#a famous street known for bespoke tailoring. This new outfit

[samyakkdegital]

The Jodhpuri suit, also known as the Bandhgala suit, has a fascinating origin story that blends Indian and Western influences.

Place and Time: The Jodhpuri suit is believed to have originated in the princely state of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, around the 1600s.

Maharaja Pratap Singh: Some credit Maharaja Pratap Singh of Jodhpur for popularizing the style. While on a trip to England, his luggage containing traditional Indian attire went missing. He improvised and had a new outfit tailored on Savile Row, a famous street known for bespoke tailoring. This new outfit, featuring a shorter coat and breeches, became the foundation of the Jodhpuri suit.

Fusion of Styles: The Jodhpuri suit is considered an Indo-Western creation. It combines elements of the traditional Indian garment, the Sherwani (long coat), with a shorter, tailored jacket inspired by Western styles. The Jodhpuri breeches, similar to riding pants, are another distinct feature.

Evolution and Popularity: The Jodhpuri suit gained popularity among other Indian royalty and aristocracy. Over time, the style evolved, with variations in fabric, embroidery, and closure types. Jodhpuri suits became associated with formal wear and special occasions.

Jodhpur or Bandhgala? Interestingly, there’s some debate about the origin of the name. While the story suggests Maharaja Pratap Singh’s connection to Jodhpur, the term “Bandhgala” literally translates to “closed neck” and likely refers to the characteristic collar of the suit. Both names are widely used today.

Discover the Perfect Jodhpuri Suit for Every Occasion

 Off-White Zardosi Embroidered Raw Silk Jodhpuri Suit

Introducing the epitome of sophistication and style – Modern Jodhpuri suits for men. At Samyakk, we redefine elegance with our collection of Updated Jodhpuri suits for men. Crafted to perfection, these suits are a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary fashion, making them the ideal choice for the fashion-conscious gentleman.

Elevate your wardrobe with our range of Fashionable Jodhpuri suits for men, designed to make you stand out at any event. Whether you’re the groom or a wedding guest, our Royal Jodhpuri suits exude regal charm and timeless appeal.

For those with a discerning taste, we offer Custom Jodhpuri suits tailored to your exact specifications. Whether it’s for your wedding day or a special occasion, our expert craftsmen ensure that every detail is perfect.

Black Bead Embroidered Suede Jodhpuri Suit

Make a statement at your wedding with our exquisite collection of Jodhpuri suits for groom. With intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, these suits are sure to make you the center of attention on your big day.

For wedding guests looking to make a lasting impression, our Jodhpuri suits for wedding guests are the perfect choice. With a variety of styles and designs to choose from, you’ll find the perfect outfit for any celebration.

Turn heads at parties with our stylish Party wear Jodhpuri suits. Whether it’s a formal event or a night out with friends, our suits ensure you look effortlessly chic and sophisticated.

Discover the latest trends in men’s fashion with our collection of Latest Jodhpuri suits designs. From bold patterns to sleek silhouettes, we have something to suit every style and taste.

And the best part? Our Affordable Jodhpuri suits make luxury accessible to everyone. With unbeatable prices and uncompromising quality, you can elevate your style without breaking the bank.

Experience the epitome of elegance and style with Samyakk‘s collection of Jodhpuri suits for men. Shop now and redefine your wardrobe with timeless sophistication.

Redefining Men’s Fashion: Explore the Exquisite World of Designer Jodhpuri Suits

Black Cutdana Embroidered Italian IndoWestern Sherwani

Latest designer Jodhpuri suits for men are making waves in the fashion scene, offering a fusion of tradition and contemporary style. These trendy Jodhpuri suits for men are perfect for those who appreciate timeless elegance with a modern twist.

Crafted with precision and attention to detail, contemporary Jodhpuri suits for men are designed to make a statement at any occasion. From weddings to formal gatherings, these suits exude sophistication and charm.

For the fashion-forward Jodhpuri suits for men, it’s all about staying ahead of the curve. With innovative designs and cutting-edge fabrics, these suits redefine men’s fashion, setting new trends with every wear.

Gone are the days of traditional attire; today’s men prefer modern Jodhpuri suits that reflect their style sensibilities. Sleek lines, impeccable tailoring, and exquisite embellishments characterize these suits, making them a must-have in every fashion enthusiast’s wardrobe.

Step into the spotlight with stylish Jodhpuri suits for men that command attention wherever you go. Whether it’s a red-carpet event or a corporate gathering, these suits ensure you make a lasting impression.

Creamy Pink Zardosi Embroidered Jute Jodhpuri Suit

Experience the future of fashion with cutting-edge Jodhpuri suits for men that push the boundaries of traditional attire. With innovative silhouettes and avant-garde designs, these suits redefine the concept of sartorial excellence.

Embrace sophistication with sleek Jodhpuri suits for men that epitomize understated luxury. Perfectly tailored and exquisitely crafted, these suits exude refinement and class, making them a symbol of impeccable taste.

Innovation meets elegance with innovative Jodhpuri suits for men that blend classic charm with contemporary flair. From bold patterns to unconventional fabrics, these suits are a testament to the evolving landscape of men’s fashion.

Elevate your style quotient with fresh Jodhpuri suits for men that breathe new life into traditional attire. With updated designs and modern aesthetics, these suits are the epitome of sophistication and refinement.

Indulge in luxury with exclusive designer Jodhpuri suits for men that exude opulence and extravagance. Crafted from the finest materials and adorned with intricate details, these suits are reserved for the discerning gentleman who demands nothing but the best.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, high-end Jodhpuri suits for men are the epitome of luxury. Impeccably crafted and exquisitely designed, these suits are a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Make a bold style statement with luxury Jodhpuri suits for men that showcase your impeccable taste and discerning eye for fashion. With sumptuous fabrics and impeccable tailoring, these suits are the epitome of refined sophistication.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to elevate your style with the timeless elegance of Jodhpuri suits, look no further than Samyakk. Explore our exquisite collection online at Samyakk.com, where you can browse through the latest designs and trends from the comfort of your home. And for those who prefer a hands-on shopping experience, we invite you to visit our physical store in Bangalore, where our knowledgeable staff will assist you in finding the perfect suit to suit your style and occasion. Whether you shop online or visit our store, at Samyakk, we are dedicated to helping you make a statement with your wardrobe.

FAQ 

Can I find a Jodhpuri suit suitable for a specific occasion, such as weddings or parties, at Samyakk?

Absolutely! Samyakk offers a diverse range of Jodhpuri suits tailored for various occasions, including weddings, parties, and formal gatherings. Our collection caters to different style preferences and event themes.

Are the Jodhpuri suits at Samyakk customizable to fit my unique measurements and style preferences?

Yes, indeed! At Samyakk, we understand that each individual has their own distinct style and body shape. That’s why we offer custom tailoring services to ensure your Jodhpuri suit fits you perfectly and reflects your personal taste.

