Safari in Madagascar: Dive Into the Wild

With an incredible diversity of people, luxurious nature and heavenly landscapes, Madagascar offers a wide choice of entertainment and excursions. By choosing Madagascar, you are in for a dream vacation during which you will be able to discover the vastness and beauty of the island and its people. And if there’s an activity you can’t leave out, it is undoubtedly the safari.

Madagascar is not only one of the largest islands of the globe, but it is also one of the most beautiful and rich. Nearly 70% of global biodiversity can be found on this island, concentrated on an area of 590,000 km2. Whether on land or in the sea, this diversity allows tourists from around the world to experience a complete change of scenery with unique fauna and flora.

Many hotels and travel agencies offer safari tours to allow tourists to discover the many endemic plants and animal species that exist on the island. L'Heure Bleue Hotel or Eden Lodge, both located on the island of Nosy Be, are located close to the Bay of Ampasindava, a protected nature reserve, where tourists can discover one of 101 species of lemurs living wild on the island. You may well come across other animals, including sea turtles, dolphins, birds, fish or reptiles. The most wonderful are probably the different chameleons who live there. For photo safaris, national parks are a great option. This way you can get acquainted with Madagascar's biodiversity, such as Andasibe home to the largest lemur Indri, Masoala National Park, a huge rainforest, or the Ankarafantsika where you can find the beautiful eagle bird.

Madagascar is a paradise for photo enthusiasts. Going on safari there is an ideal family activity which will delight everyone. Be it in a car, on a bike, a boat or even canoe, the options are multiple in order to discover these extraordinary animals.

Sonia Bravard, WP Wedding Planner Founder

“A wedding that reflects your own personality, your couple” 

It is more than trendy nowadays for French people to celebrate their wedding outside of France. Even though the choice is wide, Mauritius remains one of their favorite destinations. But then again, organizing a wedding thousands of kilometers from France can be complicated for those who have no contacts on site. This is why many couples opt for a hotel offering a “wedding package”. Well, what would you say if we told you that today you can benefit from the services of a “wedding planner” whose specialty is wedding planning in Mauritius and, icing on the cake, is based in France? Look no more: Concierge Hotels exclusive partner, WP Wedding Planner, offers its services to couples wishing to marry in Mauritius. Sonia Bravard, founder of WP Wedding Planner, tells us a bit more about the different steps to follow for the organization of a wedding abroad.

Sonia Bravard, tell us a bit about you? And above all, tell us about WP Wedding Planner ...

I am the founder and director of WP Wedding Planner. I’m a business school graduate. I studied in the fields of marketing and communications in England and France. I then worked in a company for ten years where I learnt about the organization of events. I organized numerous professional events such as seminars, conferences and exhibitions, amongst others. Three years ago, I decided to set up my own business and focus on weddings, both in France and abroad. I chose Mauritius as it is a dream destination, one of the most popular with brides and grooms. As I already had many contacts there, everything was quickly established. I organize weddings in Mauritius for French people, amongst other nationalities. I recently organized the wedding of an English couple.

What kind of services do you offer?

Above all, I do not propose a prepared, standardized “wedding package”! I organize for my clients a customized wedding, a wedding that reflects their personality, their couple. And I take care of everything from A to Z: airfare, accommodations, wedding ceremony, reception, activities... Everything! Until now, the majority of those who opted for an overseas wedding used to fly to the destination on their own. But now, more and more couples have a small group coming over for the wedding and a few even have big parties. I have organized a wedding including 50 guests. I adapt my services according to the client's request. I do not offer the same services for a wedding where only the couple is involved and one where there will be 50 guests. The latter will require more organization and more services (decoration, animation, etc.). For example, for the wedding of 50 guests, I travelled to Mauritius with a suitcase full of decorations, in addition to everything already planned on site! However, even if the organization will definitely not be the same, what’s a given is the fact that it will be a personalized event.

And do you travel to Mauritius for the wedding?

