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Best-value hotels in Australia

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The spacious lounge and dining rooms in the penthouse at the Diamant Hotel, in Potts Point, has a balcony with expansive views.

By Rama Gaind

WHEN you travel frequently, it’s vital that your hotel sojourn offers some comforts of home.

If you take into account some additional fringe benefits, then here are seven accommodation houses in Australia that are a cut above the rest.

1) Medina Executive, Brisbane, Queensland

LOCATED at the east-end of the city centre, the Medina Executive in Brisbane  offers sweeping views of the Brisbane River, the city skyline and the iconic Story Bridge.

Our one-bedroom apartment on the 8th floor was the ideal spot to witness the best of Riverfire 2011 in September; we had ringside seats, sitting on the balcony, overlooking the Story Bridge!

Medina was the perfect location from which to view the firework displays on the bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the pontoons on the Eagle Pier stretch of the Brisbane River and some of the tall buildings along the waterfront.

This is an ideal location from which to view the new year celebrations and making it a base for when the musical Mary Poppins arrives in January 2012.

Medina Executive Brisbane

15 Ivory Lane

Brisbane Qld 4000

(07) 3218 5800

[email protected]

www.medina.com.au

2) Diamant Hotel – Sydney, NSW

IT’S effortless to feel on top of the world at the Diamant Hotel in Sydney – in the luxury penthouse – and easy to soak up the urban vibe.

Overlooking the city’s skyline and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 12th floor three-bedroom penthouse combines contemporary luxury living with rock star glamour, located moments from Sydney’s most pulsating quarter.

The Diamant is located in the heart of Kings Cross, Potts Point and Darlinghurst triangle, offering Sydney’s biggest and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs.

Designed by renowned architects Burley Katon Halliday, the state-of-the-art entertainment systems, floor-to-ceiling windows, sun-drenched living spaces and private access with high-tech security creates an oasis in the sky for the sophisticated world traveller.

The three bedrooms are designed with practicality in mind: the lounge and dining areas, in the middle, are flanked on the one side by two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, a massive kitchen (almost of commercial proportions) and the main bedroom which has its own separate wing with a large en-suite bathroom with spa bath, powder room and a smaller balcony.

If you don’t want to cook, the penthouse comes with a butler service, on request!

Diamant Hotel (part of 8Hotels group)

14 Kings Cross Road

Potts Point NSW 2011

Telephone: (02) 9295 8888; freecalll 1800 037 544

Email: [email protected]

www.diamant.com.au

www.8hotels.com

3) Wrest Point – Hobart, Tasmania

AUSTRALIA’S first legal casino, Wrest Point opened in February 1973, in a prime waterfront location on the Derwent River.

Its iconic tower has represented accommodation excellence in Hobart for the nearly four decades and now the hotel’s entertainment precinct has been enhanced.

Indulge in a fine dining experience at the award-winning Point Revolving Restaurant where head chef Kent Sullivan adds his own Tasmanian twist to traditional French-style cooking.

A must-see for any visitor is the Museum of Old and New Art – or MONA – which opened in Hobart in January 2011.

It houses a collection that ranges from ancient Egyptian mummies to some of the world’s most infamous and thought-provoking contemporary art. The owner, David Marsh, wants to change the way Australians view contemporary art and has adopted an unconventional and challenging curatorial approach.

It has to be seen to be believed.

Wrest Point

410 Sandy Bay Rd

Sandy Bay 7005

Hobart Tasmania

1800 703 006 (free call)

www.wrestpoint.com.au

4) Vibe Hotel Rushcutters – Sydney

MY one-bedroom suite overlooked Rushcutters Bay Park and the Cruising Yacht Club Marina, with the hotel surrounded by Sydney’s most exclusive shopping and nightlife spots.

The options were endless: chill out and stay up late in Kings Cross, Double Bay, Paddington, Woollahra and Potts Point or escape the action and head to the rooftop swimming pool which has been voted among the ‘Top Five’ pools in Sydney.

It was a Vibe-rant sojourn in Rushcutters!

Vibe Hotel

100 Bayswater Road

Rushcutters Bay NSW 2011

Tel: (02) 8353-8988

Email: [email protected]

www.vibehotels.com.au

5) Lyall Hotel – Melbourne, Victoria

MELBOURNE offers a cultural feast with a variety of latest international exhibitions, theatre productions and popular festivals together with plenty of great shopping and sports.

Add to this, a tour to discover why Melbourne is Australia’s coffee-drinking capital with Maria Paoli from Evolving Success and your two-day stay is jam-packed with activity.

The chic Lyall Hotel and Spa in South Yarra is Melbourne’s only privately-owned and operated five-star hotel in a fashionable address that’s tucked away from the busy main road.

The welcoming ambience is appealing, but most unusual is the mini art gallery on each level with fireplace and oversized armchairs from where you can admire the original works.

Voted Australia’s ‘Leading Boutique Hotel’ by the World Travel Awards, the hotel has 40 suites of contemporary oriental design.

Being obsessed with getting a good night’s sleep, it was reassuring to know that the high quality mattress and non-allergenic pillows were in addition (or instead) of the pillows that dressed the bed. The choice was wide: feather and down, contour, anti-ageing and rubber core foam. Opting for the anti-ageing pillow, for obvious reasons, I had a comfortable, dreamless night’s sleep – but didn’t look any younger for it!

The Lyall Hotel

14 Murphy Street

South Yarra VIC 3141

Telephone: (03) 9868 8222

www.thelyall.com

Evolving Success

Find Maria Paoli’s historical coffee trek and coffee making classes at www.evolvingsuccess.com.au

6) Crowne Plaza – Canberra

OVERLOOKING Glebe Park in the nation’s capital, Crowne Plaza’s central location places it within two minutes’ walk from Canberra’s National Convention Centre and near the city’s many shops, lively bars and restaurants.

Parliament House is three kilometres away, explore artistic treasures at Australia’s National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, look at walking routes around the shimmering waters of Lake Burley Griffin and the chime of the National Carillon and the Captain Cook Memorial fountain will be lasting memories of Canberra.

One of the best times to visit the nation’s capital is during Floriade in September.

Benefit from one of the great special summer sale packages and have a fabulous stay at the Crowne Plaza!

Crowne Plaza Hotel

1 Binara Street

Canberra ACT 2601

Tel: (02) 6246 8999

www.crowneplazacanberra.com.au

7) Swissôtel Sydney

THERE’S no such thing as a holiday with young children that’s hassle-free. Going to the beach and staying at a seaside resort offers many options, but one is hard-pressed when it comes to staying in a hotel.

