The Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery is a unique Boutique Hotel with its own distinctive charm and personality; located in the heart of Vienna, it is surrounded by impressive art and music venues. The Vienna Konzerthaus, State Opera, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Musikverein and Belvedere Palace - the new design of the hotel and restaurant was inspired by these cultural sites and have become a part of Vienna's enchanting history; the musical interpretation of these nearby attractions has captivated the imagery of the designers to innovate with musical instruments, facade and notes in the design of the entrance, lobby, dining rooms, corridors, meeting rooms and guest rooms, and we see this in full effort when we visited this lovely venue. The hotel is centrally located near many points of interest and attractions in Vienna and is easily accessible to an entire arragy of baroque buildings, Art Nouveau, museums and castles' the impressive Schönbrunn Palace, tranquil parks, gourmet terraces, classical theatres, restaurants and cafés are all nearby and Vienna is truly a timeless, classique and romantic destination. The re-organization of interior collections at this MGallery property incorporating musical genres stipulates a way of life in Vienna and streamlines wayfinding, creating additional seating and study areas, and entices visitors to rediscover the building’s awe-inspiring spaces, technical design and manifestation of Vienna's interpretation as a classique city! As shared by their Hotel General Manager, Boris Braun, a guest can "experience the combination of art, culture and sustainability at the Hotel am Konzerthaus" and also "be inspired by the story and be a star guest, spectator and actor - on stage and behind the scenes!" This hotel has a total of 208 rooms, 2 conference rooms for up to 80 guests and 2 board rooms and Patrick, the DOS, took me on a nice tour of the hotel, to see the lovely gym, the board room and also the Maestro suite, so gorgeous! I stayed at the Superior King Room, with an excellent view of the city! The room is super spacious and exudes charm, comfort and luxe. MGallery hotels have a distinctive and posh feel in a very modern and boutique-centric feel, which I always like, and the accommodation and stay was always comfortable, wonderful and restorative! The design of the public areas and the newly renovated rooms was inspired by the nearby cultural sites of The Vienna State Opera, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Musikverein and Belvedere Palace - all within walking distance from Konzerthaus. The Ringstraße boulevard is just a few steps away as well. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms offer satellite TV, a mini-bar with free mineral water, a bathroom with L'Occitane toiletries (which is consistent with all MGallery hotels around the world, and similar to the one that I have stayed in, at Ho Chi Min, Vietnam), and free tea and coffee-making facilities. The Hotel offers a free internet terminal, 24-hour room service, concierge and porter services, and a parking garage. The Karlsplatz and Stadtpark underground station are just a 5-minute walk away Breakfast was super easy going, fuss free, self-help to all the wonderful bread, pastries, cheeses of various formats and regions, fruit juice, milk, cereal, different varietals of jam, fresh fruit, ham, sausages and eggs served and cooked fresh in any format, that we like, a full buffet spread in the eclectic modern restaurant ; simply fantastic and satisfying with my choice of coffee, tea and fresh beverages. My heartfelt thanks to Boris and also Patrick for taking good care of me, during my stay and also the welcome package provided by Deborah and Seppi. Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery Address: Am Heumarkt 35/37, 1030 Wien, Austria Phone: +43 1 716160 https://all.accor.com/hotel/1276/index.en.shtml

Geo Connect Asia returns with 4th edition to unite ASEAN’s geospatial industry Over 100 companies, 70 speakers and 3,000 attendees from ASEAN and beyond are expected to attend this flagship trade event and conference The fourth edition of Geo Connect Asia (GCA), the region's leading trade event and conference for the geospatial, positioning and remote sensing industries, opens its doors today at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. The two-day event brings together industry-leading companies, government agencies, institutions and up-and-coming startups to explore the impact of geospatial technologies in Southeast Asia and further their role in fueling economic growth and enriching lives. GCA 2024 is held alongside co-located shows Drones & Uncrewed Asia, Digital Construction Asia and the inaugural Marine & Hydro Asia, which focus on the latest technologies relating to unmanned aerial vehicles, digital construction, and hydrospatial challenges, respectively. Guest of Honour Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, addressed attendees during the opening ceremony, which was graced by notable attendees from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA); Land Transport Authority; Health Security Agency of the United Kingdom; Lands Department of Hong Kong; Open Geospatial Consortium; and the Geospatial Information Agency of the Republic of Indonesia. The burgeoning global geospatial information and technology market is forecasted to be valued at US$1.37 trillion by 2030, as advancements in remote sensing, location-based analytics and other geospatial solutions shape countless sectors such as construction, agriculture, environment monitoring, supply chain management and natural resource management. APAC is playing a leading role in the ecosystem's accelerating growth across the globe, with its industry projected to be worth US$216 billion by 2025. The convergence of geospatial technologies is weaving stronger connections between nations, through knowledge sharing and increasing collaboration to the shared challenges that go beyond geographical boundaries. Rupert Owen, Co-founder of Geo Connect Asia, said, “I am delighted to welcome the industry back to Geo Connect Asia. Following three successful editions, Geo Connect Asia and Digital Construction Asia 2024 bring together the brightest minds from the region and beyond to share proven solutions, and how they can help address some of the most pressing challenges of today. The launch of Marine & Hydro Asia adds hydrographic content to the overarching theme of ‘underground, land and sea to sky’, while Drones & Uncrewed Asia navigates exciting pathways.” Colin Low, Chief Executive of the Singapore Land Authority, said, “As the national geospatial and mapping agency, the Singapore Land Authority aims to drive collaboration between public and private agencies, as well as the community. Industry platforms like Geo Connect Asia foster innovation, empower individuals and businesses to leverage the transformative technologies not just for economic development, but to create smarter, geo-enabled outcomes for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.” The Geo Market Place The GCA exhibition is back with an expanded floor space to showcase the widest range of geospatial and related technologies yet. These include spatial analysis software, satellites, remote sensors, mapping