The couple decides whether they want me on site or not. For a wedding with the couple only, I usually don’t go on site. I manage everything from France and onsite teams take over. When it comes to a slightly larger group - from twenty guests onwards - I prefer to be on site. And while this benefit is at their expense, the couple usually prefers to have me on site to supervise everything, especially if there are a lot of things planned for the wedding. Anyway, I surrounded myself with suppliers I completely trust. They know how to manage everything regardless of my presence. Whether for makeup, decoration, photos or administrative procedures for civil weddings, you name it, they know how to do it to perfection.

Where to begin when organizing a wedding abroad?

Same as for a wedding in France, it all begins with the choice of the date. Since they often combine wedding and honeymoon, the bride and groom have constraints as to when they can take their vacation or when their family and friends are available. I advise them on the best time of year to get married in Mauritius. I usually recommend the periods March/April and October/November when it's not too hot. I also recommend that the wedding be on a week day rather than the weekend because - the majority of the weddings I organized in Mauritius were celebrated on the beach - during the week it is less crowded. I also favor the end of the day for the ceremony so that afterwards they can have beautiful pictures at sunset on the beach.

And when should they contact you?

Between nine to three months before the date chosen for the wedding. Organizing a wedding in three months is feasible. Especially if it is only the couple. But if you plan to have 50 guests, it is better to go about it earlier.

Once the date is chosen, what are the different steps in organizing a wedding abroad?

I need the number of guests, the wedding style they want and of course their budget. Depending on these parameters, I will work on a proposal. I usually start with the accommodation, and then the venue for the reception. Most couples opt for a ceremony on the beach but for the reception, the choices vary. Some choose a reception on the beach - half of the weddings are actually in the hotel where they are staying - while others prefer to do it on an estate or inland so that, among other things, the party can go on until the wee hours of the morning without disturbing anyone. Once the two locations are selected, we can discuss decor and menu. We will also have exchanges about the type of bouquet that the bride wants. We also plan makeup and hair trials on site a few days before the wedding. It also happened that the bride had her trials in France, pictures were taken and sent to Mauritius to the hair and makeup team with which we work. If the couple doesn’t have any family or friends coming to the wedding, we have a witness service to offer them. My role ends the day after the wedding. If within three days after the wedding the couple is still in Mauritius, they receive their photo album. Otherwise it is delivered to them in France. And two to three weeks after the wedding, the couple receives its family booklet from the French embassy. I also take care of all the paperwork.

Precisely, tell us about administrative procedures. Are they complicated?

They are in fact relatively simple. The couple only needs to mail me the necessary documents three months before the wedding: a copy of their passport and identity card, proof of address and the birth certificate of each of the fiancés. The administrative procedures are done in three steps: Firstly, these documents need to be sent to the French Embassy for the constitution of a file, three months before the wedding. Secondly; the day before the wedding, the bride and groom go to the embassy and the Bureau of Civil Status in Port Louis - the capital of Mauritius - in order to establish a certificate of non-resident. And thirdly, they go to the Civil Status Office in the locality where they will get married to meet the celebrant and finalize their file. If they have a special request to do, they do so at that time. I must say that what’s special also about a wedding in Mauritius, is this possibility of celebrating a civil wedding where one wishes while in France, a civil wedding can only be done at the municipality.

Why a couple wishing to get married in Mauritius should use your services rather than entrust the organization of his marriage to the event planner of the hotel where he will reside?

A hotel or travel agency will offer the customer a standardized “wedding package”. I offer a customized service from the very beginning. My help starts with the choice of their accommodation. It is I also who will propose the ideal location according to the wishes of the couple and their budget. I recommend not only hotels, but also villas and guesthouses. The offer is wide. So far, I have not organized the same wedding twice. My service is one of proximity since I am based in France. Customers can meet up with me in person to express their wishes. My fees depend on the services the customer asks for.

What about your partnership with Concierge Hotels?

It is a partnership that is just beginning but was for me an obvious one since we have the same target and the same desire to provide quality and proximity services to our customers. Being based in France, WP Wedding Planner is close to the client and through an extensive network in Mauritius, we are close to the providers. If the client is based in Paris, we will meet. I recently organized the wedding of a couple based in Paris and we met every month until the wedding. Otherwise, exchanges will be on the phone or by email. Through this partnership, Concierge Hotels customers will have access to our services to organize the wedding of their dreams in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Mauritius Billfish Release International Tournament is on!