Options are further restricted if you want to stay in the vibrant heart to the city. Well, that’s not the case any more – at least, not in Sydney.

The Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street, is one deluxe five-star hotel that is very family-friendly.

Its kids room will delight those aged two to 12 years. They’ll be transported into a children’s wonderland where the rooms are bright with an abundance of plush toys, a children’s desk, colourful bed linen, special menu of DVD programs for young ones, bath amenities for junior guests, separate play area, children amenities and much more. The room is interconnected to a separate luxurious bedroom for the parents. There’s even chocolates and milk in the mini bar fridge!

What’s more, from every kids room booking, $20 goes to the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation.

As well, the honeymoon suite at the Swissôtel is indulgent: the rooms have spectacular views of the city, the bed is more than comfortable, bathroom is spacious, there was a Nespresso coffee machine and the room even came with a Wii!

It was the extra-special gestures that are appreciated: champagne on ice, the colourful bouquet with lilies, roses and gerberas were “really big, spectacular, and super fresh” and the chocolate-covered strawberries were a delicious touch.

To further enhance the hotel experience, have dinner at Jpb Restaurant and sample the best gastronomic feasts created by executive chef Justin Zammit.

This first-hand testimony from my newly-married son, Rajesh, and his wife, Beth, says it all: there was “really nothing about the room that wasn’t great!”

Swissôtel Sydney

68 Market Street, Sydney

Telephone: (02) 9238 8888

Email: [email protected]

www.swissotel.com.au

Medina Executive Brisbane occupies a prime location in the city's east end with ringside views of iconic Story Bridge.

Sleek mission is everything but impossible

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‘Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol’ stars Tom Cruise

By Rama Gaind

Film: Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol

Cast: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Paula Patton, Simon Pegg

Director: Brad Bird

In the fourth installment of the Mission Impossible series, super-spy Ethan Hunt (Cruise) accepts another assignment after a break of five years.

As a member of the IMF team, they race against time to track down a dangerous terrorist called Hendricks who is planning an attack on the US.  One attempt to stop him ends in tragedy after an explosion causes severe damage to the Kremlin. This results in the president involving Ghost Protocol under which the IMF is disavowed and being offered no help or back-up.

Ethan and his team brave the odds with a fearless attitude, constantly in motion, undertaking some spectacular stunts along the way including Cruise dangling outside the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

The plot moves at break-neck speed between Budapest, Moscow, Dubai and Mumbai.

With Ghost Protocol, director Brad Bird delivers something extraordinary out of a recognisable storyline.

Cruise, who is surprisingly agile, is the real star (and the film’s executive producer), but the role of the female co-star is underplayed with Patton being one-dimensional.

However, Bollywood star Anil Kapoor is impressive in the small, but significant role of a Mumbai-based tycoon.

Puss in Boots: A delightful spin-off from the Shrek series, you will have fun trying to find out how Puss (Antonio Banderas) became an outlaw.

Arthur Christmas: A lively animated comedy in 3D, Santa’s younger son (James McAvoy) dashes across the world to deliver a misplaced present.

Restless: Gus Van Sant’s unusual, bittersweet romance for which you will need a pack of tissues. Australia’s Mia Wasikowska is a star.

Bollywood film: Don 2

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani, Lara Dutta, Kunal Kapoor, Om Puri

Director: Farhan Akhtar

This sequel sees Shah Rukh Khan return to anti-hero roles he carried off with aplomb earlier in his career (Anjaam, Baazigar, Darr).

This character is attractive, but wicked and immoral. SRK dons several disguises from looking debonair to being dishevelled.

The intrigue surrounds a scheme involving the robbery of currency printing plates from a bank.

The Don appears in Malaysia, gets arrested in order to get convicted Vardhan (Irani) out of jail as he has the keys to a video they is used to blackmail a bank VP to get access to the security system of a German bank.

This is an action film that sees the Don’s one-man army being introduced in Thailand, then there’s the convenient escape from a Malaysian prison and some predictable car chases in Germany.

Jason West does wonders with the exotic locations with some eye-catching cinematography through the French Riviera, the jungles of Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, Zurich and Berlin.

In this heist film, the bland first hour lacks thrills, while the energetic second keeps you on the edge of the seat.

It comes in a sleek package, has witty dialogues and worthy action sequences, but it needed a tight reign on the script.

The ‘wow’ factor is missing from the music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, even though the score has plenty of vigour.

Don 2 emulates the changing trends in Hindi cinema and redefines ‘slick’ in Bollywood.

Farhan Akhtar proves, yet again, that he is one of Hindi cinema’s stylish director/storytellers.

Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra star in ‘Don 2’.

Remastered 'Adventures of Tintin' capture the original sparkle

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‘The Adventures of Tintin’ has been remastered and released by Madman on DVD and Blu-Ray.

By Rama Gaind

Film: The Adventures of Tintin

Cast: Jamie Bell, Daniel Craig, Andy Serkis

Director: Steven Spielberg

FOR more than 80 years, Tintin and his loyal dog, Snowy, have been delighting readers of all ages with their adventures – garnering a legion of fans across the globe.

Now, Madman has released The Adventures of Tintin remastered on DVD and Blu-Ray for a whole new generation.

Intrepid reporter by trade, adventurer and detective by circumstance; Hergé’s Tintin is one of the world’s most popular and beloved comic book characters.

Together with Snowy, they have appeared in more than 120 million books, published in over 50 countries, and translated into 45 languages.

Featuring all 21 classic Tintin adventures across 39 episodes and five discs, The Adventures of Tintin animated series  is  highly-respected  and fondly remembered for its authenticity which effortlessly captures the globe-trotting, adventurous spirit of the original comic books.

The intricate plotlines of the series visit a variety of genres from swashbuckling  adventures on the high seas, to mystery, science fiction and political thrillers all  thrown in along the way.

This is an essential pick‐up for collectors, or even the casual Tintin fan, eager for more of his escapades.

Touch of finesse

The viewing experience is more memorable knowing that Steven Spielberg is at the helm. The maestro has always been at the cutting edge of film technology and special effects.

He is ahead of the game, working alongside CGI pioneer (Lord of the Rings) producer Peter Jackson and delivering bold action sequences that exceed expectations in terms of ingenuity, boldness and creativity.

The team has been astute in replicating the sparkling, vivid look of Herge’s original comic books and the sense of humour.

It’s also worth the effort in watching the eye-catching action sequences!

Two insightful Madman documentaries

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‘Pom Wonderful’ and ‘Page One’ are out on DVD from Madman.