systems, laser scanners, unmanned vehicles, ground-penetrating radars, satellite communications services, UAV traffic management platforms, and many more. Leading exhibitors at the main exhibition showground include Trimble, Oracle and NavVis, and pavilions from Singapore and Thailand. Geo Connect Asia Conference The conference theme, “Geospatial Driven Impacts: Underground, Land and Sea to Sky”, captures the all-encompassing capabilities of geospatial solutions. With a stellar line-up of speakers across vectors, the programme will facilitate conversations between makers and users of these technologies to unleash their full potential. Notable speakers hail from AECOM, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Lands Department Hong Kong, Petronas, and Portcoast (Vietnam), Ministry of Health Singapore, and GCA Strategic Partner Singapore Land Authority, among many others. Singapore Geospatial Master Plan (2024 – 2033) Spearheaded by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the newly launched Singapore Geospatial Master Plan (2024 – 2033) will enable geospatial-enabled innovations tobenefit more segments of society, while addressing the complex challenges Singapore faces as an island-nation. Building on the first masterplan, this second iteration integrates land and marine spatial data development and charts the trajectory of national geospatial development for the next decade across terrestrial and maritime domains, towards the vision of Singapore as “A Leading Global Geospatial Hub” . At the Geo Connect Asia 2024 opening ceremony today, SLA and MPA unveiled several new strategic partnerships and key initiatives to expand the mainstream use of geospatial technology to benefit more citizens, enhance quality of lives and strengthen Singapore’s geospatial capabilities. Conference topics include: ●      The diagnostics of location in improving life quality ●      Nature-based solutions for future urban development ●      The promise of AI in construction technology: Industry transforming or a big fat fallacy? ●      Going global: how the Asia Pacific region is leading the way in autonomous aviation ●      Living on the edge: Building capacity and sharing to manage natural disasters ●      Geospatial drivers in speeding up the decarbonisation agenda ●      Mitigating risks to critical infrastructure assets ●      Closing plenary: Mainstreaming Geospatial: Harnessing geospatial innovation for healthcare, community, and sustainable development Sponsors & partners GCA 2024 is well supported by industry-leading sponsors, including fourth-time Platinum Sponsor Trimble and Sponsor AECOM. Strategic Partners include SGTech, GeoWorks and Singapore Land Authority, and Supporting Partners include ASEAN Flag; Association of Aerospace Industries Singapore; Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore; Aviation Research Centre; Temasek Polytechnic; CDAS Logistics Alliance; GS1 Singapore; Institution of Engineers Singapore; Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology; Open Geospatial Consortium; Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; Singapore Institute of Building Limited; Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers; Smart Cities Network; Society of Project Managers; and Software Park Thailand. To see the programme, please Download GCA’s full conference programme For more information, pls feel free to review the website https://www.geoconnectasia.com/

30th Singapore International Piano Festival returns in June 2024 with renowned pianist Yeol Eum Son. Other performers at this year’s festival also include pianists Jin Ju, Ashley Wass and Mei Yi Foo. The 30th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival (SIPF), presented by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), is set to take place from 6 to 9 June 2024 at the Victoria Concert Hall. Led by Artistic Director and Singaporean pianist Lim Yan, the SIPF is recognised as Asia's premier piano festival, showcasing international musical excellence annually. In line with previous editions, the festival will feature four solo recitals: South Korean Yeol Eum Son, widely acclaimed for her poetic elegance and timeless interpretations; Chinese rising star Jin Ju; UK-based Malaysian Mei Yi Foo, an avid new music advocate; and Briton Ashley Wass, former BBC New Generation Artist. Live Concerts by International Guests Hailed in China as among the greatest virtuosos of her country, Jin Ju will open the festival on 6 June. Praised by critics for her technical abilities and warm sensibility as well as the astonishing clarity of her narrative subtleties, she will perform a striking programme by three of the greatest composers for the piano: Brahms’s all-encompassing Fantasies, Chopin’s final sonata and the Diabelli Variations, a microcosm of Beethoven’s artistry. On 7 June, popular South Korean pianist, Yeol Eum Son makes her much anticipated return to Singapore. Witness her poetic elegance, expressive nuance and power to project bold, dramatic contrasts as she presents a thought-provoking programme of music from Beethoven, Bizet and Lizst. Described by Gramophone magazine as possessing “the enviable gift to turn almost anything he plays into pure gold,” Ashley Wass is the only British pianist to have won First Prize at the London International Piano Competition in 1997. Catch him in action on 8 June, as he performs Beethoven’s beautifully meditative Sonata No. 30, two Preludes and Fugues by Shostakovich and Franck’s Prélude, Choral et Fugue. Known for championing new music, UK-based Malaysian pianist Mei Yi Foo presents a fascinating exploration of 20th-century piano music on 9 June. A solo piano transcription of Ravel’s Ma Mère l'Oye, Bartok’s “fairly difficult” (his own words) Out of Doors Suite and Messiaen will share the programme with two contemporary composers: Luciano Berio's evocative and elemental Six Encores, and the extraordinary etudes of the preeminent South Korean composer Unsuk Chin. Masterclasses by International Guests In addition to its piano recitals, the SIPF will host two masterclasses offering attendees the chance to learn from renowned pianists. Mei Yi Foo, known for her collaborations with contemporary composers and teaching position at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, will lead the first masterclass on 8 June. This will be followed by a masterclass by Ashley Wass, Director of Music at the Yehudi Menuhin School and former BBC New Generation Artist, on 9 June. Attendees can anticipate invaluable insights from these esteemed musicians. Digital Concerts on Singapore Symphony YouTube Channel Membership This year’s SIPF will also feature the launch of two digital recitals via Singapore Symphony YouTube channel membership. The SSO will release works performed by award-winning American pianist Jonathan Biss and Malaysian-born pianist, composer, and conductor Tengku Irfan from their recitals in the previous edition. Patrons interested in viewing the digital recitals can join the Singapore Symphony YouTube channel membership for $2 per month, to access exclusive member content. For more information, visit youtube.com/singaporesymphony/join. Tickets for the 30th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival will be on sale starting 8 March 2024, at www.pianofestival.com.sg.

