling, identity, and empowerment. My work is rooted in understanding people—their emotions, their dreams, their inner world. That sensitivity translates naturally into philanthropy. I’ve learned that beauty is not only aesthetic; it is deeply human. Just as fashion uplifts confidence, community support uplifts humanity. Both require intention, empathy, and vision. What do you hope children learn from seeing you balance motherhood, business, and philanthropy? I hope they learn that success carries meaning only when shared. I want them to understand that kindness is strength, compassion is leadership, and giving back is a privilege, not a duty. If they grow up believing they can build, create, and uplift simultaneously, then I’ve honored my role both as a mother and a woman in service. What message would you share with people who are often discouraged from giving back? You don’t need abundance to give—you need intention. A gesture, a visit, a hand, or even a kind word can change someone’s emotional landscape. Philanthropy is not about scale; it is about heart. When giving comes from sincerity, it is never too small.  Are there upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited to champion within the philanthropic space? Yes, there are several initiatives in development that focus on children’s emotional wellbeing and creative empowerment. I believe that children deserve spaces to dream, create, and express themselves freely, even in difficult circumstances. Soon, I hope to announce collaborations that merge arts, healing, and community support across both Egypt and Europe. How do you envision your role evolving in the coming years when it comes to supporting children’s causes, both in Egypt and internationally? My goal is to move beyond participation and into structured, sustainable advocacy. I envision creating bridges between international foundations and regional communities, ensuring access to emotional care, medical support, and life-enriching experiences. Ultimately, I want to contribute to a world where every child—regardless of geography—knows that their dreams matter and their voice is heard.   Tristan Freslon as General Manager – Golf Cluster Anahita & Île aux Cerfs Sunlife announces the appointment of Tristan Freslon as General Manager – Golf Cluster, overseeing Anahita Golf and Île aux Cerfs Golf Club. This appointment marks a major strategic milestone in the creation of Sunlife’s new Golf Cluster. It reflects the group’s ambition to strengthen its presence in the region, create powerful synergies between these two exceptional destinations, and offer both members and guests an incomparable golfing experience across two of the Indian Ocean’s most iconic courses. A PGA Professional and former +2 handicap elite amateur player, Tristan brings over 14 years of internati-onal expertise in the management of prestigious golf clubs, including the renowned Royal Waterloo Golf Club in Belgium. In his new role, he will be responsible for optimising operational excellence across both courses, designing an integrated and distinctive offering for members and visitors, and further elevating the reputation of Anahita and Île aux Cerfs by highlighting their natural synergies as well as the unique signatures that define each one. François Eynaud, CEO of Sunlife, states: “Tristan’s appointment reflects our firm commitment to positioning Anahita and Île aux Cerfs as the leading golfing destination in Mauritius and the Indian Ocean — driven by an innovative, sustainable and excellence-oriented vision.” Sunlife brings over 45 years of hospitality expertise, beginning with the opening of its first hotel, La Pirogue, in 1976. The luxury hotel group operates five world-class establishments in Mauritius: Sugar Beach, Long Beach, La Pirogue, Ambre, Anahita Golf & Spa Resort, and Anahita Golf, as well as the award-winning Île aux Cerfs Golf Club. The group also owns Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius and Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, maintaining strong partnerships with these two internationally renowned brands. Île aux Cerfs Île aux Cerfs Golf Club offers a truly unique golfing experience in the Indian Ocean, featuring an 18- hole championship course designed by Bernhard Langer. Spread across 38 hectares of rolling terrain bordered by stunning bays and pristine beaches, the course is accessible only by boat or helicopter. Spectacular and open to players of all levels, it reveals breathtaking views of the island’s legendary lagoon at every hole. Anahita Golf Designed in 2008 by golf legend Ernie Els, Anahita Golf is an internationally acclaimed championship course known for its exceptional service and its hosting of the DP World Tour. Nestled between land and sea and adjacent to Anahita Golf & Spa Resort, it features wide fairways,six oceanfront holes, and dramatic signature vistas — ensuring an unforgettable experience for golfers of all levels. The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2026 is Set for a Record-Breaking Edition: High-class matches, elite competitors and exceptional demand for tickets From 23 to 25 January 2026, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is preparing for an edition that has set new benchmarks for the tournament. Demand for VIP tickets has surpassed all previous years, the opening matches promise a fast-paced start, and the world's only ‘high goal’ polo tournament on snow will once again bring together some of the best players in international polo. Even before it has begun, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is already breaking records. Demand for tickets has never been stronger: tickets for the Saturday gala sold out over two months ago, as did the VIP tickets for Saturday. Only a limited number of VIP seats remain for Sunday. The Perrier Jouët Chukker Club tickets for Saturday and Sunday are also proving extremely popular, and interest in tickets for Friday has risen significantly compared with previous years. This year’s player line-up also underscores the tournament’s exceptional level. Polo icon David ‘Pelon’ Stirling will bring the strategic brilliance and precision that have defined his influential career. Nico Pieres and Alfredo Bigatti, both seasoned winners of top international tournaments, will also join the field and, like Pelon Stirling, are currently playing in the prestigious Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo in Buenos Aires. Engadin favourite Tito Gaudenzi, one of the tournament's key ambassadors, will also be on the frozen lake field once again. Additional info can be accessed via website: www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com/ Read also POLO XPERIENCE BY MONTE CARLO POLO Club.   La Spezia, 3rd December 2025 – Baglietto proudly announces the sale of the third unit of its new launched DOM115 line, marking the fifth contract signed by the shipyard this year. The deal was successfully closed thanks to the valuable collaboration with Boatsters Black, representing the owner.