By Rama Gaind

Two insightful new documentaries, released on DVD by Madman, witnesses the collision of the world of media and marketing.

Pom Wonderful and Page One are different when it comes to the tone and subject matter, but each excels in peeling back layers of the intrinsically linked worlds of media and advertising.

From Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Morgan Spurlock (Supersize Me), Pom Wonderful: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold is a feature length documentary that was fully financed through product placement, marketing and advertising.

With his trademark wit and insight, Spurlock jumps head first into the covert world of movie marketing, allowing audiences to look into the pitch meetings and product placement presentations that ultimately inform our everyday entertainment decisions.

He has an irresistible offer for the brands involved – for the right price, he will make the entire movie about them. No questions. No catches … but before he can make good on his pitch, he will have to face the everyday trials and legal ramifications of juggling so many brands in one basket.

On the other side of the media fence sits Page One: Inside the New York Times, a timely story of the struggle to maintain the relevance and integrity of newspaper journalism within a world that is increasingly pulling away from the printed word.

Page One gains unprecedented access to The New York Times newsroom and the inner workings of the media desk as the paper’s writers, editors and publishers grapple with existential challenges from players like WikiLeaks, new platforms in Twitter and tablet computers, and readers’ expectations that online news sources should be free.

Page One skillfully paints a nuanced portrait of journalists continuing to produce extraordinary work—under increasingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of the film is the burning question on the minds of everyone who cares about a rigorous press: what will happen if the fast-moving future of media leaves behind the fact-based, original reporting that helps to define our society?

Both films have to be seen to gain some shrewd insight.

Inaugural award nominations reveal Madman titles

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‘The Tall Man’ is out on DVD from Madman.

By Rama Gaind

A swag of SBS program (now available on DVD from Madman) are among nominations for the inaugural Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts Awards (Samsung AACTA Awards – formerly the AFI Awards) which were announced earlier this month.

The program are East West 101, Rockwiz and Immigration Nation, as well as The Tall Man, coming to DVD, 8 February, 2012.

The Tall Man has taken out four nominations in the feature-length documentary category including Best Feature Length Documentary.

Based on Chloe Hooper’s award-winning book, and from the makers of First Australians, The Tall Man is the story of Cameron Doomadgee, a resident of the tropical paradise of Palm Island who swore at a police officer one morning and lay dead in a prison cell 40 minutes later. It is also the story of that policeman – the tall, enigmatic Christopher Hurley and the struggle to bring him to trial.

Review of The Tall Man

A convincingly sad story, this film did not receive the attention that it was its due.

Adapted for the screen by Tony Krawitz, The Tall Man vividly hones in on life in the Palm Island community. In so doing, it draws outrage over the investigation into the death of Cameron Doomadgee, who was taken into custody and on entering the police station supposedly tripped. He was found dead with horrific injuries in his cell. The death of Cameron Doomadgee in the Palm Island police station in 2004 was tragic.

Many a court case has dealt with the numerous accounts of how he sustained those injuries.

This is an important film, in a fine documentary style, that has been dealt with sensitively.

The Tall Man was also recently awarded the prestigious Walkley Award for Excellence in Documentary. The Walkley Foundation introduced this new award category for Australia’s most highly regarded media accolades in 2011, as a part of the celebrations in the centenary of Australian journalism.

Other titles

Immigration Nation: The Secret History of Us, SBS’ in-depth exploration of our untold immigration story and the dramatic saga of how modern Australia came to be, has also picked up a nomination in the Best Documentary series category.

In the television category, the third series of the rivetting Sydney-based crime drama, East West 101 (which has taken out numerous AFI Awards in the past), has received four nominations in total, including Best Television Drama Series and Best Lead Actor in a Television Drama.

Meanwhile, Australia’s longest-running music trivia series, and also previous AFI Award winner, Rockwiz, took out a nomination in the Best Light Entertainment Television Series.

The winners will be announced at a red carpet ceremony to be held in Sydney and broadcast on the Nine Network on January 31, 2012.

Detecting Osteoporosis early is very much important

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Men and women suffer from osteoporosis. It can be prevented and treated, but it is often called the silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms. You may not know you have osteoporosis till your bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump or fall causes a fracture or a vertebra to collapse.
Early diagnosis is the key to prevent osteoporosis. Unfortunately, people believe they need not worry about osteoporosis until they are old. Many people in their early forty’s and less are now victims of this debilitating disease.

Estimation:
The national osteoporosis foundation of USA estimates that by 2035, countries like India and China will have the largest osteoporosis population in the world. One out of every two women and one in eight men over the age of fifty will have an osteoporosis related fracture in their lifetime.
The older you are, the more you are at risk of developing osteoporosis, as your bones become weaker and less dense as you age. Family history can also play an influential part in developing osteoporosis. Susceptibility to fracture may be, in part, hereditary. People whose parents have a history of fractures also seem to have reduced bone mass and may be at risk for fractures. Small, thin-boned women are at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis. Your chances of developing osteoporosis are greater if you are a woman. Women have less bone tissue and lose bone more rapidly than men because of the changes involved in menopause. Asian women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis as compared to African, American Russian and Latino women.

Detecting osteoporosis:
The DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) Bone Densitometry Scan in considered the gold standard in accurate and reliable diagnosis of osteoporosis. A fast simple examination, it is non-invasive, has minimal radiation exposure, high reproducibility and can measure bone mineral density at multiple sites.

The results of the DEXA bone density scan can:
a. Detect low bone density before a fracture occurs.
b. Confirm an osteoporosis diagnosis if you already have a fracture.
c. Predict your chances of fracturing in the future.
d. Determine your rate of bone loss and or monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.

Other methods of detecting osteoporosis include:
The Quantitative Computer Tomography, QCT, The Quantitative Ultra Sonography, QUS,. The QCT cannot take measurements of the hip. It has a high radiation doze and is costly. The QUS is inexpensive, radiation free and a very quick way to measure bone mass density. But due to poor precision, it must be complimented with DEXA scan before commencing on any long term treatment.
Detecting osteoporosis through X-rays is usually a subjective assessment, and the diagnosis cannot always be relied upon.

Camili Smith is a Medical Student and a freelancer who is specialized in writing. He is associated with many Pharmacies for whom he writes articles based on generic drugs and general health related issues. For more : http://www.zeepharmacy.com

Diverse range of films

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Ranbir Kapoor and Nargis Fakhri star in 'Rockstar'.