Here’s some news that the seasoned fisherman you are will most probably be interested in: Marlin peak season has finally arrived and so has the Mauritius Billfish Release International Tournament! This event is scheduled for January 26 to 31, 2015 in Black River, on the west coast of the island.

Big game fishing is a very popular activity in Mauritius and many are the enthusiasts who practice this sport regularly. Local or international visitors all enjoy the beauty of the island as seen from the sea, the struggle to catch THE desired fish and the pride of having made the best catch of the day.

In Mauritius, the southwest is the best area to practice this activity. It is then not surprising that the event will be held there at the end of January. This has been made possible by the involvement and devotion of faithful fishermen and various sponsors.

The event's main sponsors and organizers are amongst the most renowned companies of the island. A leader in the hospitality industry, Lux Resort* through Lux Sports*, specialist of international sporting events, is one of the main sponsors. As well as JPH Charters, a local reference in water activities since 1975. This event also has the support of La Balise Marina, beautiful Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) and only residential marina of the island.

The ultimate in deep sea fishing tournament!

The week will take place as follows: participants will be welcomed on Monday, January 26 for a team briefing and finalizing last minute details. A cocktail will be held in the evening at the Sunset Restaurant in La Balise Marina. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, the teams will meet at La Balise Marina and will take to sea to collect the maximum points possible. In the evening weighing will be done to obtain a provisional ranking. On Thursday, the day is free for participants so that they can enjoy the activities the island has to offer! On Saturday, the last day of the competition, the fishing rods will be out of the water slightly earlier, and in the evening a big gala dinner will be held at Lux* Le Morne followed by an awards ceremony.

The prize for the winners will be between Rs 500,000 and Rs 15,000 and many gifts will be offered!

Participants will earn points on a scale defined by the different fish they catch and release. For example, a blue, black or striped marlin will bring 1,000 points for the team, the biggest score possible. The team with the highest number of points will win this tournament. The rules are clear. Each team must consist of at least four people amongst which one must be appointed captain.

A partnership with the splendid 5-star Lux* Le Morne and Tamassa by Lux* will allow you to really enjoy your stay during this competition. You can also choose to stay in the beautiful and comfortable apartments of La Balise Marina.

Register and enjoy the very best fishing event of the year!

More information: http://bit.ly/1pFiw0u

Mauritius, a paradise for water lovers!

Its breathtaking surf spots are world renowned, international kitesurfers consider the island as a reference, and snorkeling enthusiasts only swear by its turquoise lagoons ... But Mauritius is much more. Today it hosts yet another water sport: Stand Up Paddle!

Stand Up Paddle was born in 1960 in Hawaii. The board, rather long, is quickly forgotten, giving way to shorter ones. Although today, it is increasingly common to see these boards since Stand Up Paddle can overcome the lack of waves ... The board, 2.5 to 5 meters, varies depending on the use made of it. Indeed, the SUP (for short) is a discipline that can be exercised for leisure or competition, for a stroll or to surf. A wide, long and flat board is recommended for beginners who will learn to find their balance while a streamlined and aerodynamic one is recommended for competitions. Today you can even get inflatable SUP boards that allow you to reduce the rather large size of your equipment to that of a backpack. Convenient for those who travel light and want to indulge in a water activity!

As for other nautical sports, Mauritius has quickly become a favorite spot for Stand Up Paddle fans. The swell when breaking on the coral reefs offers the lucky few, waves of exceptions. Multiple spots such as Manawa, ilot Sancho, île aux Cerfs and many more (closely guarded secret ...) allow aficionados to enjoy Stand Up Paddle in Mauritius. Consider the scenery one only finds on postcards and the regular water temperatures all year round as a bonus! This is why Mauritius remains the favorite destination for water sports lovers.