What sets Samyakk’s Jodhpuri suits apart from other options available in the market?

Samyakk takes pride in offering Jodhpuri suits crafted with precision, attention to detail, and a keen understanding of the latest fashion trends. Our suits seamlessly blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair, ensuring you stand out from the crowd with sophistication and charm.

How can I ensure that I’m making the right choice when selecting a Jodhpuri suit from Samyakk’s online collection?

We understand that choosing the perfect Jodhpuri suit can be daunting, especially when shopping online. That’s why Samyakk provides detailed product descriptions, high-quality images, and sizing guides to help you make an informed decision. Additionally, our customer service team is always available to address any queries or concerns you may have.

Does Samyakk offer international shipping for customers outside of Bangalore?

Yes, we do! Samyakk is committed to bringing our exquisite collection of Jodhpuri suits to customers worldwide. Whether you’re in Bangalore or beyond, you can enjoy the convenience of shopping online and having your chosen suit delivered straight to your doorstep.

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[coughscent1-blog]

5 Stylish Ways To Wear The Fleece Trend

Since when has fleece been cool? Like many of the current trends permeating fashion (ugly trainers spring to mind), you probably wouldn’t have been seen dead wearing fleece just a few years ago. Now, it’s everywhere.

Once reserved for hikers, bird watchers and teachers on school trips, fleece is today just as likely to be seen on streetwear kids as it is in the après-ski lodge. Naturally, it’s incredibly warm and works as a layering piece come winter. Oh, and it’s possible for it to look good too.

What Is Fleece?

The greatest appeal of fleece has always been its warmth, despite being incredibly light in weight. An entirely man-made fabric, it’s derived from plastic – polyester fibres are woven tightly together and then brushed to create a pile-like surface. Not only does this give it a soft, textured feel, it also helps with fleece’s heat-retention and moisture-resistance – air pockets are trapped between the fibres meaning the heat generated by your body stays put.

Urban Outfitters

This is why fleece has always been popular in the great outdoors. In fact, that trusty American wilderness brand that everyone’s now wearing, Patagonia, was behind the creation of fleece back in the 80s. The idea was to improve on wool – nature’s best, sure, but often itchy and incredibly heavy when wet.

Patagonia’s fleece, dubbed Synchilla, was an immediate hit and would become sustainable in 1993, when the brand started producing it out of plastic bottles. (It’s worth noting that not all fleece is made from recycled materials though – some require the use of raw petroleum and arguably all release micro-plastics when washed, which can ultimately end up in the world’s oceans.)

How To Wear Fleece

Fleece has seen a sharp incline in popularity, but why are people flocking to it? Much of its current appeal can be attributed to the nineties revival and the general feeling of nostalgia surrounding it. Light-wash jeans, chunky trainers, colour-blocked anoraks and fleece – they’ve all had big years and they all stem from that decade.

Uniqlo

It’s fleece’s compatibility with a wide range of outfits that appeals most today though. Yes, it was born on the walking trail, but it’s also at home on the street. Olie Arnold, Mr Porter style director hints at its versatility: “Fleece jackets are perfectly suited to the current outerwear trend and are easily incorporated into a streetwear look alongside tapered cargo trousers and hiking boots. Alternatively, layer your fleece over a winter-weight shirt with your favourite pair of slim-fit jeans or chinos for a relaxed weekend look.”

To understand just how far fleece has come, head to Savile Row. Brands such as Gieves & Hawkes, tailors famous for their bespoke suits, are now proprietors of the furry style, too. “The idea came from the commuters on my train really,” says Gieves brand creative director John Harrison. “The fleece was worn with a formal trouser and shirt, but no jacket. I thought a GH fleece would be a great intermediate item. It can be dressed up a bit but mainly it is a warm layer, on its own or under a lighter coat.”

Colour Blocking

ASOS

A fleece jacket is a great way of injecting a playful dash of colour into a look. There are many pattered examples available but our favourites adopt a ski-inspired look with colour blocking. Look for fleece panels in contrasting shades – blue and red is a good shout – and pair with neutral chinos or pale jeans and Converse for an easy off-duty look.

Oversize Layering

Urban Outfitters

Oversized silhouettes are dominating outerwear offerings at the moment, and fleece jackets are no exception. Look for something collared – an overshirt, perhaps – and layer over a hoodie. You’ll get all the warmth of a larger coat yet no bulk – perfect for transitional weather. For ultimate comfort go for tapered joggers and a pair of runners down below.

As A Vest

River Island

When a full jacket is too much a fleece vest is a good option. You’ll get all the fibre’s warmth on your mid-section but with added freedom of movement in the arms – think of it as a more playful take on the down gilet, which can make you look like an off-duty hedge funder.

Minimal

Urban Outfitters

One of the easiest ways of wearing fleece is as part of a minimal look. Pick a jacket in an inoffensive colour jacket and give it room to breathe by pairing it with simple pieces such as a white tee and navy chinos. Go for a classic zip-up pullover and let the fleece fabric work its magic in the cold.

Chunky Outerwear

Urban Outfitters

With its voluminous proportions and tactile finish, fleece is arguably at its best when it’s a statement piece. The fabric is naturally a little showy, reminiscent as it is of sheepskin or fur, so embrace it. Go down the chunky route with a thick or slightly padded fleece jacket and say goodbye to the cold forever. Wear with equally robust staples such as corduroy trousers, a roll neck and white trainers and you’ll be onto a winner.

The Key Brands For Fleece

Patagonia

This is the grandaddy of all fleece jacket brands, and is perhaps the only one you need to invest in. Patagonia’s been dominating the game since its Snap-T pullover which dropped in 1985 and was made of the firm’s fabled Synchilla (synthetic chinchilla) fabric – it was the go-to choice for explorers of the era. Today the brand’s heritage translates to street appeal and all the details are still apparent in its latest creations – a buttoned chest pocket is perfect for storing a mobile phone.

Buy Now: £120.00

Uniqlo

An ideal entry point into fleece, Uniqlo is perfect if you want to sample the style yet don’t fancy spending big. Made from an incredibly soft polyester, the Japanese brand’s fleece jackets look great worn open over a graphic T-shirt and black jeans.

Buy Now: £19.90

Pilgrim Surf + Supply

Pilgrim Surf + Supply is known for its quirky takes on menswear classics – expect a surprise pocket or unusual print here and there. The New York brand has applied this perspective on this fleece jacket, which is perhaps the ideal layering piece. Featuring a boxy fit and with two large patch pockets up front, think of it as a sort of waistcoat for casual dress. Wear under an overcoat or chore jacket and over a long sleeve T-shirt.

Buy Now: £285.00

Mr P

If you’re after well-made wardrobe staples that’ll last for years, Mr Porter’s own brand Mr P is the place to go. Sourcing the world’s best fabrics and with top quality construction methods to boot, its clothes tend to be modern updates on the most wearable garments around. This take on the classic ecru zip up fleece works for both weekend pursuits and streetwear styling and is of a higher build than most.