Film reviews

By Rama Gaind

Film: RA.One

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Shahana Goswami, Armaan Verma

Director: Anubhav Sinha

This overloaded sci-fi super hero film from Bollywood does actually have a story.

A geeky gaming expert, Shekhar Subramaniam (Shah Rukh Khan), rustles up a digital game to impress his son, Prateek (Armaan Verma).

It begins playing games and unleashes a malicious power, RA.One (Random Access One) and turns upon its creator and devours him.

There’s a touch of Bollywood thrown in for good measure with superhero G.One (jeevan, life force) who must protect Shekhar’s wife (Kareena) and his son and restore the reign of good over evil.

It delivers pure entertainment, is technically sound, has impressive cinematography and some toe-tapping musical numbers, but you take away flimsy impact.

Film: Rockstar

Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Nargis Fakhri, Shammi Kapoor, Shikha Jain, Piyush Mishra

Director/screenwriter: Imtiaz Ali

While this Bollywood film captures the magic of A.R. Rahman’s music, it misses out on the power of love.

It is the story of a young man Janardan (Kapoor) who is struggling to find himself both spiritually and artistically. He meets Heer (Fakhri) as students in college in Delhi.

As he begins ways to hone his talents – guitar in hand – Janardan (nicknamed Jordan) sings to any audience, thereby, providing the high point scenes of this film.

Rahman’s inspired music and convincing guitar and vocal performances by Kapoor are dampened by the lacklustre performance from Fakhri, a New York-born model of Pakistani and Czech descent.

The love story is disjointed and unexpected from from director Ali after his earlier hits, Jab We Met (2007) and Love Aaj Kal (2009).

* * * * * * * * * *

The Debt: A cracking pace is set for this thriller which stars Helen Mirren, Sam Worthington and Jessica Chastain about Israeli agents pursuing a Nazi war criminal.

Midnight in Paris: In a charming fantasy from Woody Allen, a would-be novelist (Owen Wilson) travels back in time and meets his literary and artistic idols.

Drive: This is a stylish heist thriller, complete with violence, starring Ryan Gosling, with a surprisingly menacing take from Albert Brooks.

Contagion: A deadly pandemic ravages the world in this level-headed disaster flick starring Matt Damon and a host of (coughing) stars.

Don’t Know How She Does It: The woes of being a working mother unfold in this lighthearted comedy which stars Sarah Jessica Parker.

'The Debt' is a thriller which stars Helen Mirren and Sam Worthington.

Penthouse magic at the Diamant Hotel

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The spacious lounge and dining areas in the penthouse at the Diamant Hotel, in Potts Point, has a balcony for expansive views.

By RAMA GAIND

IT’S very easy to feel on top of the world – at the Diamant Hotel in Sydney, especially when it comes to soaking up the urban vibe – in the luxury penthouse.

Overlooking the city’s skyline and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 12th floor, three-bedroom penthouse combines contemporary luxury living with rock star glamour, located moments from Sydney’s most vibrant quarter.

Designed by renowned architects Burley Katon Halliday, the state-of-the-art entertainment systems, floor-to-ceiling windows, sun-drenched living spaces and private access with high-tech security creates an oasis in the sky for the sophisticated world traveller.

The Diamant is located in the heart of Kings Cross, Potts Point and Darlinghurst triangle, offering Sydney’s biggest and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs.

The three bedrooms are designed with practicality in mind: the lounge room, in the middle is flanked on the one side by two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, a massive kitchen (almost of commercial proportions) and the main bedroom which has its own separate wing with a spacious en-suite bathroom with spa bath, powder room and a smaller balcony.

Comfort is of the essence here. The lounge room and dining area are open plan with room for a 10-seater dining table. The adjoining balcony with sweeping views is a magnificent vantage point to watch the sunrise and sunset.

The kitchen is a chef’s delight: with huge preparation table, cooking hotplates, dishwasher and hot water. Views from the kitchen take in Rushcutters Bay and Double Bay.

If you don’t want to cook, the penthouse comes with a butler service, on request, and is available for short- or long-term accommodation, product launches, photo shoots, private dinners and memorable occasions.

The main bedroom was amazing: walk-in bathroom, ‘his’ and ‘hers’ hand basins, separate shower and toilet and a spa bath. The firm mattress and pillows on the king size bed made for a good night’s rest.  That long line of built-in cupboards – wow – I want them in my home!

Abundant adventures

My adventurous streak was stroked beyond expectations during my short stay in Potts Point.

One of the trendiest suburbs in Sydney, just 3km east of the CBD, this stylish suburb is wedged between ritzy Elizabeth Bay, iconic Woolloomooloo and nightclub mecca Kings Cross. Said to have one of the highest population densities in Australia, Potts Point is a snakes and ladders patchwork of historic mansions converted to quaint guesthouses, intimate waterholes, eateries and fashion outlets.

Minutes walk to Oxford Street, Darling Hour, Circular Quay, CBD, Chinatown, cinemas, shops, St Vincent’s Hospital, galleries and Kings Cross Station.

The streets are tree-lined, pavements are wide and you get a hint of Euro-style urban elegance.

Stroll down Macleay Street, and Potts Point’s lavish history jumps to life. Named after banker Joseph Potts, elaborate Georgian manors were built on large blocks of land, later to be pulled down in the 1930s to make way for a distinctive new architectural style – art deco.

Make your way down to Orwell Street for a look at the gorgeous art deco building in The Metro which originally showed the groundbreaking musical, Hair, in the 1960s.

Walk to Challis Street for a cluster of great dining out options and continue into Victoria Street’s Embarkation Park that offers views and a chance to commune with nature in the heart of the city.

Whatever you do, a visit to this sophisticated little suburb is sure to be a highlight of your Sydney stay.

Pampered beyond belief, it was unfortunate that I stayed at the Diamant on my own. Come with your family and make it your base for the 2012 Sydney Festival – a three-week celebration of music, dance, opera, theatre and art – between January 7-29, 2012.

Mary Poppins, the musical

Make the hotel your base if you are looking for another type of entertainment and go see Mary Poppins – The Supercalifragilistic Musical at the Capitol Theatre, in Sydney.

A splendid adaptation of the beloved books by Australia’s own P.L.Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, the spectacular production includes all of the best- loved songs from the film including Chim Chim Cher-Ee, A Spoonful of Sugar, Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the Birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and new classics like Practically Perfect and Anything Can Happen.

Mary Poppins features an impeccable Australian cast including Matt Lee best-known for his judging role on the hugely successful So You Think You Can Dance, Philip Quast, Debra Byrne, Judi Connelli, Sally-Anne Upton, David Henry and Christopher Rickerby and after an extensive Australia-wide search for the practically perfect nanny, Verity Hunt-Ballard in the title role.

