Sandra‘s Closet

This week, I had the best time visiting Langebaan, a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa on the eastern shore of Langebaan Lagoon, situated 120 km north of Cape Town. I visited South Africa last time 23 years ago and was really happy to be back.

The white sand beaches surrounding the clear waters of the Langebaan Lagoon are one of the main attractions of the city. The mild climate and protected waters of the lagoon make Langebaan popular for sailing, kayaking, kitesurfing and fishing, and the town offers numerous holiday facilities for water sport enthusiasts. As you can see, the wind conditions were perfect for kitesurfing that day, and bad for my hair :-).

Bird-watchers also love to visit the area to view the over 300 species of birds found in the lagoon waters of the West Coast National Park. The park is most busy during the spring flower season (August to September) when the wild flowers are in bloom. Whales can be spotted during October and November.

Large-scale sporting events such as triathlons, the downwind dash, cycling, car gymkhanas and more are held here. A monthly craft market as well as art exhibitions through the year, showcase the talents of local artists. Community events includes the church bazaar and the annual Langebaan Mussel Festival, which takes place on the first weekend of October.

After kitesurfing, I recommend having a Savanna Dry, South Africa’s most loved cider that is best enjoyed with a slice of lemon, at the Wunderbar. As the place offers an unspoiled view of the lagoon, it is beautiful to enjoy a sundowner there.

For dinner, I went to Queens Cottage Wood-Fired Kitchen. If you are a meat lover, you are in the right place to enjoy a mouth-watering, wholesome and flavorful wood-fired cuisine.

To burn off the calories, I went sokkie dancing at Die Watergat.  It is a style of social ballroom dance with a partner, also referred to in Afrikaans as «langarm».

I had the best time in Langebaan, and cannot wait to hopefully be back soon.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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In homage to the Maison’s trunk-making heritage, the Flight Mode capsule collection celebrates Louis Vuitton’s spirit of travel with timeless designs. Created to accompany this season’s escapades, the series of enveloping pieces reveal sumptuous, cozy materials.

Perfect travel outfits for your next flight – cozy, yet stylish, I am in love!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Since 1898, RIMOWA has positioned itself as a pioneer of refined travel, combining expert craftsmanship, functional design, and an innovative spirit to create thoughtful travel tools for discerning travelers. Throughout this history, the German Maison has forged new frontiers with its creations, joining forces with visionary partners along the way to redefine the boundaries of travel. Today, RIMOWA continues this tradition with a new collaboration with global luxury jeweler Tiffany & Co.

Representing the union of two powerhouses in their respective industries, the new collaboration redefines the boundaries of travel for your most treasured items on your upcoming journeys.The collection features a new RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Case, a RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Rock Cut Cabin suitcase, and a RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Personal.

The RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Case features a «Rock Cut» artwork that mirrors a diamond’s unique facets—a nod to Tiffany & Co.’s legendary designs—offering an intriguing and tactile experience when interacting with RIMOWA’s signature grooved aluminium surface. Made in Germany using an aluminium-brushed technique, the distinctive «Rock Cut» design features a subtle nod to the renowned jewelry house, with its emblematic ‘T’ motif artfully inscribed within the pattern.

The new Jewelry Case features the iconic Tiffany Blue® hue throughout its exterior, on its handle and its sealing. Made to safeguard treasured jewelry at home or during travel, the case spans three levels. Opening from the top for easy access, travelers will first find a large mirror with a silver plaque underneath which can be engraved. The case opens to a topmost sealed tray with five compartments to store rings and other jewelry. Featuring specially designed leather loops, the middle tray is designed to hold necklaces and bracelets while the below tray features three large spaces designed to store cherished pieces.

The RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Rock Cut Cabin Suitcase features the intricately patterned «Rock Cut» artwork as well. To complete the design, the Classic suitcase takes on a new look with its handles, luggage tag, and wheels in Tiffany Blue®. The suitcase’s interior is also embellished with the iconic hue, featuring Tiffany Blue® straps and leather details that feature the two brands’ logos.

RIMOWA’s signature polycarbonate takes on the color of Tiffany Blue® entirely in the creation of the new RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Personal. Adopting a new function, the case’s interior—which is harmoniously saturated in the distinctive hue—features six jewelry compartments to store your most precious belongings during travel. Its exterior features RIMOWA and Tiffany & Co.’s logos at its center, inscribed between two Tiffany Blue® leather straps.

The RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Rock Cut Cabin (RRP €2900 / CHF 3080), the RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Case (RRP € 3900 / CHF 4140), and the RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Personal (RRP € 1800 / CHF 1910) will be made available at select RIMOWA stores worldwide and online at RIMOWA.com. The RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. collection will also be available in the U.S. at the Tiffany & Co. Landmark in New York City and on Tiffany.com in Greater China via WeChat.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Rimowa
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Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny are the new faces of Gucci Valigeria. The House’s latest campaign embraces the spirit of «Gucci Ancora», as a celebration of the love that lies at the centre of Gucci’s community.

Shot in an airport, the meeting place where journeys begin, the campaign explores the intimacy of traveling together through the creative lens of Anthony Seklaoui. Stills capture the fleeting spirit of Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny’s airport stroll, redefining the Jet Set glamour of the 1990s.

Effortlessly casual and chic looks complement the timeless elegance that defines the House’s travel collections. Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny carry items from the signature Gucci Savoy collection including GG Supreme duffle bags in different sizes, backpacks, rigid suitcases, and trolleys distinguished by a combination of heritage-infused design elements such as the GG monogram and/or the Web stripe. The campaign also introduces novel designs defined by fluorescent leather details alongside embossed GG rubberized leather styles.

Through this Valigeria campaign, Gucci pays tribute to its founding history and heralds a new era of adventure and luxury travel in line with the vision of Creative Director Sabato De Sarno.

I find this campaign really cute. And you?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci  Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno Artistic Director: Riccardo Zanola Director: Nikita Kuzmeko Photographer: Anthony Seklaoui Make-Up KJ: Mary Phillips Make-Up BB: Mira Chai Hyde Hair: Paul Hanlon Stylist: Alastair McKimm Talents: Kendall Jenner & Bad Bunny
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If you are in Mykonos, a shopping trip to NAMMOS VILLAGE is a must for every fashion lover. Just picture this: your favourite brands in the whole world await in an amazing location under the sun at the famous Psarou beach.

12.000 m2 full of green and water elements with special art pieces create the ideal essence of luxury, 10’ away from Mykonos town, combining the Nammos beach life and gastronomic adventure with a high end shopping catwalk.

Each year on July 17, the iconic NAMMOS VILLAGE Party takes place where the high end fashion houses invite their top customers from all over the world for a night under the stars. I was guest of VALENTINO and flew in for this occasion.

After a wonderful cocktail reception and some shopping, we enjoyed a seated dinner outside before burning of the calories to the sounds of Alessandro Ristori. Enjoy some impressions of the night and for the outfit post, click here please.

NAMMOS VILLAGE

Psarou Beach 84600 Mykonos, Greece
T: +30 22890 22440
M: +30 694 4722064
E-mail:

LoL, Sandra

With Marco Moscato from the Valentino family.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Opened in June 2020, CASA JONDAL has immediately become my favorite lunch place in Ibiza. When you arrive from the parking lot, it looks like a simple finca at first glance. But as soon as you enter inside and look to sea, or take a side look at the lounge area, you feel transported to a different and magical place.

CASA JONDAL, located in the middle of the eponymous beach, is considered the best restaurant on the island and is certainly one of the most exclusive. A winning combination of exceptional product quality and an excellent location that you can both enjoy while sitting on the beautiful, shady terrace under the twining savin juniper trees.

The food is amazing and it is the perfect location to enjoy lunch among dear friends as you can actually talk, because there is no music. I love the Caesar salad, the tomatoes with spring onions and the catch of the day. The absolute CASA JONDAL highlight on the dessert menu and culinary hard to beat is their cheesecake!

This summer season at CASA JONDAL is set in style with an exquisite Off-White™ takeover. Capturing the spirit of the iconic beach location, this limited-edition capsule collection embodies the carefree vibes of Ibiza while staying true to Off-White™’s visionary style. Among the standout pieces in the collection are espadrilles featuring the iconic Jondal-red stitching, along with two tote bags crafted from raffia and canvas, both adorned with captivating «CAN’T WAIT» graphics through printing and embroidery. Adding a touch of contrast to the warm tones, a macramé sarong in natural shades perfectly complements the stylish swimsuits available for both men and women.