Buy Now: £175.00

Polo Ralph Lauren

Whatever your personal style looks like, Ralph Lauren has probably got you covered. Its Polo line is best known for its preppy garments – think Oxford shirts, chinos, polos and in this case, fleece jackets. Hardly inconspicuous, this version is a celebration of America (of sorts) – wear it and look like you’ve just walked off an Ivy League university campus.

Buy Now: £145.00

Universal Works

The beauty of fleece is that it can be utilised on a multitude of garment styles – from sportswear to workwear. Universal Works specialise in the latter, so it’s only right that its fleece jackets – such as this one – will pair with selvedge denim and corduroy. Wear it as you would a chore jacket – it’s just as practical and far more comfortable.

Buy Now: £135.00

Palace

Fleece has become a streetwear staple with the likes of heavyweights Supreme and Palace championing the fibre. Investing in the latter’s fleece jackets won’t make you a better skater, but you will look the part. Fake it ’til you make it and all that.

Buy Now: £108.00

Billionaire Boys Club

An example of how colour blocking can work, Billionaire Boys Club often makes use of vibrant shades in its garments. As always with colour, it’s best to keep the rest of the outfit as muted as possible. As such, wear this fleece jacket with black jeans and Vans for a stylish take on weekend apparel.

Buy Now: £245.00

Source: https://www.fashionbeans.com/article/how-to-wear-the-fleece-trend/

[felipeandletizia]

Why Queen Letizia, who visits the UK tomorrow, is the world's most stylish royal

If many little girls dream of being princesses with glittering gowns and diamond tiaras, then their modern-minded, grown-up counterparts could do worse than aspire to the glossy, polished style of Queen Letizia of Spain. Tomorrow, she and her husband King Felipe, who ascended the throne in 2014 following the abdication of his father Juan Carlos, arrive for their first state visit to the UK. Alongside the pomp and circumstance, the three days of engagements offer up the first chance we Brits have had to witness firsthand the woman who is widely credited with reinventing royal style for the 21st century.

Before Letizia and Felipe announced their surprise engagement in 2003, she was already a familiar face in Spain as a newsreader on TVE, the Spanish equivalent of our BBC. She had reported from Ground Zero and Iraq; it was akin to Sophie Raworth or Laura Kuenssberg giving up their starring role on the six o’clock news to marry a Prince. This modern day fairytale came with added frisson, because Letizia had been married briefly already in a civil ceremony.

Her newsreader days stood Letizia in good stead, not just for acting with poise on the world stage, but also for carving out a royal look which is more naturally elegant than many of her European counterparts - only Princess Mary of Denmark and our own Duchess of  Cambridge can compete - but also more astutely targeted than the couture predilections of Queen Rania of Jordan.

After marrying in a high-collared, long-sleeved dress with a 15ft train by Manuel Pertegaz (a couturier recommended for the job by her mother-in-law, Queen Sofia), she incorporated professional staples- tailored blazers, sleek pencil skirts and kick flare black trousers- into her working royal wardrobe. Not for her flippy floral dresses prone to blowing up In the  breeze. Letizia, sucker for a lithe silhouette, understood the leg-lengthening, go-with-anything power of a nude pump before they were even a twinkle in Kate Middleton’s eye but also had the imagination to pepper in alternatives.

Felipe Varela became Letizia’s dresser-in-chief, creating bespoke looks for her most important engagements. He designed the pristine white dress coat with subtly patriotic yellow and red embellishments which she wore to her husband’s coronation and is responsible for most of the strikingly glamorous gowns and cocktail dresses which she has worn for state banquets. They are often eye-catchingly red and, like Michelle Obama, she is a devotee of sleeveless looks which show off her athletically sculpted upper arms.

Their partnership hasn’t been without its suggestions of scandal, with Spanish media accusing some of Varela’s designs as being a little too similar to those of Oscar de la Renta. But a Spanish Queen must, for the most part, wear Spanish; when Jackie Kennedy became First Lady, she had her personal dresser Oleg Cassini reflect the haute European simplicity she adored so that she could still be seen to be wearing American.

Letizia’s most adroit act has been the way she has altered her style to reflect the economic struggles of her country. During straitened times, she has been just as likely to wear clothes off the rails of one of Spain’s world-famous high street stores, like Zara or Mango. She is also well-versed in the art of repeat wearing, just last week reviving a miniature blue Varela handbag she’d previously worn seven years ago.

While sophisticated staples have formed the basis of her look, Letizia hasn’t been afraid to experiment. She is known as the ‘earring queen’; Valencia-based Coolook and Barcelona’s Tous jewellers are go-tos for interchangeable 200 euro styles made from semi-precious stones in softly flattering hues. She is also one of very few royal women to veer into jumpsuits, with favourites coming from Massimo Dutti and Hugo Boss.

“She knows when to play it safe and when to take risks,” says Elizabeth Vollman, who catalogues every detail of Letizia’s outfits on her blog ‘Queen Letizia Style’. “She epitomises modern royal style but what I love most about her is the confidence she exudes regardless of what she wears.” Vollman says that her readers appreciate it when the Queen wears a budget-friendly or brand new outfit and “applaud her when she takes a sartorial risk”. The choice which she says caused the most heated debate was a pair of clear plastic perspex heels by Magrit which were dubbed her “real-life Cinderella shoes” - “they did raise some eyebrows,” Vollman laughs.

Until 2015, Letizia was self-styled, but has now recruited Eva Fernández, a former fashion editor at Spanish Cosmopolitan magazine, as her stylist. While her own fashion choices have always been appropriate and stylish since her marriage in 2004, no doubt her husband’s ascension to the throne in 2014, and her new role as Queen, added to the pressure on Letizia - and with a Queen’s full schedule, it’s no wonder she sought outside help. The duo were pictured out shopping together in Madrid earlier this year, both clad head-to-toe in cool black, the Queen in brogues and an oversized patterned scarf while Fernández wore skinny leather trousers and leopard-print slippers. She is credited for introducing 44 year-old Letizia to more daring options- like culottes, leather jackets and pussy bow blouses- and encouraging her to defy those who preach that it is ‘inappropriate’ for her to wear shorter length skirts.

So, what can we expect to see Spain's style queen wearing in the UK this week? A diplomatic choice could be a look by Loewe, the Spanish fashion house whose current creative director is Northern Irish designer Jonathan Anderson, but his avant-garde designs could be an experimental step too far, even for Letizia. In April, she wore a fabulous red caped dress by Stella McCartney, who would be an inspired choice for tomorrow night’s State Banquet- could it even be time for a jumpsuit at Buckingham Palace?