It’s a magical world with commendable performances.

The musical will play at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, in Brisbane in January 2012 before going to Perth in March.

WHERE TO STAY

Diamant Hotel (part of 8Hotels group)

14 Kings Cross Road,

Potts Point, NSW 2011

Telephone: (02) 9295 8888; freecalll 1800 037 544

Email: [email protected]

www.diamant.com.au

www.8hotels.com

Rama Gaind was a guest of Diamant Hotel, Potts Point.

The ensuite bathroom in the penthouse of the main bedroom at the Diamant Hotel is very spacious.

Christmas cheer being spread at the Swissôtel Sydney

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Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street, where the Christmas celebrations are on in earnest for 2011.

By Rama Gaind

CHRISTMAS is all about giving, caring and sharing and it will be a month full of warmth, love, colour and joyful laughter as Swissôtel Sydney with its inaugural Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program until December 24, 2011.

The Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program aims to grant the Christmas wishes of disadvantaged children around Australia with the assistance of charitable organisation – A Start in Life. 250 simple and endearing wish cards, handwritten by the children, are hung on the hotel’s almost 6 metre Christmas tree in the lobby.

The public and hotel guests are encouraged to grant these affordable, heartwarming Christmas wishes by picking one or two or as many wishes from the tree to put a smile on the faces of the children.

A dedicated Christmas Wish Counter is available from 10am to 5pm at the hotel lobby on Level 8 until Christmas Eve to assist guests in the wish granting process. All presents received will be sent to the children with the help of A Start in Life.

According to the general manager of Swissôtel Sydney, Daniel Fueglister, “We are just as excited as the children and their families to be able to make their Christmas dreams come true. The Christmas Tree of Hope Program is a unique one as its main objective is to give the children exactly what they want for Christmas. With wishes as simple as a soft toy or a gift card, we do hope to be able to fulfill all 250 wishes and make this charity program an annual event”.

Spirit of Christmas

A Christmas tree, the largest gingerbread house in the city and feasts fit for royalty.

Crackling fireplaces and white snowy rooftops are not exactly what you would expect to see in Sydney, but the spirit of Christmas is obvious at Swissôtel Sydney as the hotel showcases the city’s largest gingerbread house and a bejewelled Christmas Tree until December 25, 2011 along with a host of other festive activities. Stumble upon a child’s dream come true at the hotel lobby on Level 8 and discover the city’s largest gingerbread house deliciously decorated with giant gingerbread tiles.

At 2 metres tall, the gingerbread house is a life-size play house the little ones can call their own. Adjacent to the gingerbread house stands an almost 6 metre bejewelled Christmas tree with 250 hand- written wish cards bearing the Christmas wishes from disadvantaged children living in Australia. Aptly named The Christmas Tree of Hope, their simple and endearing wishes are open to be granted by hotel guests and the public and can be done at the hotel’s Wish Counter also located at the hotel lobby.

Not to be missed out, the warm sense of the festive cheer is abundant at Jpb Restaurant and Crossroads Bar. Get a taste of festive joy over a selection of Swissôtel Sydney’s very own honey flavoured Christmas cocktails or indulge in a hearty mug of eggnog at Crossroads Bar from December 12-25.

Yuletide favourites

Serving up a charming spread of Yuletide favourites, Jpb Restaurant’s Christmas Eve set dinner and Christmas Day buffets are a gastronomic affair. Enjoy an intimate Christmas Eve celebration over a well deserved 3-course Christmas set dinner priced at $80 for adults and $40 for children or opt for a lighter option of a 2-course set dinner at $65 for adults and $34 for children. The Christmas Eve set dinner menus include dishes such as Kervella goats curd wrapped in katifi pastry with beetroot carpaccio and cabernet sauvignon dressing, Berkshire pork belly with pickled baby vegetables and brioche farce and White chocolate pannacotta with lychee and raspberry salad.

To celebrate the season of joy, Jpb Restaurant’s lunch and dinner buffet spread on Christmas Day will ensure guests have a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary Christmas favourites ranging from fresh seafood choices and traditional Christmas fare that include organic turkey with cranberry pan juices, Tasmanian smoked salmon with preserved lemon, chives and baby capers, chilled Gold Coast tiger prawns with dippers and squeezers and blanched asparagus with poached egg, shaved parmesan and lemon oil salad.

To end on a sweet note, a dessert wonderland of Christmas pudding with brandy custard, warm mince pie with kirsch butter and Lindt chocolate fountain, to name a few treats. The Christmas Day buffet lunch and dinner is priced at $105 for adults and $55 for children. Be sure to look out for Santa as he makes a special appearance during lunch with a bag filled with goodies for the little ones.

Donate to the Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program and book now for Christmas Eve dinner and Jpb Restaurant’s lunch and dinner buffet on Christmas Day. You’ll be so glad you did!

DETAILS

Swissôtel Sydney

68 Market Street

Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9238 8828

www.swissotel.com/sydney

Traditional Christmas fare at the Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street.

Swissôtel Sydney: at the ‘top of their game’

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Executive chef Justin Zammit at the Swissôtel Sydney.
Executive chef Justin Zammit at the Swissôtel Sydney.

By RAMA GAIND

MARRIAGES, anniversaries and birthdays are among special occasions that become more memorable if you celebrate them in lavish surrounds. One such venue is the Swissôtel Sydney.

In the heart of the city, in Market Street, the honeymoon suite (for my newly-married son and his wife) was very indulgent. The spacious rooms had spectacular views of the city and as they said, “we really felt like we were in the thick of things”.

The bathroom was huge, the bed was more than comfortable and it was the extra-special gestures that were most appreciated: champagne on ice, the colourful bouquet with lilies, roses and gerberas were “really big, spectacular, and super fresh” and the chocolate-covered strawberries were a delicious touch.

There was a Nespresso coffee machine too and the room even came with a Wii!

The newlyweds said, “There was really nothing about the room that wasn’t great!”

What’s more, if you stay at the Swissôtel you will get to sample the best gastronomic feasts created by executive chef Justin Zammit.

Good culinary techniques

Justin is not only the executive chef, but he is also a pragmatist who is aware of the pitfalls of the hospitality industry and the need to be one step ahead of the rest.

With 15 years in the industry, Justin has travelled the world, has banqueting experience, has developed a passion and knowledge for French cuisine and prides himself on his high-quality cooking techniques.