KELIM DAKDORITANG - KOREAN SPICY GARLIC CHICKEN STEW CHAIN SINCE 1965 - OPENS IN SINGAPORE’S OLDEST ESTATE TIONG BAHRU Kelim Dakdoritang, a 59-year-old Korean spicy garlic chicken stew chain with 50 outlets, is delighted to announce the opening of its new outlet in Tiong Bahru, Singapore's oldest public housing estate, on 1 March 2024. The restaurant is situated in the pre-war conservation Block 55, the first of 20 blocks built by the Singapore Improvement Trust in 1936, designed by Alfred G. Church in a Streamline Moderne architectural style. We were truly impressed by the quality of this garlic-laden bomb" they call it... that is spread right on top of this Chicken broth-stew made with delicious scallion, Korean chilli bits, fresh chicken pieces, lots of vegetables and what's amazing is the superior taste that is laden with top flavour, umami structure and fresh ingredients. Rosette Media rating distinguishes their lovely soup - Kelim Dakdoritang’s Signature Korean Spicy Garlic Chicken Stew - an overall rating of 8.6/10 Kelim Dakdoritang’s Signature Korean Spicy Garlic Chicken Stew is prepared according to a time-honoured recipe passed down through generations. The combination of chicken and garlic not only enhances the taste but also serves as a stamina booster. Topped with a garlic bomb, the resulting complex flavours are sure to tantalise taste buds, distinguishing it from regular Dakdoritang recipes in Korea. Each ingredient in Kelim Dakdoritang's Spicy Garlic Chicken Stew is meticulously selected and sourced to ensure the highest quality. Farm-fresh chicken of a fixed weight guarantees optimum taste and tenderness. The slow-cooked, bone-in chicken pieces meld with aromatic spices and a secret blend of ingredients, including Korean pepper powder (gochugaru), infusing the broth with a taste like no other. Customers can elevate their dining experience by adding chewy tteokbokki (Korean rice cake), potatoes, king oyster mushrooms, sausages, and quail eggs, among other options, to their stew. Towards the end of the meal, Kalguksu (knife-cut noodle) can be tossed into the stew. These hand-cut noodles boast an al dente texture, similar to Italian fettuccine, offering a delightful departure from the usual ramyeon. Inspired by the eclectic Tiong Bahru precinct, the culinary team has designed an expanded menu to include new dishes catering to varying preferences. In addition to chicken-themed dishes like Chicken Cartilage with Sweet Spicy Sauce ($19.90), the culinary team addresses the diverse preferences of the local and international community residing in Tiong Bahru. Notably, the menu features Korean BBQ specialties such as Samgyeopsal-gui - Grilled Pork Belly with Stir Fried Kimchi ($29.90), Cheongyeopsal - Grilled Pork Collar ($24.90) and Galbi-gui - Grilled Marinated Beef Short Ribs ($29.90). We truly enjoyed the Grilled Pork Belly - it was superb and have lots of fatty feel, the way we like it! They also have th eSamgyeopsal-gui - Grilled Pork Belly with Stir Fried Kimchi ($29.90). Be instantly hooked on this highly popular Korean BBQ dish, and also the Galbi-gui - Grilled Marinated Beef Short Ribs ($29.90) and Cheongyeopsal - Grilled Pork Collar ($24.90). Crowd-pleasing side dishes like Haemul Pajeon ($24.90), Sotteok ($9.90), Spam Fries ($17.90), and Japchae ($19.90) are also being introduced. Haemul Pajeon - popular Korean savoury Seafood Scallion Pancake ($24.90) was a dish that we tried and we just loved it - so fulfilling! Signature Korean street snack Sotteok - skewered rice cakes and mini sausages ($9.90) and Korean Spam Fries ($17.90) Irresistible! and also along with that, it was Deep-fried to perfection with a crispy exterior Japchae ($19.90). One of Korea’s best-loved dishes, the sweet potato starch noodles is deftly stir fried with meat and vegetables. A la carte dishes, including chicken or pork bulgogi ($14.90) and ramyeon with a choice of chicken, mandu or seafood ($13.90), are added as well. We had some of our favourite Soju, beer, and other non-alcoholic beverages as well with the meal! While the Baby Dakdoritang, a scaled-down version of the signature Dakdoritang, embodies the culinary team’s dedication to a convenient and enjoyable dining experience, the expanded menu, inspired by the vibrant Tiong Bahru precinct, caters to diverse tastes. Embark on a unique culinary journey, savouring Kelim Dakdoritang's rich culinary heritage amidst the nostalgic charm of Tiong Bahru. To celebrate the opening of the new outlet, the culinary team has crafted the Baby Dakdoritang ($15.90), a cute-sized replica of Kelim Dakdoritang's Signature Korean Spicy Garlic Chicken Stew, highlighting the rich heritage of Dakdoritang. The Baby Dakdoritang offers convenience for solo diners seeking a fuss-free meal and is available as part of a wallet-friendly executive set lunch, which includes rice, along with a canned drink ($15.90). OPENING PROMOTION:Enjoy 30% OFF regular-sized Dakdoritang for the whole month of March 2024. (by simply following Kelim Dakdoritang’s social accounts) KELIM DAKDORITANG Address: 55 Tiong Bahru Road #01-37 Singapore 160055 Reservations Hotline: 63223433 It's open daily for: Lunch - 11.30am to 3pm Dinner & Supper - 5.30pm to 2.00am Website: kelimdakdoritang.com.sg