Source

[thebestintoronto]

Spending Two Perfect Days In Toronto

Toronto’s condominium boom is no secret — just try snapping a photo of the city’s skyline without including a crane or two — but these rising glass towers are ushering in more than sky-high residences. They’ve also helped create an influx of luxury hotels and restaurants that make the already dynamic destination a newly alluring place to visit. Though you could spend weeks exploring the changing landscape of Canada’s largest city, Toronto is also an excellent choice for a walkable two-day getaway. Hit the highlights, both classic and new, with this itinerary.

Day One

Choosing a Toronto hotel is no small task when the city’s bumper crop of properties includes some of Canada’s most luxurious. The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Trump International Hotel & Tower Toronto; Four-Stars The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, Park Hyatt Toronto, Shangri-La Hotel, Toronto and The Hazelton Hotel; and Recommendeds SoHo Metropolitan Hotel, Toronto, Thompson Toronto and Templar Hotel all delight with their service and amenities. But on our most recent trip, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto fit the bill. Opened in late 2012 as the Toronto-based brand’s new flagship, this Five-Star, 55-story Yorkville stunner is home to 259 sleek guest rooms and suites outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, iPads and custom Etro bath products. Its restaurant and spa are among the best in town — but you’ll get to those later.

After checking in and freshening up in your impossibly large bathroom, it’s time for a pre-lunch walking tour of the Yorkville neighborhood. This tony corner of Toronto, a 10-minute drive north of downtown, is also a cornerstone of the city’s fashion scene, and the best way to see all the boutiques its quaint alleys have to offer is with The Refinery’s Wendy Woods, a local style expert. As Woods explains, shopping in Toronto is pricey but unique; because the city has relatively few big-box stores outside of Holt Renfrew and Hudson’s Bay, there’s an opening for local designers to thrive, and a plethora of their combination boutique-studios dot the city. Woods’ tour, which can be customized for men or women, will lead you through her favorite hidden gems and the signature items in each. If you opt to explore Yorkville on your own, don’t miss Pink Tartan to shop tailored women’s clothing in a historic building; Teatro Verde for two floors of one-of-a-kind gifts and a fittingly orange-yellow room dedicated to Veuve Clicquot products; Ça Va de Soi for luxe basics like sweaters woven with rare Karnak Menoufi cotton; Karir Eyewear for high-end, artistic frames; and LeatherFoot for bespoke or prêt-à-porter men’s shoes from European designers such as John Lobb and Gaziano & Girling.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, wind your way to Sassafraz for lunch. A Yorkville institution, Sassafraz consists of a restaurant and a more casual café, both set inside a yellow house where it’s not unusual for famous clientele, from Matt Damon to Bono, to outshine the farm-fresh, French-inspired cuisine. Request a spot on the restaurant’s rearmost banquette for the best vantage point; you can survey the entire dining room from this perch under a glass atrium. After appetizers, such as a baby spinach salad piled high with blackberries and Ontario sheep feta, and a hearty main — the smoked-chicken torchietti with cubed andouille sausage and kale pesto is a warm comfort on a cold Canadian day — finish with the trio of crème brûlée. This dessert flight — with ramekins of white-chocolate-Oreo crumble, Baileys with peppermint crunch, and maple with ginger snap — is just the thing to fuel your trip to the Art Gallery of Ontario or Royal Ontario Museum.

Both have world-class permanent collections — at the Art Gallery of Ontario, work from the last two millennia, and at the Royal Ontario Museum, natural history and cultural articles — and are impressive from the outside in. Daniel Libeskind created the ROM’s incongruous crystalline entrance in 2007; Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry added the AGO’s curved-glass façade in 2008. The one at which you spend your afternoon wandering is your choice. Exhibitions include “Francis Bacon and Henry Moore: Terror and Beauty,” featuring more than 130 pieces from the British art titans at the AGO through July 20, and “The Forbidden City: Inside the Court of China’s Emperors” at the ROM through July 1, along with various retrospectives throughout the year to celebrate the museum’s 100th anniversary.

Recover from your travels to and around the city back at your hotel, where The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto beckons. At 30,000 square feet, this Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star retreat is the largest luxury spa in Toronto, and it’s filled with serene spaces in which to unwind before you even hit the treatment room. Be sure to spend ample time in the relaxation area where you’ll wait for your therapist; curl up with a fuzzy gray or brown blanket as you browse the music menu and select one of six channels — perhaps “spa chill vibes” or “spa spiritual” — to enhance your massage. For the ultimate pampering with a sense of place, choose one of the spa’s Toronto-inspired treatments: The Cultural Mosaic of Canada blends spa traditions from India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Europe; We Are Yorkville pays homage to the neighborhood’s 1960s hippie past with a foot bath, hemp-seed scrub, honey-arnica wrap and patchouli hemp oil massage.

You don’t have to go far for a special dinner at Four-Star Café Boulud Toronto, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto’s Daniel Boulud-helmed restaurant. Head to the eclectic second-floor space, filled with celebrity portraits by Banksy protégé Mr. Brainwash, to taste the passion that chef de cuisine Tyler Shedden and wine director Drew Walker have for Ontario-sourced menus. Dishes such as roasted Grandview Farms chicken with ricotta gnudi, white onion, porcini mushrooms and sage jus, and wines such as Norman Hardie pinot noir from Prince Edward County, show off both the area’s bounty and Boulud’s French traditions, and the personable staff discusses local ingredients with Portlandia-style precision. For dessert, the grapefruit givré is a must — so dramatic as to require two hands to eat it with any grace, this blend of grapefruit sorbet, grapefruit compote, rose loukoum and halva crumble, with a towering crown of sesame-seed-dotted halva floss, is as delicious as it is striking.

Day Two

St. Lawrence Market in Old Town Toronto has been home to a thriving city smorgasbord since 1803, so what better place to do some fun foraging for breakfast? The food market is open Tuesday through Saturday, with Saturday heralding in an Ontario farmers market in the North Market building. Start there and wind your way through dozens of stalls heaving with everything from kale to currants before arriving at Cathy Roncetti’s Oodles of Strudels and buying one of her fruit strudels or seasonal loaves — her tropical colada is moist and flavorful. Or pop into the South Market, where two floors house more than 120 permanent vendors specializing in prepared food. Stop by the famed Carousel Bakery, known for its peameal bacon sandwiches, and Anton Kozlik’s Canadian Mustard, where any number of mustards — clobbered cranberry, triple crunch, amazing maple — and pastries may seduce your senses.

Once you’re sated, it’s time (10 a.m., to be exact) to meet historian Bruce Bell for a tour of the market and its environs. (Reserve a spot on this popular tour ahead of time.) Bell has a noted knack for making history come to life during his 90-minute excursions, and there isn’t a question about his beloved Toronto that he can’t answer. As Bell guides you from St. Lawrence Hall, a meeting place since 1851, to Toronto’s first jail, you’ll begin to notice plaques marking these as historic buildings, with the label “a Bruce Bell history project.” Throughout the city, Bell’s historical prowess is rather set in stone.