Justin feels that one of the most important things about creating new and innovative dishes is to treat each ingredient with respect while honing good culinary techniques you can call your own.

“People are educated about food these days,” Justin said. “We are on the cutting edge … in a competitive market you have to be at the top of your game, if you want to cut the mustard.”

While serving “trendy, modern, classic cuisine”, it is also important for him to ensure “not to over-complicate food, it should be good quality, simple, clean and healthy”.

While corporate business forms the main core of guests at Swissôtel, Justin is conscious that “it’s important to attract new business”.

Scrumptious high tea

One popular attraction at Swissôtel is partaking of high tea. It is trendy. During a week day it is a tier service that starts with a glass of champagne followed by an excellent selection of sandwiches, tea or coffee and the sweets include a delicious array of scones and jam, trifle, profiteroles, donut, brulee and much more.

“It’s very popular, we do up to 60-70 covers a day and Swissotel is the only hotel that does it on the weekend,” Justin said.

“The chocolate fountain is very popular … it’s not surprising to be reminded of Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory … and that evokes emotions of the child inside you. There’s also basil cake, gin and tonic lollipop, even a candy buffet can be requested!

Jpb Restaurant has a seasonal menu that doesn’t stay static, but is constantly reviewed.

“If a dish is on the menu and not popular we replace it with something else. We pick on the strengths of clients and develop what they want. It’s all about demographics.”

Justin’s ‘biggest inspiration’

It was his grandmother who instilled the love of food in him. “She was my biggest inspiration.”

Food is a particular art and chefs are “left of centre”. With an Italian background, food was a part of his everyday life.

“You have to find new ways of winning diners over. In a market where new hotels and restaurants are opening their doors and hospitality enterprises are vying for your share of the business, you have to learn to stay ahead of the game.”

Justin is big on introducing new ideas. Presentation is aesthetically pleasing because you “eat first with your eyes”.

His epicurean hands are able to whip up wondrous recipes from combinations of solid base enhanced with unique ingredients to create a gastronomical wonder that’s built around creativity.

Justin has artfully shaped an authentic menu inspired by the region, using the freshest and finest of Australian and imported produce.

Justin is also a forward planner: with two children under three years of age, he is also conscious of the need to look at options for the future. He has achieved professional qualifications which will give him options in food and beverage management or to teach at TAFE.

Justin’s style is simple, but effective!

Rama Gaind was a guest of Swissôtel Sydney.

DETAILS BOX

Swissôtel Sydney

68 Market Street, Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9238 8888

Email: [email protected]

www.swissotel.com.au

Executive one-bedroom suite at the Swissôtel Sydney.
Celebrate memorable occasions at the Swissôtel Sydney.

Savour the best from New Zealand ’s north and south islands

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WaiOra Hellsgate, Rotorua, where you get to traverse the geothermal park and bathe in the mud pools. Photo: Rama Gaind
The main entrance to Te Puia, in Rotorua, is called Te Heketanga a Rangi (heavenly origins). Twelve monumental contemporary carvings reach skywards, each representing a celestial guardian in Te Arawa culture.

By RAMA GAIND

HOW can one particular travel experience take centre stage when there were so many unforgettable moments in New Zealand? Both north and south islands are immense, lusciously green and feature diverse landscapes.

The changing countryside will amaze: within a day or two’s drive you can see rugged mountains, picturesque fiords, spectacular glaciers, rolling hillsides, vast plains, subtropical forest, volcanic plateau and miles of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches.

Much of these landscapes are protected by National Parks with thousands of kilometres of walks and trails opening their beauty to the public.

Here is a thumbnail sketch of some of the highlights I just experienced in Christchurch Canterbury and the Banks Peninsula followed by Rotorua and the Hamilton Waikato region.

Garden City of Christchurch

South island’s largest city, Christchurch reveals heritage of early English settlers in the architecture of older buildings. The Garden City pulsates with positive vibes: rebuilding and moving forward from the devastating earthquakes earlier this year.

CEO of Christchurch Canterbury Tourism Tim Hunter is optimistic about the future. An estimated $30 billion is being put into the reconstruction program.

Apart from the Christchurch Cathedral, other prominent places of interest  include the beautiful Neo-Gothic Arts Centre,  Canterbury Museum and the Botanical Gardens. These gardens are an oasis in the city featuring more than 50 acres of beautiful horticultural displays, several conservatories, memorials, garden art and walking tracks.

You have to see the Botanic Gardens from the Avon River onboard an Edwardian punt followed by unwinding at the Peppers Clearwater Resort. Make your way to Governor’s Bay and discover the magic of SHE Chocolat and tantalise your sweet tooth.

Be dazzled by the beautiful harbours, volcanic hills and passes and hidden bays as you make your way to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula. Here you get a chance to   marvel at the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, little blue penguins and a myriad of bird life. Lake Ellesmere (Te Waihora) and Lake Forsyth (Te Waiwera) is home to over 100 species of local and migratory birds.

Freshen up at the Akaroa Village Inn, then take lessons from Lou and Ant Bentley from the Akaroa Cooking School who have put their heart and soul into this venture.

The Giant’s House is a historic residence with original artworks, terraced gardens with sculptures and mosaics that are the brainchild of Josie Martin. Visit the Canterbury Museum and see real fun, cool, design exhibits together with ‘real’ people.

Back in Christchurch stay at the Huntley Lodge that’s set in park-like gardens in a tranquil, secluded environment, offering all the charms of yesteryear, combined with modern luxuries.

Rotorua highlights

Rotorua straddles two tectonic plates and sits on the Pacific Rim of Fire which has resulted in some spectacular geothermal areas and volcanoes, some of which are still active.  You can see this geothermal activity close up with spouting geysers, hot water and bubbling mud pools.

An authentic introduction to Maori culture awaits you at the Mitai Maori Village. Then visit Te Puia, New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where the traditional welcome – the Powhiri – is an exciting start to the evening. Be thrilled by the challenge of Maori warriors or the spine-tingling cry of Maori women as they welcome you in their powerful and time-honoured way.

Be in awe as you explore the heart of Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, with Pohutu geyser illuminated as a natural and spectacular backdrop.

For fine dining, fine wine, good company and fabulous entertainment make a point of visiting the Spanish mission-style Blue Baths, set in the tranquil beauty of Rotorua’s Government Gardens.

Holiday Inn Rotorua is ideal for a convention with great views of the renowned Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and Historic Village.