Australia’s Hannah Green pipped Celine Boutier of France to the 2024 HSBC Women’s World Championship title by one shot after draining a stunning 30-feet birdie at the last hole on Sunday. The US$1.8 million LPGA tournament appeared to be headed for a playoff between Green and Boutier after Boutier had earlier closed with a five-under-par 67. However, after already making two birdies on 16 and 17, Green ensured there would not be any extra-time as her long birdie putt on 18 sunk into the hole to see her finish with a winning four-day total of 13-under-par 275. Canada’s Brooke Henderson, meanwhile, secured her third top-10 finish in four starts since the LPGA’s season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions by carding a 68 to share third place with South Korea’s Lee Mi-hyang as well as Japan’s Nasa Hataoka and Yuna Nishimura on 279 total. Starting the final round two shots off the lead in second place, Green birdied holes five and nine to turn in 34. She dropped her only shot of the day on the 10th before marking her card with another birdie on 12. It was from the 16th hole where the 27-year-old Australian then went on a three-hole birdie blitz to eventually seal her victory. “I knew I needed to at least birdie the last to win by one. As soon as that putt went in, I was like, oh, my God, I've won! You have to take these highs when they come because it doesn't always come and golf can be a learning sport sometimes “Celine played great today but she didn't end up with the trophy in her hands. But she should still be proud of how she performed under this pressure,” said Green. It was Green’s fourth LPGA title and also her first win in Asia. It was also a sweet redemption for the 27-year-old especially after finishing second at the 2021 edition. “I almost won the championship in 2021 when I was playing it for the first time. I remembered I three-putted 17 and then three-putt again on 18 to lose. It feels great to have this trophy in my hands now,” said Green. Playing in the penultimate group before Green, the pressure was on Boutier to make a birdie on 17 to give her any advantage over a fast-charging Green. However, two straight pars on 17 and 18 dashed all hopes. “I knew my putt (on 17) was going to be important but it ended up being short-sided. It was frustrating. I gave myself chances. I made some putts and also missed some. But such things happen and I can't be too mad about my round today,” said Boutier. Henderson, meanwhile, tried to mount a late fightback in her back-nine with four birdies on holes 10, 15,16 and 17. But a closing bogey on 18 halted that charge and she had to settle for a tied-third finish. ‘The back nine was really fun, especially the long birdie putt on 15 and following up with birdies on 16 and 17. It was really nice to climb the leaderboard like that. Unfortunately, I dropped a shot on 18 which was a difficult hole. But overall, I really happy with how the week went. I love Top 10s and I feel like I'm going to take a lot of momentum and a lot of confidence moving forward,” said the Canadian. The HSBC Women’s World Championship boasted an international field with representation from 22 countries across the world. The 72-hole stroke play tournament was played on the renowned Tanjong Course at Sentosa Golf Club, which was hosting the 11th edition of the tournament. Credit - Getty Images

The Figlmüller Restaurant is an iconic Viennese eatery. Enjoy the world-famous schnitzel in a historic ambiance, a compulsory culinary stop in the heart of Vienna. HOME OF THE SCHNITZEL:FIGLMÜLLER WOLLZEILE The story began when Johann Figlmüller opened the first wine tavern on Wollzeile in 1905. Just around the corner from St. Stephen’s Cathedral, he established a place where people have been imbibing, chatting and eating great for the past 115 years. A glass of our homegrown wine is the perfect accompaniment to our interpretation of the Wiener schnitzel, which has not only become the house special—but also a symbol of the city of Vienna. Right from the start, it stood for the unparalleled Viennese way of life: a restaurant that was always a fine place to chat and celebrate. It also had a great menu and selection of local wines. And, of course, the original interpretation of a schnitzel. The elder Hans Figlmüller reached international acclaim with the Figlmüller schnitzel and put the downtown locale on the map as Vienna’s culinary ambassador. The brothers Hans Jr. and Thomas Figlmüller are still maintaining the tradition which is now in its fourth Figlmüller generation. In Viennese cuisine, there is nothing more quintessential Viennese than the Wiener schnitzel. Its origin is the subject of numerous legends and continues to be a lightning rod for controversy. There is consensus, however: Only premium veal fried golden brown in a mixture of lard an oil will do. At Figlmüller on Bäckerstrasse, they only serve the one true Wiener schnitzel, as their great grandmother fried up over a century ago. Scusi ragazzi, but schnitzel’s a Vienna original! The most popular yarn spun round the genesis of the Wiener schnitzel comes from Field Marshal Radetzky. According to the story, Radetzky was so enrapt by the Italian Cotoletta alla Milanese that he brought the recipe back to Vienna in the middle of the 19th century, presenting it to the Kaiser’s court kitchen so they could satiate his appetite and create the now world renown dish. However, historical research has shown that the Viennese had an affection for all things fried much earlier. If your coffers were stocked then you could bread and fry all manner of mainstays like chicken and veal, or everything else from head to toe. Our favourite cut is a big softie: the tenderloin. 