After your tour, enjoy a 15-minute walk down the tree-flanked Esplanade to the Distillery District and sit down to lunch at El Catrin. The design firm Munge Leung, the visionary behind Vancouver’s Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rosewood Hotel Georgia and the new Whiskey Down at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, conspired with Mexican street artist Oscar Flores to create a kaleidoscopic smiling-skulls motif for the space. The team delivers high drama with a two-story Flores mural, a two-story bar and a giant brick patio that glows under black-metal chandeliers. In contrast, chef Olivier Le Calvez’s menu is simple, perfectly spicy comfort food: tacos, burritos, tortas and ceviches, with a weekend brunch menu (10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday) full of savory and sweet stick-to-your-ribs treats, such as chilaquiles verdes with pulled chicken, or 24-hour-soaked vanilla challah with mango, ancho chili mascarpone and mezcal-maple syrup. Wash it all down with any of the flavorful aguas frescas — the hibiscus-spiked flavored water is particularly refreshing.

You no doubt passed some of the galleries and boutiques that line the Distillery District’s red-brick, pedestrian-only lanes on your way to lunch. Now learn about the history of these 47 Victorian industrial buildings that once constituted the Gooderham & Worts Distillery. Segway Ontario, a short walk from El Catrin on Gristmill Lane, runs entertaining 30- and 60-minute tours of the neighborhood that stop at several historically notable corners and, if you’re up for it, tastings at Soma Chocolatemaker and Mill Street Brewery. A five-minute training session on your Segway gives you a ticket to ride in a single-file line between two guides while they regale the group with tales of living, working and drinking in Toronto during the 19th century.

If it’s your first time in Toronto, the CN Tower is worth a quick stop for panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. If you’ve already ascended to the 113th-floor, glass-floored observation deck before, consider upping the ante with the 116th-floor, hands-free EdgeWalk (the season starts April 14) that has been thrilling daredevils since 2011. Even just watching the jumpsuited, harnessed participants lean over the edge of tower — which was the world’s tallest freestanding structure until 2010 — is enough to make your palms sweat or your spirit soar, depending on your point of view. Less adventurous visitors may prefer the tower’s new next-door neighbor, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, but be sure to reserve tickets ahead of time, as we spotted lines around the building on a recent Saturday afternoon.

You’ll also want to book a table for dinner at one of Toronto’s newest (and most talked about) culinary imports. Ramen ace David Chang brought his New York City-based Momofuku empire to University Avenue in 2012, opening five concepts in a single three-floor glass cube. The ground floor houses Momofuku Noodle Bar; the second level is home to Nikai, a lounge that serves noodle dishes and bigger plates. Dessert mecca Momofuku Milk Bar is also on the second floor, inside its own glass box in which wire baskets overflow with cookies and truffles. And the third level is dedicated to Daisho, where the menu mixes shareable plates with large-format meals such as bo ssäm (a pork shoulder dish and the namesake of a Chang restaurant in New York), and Shoto. Reserve your spot at the intimate Shoto counter between Tuesday and Saturday to enjoy a tasting menu of about 10 courses, or stick with Momofuku Noodle Bar and experience a ramen revelation over a bowl of pork, chicken or vegetable noodles.

Toronto is one of only three cities to lay claim to the famed Second City comedy troupe, so don’t miss an after-dinner show at its intimate downtown theater, where the tables are close together and the jokes even closer. The Second City’s alumni list is a who’s who of Canadian comedians, from Gilda Radner to Martin Short to Mike Myers. Shows last just less than two hours, and you’ll want to catch the last performance, as it’s followed by free improv — the actors’ wheelhouse — every night but Friday. The ensemble’s latest sketch show, Sixteen Scandals, kicked off in March and is the perfect ending to your whirlwind tour north of the border.

This post " Spending Two Perfect Days In Toronto " was first seen on Forbes Travel Guide by Michelle Doucette

Naturopath Toronto - Dr. Amauri Caversan

[zillowcondo]

Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond

After the release of Spectre, James Bond made his 24th big screen appearance. Throughout all the films – even in the dubious era of the ‘70s – and innumerable perilous situations, the world’s deadliest secret agent has always been dressed to the nines. Bond’s clothes are as much a part of his persona as his gun, car and double-0 prefix: part armor, part protective coloring, and all kinds of suave. Bespoke tailoring has been a part of Bond’s arsenal since the very first movie, a very British tradition carried on by Daniel Craig-as-Bond to this day. Here’s a look at the five best bespoke tailors in 007’s storied wardrobe, all of them still doing a roaring trade today:

1. Anthony Sinclair: The Mayfair stalwart may not be on Savile Row but 007’s original tailor invented what is known s the “Conduit Cut” – named after the street where his shop still stands. Sean Connery adopted it from the start, appreciating the natural shoulder, roped sleeve head, degree of chest drape, suppressed waist and slightly flared skirt, very flattering to the figure but without being overly built up. Sinclair’s aim was to create well dressed men, rather than those who stood out, with clothes representing “the epitome of English style: simple, understated, elegant and timeless.”

2. Turnbull & Asser: In the first several Bond films, the ones which truly defined the secret agent’s style, Sean Connery sported custom shirts and ties from Turnbull, perhaps the world’s most prestigious haberdasher. Established in 1885, and holder of a Royal Warrant to the Prince of Wales for shirt-making, Turnbull has dressed everyone from Winston Churchill and Pablo Picasso to Ronald Reagan and George Bush. The shirtmaker’s distinctive turn back cuffs were first introduced into 007’s wardrobe by dapper Dr. No and Thunderball director Terence Young, an ex-Guards officer. 

3. Douglas Hayward: Bond’s last English tailor – though we have hopes he may yet return to Old Blighty. Hayward initially set out to provide an alternative to the stuffiness of Savile Row, and his premises on Mount Street quickly became established as Hollywood’s second home. In addition to dressing Roger Moore as Bond starting with For Your Eyes Only he suited Steve McQueen as Thomas Crown and Michael Caine in The Italian Job. Considering it was the 1980s the clothes he made for 007 are actually rather restrained, though sometimes his lapels veered off into enemy territory.

4. Brioni: The brief in outfitting Pierce Brosnan, who took up the role of 007 starting with 1995’s Goldeneye, was to rein in the excesses of the Roger Moore era and return a refined elegance to Bond’s wardrobe. The rich, dark clothes of Rome’s fabled House of Brioni, established in 1945, were chosen for the right combination of impeccable style and good taste, modern but not overly “fashionable.” As GoldenEye director Martin Campbell noted, “Bond has been on the screen for over 30 years and there are some things you don’t tamper with – one of which is his tailored suits.”

5. Tom Ford: Again with a new 007 it was time for a new tailor, and former Gucci creative director Ford was tasked with building the new Bond’s wardrobe. This was in part the preference of Daniel Craig, who liked the way Ford’s clothes draped his muscular frame and brought a touch of glamor to his always impeccably tailored togs. Staying away from Ford’s more louche and Hollywood-esque flourishes he achieved a sort of lethal elegance that plays very well onscreen. For Spectre, Ford created an homage to the classic ivory dinner jacket made famous by Sean Connery in Goldfinger.