A guided tour by KiaOra Guided City Walks around Government Gardens proved enlightening. The pace picked up slightly at redwood forest (Whakarewarewa) after participating in a guided mountain bike tour. We also traversed the geothermal park and bathed in the mud pools at WaiOra Hellsgate. Comforting.

Amazing Hamilton Waikato

As you drive to Hamilton on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, be amazed at the world-famous Glowworm and Ruakuri caves, enjoy a lamb burger at HuHu Café and after dinner at the Smith & McKenzie Restaurant, a vibrant New York-style steak house, spend the night at Kingsgate Hotel.

An hour’s drive the next morning gets you to Raglan, a popular destination for artists, surfers and local weekend holidaymakers alike. See the town on a Bike 2 Bay tour, cruise on the ‘Wahinemoe’ partaking of a barbecue lunch, be fascinated by the knowledge that Charlie Young, director of Discover Raglan, has amassed and be stunned by the rugged scenery and Whaingaroa harbour.

Travel to Manu Bay in an electric bus to see the famous surfbreak. This is followed by a 17-kilometre quadbike safari … for the first-time ever. Couldn’t have done it without the confidence boost from Percy Kukutai and Dennis Holland!

After my nerves were calm, the sumptuous dinner at Orca went down well, followed by a good night’s rest at the Raglan Sunset Motel.

Raglan Scenic Tours took us to view Bridal Veil Falls, a spectacular 55-metre cascade near Raglan that’s set in a beautiful native bush reserve.

En route to Rotorua International Airport a lunch stop in quirky Tirau uncovers  funky corrugated iron animals and sculptures.

This was an unbelievable, ever-memorable, welcome to New Zealand. Kia Ora!

Rama Gaind was a guest of Tourism New Zealand, Destination Rotorua Marketing and Hamilton & Waikato Tourism

DETAILS BOX

Getting there

Air New Zealand has regular flights from Australia to New Zealand. Check out the website at:

www.airnewzealand.com.au

For more information on New Zealand destinations, visit:

www.newzealand.com

www.christchurchnz.com

www.rotoruanz.com

www.hamiltonwaikato.com

The undulating, lusciously green countryside in Hamilton Waikato, New Zealand. Photo: Rama Gaind
Bridal Veil Falls, a spectacular 55-metre cascade near Raglan. Photo: Rama Gaind

Abundance of ‘happiness and joy’ in Koh Samui

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The Big Buddha is an awe-inspiring attraction in Koh Samui, Thailand. Photo: Rama Gaind

By RAMA GAIND

The Seatran Ferry quickly picked up speed leaving the terminal from Donsak as I watched the soaring white statue of Buddha fast disappearing behind us, crossing the Gulf of Thailand, to Koh Samui.

The vessel glided across the waters heading for Thailand’s third largest island with a population of 50,000 and an area of 228.7sqkm. The journey was just over 105 minutes.

The eyes on the horizon revealed, in the distance, cliffs around the sea featuring a growing warren of buildings of every size and description. Among them were resorts with distinctive five-star furnishings, exquisite cuisine and matchless views that took your breath away.

One such destination, Hansar Samui, just 10 minutes from the airport offered the true essence of Thai hospitality. A stunning 74-room beachfront property, it is truly a cool oasis in the centre of a tropical stretch of golden sands and turquoise waters of Koh Samui’s upmarket Bophat Bay.

The location is superb and centre stage is the shimmering, infinity-edge saltwater swimming pool, just a few steps from the beach. Tranquil surrounds. Wow!

It’s aptly named: Hansar is from Sanskrit and means happiness and joy. The concept, philosophy, location and service are a perfect fit aimed at ensuring that guests have a happy, enjoyable and memorable sojourn. Hansar Samui is about living life in full colour and finding joy in every moment.

After the check-in formalities were over, another surprise was in store being escorted to my spacious room. The accommodation provided a front row seat to the idyllic island life as every room had unobstructed sea views and private balconies.

Chic custom furnishings and amenities balance the design’s natural touches with a modern flair. Walk-in rain showers and free-standing tubs were additional highlights of the Hansar Samui experience.

Delectable evening

Feeling refreshed, the time was right to partake of canapés and sunset cocktails at the elevated Chill Lounge before ending the day at the resort’s signature restaurant – H Bistro. Here it was a delectable evening as executive chef Stephen Dion showcased his French Mediterranean culinary specialties in addition to some Thai delicacies.

He creates a unique and memorable epicurean experience for resort guests where they can appreciate the authentic tastes.

Carefully selected fresh Maine lobsters and oysters are flown from Canada, Japan and France. The menu is complemented by a hand-picked list of international wines and champagnes, reflecting the resort’s commitment to creating a truly epicurean experience.

An array of dishes including turbot and pork were delicious, but it was the desserts that appealed to all: pineapple ravioli, pistachio crème brulee, warm chocolate-melted cake with vanilla ice cream, cheese cake and pannacotta. Divine!

Compliments were flowing thick and fast for Stephen.

Hansar hospitality

Nothing but the best will do for Hansar Samui. General manager Indra Budiman, displayed a passionate enthusiasm for Hansar hospitality, elaborating on the wide range of activities, both in the resort and around the island.

Mr Budiman, with extensive experience in the hospitality industry spanning 18 years, pointed out that Stephen Dion focused on combining the right array of simple textures and flavours with the finest ingredients which were sourced worldwide, while still ensuring value-for-money.

It was at his suggestion that our group was taken on an escorted sightseeing tour. It takes about two hours to drive around the island, with the north and east coast ideal for swimming; it was well worth the trip.

Highlights included a visit to see the 15m high Big Buddha; beautiful, long white sand Chaweng beach; scenic point at Kao Hua Jook Pagoda; Lad Koh, a lookout point with spectacular views; and no visit is complete unless you go to Lamai Beach to see the grandfather and grandmother rocks. Amazing work from mother nature!

Fisherman’s Village

A leisurely stroll down the quaint cobblestone ‘walking street’ adjacent to the resort, is the vibrant Fisherman’s Village, with its antique wooden shopfronts, chic cafes and atmospheric seaside bars including the Bondi Aussie Bar & Grill.

Going to the Friday night market, strolling down the Fisherman’s Village walking street was not only a chance to meet fellow Indians, but also an opportunity to pick up some wonderful souvenirs.

Walked into the Samui Armani store and Jeet Bahadur, owner/tailor of Samui Armani store, was assisted by his nephew Tej Bahadur. Owner of the Kohinoor Indian Restaurant, K.P. Pandey, was busy serving customers with help from nephew Bimlesh Kumar, Jyoti from Burma and Gopal Mahato.