250-gram cuts of fine tenderloin are pounded out by hand until they are razor-thin and ready to be dredged in egg and flour. The finishing touch is a coat fit for a Kaiser: breadcrumbs made from Kaiser rolls—made especially for Figlmüller—create a tantalizingly crispy schnitzel. This was truly amazing, as I tried a few different schnitzels whilst I was staying in Vienna, and the one from this Haus is truly amazing, original, tasty and not dry! Of course, we went along with the iconic lemon but we also tried the lovely crisp with some different sauces to give a different feel to each bite! Now, the schnitzel is ready for frying. And for this, the chefs need no less than three pans of cooking oil. But for that it is all the faster; a schnitzel needs just an estimated 30 seconds until it turns a crispy golden brown and lands on your plate. Proof that the long-standing and traditional schnitzel maker works with the utmost perfection. From ingredients naturally fresh, authentic Austrian! What goes along well with a true Figlmüller schnitzel? A genuine Viennese potato salad, of course, one that is known for its subtle sweetness. At Figlmüller they pay special attention to where the ingredients come from ; their pork is sourced exclusively from farmers they know personally. The Figmüllers are busy restaurant owners. They produce their own wines to serve with the schnitzel and have been doing so since very early on. And the wine list includes Grüner Veltliner (we had one of this, it was so refreshing, lemon and citrus-drive, smooth and a great finish and accompaniement to the classique schnitzel! also, they have the Welschriesling alongside Blaufränkischer. happy moment with Gerhard, my host Personally I would like to thank my special host, Gerhard, from Figlmuiller Wollzeile, who guided me throughout my entire tasting experience, he was super generous, knowledgeable, humourous and experienced with over 30 years working in this establishment. Figlmüller Wollzeile: Wollzeile 5, 1010 Vienna Open daily 11am – 10:30pm, kitchen daily 11am – 9:30pm FIGLMÜLLER WOLLZEILE & MENU RESERVATIONS +43 1 512 61 77 https://www.figlmueller.at/en/

The 2023 TFWA Asia Pacific Conference was held in the Grand Ballroom, Level 5, at Marina Bay Sands Expo Centre on Monday 8th May 2023, and featured a full and inspiring programme. With networking remaining a top priority for many in the industry, this year’s event – which returns to a full-scale format – offers participants a plethora of opportunities for formal and informal meetings. The Welcome Cocktail begins at 19:30 on Sunday evening and takes place at the spectacular Flower Dome, at the Gardens by the Bay. From 21:00 delegates attending will have the chance to enjoy exclusive night-time access to the Flower Dome’s stunning display of over 32,000 plants - the venue was dramatic, the mood was festive, and everyone was truly elated given the return of a full-scale TFWA event after the pandemic. After a number of years apart, face-to-face networking was clearly a priority. 1,016 guests attended TFWA’s ‘Welcome Cocktail’ event at the Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, while over 500 guests enjoyed the TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge each evening. The TFWA Asia Pacific Conference opened with an address from TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen, who shared his views on the recovery of travel retail in Asia Pacific as international travel restarts. This was followed by welcome remarks from APTRA President, Sunil Tuli and Executive Vice President of China Duty Free Group, Luke Chang. In the opening plenary session our keynote speaker, Singapore’s former Foreign Minister, George Yeo explored issues including intra-regional trade, the role and influence of China, and the importance of travel and tourism to the region. A panel featuring Luke Chang, Executive Vice President of China Duty Free Group, Freda Cheung, President & CEO Asia Pacific at DUFRY, Sue Kyung Lee, CEO of SK II, Thabet Musleh, Vice President of Qatar Duty Free, and Marvin von Plato, CEO of Heinemann Asia Pacific addressed the complex issues surrounding preparation of growth as travel in Asia Pacific continues its upward trajectory, all participants and trade visitors were anticipating the return of travel demand and travel retail. Insights on air travel in Asia Pacific in 2023 was provided by Stefano Baronci, ACI Asia Pacific Director General, and Mayur Patel, OAG Aviation Head of Asia. The final session of the day examined new emerging destinations, shopping preferences and the influence of social media in purchasing decisions. Delegates heard from Stephen Hillam, Pi Insight Managing Director, Rocky Chi, Emerging Communication’s Head of Planning, Marcus Hudson, Mars International Travel Retail Global Sales Director, and Claudio Ferreira, Japan Tobacco International Global Travel Retail General Manager. Many issues and challenges were shared along with many prospects and opportunities moving forward for the travel retail industry, with scope for China to improve in their outbound travel in the year 2024. The 25th TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference ended on a high, with the event hosting a total of 3,029 visitors, approximately 90% of 2019, which was itself a record year. The number of representatives from duty free and travel retail operators and landlords stood at 1,291 up by 4% on 2019. There was a full house at Monday’s conference, with 1,572 delegates, a record attendance, hearing from impressive speakers. With 200 exhibitors and a floor space of 8,469m2, the exhibition was also a quantifiable success. 61 of these companies were new exhibitors, including a mix of large international names and well-known regional brands. Innovation continued to be a focus, with TFWA i.lab Asia making its debut in Singapore. The ideas hub had a dedicated area on Level 1 and gave delegates the opportunity to find out more about the new initiatives shaping the future of the industry. Once again proving to be a sought-after feature of TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference, the TFWA ONE2ONE meeting service facilitated a total of 678 on-site meetings throughout the week. “We are very pleased with the outcome of the 25th TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference. Feedback from exhibitors has been that the quality of the audience has been exceptional, with a strong representation from Asia, Middle East and indeed the world. As usual, our team worked hard to ensure the delivery of a successful event for all attendees, and we are grateful for the support from all of our partners and sponsors. We are already looking forward to next year's event, and once again we’ll be planning to bring together the best and brightest in our industry. Thank you to everyone who made this event a success. See you in Cannes.” Erik Juul-Mortensen, TFWA President More information on the next TFWA 2024 is available here. https://www.tfwa.com/tfwa-asia-pacific-exhibition-conference/press-releases/2024-tfwa-asia-pacific-exhibition-conference