The post Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond appeared first on Pursuitist.

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/hoi-an-calling-2/

Hoi An Calling

Explore this vibrant yet relaxing city nestled on Vietnam’s central coast.

[fshow photosetid=72157679097491174]

Hoi An is a quaint little town in central Vietnam that is a well-established stopping spot on the route from northern to southern Vietnam (and vice versa).

Despite being heralded for its shopping, crafts and food it still retains its quiet and relaxed charms; it does not feel over-run by tourists as other places in Vietnam sometimes do. This is largely thanks to the town’s pedestrianised centre, no vehicles are allowed in the centre during the day, which makes it a perfect place to explore on foot.

If you’re in Vietnam you must make sure to allow at least a couple of days for this town; go shopping, eat delicious foods, or go and explore the beaches and natural attractions that are within easy reach of the town centre. Plus the nightlife is not bad either – there is something for everyone here so come for a few days and you may find yourself staying for weeks. To give you a bit of a taste of Hoi An we’ve explored some of the city’s top attractions below.

Shopping

Hoi An is the ideal place to get your gift shopping done at any time of the year. The town is full of pretty things, souvenirs, toys, trinkets, pottery pieces, artwork and above all else clothes. Its streets are filled with little craft and artisan workshops selling intricately decorated pottery pieces, hand-woven quilts, brilliant fabrics and vibrantly coloured lanterns. As you wander around you are immersed in a rainbow of colours and a buzz of people selling their wares, displaying little flying toys in the air, bubbles tumbling down the street. It is quite intoxicating and despite being quite busy Hoi An still feels relaxed thanks to its pedestrianised centre.

Although it is great for buying all kinds of beautiful things, Hoi An is a real haven for clothes and accessories. Within Vietnam it has gained the name ‘tailor town’ and it is very easy to see why: there are tailors not just on every corner but literally streets full of tailor shops sitting side by side. This is the place to come if you want to get a suit, a dress or a shirt or anything else tailor made for a decent price but still at a high quality.

Walk into any of these shops and they have catalogues of designs and styles for you to choose from; then choose your fabric from the hundreds of rolls that line the walls and after measurements are taken you leave them to it. Twenty-four hours later you can come back and have a fitting, any final alterations will then be made and the next day your bespoke outfit is ready to go. It is quite astounding how quickly things get done here and yet how good the quality is. Alternatively they will also copy items of clothing so if you have a shirt the shape of which you really like they can recreate it in a variety of colours and/or patterns for you.

Eating

All that shopping can be exhausting so you’re sure to want a pit stop to refuel and you’re in luck – Hoi An has seriously great food with lots of delicious things to try and places to eat. There is something for everyone here; there are some really good Western places if you’re looking for some familiar comfort food like a pizza, burger or spectacular brunch. There are also lots of really nice cafes overlooking the river serving famously good Vietnamese coffee and pastries, it almost feels Parisian in ambience. However, there is nothing quite like the local delicacies. Firstly you could stop at almost any street food stall and you’re sure to come across a tasty snack to keep you going but there are also lots of top quality Vietnamese restaurants in Hoi An, here are a couple of our top choices.

Broadly speaking, the bánh mì is the Vietnamese sandwich, which is made up of a baguette filled with various meats, salad bits and chilli sauces. However, it varies massively from stall to stall let alone from North to South Vietnam and therefore you never quite know what to expect when you order one. However, Hoi An is famous for its banh mi – you’ve got to go and have one, it is a taste sensation. Madam Khanh is known as the banh mi queen and can be found at 115 Tran Cao Van, Son Phong, TP. Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam. For less than 1 USD (20,000 VND) you can enjoy the delights of a tasty and authentic banh mi and you’ll want to come back time and again.

Minh Hien Vegetarian Restaurant is a cute little vegetarian place that serves up great food in a quaint setting. The walls are adorned with Vietnamese novels and comics, almost like sitting in a library; the glass topped tables have bus tickets and traveller’s passport photos pushed beneath them. The food is very fresh, traditional and tasty. We recommend the Hoi An noodles which are like a pho but with thick rice noodles, fresh mushrooms and crispy tofu – truly delicious. It can be found at 50 Tran Cao Van, Son Phong, Tp. Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam.

Location

Hoi An is a key stopping point on a trip from one end of the country to the other sitting between Da Nang and Hue on the backpacker’s trail. It enjoys an almost beachfront location and its surroundings have plenty to offer visitors. Hire a bike (motorised or pedal) and you can be at the beach in minutes. Hoi An Beach is a stretch of pristine white sand that allows for views right over to Da Nang and beyond and is peppered with restaurants, cafes and bars to allow for a fun day (and night) out. In fact there are plenty of day trips around Hoi An; for the sun-worshippers and beach lovers it is only half an hour’s drive to Da Nang – another coastal Vietnamese town with large quiet beaches and an old French colonial port. You can also take a boat to Cam Nam Island, a small serene island that has stunning views and no motorised vehicles, or Cham Island, a cluster of eight islands that form part of the UNESCO recognised Cu Lao Cham Marine Park.

For those who are more into culture and interested in history there are several travel agencies that offer half day tours to the nearby My Son Sanctuary, a collection of ancient abandoned Hindu temples that were built between the 4th and 13th centuries that are now a UNESCO recognised heritage site. Another day trip can be taken to the Marble Mountains, a collection of five mountains that have tons of hidden tunnels and caves, the peaks offering panoramic views covering miles of Vietnamese coastline, flat lands and mountains. Don’t forget the several local fishing villages with their round bottomed boats and authentic restaurants. Hoi An’s location gives visitors a wide range of opportunities to explore a range of local attractions.

A few extra suggestions

Now we’re sure that the above article will have you ready to book your tickets to Hoi An right now but in case you need any further persuasion of the delights that Hoi An has to offer below we’ve compiled a few extra suggestions of things you won’t want to miss out on in this city.

Hoi An’s Old Town is always supremely beautiful but its crowning glory comes each evening at dusk when the lanterns are lit in the centre of town. Each evening hundreds of multi-coloured lanterns are lit and glimmering candles floated down the river, the sight is breathtaking.

If you are planning on getting something tailor-made go to Tina Design; these sassy and funny ladies have a keen skill and a comprehensive customer service. No matter what you’re looking for they can do it and you will leave (probably with more than you intended to) feeling very well dressed. Find them at 39 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An 0510, Vietnam.

If you’re looking for a bit of night life then there are nightly bar crawls that draw in backpackers from the town’s many many hostels. These can be fun although a bit crowded. If you’re not keen on following the group there is one bar that is truly unique and worth checking out. Mr Bean bar is a bar like any other except it is themed around the English comedy character Mr Bean. The walls are adorned with his image and funny clips play silently on a large screen, it proudly claims to be the world’s only Mr Bean themed bar – it is a truly unique experience.