The evening came to a nostalgic end with dinner at Krua Bophut where a mixed selection of songs from the 60s, 70s and 80s – from such artists as Burt Bacharach, Dionne Warwick, the Carpenters and Frank Sinatra – brought many happy memories hurtling back.

Luksa pampering

Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the Luksa Sumui spa experience – it’s invigorating!

Luksa (Sanskrit for ‘healing – health through water’) combines ancient Thai healing methods based on the four body elements of earth, water, air and fire. These need to be balanced throughout life.

A comprehensive massage is revitalising, having energy and flexibility restored to your body is extraordinary and a feeling of wellbeing is overwhelming.

It’s a pleasurable haven – and that’s not just for the senses!

Rama Gaind was a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand with accommodation in Koh Samui hosted by Hansar Samui.

DETAILS BOX

Hansar Samui

101/28 Moo 1, Bo Phut

Samui 84320

Telephone: +66 77 245 511

Email: [email protected]

Visit the website at http://www.hansarsamui.com/

Getting there

Contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Sydney, on (02) 9247 7549 or visit www.tourismthailand.org

Fast facts, visit: http://www.tourismthailand.org/about-thailand/

Flight details

Thai Airways International flies 42 flights a week between Australia and Thailand

with easy connections to Thai’s domestic network; twice daily from Sydney and

Melbourne, daily from Brisbane and seven-a-week from Perth (including three non-stops to Phuket). Connections are also available with Bangkok Airways domestic network.

Check out: www.thaiairways.com.au

Hansar Samui has a picturesque location in Koh Samui, Thailand.

Appealing film from ensemble cast

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Film Reviews

By Rama Gaind

CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE: Hilarity in heartbreak is found when Cal (Steve Carell), dumped by his wife (Julianne Moore), gets a manly makeover from Jacob (Ryan Gosling) in a darkly funny ensemble piece.

In addition, Jacob finds himself falling for sprightly lawyer Hannah (Emma Stone).

An appealing cast, an incisive script and some pleasant lines stop the ensemble love examination to tumble into a banal absurdity.

Co-directors, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, save it from crumbling.  At times unbelievable, it provides intense entertainment with astute takes on infatuation and affection.

NORWEGIAN WOOD: Overlong it is, but Haruki Murakami’s novel of love and loss among Japanese students in the 1960s is a touching film.

THE CUP: Picking up in the home stretch, Damien Oliver’s moving Melbourne Cup victory gets insipid handling.

FOOTLOOSE: A lacklustre remake of Kevin Bacon’s 1984 hit, this film sees young people disobeying rules in a town where teenage dancing is banned.

THE SMURFS: kids will enjoy the antics of the little blue people in New York while parents will appreciate the gags aimed at them.

Diverse Bollywood films

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'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' is a Bollywood film.

FILM REVIEWS

BY RAMA GAIND

FROM BOLLYWOOD

ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA: Zoya Akhtar is one Indian female director who is intrepid in the way she shoots, intent on presenting a wholesome cinematic experience.

“Live today as if there is no tomorrow” is a well-worn phrase that delivers with an understated emotionality in this romcom, buddy-buddy, road trip that comes together beautifully as a great feel-good film.

After Kabir (Abhay Deol) becomes engaged to Natasha (Kalki Koechlin) he goes on an extended bachelor party with his two best friends — Imran (Farhan Akhtar) and Arjun (Hrithik Roshan) — on a road trip they had actually planned together four years earlier. They go to Spain after agreeing to each pick an extreme sport: Arjun picks skydiving — and Imran is afraid of heights. Kabir chooses deep sea diving and Arjun can’t swim. Imran tops them both with the most dangerous activity of all — the Pamplona Running of the Bulls as part of the San Fermin Festival.

They discover that the point of all this risk-taking was to help them confront and overcome their fears. By realising that the sweetness of life was in the face of death, each man achieves a personal breakthrough.

Arjun makes a strong emotional connection with their diving instructor, Laila (Katrina Kaif), who instantly recognises his airs as defensiveness. She makes him realise the importance of being “free”.

Abhay is the group’s anchor, Farhan’s prankster is full of beans and Hrithik’s transformation from an uptight, money-hungry stockbroker to carefree wanderer is a refined act.

The catchy music and score is composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy with meaningful lyrics by Javed Akhtar.

Zoya Akhtar is an expert storyteller with a visual sense that has no dialogue, giving enough details to make an impact and revealing enough backtrack story to make her characters complex without overwhelming the plot.

MAUSAM (Season): An old-fashioned romance underlies this eternal journey of love between Harry and Aayat, spanning 10 years, that loses its appeal over nearly three hours.

The love blossoms between Harinder Singh (Shahid Kapoor) and Aayat (Sonam Kapoor) against the backdrop of several political events: 9/11 terror attack, Mumbai bomb blast, Ayodhya dispute, Kargil war and Gujarat riots. The world seethes to the fury and gives way to the violence, but it’s disconcerting to see that the couple constantly struggle to be together.

The film has a refreshing start, with plenty of atmosphere enhanced by Shahid’s boyish optimism and Sonam’s bashful femininity. Shahid, as an Indian Air Force pilot, looks dashing and Sonam was more enchanting with her native innocence than a diva persona.

Binod Pradhan’s cinematography captures it all concisely with sweet music by Pritam.

However, Pankaj Kao’s screenplay lets it down as does first-time director Pankaj Kapoor who loses control with sluggish, temperamental pace which even overseas backdrops in Scotland and Switzerland could not compensate.

Doesn’t live up to expectations.

MERE BROTHER KI DULHAN (My Brother’s Bride): The heart guides this Bollywood movie, and the singing, dancing and settings, including the Taj Mahal, are stunning.

The lively, good-natured romantic musical comedy gives up it plot in the first 10 minutes and the remaining 130-plus are spent weaving your way through many plot twists and turns, amid an excess of pleasant musical numbers making for lots of fun to the end.

Debut director Ali Abbas Zafar strings it all together fairly well.

In another romantic film, Katrina Kaif enacts her lively, spunky, rockstar babe role with ease, as against the mellowed Imran Khan.

Kaif carries the film on her agile shoulders, displaying a range in her acting for the first time. Her lively, energetic, rock star babe role has been enacted with ease. While she might have overdone the act int some places, you really can’t ignore it because that is what the character of pretty Dimple is all about – animated, impulsive, nonchalantly unafraid, amusing and spirited.

Music by Sohail Sen is good. Cinematography by Sudeep Chatterjee catches the eye.

Sonam Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor in 'Mausam'.