Nestled in the 3rd District of Vienna, The Belvedere in Vienna is one of the leading museums worldwide. Its famous art collection includes works ranging from the Middle Ages to the present day. Austrian art in an international context is presented in three locations.  Highlights include the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings as well as prominent works from the periods of Viennese Biedermeier, Austrian Baroque, Vienna around 1900, and French Impressionism. The institution's central tasks focus on exhibiting, researching, collecting, communicating, and preserving. Ongoing advancements and digitalisation in all areas ensures the Belvedere’s significance as an outstanding museum of the future. We spent an afternoon together with Art mediator Barbara Lenz who took me through the paces of Upper Belvedere, where we explored the distinctive pieces over the eras and periods; I had the plain pleasure of admiring all the masterpieces in a stunning baroque setting, a cultural journey through Austria's rich heritage via an exclusive guided tour; Lenz' knowledge is amazing having spent over 20 years with the Belvedere.. she took me to share the amazement of Vienna in the midst of the twentieth century: when it was a grand imperial city, a true magnet for artists and intellectuals, melting pot of many nations. Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka shaped fin-de-siècle Vienna with their artistic innovations. This tour brought me in sync together with outstanding works of art from this tumultuous time. The unique, overall complex, with its two palaces, the Upper and Lower Belvedere, and their extensive gardens, is one of the most stunning Baroque architectural ensembles in the world. In the 18th century, the Austrian general Prince Eugene of Savoy commissioned the renowned Baroque architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt to build a summer residence. After the death of Prince Eugene, Empress Maria Theresa acquired the entire complex and transformed the Upper Belvedere into an exhibition venue for the imperial collections – making it one of the first public museums in the world. The Marble Hall was the venue for important historical events and now offers an unparalleled view of Vienna. The Lower Belvedere, formerly the residence of Prince Eugene, is home to illustrious exhibitions. The modern pavilion of the Belvedere 21, by architect Karl Schwanzer, sets the stage for contemporary art. Sala terrena The Sala Terrena (ground floor hall) is dominated by four mighty atlases supporting the richly stuccoed vaulted ceiling of the room. Initially, the Sala Terrena was designed as a uniform spacious hall, but after structural damage in the winter of 1732/33, the installation of the four supports became necessary. The hall opens onto to the garden side of the Upper Belvedere and leads to the Grand Staircase; thus, the Sala Terrena serves both as the garden hall and vestibule. The Belvedere is a museum of influence, a museum of relevance. A museum of relevance has a presence in people’s minds and hearts. It is a point of reference in a disorienting present. A historical constant, it links the past with the future. It is independent. It sees itself as a learning and teaching organization. A museum of relevance takes a stand on contemporary issues and social policy. It raises its voice for art and its democratizing potential. It takes responsibility for ecological concerns about the planet. Its contribution to the development of society promotes social justice. Its attitude sets an example, its voice is heard. Exhibition - Permanent Collection This presentation of the collection looks beyond a purely stylistic history of art to focus on the interactions between art and society. Influenced by the political and social environment, migration, international networks, and also by economic conditions, artistic production reflects the complexity of its time. Each section of the display highlights selected self-portraits. They act as a leitmotif, offering an insight into the changing image and self-conception of artists through the centuries, ranging from anonymity and dependence to autonomy. The self-portraits accompany the visitor on this chronological tour through the world-famous collection of the Belvedere—through eight hundred years of art history from the Middle Ages to the 1970s. Middle Ages – Renaissance The earliest works in the Belvedere’s collection are paintings and sculptures dating from the late 12th century up to around 1600. These displays chart the transition from Romanesque to Gothic art and finally to the emerging Renaissance. A key development was the shift from anonymous art in the service of religion to self-confidently signed works that gave a new visibility to artists. Baroque Pomp and drama characterize Baroque art, yet in this period we also encounter realistic depictions of landscapes and everyday objects. Important works com- missioned by the aristocracy and the Church paint a diverse picture of the time. Entirely unique are Franz Xaver Messerschmidt’s “Character Heads,” a mysterious series that has inspired multiple interpretations and continues to fascinate viewers to this day. I found this astonishingly delightful and expressive, fascinating and wonderful! Calm.. Toward the end of the 19th century, Vienna was growing into a metropolis. Numerous artists were engaged in creating decorative schemes for the grand buildings of the Ringstrasse. This flourishing of the arts paved the way to the foundation of the Vienna Secession. Gustav Klimt was already Vienna’s most acclaimed painter; the Belvedere acquired The Kiss during the artist’s lifetime. This period also saw growing recognition and renown for women artists. Belvedere Palace Museum Address: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria Phone: +43 1 795570 More information here.. https://www.belvedere.at/en/visit

