My portfolio, musings, amusing(s - that a word? No? K.) and more. Photoshoots over the years, behind the scenes anecdotes, some awesome celebrity encounters (some horrific ones too!). 21 years+ as a journalist in Hong Kong - that's a lot of verbal diarr... um... discourse!
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong
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| Loro Piana |
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| Brunello Cucinelli |
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| Dunhill |
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| Louis Vuitton |
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| Gucci |
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| Ralph Lauren |
An annual celebration by one of the finest hotels Hong Kong has to offer, The Peninsula Hong Kong has gone all out this season of giving with a magical train voyage.
We at Robb Report Hong Kong have made no secret about what “the Grande Dame of Hong Kong” means to us; The Peninsula Hong Kong is as iconic as it can be. Since its opening in 1928, the hotel has epitomised luxury and elegance, continuously enchanting guests with its rich heritage, impeccable service, refined experience, and unparalleled hospitality that set such a high benchmark from the onset, all others are measured from its lofty ideal.
As the festive season approaches, the hotel invites guests and visitors to experience the holiday season that highlights the hotel’s commitment to creating unforgettable memories, blending time-honoured traditions with contemporary festivities.
The Peninsula Hong Kong commenced the festive season with “The Peninsula Express—Festive Extravaganza” on 21 November 2024, featuring a musical journey, a feast, and a tree-lighting ceremony. During this period, the first floor of the hotel is transformed into the Grand Salisbury Station, featuring a custom-built Peninsula Express train carriage. With its signature Peninsula Green exterior and richly appointed interior, this dining experience is designed to take guests on a journey through iconic Chinese destinations, inspired by The Peninsula hotels in Shanghai and Beijing. Reservations for this unique gastronomic experience can be made on a per-table basis, accommodating up to four guests.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong
Three months (prep), three days (event) later, its a wrap. The Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 was epic. Nothing quite like it in Hong Kong... well, until next year.
Over the course of three days and two nights, MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024 was the place to be for a thrilling programme of gastronomic, artistic, and cultural activities designed to entice, entertain, and enlighten local and international VIP guests, but the work for the dining extravaganza began months ago to ensure that this RR1 Signature Event was one for the ages.
At the final curtain call for this year’s Culinary Masters in Macau, nearly 150 people took to the stage to take their bow—a defining moment in the history of gastronomic events held in the region. A historic event to mark another, the theme “Savor 700 Years of Silk Road Flavors: A Gastronomic Odyssey” was on the mind of all participants in front and behind the scenes.
Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region and the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the occasion coincided with the 700 years since the passing of the renowned Silk Road explorer Marco Polo, and marking the rich legacy of the intrepid explorer in a timely and apt way was always on the cards. Macau provided the perfect backdrop with its East-meets-West history, and to show that on a plate courtesy of six incredible chefs was ingenious.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
Four drops for the season that we are coveting just before Christmas.
Traditionalists, fervent aficionados, and connoisseurs know that Japanese whisky is nothing to sniff at. Wait, the premise of that may be wrong—it is something to sniff at, as the magical aromas of premium peat from distilleries from the East are things of marvel, and a level of perfection that perhaps only the Japanese can do with precision. Our esteemed bon mots wrote in Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of Wines & Spirits section, “As you would expect with Yamazaki, the golden-amber-coloured whisky is all about refinement, purity, and subtlety—there is no heaviness on the mid-palate and the finish is clean.”
Well, the House of Suntory that brought us one of last year’s finest whiskies has just launched its stellar 2024 Tsukuriwake Series, a limited-edition collection that epitomises the essence of innovation and diversity in whisky-making. Its latest offering not only continues the legacy of excellence but also deepens the narrative of Japanese whisky on the global stage.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
Nestled on the slopes of Graham Street, Courtroom has entered Hong Kong’s bar scene with a unique blend of whimsy and whiskies, sophistication and style, and a bang for your buck. Co-founded by industry veterans Saan Dhakal and Ranjeet Khatri, this innovative venue draws inspiration from notorious court cases that straddle the thin blue line between the serious and the absurd, creating an atmosphere that is both playful and refined, doing full justice to both realms of seemingly contradictory ideation—it’s some serious fun.
Even the bar’s logo—a cheeky monkey swinging from legal scales—encapsulates its duality, embodying a mischievous spirit while respecting the gravitas of legal proceedings. At first look, we found nothing objectionable. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a dark wood interior adorned with judiciary-themed décor, including a witness stand table and a judge’s bench, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
Even for the well-seasoned traveller, the Shangri-La Suite is a cut above the rest.