[zillowcondo]

Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond

After the release of Spectre, James Bond made his 24th big screen appearance. Throughout all the films – even in the dubious era of the ‘70s – and innumerable perilous situations, the world’s deadliest secret agent has always been dressed to the nines. Bond’s clothes are as much a part of his persona as his gun, car and double-0 prefix: part armor, part protective coloring, and all kinds of suave. Bespoke tailoring has been a part of Bond’s arsenal since the very first movie, a very British tradition carried on by Daniel Craig-as-Bond to this day. Here’s a look at the five best bespoke tailors in 007’s storied wardrobe, all of them still doing a roaring trade today:

1. Anthony Sinclair: The Mayfair stalwart may not be on Savile Row but 007’s original tailor invented what is known s the “Conduit Cut” – named after the street where his shop still stands. Sean Connery adopted it from the start, appreciating the natural shoulder, roped sleeve head, degree of chest drape, suppressed waist and slightly flared skirt, very flattering to the figure but without being overly built up. Sinclair’s aim was to create well dressed men, rather than those who stood out, with clothes representing “the epitome of English style: simple, understated, elegant and timeless.”

2. Turnbull & Asser: In the first several Bond films, the ones which truly defined the secret agent’s style, Sean Connery sported custom shirts and ties from Turnbull, perhaps the world’s most prestigious haberdasher. Established in 1885, and holder of a Royal Warrant to the Prince of Wales for shirt-making, Turnbull has dressed everyone from Winston Churchill and Pablo Picasso to Ronald Reagan and George Bush. The shirtmaker’s distinctive turn back cuffs were first introduced into 007’s wardrobe by dapper Dr. No and Thunderball director Terence Young, an ex-Guards officer. 

3. Douglas Hayward: Bond’s last English tailor – though we have hopes he may yet return to Old Blighty. Hayward initially set out to provide an alternative to the stuffiness of Savile Row, and his premises on Mount Street quickly became established as Hollywood’s second home. In addition to dressing Roger Moore as Bond starting with For Your Eyes Only he suited Steve McQueen as Thomas Crown and Michael Caine in The Italian Job. Considering it was the 1980s the clothes he made for 007 are actually rather restrained, though sometimes his lapels veered off into enemy territory.

4. Brioni: The brief in outfitting Pierce Brosnan, who took up the role of 007 starting with 1995’s Goldeneye, was to rein in the excesses of the Roger Moore era and return a refined elegance to Bond’s wardrobe. The rich, dark clothes of Rome’s fabled House of Brioni, established in 1945, were chosen for the right combination of impeccable style and good taste, modern but not overly “fashionable.” As GoldenEye director Martin Campbell noted, “Bond has been on the screen for over 30 years and there are some things you don’t tamper with – one of which is his tailored suits.”

5. Tom Ford: Again with a new 007 it was time for a new tailor, and former Gucci creative director Ford was tasked with building the new Bond’s wardrobe. This was in part the preference of Daniel Craig, who liked the way Ford’s clothes draped his muscular frame and brought a touch of glamor to his always impeccably tailored togs. Staying away from Ford’s more louche and Hollywood-esque flourishes he achieved a sort of lethal elegance that plays very well onscreen. For Spectre, Ford created an homage to the classic ivory dinner jacket made famous by Sean Connery in Goldfinger.

The post Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond appeared first on Pursuitist.

Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond published first on http://ift.tt/2pewpEF

[zillowcondo]

Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond

After the release of Spectre, James Bond made his 24th big screen appearance. Throughout all the films – even in the dubious era of the ‘70s – and innumerable perilous situations, the world’s deadliest secret agent has always been dressed to the nines. Bond’s clothes are as much a part of his persona as his gun, car and double-0 prefix: part armor, part protective coloring, and all kinds of suave. Bespoke tailoring has been a part of Bond’s arsenal since the very first movie, a very British tradition carried on by Daniel Craig-as-Bond to this day. Here’s a look at the five best bespoke tailors in 007’s storied wardrobe, all of them still doing a roaring trade today:

1. Anthony Sinclair: The Mayfair stalwart may not be on Savile Row but 007’s original tailor invented what is known s the “Conduit Cut” – named after the street where his shop still stands. Sean Connery adopted it from the start, appreciating the natural shoulder, roped sleeve head, degree of chest drape, suppressed waist and slightly flared skirt, very flattering to the figure but without being overly built up. Sinclair’s aim was to create well dressed men, rather than those who stood out, with clothes representing “the epitome of English style: simple, understated, elegant and timeless.”

2. Turnbull & Asser: In the first several Bond films, the ones which truly defined the secret agent’s style, Sean Connery sported custom shirts and ties from Turnbull, perhaps the world’s most prestigious haberdasher. Established in 1885, and holder of a Royal Warrant to the Prince of Wales for shirt-making, Turnbull has dressed everyone from Winston Churchill and Pablo Picasso to Ronald Reagan and George Bush. The shirtmaker’s distinctive turn back cuffs were first introduced into 007’s wardrobe by dapper Dr. No and Thunderball director Terence Young, an ex-Guards officer. 

3. Douglas Hayward: Bond’s last English tailor – though we have hopes he may yet return to Old Blighty. Hayward initially set out to provide an alternative to the stuffiness of Savile Row, and his premises on Mount Street quickly became established as Hollywood’s second home. In addition to dressing Roger Moore as Bond starting with For Your Eyes Only he suited Steve McQueen as Thomas Crown and Michael Caine in The Italian Job. Considering it was the 1980s the clothes he made for 007 are actually rather restrained, though sometimes his lapels veered off into enemy territory.

4. Brioni: The brief in outfitting Pierce Brosnan, who took up the role of 007 starting with 1995’s Goldeneye, was to rein in the excesses of the Roger Moore era and return a refined elegance to Bond’s wardrobe. The rich, dark clothes of Rome’s fabled House of Brioni, established in 1945, were chosen for the right combination of impeccable style and good taste, modern but not overly “fashionable.” As GoldenEye director Martin Campbell noted, “Bond has been on the screen for over 30 years and there are some things you don’t tamper with – one of which is his tailored suits.”

5. Tom Ford: Again with a new 007 it was time for a new tailor, and former Gucci creative director Ford was tasked with building the new Bond’s wardrobe. This was in part the preference of Daniel Craig, who liked the way Ford’s clothes draped his muscular frame and brought a touch of glamor to his always impeccably tailored togs. Staying away from Ford’s more louche and Hollywood-esque flourishes he achieved a sort of lethal elegance that plays very well onscreen. For Spectre, Ford created an homage to the classic ivory dinner jacket made famous by Sean Connery in Goldfinger.

The post Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond appeared first on Pursuitist.