One of the top restaurants in Vienna, resides at the Hotel Sacher Wien, at Restaurant Rote bar, where the iconic and famous Sacher cake is one of top culinary attractions and delight for the city. We decided to indulge ourselves in classic elegance for lunch at Restaurant Rote Bar, Hotel Sacher Wien, where we could experience exquisite fine dining and savour the iconic Sacher cake, a sweet symphony of Vienna. The Rote Bar features a bevy of dynamic and exquisite traditional Austrian recipes and excellent Viennese classics that are refined with the best produce from regional suppliers. The grand, damask dining room lined with large oil paintings and crystal chandeliers was truly inviting; The decor was opulent with strong dashes of red lampshades espoused with vivid Austrian carpets and classique furniture. The windows of the conservatory are folded away in summer to allow for a large, open terrace. Nightly live piano music completes the ambience from 7:00 pm onwards. The restaurant Rote Bar offers the perfect ambience for lovers of traditional Viennese cuisine to experience it at the highest level. Awarded two Gault Millau toques, we started lunch with a Marinertes Beef-Tatar vom Almochsen mit Kürbis und Kernölcreme (Marinated beef tartar from alpine ox with pumpkin and pumpkin seed oil), it was nicely marinated and diced with the right layers of flavor, the bite was firm yet soft, so there was sufficient texture and not too nimble, and certainly one of the best tartars I have had for a long time.. We then had an Original Sacher-Bouillabaisse mit Zander, Jacobsmuschel, Flusskrebsen und Miesmuscheln (Original Sacher bouillabaisse with pikeperch, scallop, crayfish and mussels) which is one of the best bouillabaisses I have had, to rival those from France, and typical French restaurants around the world, but the taste was refinedly sharp, distinctive, not too fishy' with the right dimension of umami' the scallop, perch, crayfish and mussel was well melangé into the soup base (which was well cooked), my rating for this dish at a distinctive 9.5/10 The next dish was the "Geschmorte Rindsroulade mit hausgemachten Linguine und Gurkerlsenf" which is basically a lovely Braised beef roulade that is tossed with homemade linguine and pickled cucumber mustard, and this was served to me face-front with the sauce being introduced right in front of my table, a delight! I decided to have a treat so I called for the ;Der imperial Stör Kaviar zeichnet sich vor allem durch größere Kaviarkörnung und volimundiges - Nussaroma aus. Er ist geschmacklich relativ intensiv, which is a lovely presentation of Imperial sturgeon caviar that is is characterized mainly by larger caviar grain and full-bodied nutty flavor. It was extremely tasty and fresh, packed with umami delights, and relatively intense in taste. We had the 30g version, simply immaculate and heavenly! For dessert, we naturally chose the iconic Sacher Cake.. it's termed as the "Original Sacher-Torte mit Schlagobers" otherwise known as the Original Sacher-Torte with whipped cream - super super amazing - our Rosette Media rating distinguishes this iconic pice at 9/10 rating! A thick layer of chocolate embellished with layers of cocoa and chocolate and fresh whipped cream - delightful! Hordes of tourists and visitors come to Vienna, to taste the iconic Sacher cake and they actually line up for hours to get in, to try it at the Cafe section, but I had mine at the Rote Bar instead, so the hint is to have a super lunch here, followed by Vienne cafe and Sacher cake at the restaurant itself! Brilliant thoughts for a brilliant Vienna Day! Compliments and thanks to the Manager Ivo and Michael for attending to my every need and requirement and making my culinary experience such a brilliance! Opening Hours Monday – Sunday: 12:00 pm to 24:00 pm Their restaurant is air-conditioned in the hot summer months and convince with stylish ambience.The dress code in our restaurant Rote Bar is smart casual. Location Restaurant Rote Bar Hotel Sacher Wien Address: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien, Austria Menu: sacher.com Reservations: aleno.me

AN AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE OF IMPERIAL HERITAGE At the end of the seventeenth century Emperor Leopold I commissioned the Baroque architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, who had received his training in Rome, to design an imperial hunting lodge for his son, Crown Prince Joseph, later to become Emperor Joseph I. Replacing the château de plaisance built on this site for the dowager empress Eleonora of Gonzaga in 1642, it was to grow into a palatial imperial residence over the course of the eighteenth century. We picked up the pace and went to explore the Schönbrunn Palace (known in Austrian as Schloss Schönbrunn - love this name!) one winter day in January 2024, its marvellous gardens and to relive the splendor of imperial Habsburg royalty. Mr Michael Zisser, with over 20 years of curator experience, brought me on a detailed guided tour of the state rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, to secret passages and private rooms (not frequented by tourists), to discover the private apartments of the imperial couple Franz Joseph & Sisi, and the sumptuous rooms from the time of Maria Theresa (all these can only be assessed on the private guided tour). Among the many highlights are the stunning Chinese Cabinets and the priceless Millions Room. A fine day in the resplendent atmosphere of historic, Imperial Austria. Schloss Schönbrunn is a must-see for every visitor to Vienna. Schönbrunn is a fascinating, easily accessible attraction with a genuine Imperial Palace, Children’s Museum, park, cafés and the oldest zoo in the world. Visitors encounter the Imperial heritage of the Habsburgs as a living experience, learn about European history, and acquire historical knowledge in an entertaining way. Schönbrunn Palace is an UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It is one of Austria’s most important cultural assets and since the 1960s has been one of the leading sightseeing destinations in Vienna. In December 1996 at the 20th session of the World Heritage Committee Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens was adopted into the list founded in 1972 of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. The entry into this world-renowned list underlines the significance of the palace and the entire garden complex as a Baroque synthesis of the arts. Schönbrunn Palace is a unique Baroque synthesis of the arts – consisting of the former residential palace and the surrounding gardens. From 1569 until the end of the Monarchy in 1918, the complex was owned by the ruling House of Habsburg. Under the reign of Maria Theresa from 1745 on, the palace ensemble experienced its most brilliant epoch as summer residence and became the hub of courtly and political life. The Baroque interiors from the era of Maria Theresa and including the mid-nineteenth-century adaptations in Neo-rococo style have for the most part been preserved to the present day. With the end of the Monarchy, the Imperial State assets and thus also the palatial complex of Schönbrunn were transferred to the ownership of the Republic of Austria. Although already partly open to the public during the time of the Monarchy, it was the twentieth century that saw the touristic usage of the palace state rooms being intensively promoted. In 1996 palace and park were listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Today, Schönbrunn Palace is one of the top sightseeing destinations in Vienna and Austria. Today, visitors to Schönbrunn Palace can get an impression of the royal and imperial way of life in authentically furnished residential and state rooms. Of around eighty palace rooms in toto furnished as historical interiors, forty-five rooms on the bel étage are open to public viewing. The tour starts in the residential rooms dating from the nineteenth century of Franz Joseph I and his spouse Elisabeth in the west wing of the palace. It leads on to the state rooms in the central part and the apartments in the east wing, occupied by Maria Theresa and her spouse Emperor Franz I. In the nineteenth century part of the east wing was used as the residence of Franz Joseph I’s parents – Archduchess Sophie and Archduke Franz Karl; these were used since 1880 as state rooms and, when needed, as guest rooms. The various interior designs symbolise the lifestyles, atmosphere and political leanings of the individual Habsburg rulers. The palace park – most of it in its original state – can also be explored, with its imposing garden buildings and fountains from Maria Theresa’s dowager period (1770s). The most impressive features are the Neptune Fountain, the Obelisk Fountain, the Roman Ruins, the eponymous “Schöne Brunnen” – the “beautiful fountain” – and the Gloriette on the Schönbrunn Hill. In addition there are special attractions inviting visitors to linger, mainly based on historical models, including the Privy Garden, the Maze and Labyrinth, and the Labyrinthikon Playground. Visitors to the Orangery Garden can stroll through the history of European horticulture, past Seville oranges, olive trees and myrtle. The Schönbrunn Orangery, 189 metres long and 10 metres wide, is thus one of the largest orangery buildings in Europe next to Versailles. Thanks to the still functioning original hypocaust heating system (via channels in the floor) dating from the mid-eighteenth-century, exotic plants that are susceptible to the cold can survive during winter at constant ten degrees Celsius. The park at Schönbrunn Palace was opened to the public around 1779 and since then has provided a popular recreational amenity for the Viennese population as well as being a focus of great cultural and historical interest for international visitors. Extending for 1.2 km from east to west and approximately one kilometre from north to south, it was placed together with the palace on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1996. The Schönbrunn Group comprises the most visited attractions and programs of Austria’s imperial heritage: Schönbrunn Palace, the Vienna Furniture Museum, the Sisi Museum with the Imperial Apartments and the Silver Collection in the Vienna Hofburg as well as Schloss Hof Estate and Schloss Niederweiden. The Schönbrunn Group is tasked with maintaining and revitalising these cultural properties as well as developing new business areas and new ways of conveying culture. The necessary means for this are entirely derived from self-generated proceeds. The group’s central function and passion is fascinating the audience with the imperial heritage and the world of the Habsburgs, be it directly at the sites of the Schönbrunn Group or via digital contents. The Schönbrunn Group’s sites are leading tourist destinations as well as popular sites for leisure and local recreation. Web Info: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/ SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47 1130 Vienna +43 1 811 13-0 info@schoenbrunn.at