This latest achievement reinforces the extraordinary success of the DOM range designed by Stefano Vafiadis, who will also oversee the interiors of this yacht. The DOM115 has quickly become a benchmark in its category: a 35-meter yacht with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, combining contemporary elegance with a sporty edge and the fluid lines that define the DOM family. DOM115 Main Characteristics:
“We are extremely proud of this new contract, which confirms a winning strategy and the important role of our Fort Lauderdale office supporting American clients and brokers. The DOM115 perfectly embodies our philosophy: a yacht that is compact in size yet offers extraordinary opportunities for customization. Each unit is a unique project, built around the owner’s vision. This tailor-made approach, deeply rooted in Baglietto’s DNA, continues to drive our growth across all product lines.” stated Fabio Ermetto, Chief Commercial Officer, Baglietto. The fifth drop has arrived The wait is over. Ritz Paris x FRAME collection no.5 is here. Once again blending timeless Parisian sophistication with sunkissed Californian cool, this is style alchemy unlike anything else. Photography for this exciting new collection features musician and actress Lou Doillon, shot reportage-style at the Ritz Paris Hotel.   Grand Suite
Die 126-jährige Geschichte des Dolder Grand spiegelt sich in unseren Suiten wider, die legendären Persönlichkeiten aus Kunst, Film und Musik gewidmet sind. Jede Suite offenbart ihren eigenen Charakter – von elegantem Retro-Design bis zu zeitloser Raffinesse. Experience, Im Dolder Grand Spa Krug Chalet Concierge Tipp Ski-Trip The Dolder Grand Kurhausstrasse 65 8032 Zurich Switzerland Tel +41 44 456 60 00 Fax +41 44 456 60 01 [email protected] www.thedoldergrand.com  SKH Private Family Office Signs Hotel Management Agreement with Rotana Hotels for The Cove Rotana Resort, Announcing AED 500 Mio investments plan to transform the property into a flagship resort in Ras AL Khaimah
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 31 October 2025: The official signing ceremony between Mr Saqr Hasan, Founder and Chairman of SKH Family Office Private Family Office, and Mr Makram El Zyr, Corporate Vice President of Development of Rotana, in the presence of distinguished industry leaders and stakeholders. Facilitated and arranged by Rasmala Investment Bank, acting as financial advisor, the renewed partnership underscores SKH Private Family Office’s commitment to advancing world-class hospitality projects in the UAE. Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana, said: “The Cove Rotana Resort has long been one of our most beloved properties, and we are proud to lead it into this exciting new chapter. Working alongside SKH Private Family Office, we’re combining vision with experience to shape a resort that truly reflects the spirit of Ras Al Khaimah and the Rotana brand. This partnership is about more than management—it’s about delivering the best possible experience for our guests and ensuring every stay reflects the warmth, quality, and care that define Rotana.” Mr. Saqr Kamal Hasan, Founder and Chairman of SKH Private Family Office, said: “At SKH Private Family Office, our vision is to redefine the hospitality landscape through investments that create lasting economic and social value. The signing of our management agreement with Rotana reflects a shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and regional authenticity. The transformation of The Cove Rotana Resort represents our ambition to deliver world-class guest experience in alignment with the United Arab Emirates’ vision for responsible investment and tourism leadership. We are confident that this next phase will reinforce the resort’s position as a flagship destination in the region, driven by focused strategy and long-term impact.” The investment of over AED 500 million includes the acquisition of the property, and full renovation of guest rooms, villas, restaurants, and leisure facilities. With Ras Al Khaimah recording more than 1.3 million visitors in 2024 and targeting 3.5 million by 2030, the resort is well-positioned to support the emirate’s tourism growth trajectory. The collaboration between SKH and Rotana reinforces investor confidence in the UAE’s tourism infrastructure and highlights the country’s enabling environment for visionary developments. Rotana is one of the region’s leading hospitality companies, founded in Abu Dhabi in 1992. It manages a portfolio of over 116 properties Rotana operates six distinct brands: Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Centro Hotels, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan Altakhassusi Hotel Suites Apartments, DAMAC Hills 2 Hotel – Edge by Rotana, and The Residences by Rotana. For more information, please visit www.rotana.com |
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