CASA JONDAL is also the perfect place to spend the day at the beach, when you prefer not being blasted with loud music. On the massive wooden beach beds you have a fantastic view over the entire bay to the open sea. The location and view of the yachts there can hardly be surpassed and you can spend a wonderful time here until late in the evening. Towels, benches, and other elements are carefully designed to also showcase Off-White™’s iconic logos, arrows, and a blend of ecru and Jondal-red accents, creating an immersive experience for all fashion lovers.

It is really hard to get a table, so book in advance …
WhatsApp: +34 699 184 954 Email:

LoL, Sandra

A frequent guest at CASA JONDAL: DJ Sven Väth from my hometown Frankfurt!

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht @casajondal
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I love Rimowa‘s seasonal colors for their Essential collection. They are always limited and special. In addition, their glossy finish ensures, that the luggage is always easy to spot. This summer’s hues are inspired by cherry blossom trees and deep dark forests, called Petal, a delicate nude pink shade, and Cedar, a dark brown with a green undertone.

When I spotted the Petal shade, I knew this has to be part of my travel collection. I bought three sizes, Essential Cabin, Essential Check-In L, and Essential Trunk Plus. They are so perfect for traveling and I can only recommend the line.

I am ready for my next summer vacation… Mykonos here I come!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Rimowa © Sandra Bauknecht
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Still looking for a hotel in Munich for the last Oktoberfest 2023 weekend? I have a great tip for you as the new highly anticipated ROSEWOOD MUNICH opens for reservations starting September 29, 2023. Combining magnificent architecture with state-of-the-art design and unparalleled experiences, it is the first German property for the ultra-luxury Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® collection, the 7th property in Europe, and the 32nd in the collection, worldwide.

Housed in two landmark, historical buildings which were formerly the headquarters of the State Bank of Bavaria and the grand aristocratic residence Palais Neuhaus-Preysing, ROSEWOOD MUNICH is ideally situated in Kardinal-Faulhaber-Strasse. Its location offers guests premier access to several of the city’s most iconic sights, such as the famous Marienplatz and the elegant shops of Maximilianstrasse and Theatinerstrasse.

The property will feature an array of luxurious guestrooms, suites, and spacious houses, each adorned with bespoke furnishings and offering breath-taking views of the city skyline or into the courtyards. Gastronomic experiences will include an inviting lobby lounge, a distinct full-service brasserie and a vibrant bar. For ultimate relaxation, the hotel will house a full-service Asaya® spa with six treatments rooms, as well as an indoor pool and fitness area.

A BLEND OF HISTORIC GRANDEUR AND CONTEMPORARY LUXURY
Munich-based architectural firm, Hilmer Sattler and London interior architectural design studio, Tara Bernerd & Partners worked in close collaboration to bring the spirit of Rosewood into the Bavarian metropolis. Their overarching objective was to bring the historic past of the legacy buildings into the modern world of today. To this end, the hotel is a contemporary interpretation of Baroque architecture; the sophisticated design blends seamlessly with the historical elements of the building to convey an expressly modern yet timeless Bavarian style.

The historic entrance hall of the hotel, which features impressive, vaulted ceilings and frescos, is original to the former bank building and has been carefully preserved. Purposeful lighting draws attention to the archival elements, with highlights including an ornate ceiling fresco. Juxtaposed with newly constructed doors and windows, the entrance exudes a stately yet contemporary feel. The central courtyard, which is a typical feature in Munich’s old town, has also been carefully restored, letting the building breathe while at the same time adding a completely new experience to the space.

The interior impresses with a mansion-like ambience. Furniture and carpeting merge history with modern influences, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for the ideal urban oasis.

ASAYA SPA
At Asaya® spa, guests will enjoy unique moments of relaxation. Extending over two floors and covering an area of 1,300 sqm (13,993 sqft), the facilities will boast a vitality indoor pool, two saunas, one steam room, six treatment rooms, a wellness suite for private spa experiences, and a round-the-clock fitness center equipped by Technogym. Spa memberships and offers will be available for local residents as well as visiting guests not staying at the hotel.