Secret Agent Style: The Top Five Bespoke Tailors According to James Bond published first on http://ift.tt/2pewpEF

[vacationsoup]

New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/hoi-an-calling/

Hoi An Calling

Explore this vibrant yet relaxing city nestled on Vietnam’s central coast.

[fshow photosetid=72157679097491174]

Hoi An is a quaint little town in central Vietnam that is a well-established stopping spot on the route from northern to southern Vietnam (and vice versa).

Despite being heralded for its shopping, crafts and food it still retains its quiet and relaxed charms; it does not feel over-run by tourists as other places in Vietnam sometimes do. This is largely thanks to the town’s pedestrianised centre, no vehicles are allowed in the centre during the day, which makes it a perfect place to explore on foot.

If you’re in Vietnam you must make sure to allow at least a couple of days for this town; go shopping, eat delicious foods, or go and explore the beaches and natural attractions that are within easy reach of the town centre. Plus the nightlife is not bad either – there is something for everyone here so come for a few days and you may find yourself staying for weeks. To give you a bit of a taste of Hoi An we’ve explored some of the city’s top attractions below.

Shopping

Hoi An is the ideal place to get your gift shopping done at any time of the year. The town is full of pretty things, souvenirs, toys, trinkets, pottery pieces, artwork and above all else clothes. Its streets are filled with little craft and artisan workshops selling intricately decorated pottery pieces, hand-woven quilts, brilliant fabrics and vibrantly coloured lanterns. As you wander around you are immersed in a rainbow of colours and a buzz of people selling their wares, displaying little flying toys in the air, bubbles tumbling down the street. It is quite intoxicating and despite being quite busy Hoi An still feels relaxed thanks to its pedestrianised centre.

Although it is great for buying all kinds of beautiful things, Hoi An is a real haven for clothes and accessories. Within Vietnam it has gained the name ‘tailor town’ and it is very easy to see why: there are tailors not just on every corner but literally streets full of tailor shops sitting side by side. This is the place to come if you want to get a suit, a dress or a shirt or anything else tailor made for a decent price but still at a high quality.

Walk into any of these shops and they have catalogues of designs and styles for you to choose from; then choose your fabric from the hundreds of rolls that line the walls and after measurements are taken you leave them to it. Twenty-four hours later you can come back and have a fitting, any final alterations will then be made and the next day your bespoke outfit is ready to go. It is quite astounding how quickly things get done here and yet how good the quality is. Alternatively they will also copy items of clothing so if you have a shirt the shape of which you really like they can recreate it in a variety of colours and/or patterns for you.

Eating

All that shopping can be exhausting so you’re sure to want a pit stop to refuel and you’re in luck – Hoi An has seriously great food with lots of delicious things to try and places to eat. There is something for everyone here; there are some really good Western places if you’re looking for some familiar comfort food like a pizza, burger or spectacular brunch. There are also lots of really nice cafes overlooking the river serving famously good Vietnamese coffee and pastries, it almost feels Parisian in ambience. However, there is nothing quite like the local delicacies. Firstly you could stop at almost any street food stall and you’re sure to come across a tasty snack to keep you going but there are also lots of top quality Vietnamese restaurants in Hoi An, here are a couple of our top choices.

Broadly speaking, the bánh mì is the Vietnamese sandwich, which is made up of a baguette filled with various meats, salad bits and chilli sauces. However, it varies massively from stall to stall let alone from North to South Vietnam and therefore you never quite know what to expect when you order one. However, Hoi An is famous for its banh mi – you’ve got to go and have one, it is a taste sensation. Madam Khanh is known as the banh mi queen and can be found at 115 Tran Cao Van, Son Phong, TP. Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam. For less than 1 USD (20,000 VND) you can enjoy the delights of a tasty and authentic banh mi and you’ll want to come back time and again.

Minh Hien Vegetarian Restaurant is a cute little vegetarian place that serves up great food in a quaint setting. The walls are adorned with Vietnamese novels and comics, almost like sitting in a library; the glass topped tables have bus tickets and traveller’s passport photos pushed beneath them. The food is very fresh, traditional and tasty. We recommend the Hoi An noodles which are like a pho but with thick rice noodles, fresh mushrooms and crispy tofu – truly delicious. It can be found at 50 Tran Cao Van, Son Phong, Tp. Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam.

Location

Hoi An is a key stopping point on a trip from one end of the country to the other sitting between Da Nang and Hue on the backpacker’s trail. It enjoys an almost beachfront location and its surroundings have plenty to offer visitors. Hire a bike (motorised or pedal) and you can be at the beach in minutes. Hoi An Beach is a stretch of pristine white sand that allows for views right over to Da Nang and beyond and is peppered with restaurants, cafes and bars to allow for a fun day (and night) out. In fact there are plenty of day trips around Hoi An; for the sun-worshippers and beach lovers it is only half an hour’s drive to Da Nang – another coastal Vietnamese town with large quiet beaches and an old French colonial port. You can also take a boat to Cam Nam Island, a small serene island that has stunning views and no motorised vehicles, or Cham Island, a cluster of eight islands that form part of the UNESCO recognised Cu Lao Cham Marine Park.

For those who are more into culture and interested in history there are several travel agencies that offer half day tours to the nearby My Son Sanctuary, a collection of ancient abandoned Hindu temples that were built between the 4th and 13th centuries that are now a UNESCO recognised heritage site. Another day trip can be taken to the Marble Mountains, a collection of five mountains that have tons of hidden tunnels and caves, the peaks offering panoramic views covering miles of Vietnamese coastline, flat lands and mountains. Don’t forget the several local fishing villages with their round bottomed boats and authentic restaurants. Hoi An’s location gives visitors a wide range of opportunities to explore a range of local attractions.

A few extra suggestions

Now we’re sure that the above article will have you ready to book your tickets to Hoi An right now but in case you need any further persuasion of the delights that Hoi An has to offer below we’ve compiled a few extra suggestions of things you won’t want to miss out on in this city.

Hoi An’s Old Town is always supremely beautiful but its crowning glory comes each evening at dusk when the lanterns are lit in the centre of town. Each evening hundreds of multi-coloured lanterns are lit and glimmering candles floated down the river, the sight is breathtaking.

If you are planning on getting something tailor-made go to Tina Design; these sassy and funny ladies have a keen skill and a comprehensive customer service. No matter what you’re looking for they can do it and you will leave (probably with more than you intended to) feeling very well dressed. Find them at 39 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An 0510, Vietnam.

If you’re looking for a bit of night life then there are nightly bar crawls that draw in backpackers from the town’s many many hostels. These can be fun although a bit crowded. If you’re not keen on following the group there is one bar that is truly unique and worth checking out. Mr Bean bar is a bar like any other except it is themed around the English comedy character Mr Bean. The walls are adorned with his image and funny clips play silently on a large screen, it proudly claims to be the world’s only Mr Bean themed bar – it is a truly unique experience.