Island Shangri-La first opened in March 1991, the sophisticated cousin of the Kowloon Shangri-La. A makeover in phases, from rooftop to basement, has been quietly in the works over the past few years, and after a soft launch of the Shangri-la Suite in June, Robb Report Hong Kong was invited to test the premises with a stay in its colourful, maximalist, expansive, expensive, multi-functional, multi-roomed, and panoramic-view-filled mega-suite.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
This exclusive event, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the city’s skyline, not only commemorated a decade and a half of S.Nine’s distinctive elegance but also unveiled the brand's much-anticipated 2024 Collection. Since its inception in 2009 in Hong Kong, S.Nine by Susanna Soo has embraced modern femininity, seamlessly marrying sophisticated tailoring with innovative, body-conscious, distinctly feminine silhouettes.
Robb Report Hong Kong is delighted to announce that Darshan Mehta, the president and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), a subsidiary of US$125 billion market-cap company and India’s largest conglomerate Reliance Industries Limited, is joining the highly anticipated Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 as our opening keynote spotlight speaker.
In the dynamic landscape of luxury retail, few figures stand as prominently as Darshan Mehta. As part of the vast portfolio owned by the Ambani family—the wealthiest in Asia and the 9th wealthiest in the world, as per Forbes—there’s little the family company can do without causing ripples across the nation.
At the helm of one of India’s foremost luxury retail companies, Mehta has been instrumental in redefining the contours of the luxury market in the country, melding global brands with local sensibilities while maintaining the essence of exclusivity. Famously, Mehta has stated that he doesn’t like the word “luxury” and its connotations, and prefers to eschew it to embrace “the finer things in life.” He casts a wide net with that phrase, for it could mean something as simple as bringing franchise food chain Pret a Manger to India, or the finest fashion from Ferragamo. Mono brands, global brands, designer brands, jewellery—he has overseen partnerships that have elevated the fashion stakes in India.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
“Overwhelming” is the word that comes to mind at first glance of the red, alien bridal number from the Legends collection, a hedonistic chapter, and one of five, on exhibit in the cavernous halls of M+ contemporary visual arts museum. The 40 pieces on display, standing on elevated platforms, are curated designer confections from the grand portfolio of Guo Pei, each piece etching its mark in the annals of fashion history.
Guo, possibly the most famous couturier to emerge from China on the global stage, is the visionary designer renowned for her intricate craftsmanship and artistic acumen, creating otherworldly ensembles that fuse art, history, and craftsmanship in ways hitherto unimagined. She has even captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, particularly since songstress Rihanna wore her golden cape to the Met Gala in 2015.
As Guo prepares to showcase some of her most iconic works, one early morning before the crowds saunter in, we at Robb Report Hong Kong had an exclusive conversation with the couturier. Delving into her creative process, the significance of her journey, and her reflections on the evolving landscape of fashion, much was discussed.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
On offer, NET-A-PORTER is rolling out 21 pieces that could make even the most indecisive shopper feel like they’ve hit the jackpot. Its Loro Piana so think luxurious coats, cozy knitwear, and handbags that practically scream... well, in fact, they don't scream. Its just quiet sophistication at its finest. The color palette is neutral and in the comforting shades of taupe, cream, and caramel. They’ve sprinkled in some chunky knits and tailored outerwear in warm textures and the finest textiles.
On the flip side, MR PORTER isn’t slacking either. With 34 pieces, their collection is all about shearling and suede outerwear that’s stylish and a timeless elegance to it; look at the tailored trousers and the wide array of cashmere and wool knits that’ll keep you warm. Plus, suede sneakers and iconic caps round out the collection.
Kate Benson, Buying Director at NET-A-PORTER, “These forever styles can be worn as a timeless stand-alone piece or layered together this winter.” And Daniel Todd from MR PORTER assures us that this collection is perfect for luxury cold-weather dressing.
Time to elevate your winter wardrobe? Head over to NET-A-PORTER or MR PORTER to snag these exclusive collections.
October 2024
In the world of haute joaillerie, few names resonate with the same level of artistic depth and cultural fusion as Anna Hu. For years, Robb Report Hong Kong has covered the prolific jewellery designer’s stellar creations that often draw inspiration from great art, history, flora, and fauna, taking note of her multi-hyphenate pedigree. (Not many other concert cellists have morphed into global high-jewellery artisans, after all.)