A SENSE OF TASTE
An epicurean journey will unfold at the hotel’s Alpine-inspired brasserie, CUVILLIÉS, where tradition merges with modernity. Open seven days a week, the restaurant will welcome patrons for a relaxing breakfast, a casual lunch, or a decadent dinner. Classic Alpine dishes, rooted in the cultural heritage of the region and the neighboring states of Austria and Italy, will bring something truly unique and exciting to Munich’s culinary scene. All offerings will highlight seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers.

Bar Montez will offer a refined selection of handcrafted signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, and premium spirits. The cocktail menu will feature both tried-and-true classics as well as innovative original concoctions, all emphasizing fresh ingredients. As an additional highlight, the bar will offer a varied music program with a roster of unique artists and performers.

MEETING & EVENT SPACES
The hotel will encompass six event spaces, including a spacious ballroom (234 sqm / 2,519 sqft), and a historic ballroom (123 sqm / 1,324 sqf), as well as four flexible meeting and breakout rooms. Both ballrooms will offer outdoor space. With over 600 sqm (6,450 sqft) of indoor meeting space, ROSEWOOD MUNICH can cater to all sizes and types of gatherings, from corporate meetings to intimate dinners, lifestyle events or social celebrations. All spaces boast complimentary wireless high-speed internet access and on-site audio visual and production services.

For more information, please visit the hotel website here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Rosewood Hotels © Davide Lovatti
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After a long hiatus, The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia is proud to announce its much-anticipated return to the rails in February 2024. Offering a reimagined adventure of Southeast Asia in motion, the train will launch two new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and travelling through Malaysia’s ever-changing landscapes and vibrant cities: the Essence of Malaysia (September to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to August). The iconic train’s 15 dark green carriages will leave Singapore’s Woodlands station, taking in destinations like Penang, Langkawi and for the first time the Taman Negara National Park, before heading back to the garden city.

With restyled interiors, elevated on board experiences, and enthralling journeys encompassing culture, gastronomy, architecture and the arts, the Eastern & Oriental Express continues to take railway travel in the region to new heights, while setting a new standard of excellence in Southeast Asia.

ESSENCE OF MALAYSIA: A GATEWAY INTO MALAY CULTURE
The Essence of Malaysia is a three-night journey through the country’s western wonders, from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and finally to the colourful island of Penang. After a relaxing first day of on-board indulgence, guests will disembark the train in Alor Setar and join a private cruise to Langkawi. For the first time, the Eastern & Oriental Express will offer guests the chance to go on a snorkelling excursion and rub shoulders with the sprawling underwater life that populates the Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi’s prime snorkelling spot.

The third day is dedicated to discovering Penang, a multicultural island whose capital, George Town, boasts century-old UNESCO World Heritage sites, lively street art, and a thrilling food scene. Delving deep into the essence of Penang, guests can visit cultural highlights such as local art galleries and ancient temples in George Town’s Old Quarter; shop in the local markets and partake in an authentic Peranankan cooking class in a private hillside residence followed by a traditional tea ceremony; or soak up the views of George Town’s picturesque streets at their own pace, hopping on traditional tri-shaws and touring the surroundings in the company of local insiders, before rejoining the train and travelling south towards Singapore.

WILD MALAYSIA: EXPLORING SIGHTS UNSEEN
A brand new destination for the Eastern & Oriental Express, the Wild Malaysia itinerary covers the untouched areas surrounding the ‘Jungle Railway’, towards the Eastern side of the peninsula, and gives guests the unique opportunity to visit the Taman Negara National Park. Devised in collaboration with global tiger conservation organisation, Save Wild Tigers, the journey combines blissful moments of relaxation on the train with a dash of adventure. One of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world and a true explorer’s paradise, the Taman Negara National Park is home to hundreds of species such as tigers, leopards, and Sumathran rhinos. Here, guests can embark on a variety of excursions: from learning about the safeguarding of the Malayan Tiger, to a one-of-a-kind photography masterclass and a foraging experience in the jungle.

After an inspiring immersion in the rainforest, on day three guests will travel to the west side to visit Penang. With a choice of three different activities to explore Penang’s artistic, culinary and historic heritage, guests will immerse into local culture before getting back on the train for their last night on board.

LIFE ON BOARD: A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL CULTURE
As they step on board the Eastern & Oriental Express, guests are invited to live and breathe the captivating culture of Southeast Asia at every moment. Days are punctuated by exciting encounters with local characters and passionate artisans, who will unveil the secrets of the region as they teach ancient crafts and tell century-old tales, while the sound of Nanyang jazz and vintage Malay tunes will accompany guests throughout the evenings.

An elevated menu of contemporary dishes rooted in the Peranakan culture awaits guests of the Eastern & Oriental Express. A blend of Chinese, Malay, and other Southeast Asian culinary influences that originated in the Straits Settlements of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore, Peranakan cuisine is known for its bold flavours, intricate preparation methods, and the sapient use of local ingredients. The train’s Executive Chef will celebrate this long established gastronomic tradition while adding a modern twist to ancient recipes turning every meal into a journey through Southeast Asia’s culinary suggestions.

RESTYLING OF AN ICON
The Eastern & Oriental will return to the rails with 15 restyled carriages including eight sleeping cars, two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar Car and the iconic open-air Observation Car. From ornate marquetry, to Malaysian embroidery and oriental silks, the train will sparkle with a sense of contemporary grandeur, bringing in a layered and vibrant experience of Southeast Asia through carefully curated design details and colour schemes.

Warm sanctuaries of cherry wood panelling, the three different cabin categories – Pullman, State and Presidential – are all complete with air-conditioning and private bathrooms. The Pullman cabins are inspired by the radiance of Kuala Lumpur, boasting red sofas juxtaposed with blue cushions, drapery and pelmets that reflect the city’s dramatic skies, while the State cabins reflect Penang’s marine locale with a bright blue and green colour palette. The Presidential cabins celebrate regional opulence, with hues of gold and embroidered décor elements. Further design highlights include the eye-catching green carpet with a Tiger Orchid blooming across the entire length of the Piano Bar Car, carpets infilled with traditional Malay batik in the Malay restaurant, and the Observation Car’s laid back interiors paired with natural wicker details, colourful cushions and hand-painted pots that add a playful layer to the train experience.

*The Essence of Malaysia itinerary (3 nights) starts at US$3,410 (£2,754) per person in a Pullman cabin and includes all meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, on board entertainment, onboard and offboard activities as per the itinerary. For information or to book, please visit belmond.com.
*The Wild Malaysia itinerary (3 nights) starts at US$3,410 (£2,754) per person in a Pullman cabin and includes all meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, on board entertainment, onboard and offboard activities as per the itinerary. For information or to book, please visit belmond.com.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Belmond
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Paris Couture Week is always amazing, especially in the summer, when the weather is nice. One of my favorite places to stay and a true insider tip is the hotel Maison des Champs-Elysées. Located in the heart of Paris’ «Golden Triangle», parallel to the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, this very special non-conformist 5-star hotel teases your expectations, with theatrical elements in a relaxed atmosphere.

Celebrating an elegant marriage of contemporary lines and unobtrusive luxury, the impressive decoration of the hotel can be seen in every detail. It is the result of the collaboration with iconic fashion designer Martin Margiela. Each corner is full of surprises and creates a magnificent setting for your stay in Paris. Offering a peaceful atmosphere and all the facilities of modern luxury comfort for good value of money, the hotel has 57 tastefully furnished rooms and suites. There is also a smoker’s lounge called the «Blind Bar» across from the lobby area that is dressed all in white, and even an outdoor terrace where you can relax and meet from morning to night in the midst of the city.

This month, I stayed at the Gilded Lounge Suite, in which artistic pretence is given perfect expression, whose walls are covered with wallpaper made from black and white photographs of the gilded lounge on the second floor. The perspectives and ornamental richness of the Napoleon III style are thereby reproduced in trompe-l’œil fashion throughout the suite. In the bedroom, a large bookcase filled with books covers the wall above the bed.

Last time, I booked the White Cover Suite. The lower part of the classic Haussmann walls with picture rails, surrounds and plinths breaks with the upper part which consists of large panels of stretched white cotton. The pictures, objects and furnishings are delicately covered with white cotton. A series of Ural alabaster lights on the bedroom ceiling become visible in the evening and frame a broad mirror, creating a magical setting.

The team is so lovely and always very happy to help with anything. I can absolutely recommend the hotel. By the way, I pay my stays and this post is not sponsored, but fully authentic.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Anouk Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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