Hu recently showcased her latest collection during the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week for the autumn-winter 2024/2025 season, captivating the audience with 10 exquisite pieces that embody the essence of East meets West. Her latest curation draws on two themes that have been integral to her design philosophy since the inception of her brand in 2007: the butterfly and the intricate beauty of nature displayed through flowers of extraordinary colouration.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
Antiquorum, the preeminent name in the world of horology, is set to dazzle collectors and enthusiasts alike with its autumn auction in Hong Kong on 26 October 2024. Held at the Mandarin Oriental, this eagerly awaited event promises an exquisite collection of 364 rare timepieces and jewellery, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of some of the most revered brands in the industry, a line-up of all the usual suspects: Rolex, Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne, Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, among others.
As one of the foremost auction house in the world, renowned for curating timepieces, Antiquorum has built a reputation for presenting only the finest examples of horological excellence. Its autumn auction will feature a significant selection of grand-complication watches, vintage treasures, and exceptional models—quite a handful of which are no longer in production. Collectors will be particularly drawn to the rare double-signed pieces from illustrious brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex, as well as military and tropical timepieces that tell their own unique stories of heat and artillery that leave an enduring legacy.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
This immersive exhibition invites connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike to embark on an immersive journey through time, space, and nature, offering a rare insight into the brand’s unparalleled whisky-making philosophy.
At the heart of this initiative lies the TIME : SPACE COLLECTION, which features two exclusive releases honouring The Macallan's bicentennial. This collection is emblematic of the brand’s spirit of exploration and innovation, which has shaped its identity for two centuries.
The exhibition’s theme, the Circle of Life, encapsulates the cyclical rhythms inherent in both nature and whisky production, showcasing how The Macallan harmonises tradition with innovation in crafting its exceptional offerings.
Central to the experience is the TIME : SPACE Mastery—an exceptional single malt whisky that embodies The Macallan’s storied past. This remarkable expression is distilled from 14 unique cask types, including European and American Oak sherry-seasoned casks, each contributing to its intricate layers of aroma and flavour.
The whisky is presented in a meticulously crafted circular vessel, symbolising the exhibition’s theme and featuring 200 spikes, a tribute to The Macallan’s enduring legacy and the protective embrace of nature. The exhibition promises a multi-sensory journey, enriched by a captivating display of flora and fauna that reflect the brand’s deep-rooted connection to the natural world.
This unique opportunity enables attendees to immerse themselves in the artistry behind The Macallan’s renowned single malts, crafted with unparalleled precision.
This exhibition is not just a celebration of whisky mastery; it is an invitation to explore the intricate relationship between nature and The Macallan’s legacy. Visitors will gain invaluable insights into the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence, as they journey through its illustrious past and promising future. For further information and registration, interested parties can visit The Macallan’s official website.
The TIME : SPACE Experience at Pacific Place runs from 18th to 31st October 2024, open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM.
In a stunning display of artistic prowess, auctioneering excellence, and exquisite curation at its mint new home at The Henderson, Christie’s Hong Kong’s inaugural sales proved to be a resounding success, amassing a total of HK$1.25 billion (around US$162 million).
For art lovers and connoisseurs, buyers and collectors, purveyors and voyeurs, critics and editors, the place to be in the last days of September was on the 7th floor of the recently opened commercial development The Henderson, the Zaha Hadid Architects-designed tower from where Christie’s Hong Kong’s new Asia-Pacific headquarters loom large over the city.
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
Top business leaders and heads of luxury companies will convene in Hong Kong to discuss the direction of the global luxury industry.
Robb Report Hong Kong is excited to announce the debut of the Leaders of Luxury Summit, taking place in Hong Kong as the host city. With the welcomed support of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the inaugural Leaders of Luxury Summit highlights the city’s position as a hub of luxury lifestyle and an important destination for international luxury brands.
Organised by Robb Report Hong Kong, the highly anticipated Leaders of Luxury Summit will be held at Regent Hong Kong from 26 to 28 November 2024. It is set to be the most exciting international luxury event to take place in the city this year. A host of world-class speakers and panellists are expected to attend the event for thoughtful discussions centred around this year’s summit theme, “Redefining Luxury Through a Global Lens.”
Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.