Just imagine: Your leash (lanyard) attached to your ankle, your paddle in the hands, feet secured on your board, you glide over the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. During your stroll, you can get a tan while exercising. And most importantly, you will discover secluded and unspoiled places... One advantage of Stand Up Paddle is that you can practice it anywhere, as long as there is water! Whether on the calm lagoon or on the many spots of the island, the conditions are always ideal. In the vicinity of île aux Cerfs, you can navigate between the islands quietly reaching Trou d'Eau Douce and its natural fresh water supply... Around the ilot Sancho, the most adventurous can brave the apparent reefs and strong currents. From Manawa to Little Reef through One Eye, let yourself be carried by the waves...

And if you still need convincing, know that Stand Up Paddle is the perfect way to get away from the crowds of tourists and the excitement of the busiest places in order to enjoy the peace and beauty of the islands...

Kitesurf - JC Galey, Your Personal Coach

Are extreme sports your thing? Have you tried kitesurfing? Not yet? Well, no need to wait any longer. Concierge Hotels has partnered with JC Galey, certified kitesurfing  instructor, and his school, Son of Kite, which is based in Mauritius. And, as a result tailor-made kitesurf packages are awaiting you.

JC Galey Son Of Kite

It’s early morning in Le Morne. The sun is already up and so is the heat.  Kitesurfers (some of which are pros) are twirling above the lagoon; behind them, the majestic Morne mountain. Every day, the kitesurfers of Mauritius enjoy this picture perfect setting while indulging their favorite sport. “Here, we have the best conditions in the world throughout the year” confides JC Galey with enthusiasm.

A little over six years ago, JC Galey, professional sportsman settles on the West coast of Mauritius, board in hand. His passion for kitesurfing dates back to 1998. Two years later, in 2000 it had also become his professional occupation.  “I have been a kitesurfing instructor since 2000” recalls JC. “I have been among the first Frenchmen to be trained”. JC holds a “Brevet d’Etat Français” in kitesurfing. As a result, choosing JC and his school Son of Kite, also means choosing to be trained by a professional. And to make things even better: this pro is also passionate.

After getting his diploma and after teaching kitesurfing for some time in France, JC travels. Following the tides, he settles in various places where he puts down his bags for a while before setting sail yet again to another location.  Along the way, he teaches kitesurfing in in Miami, in the U.S. and in various Spanish towns. Between 2003 and 2004, he spends a year in Mauritius. He likes the country, and loves the weather conditions which are ideal for kitesurfing. Later, in 2008, while kitesurfing is taking off in Mauritius, JC decides to move to the island and to launch Son of Kite – a kitesurfing school and store – in La Gaulette.

Two other instructors are also in charge of classes at Son of Kite. And, since the conditions at Le Morne are so ideal, lessons are taught nearly 365 days a year. “This site is so special because, for a start, the wind is regular and strong. We have the chance of having all the wind directions. Added to that is the fact that the lagoon is not too deep. And since it is protected by the reefs, there are no waves”, explains JC.

Son of Kite offers two types of packages. In the first type, which is available to all customers, classes are carried out in the lagoon – where the other kitesurfing schools also hold their courses. For these sessions. Son of Kite’s tariffs amount to 75 Euros for a private lesson, and 40 Euros for a group lesson with a maximum of three persons per instructor. The other package available is, on the other hand, exclusive and made-to-measure.  This is the package you want, the one you deserve and definitely the one you need to choose!

Just imagine… You are staying in one of those hotels on the West coast – St Regis, Dinarobin, Lux * Le Morne or Le Paradis – and you have made a reservation for Son of Kite’s tailor-made package. In the morning, JC Galey will come pick you up at your hotel… by boat, and most probably right in front of your room! You will then head off to a sandbank where only Son of Kite holds training sessions. If you are the discrete type, and if you would rather enjoy a unique kitesurfing experience away from prying eyes, this package is meant for you.

Not only will the spot be yours and yours only, but so will your private instructor, JC Galey. For three whole hours, JC’s attention will be focused on you. The icing on the cake: JC speaks French, English, German and Spanish! It will up to you to decide on the number of sessions you wish to have – twice a week, more, or less. Prices for a three-hour session start at 390 Euros. If additional hours are required, charges are applied on a pro rata basis calculated using the tariff of the chosen package.

Whether this will be your first try at kitesurfing or whether you are already well versed in this sport, Son of Kite will be sure to meet your individual needs. Thanks to their international experience and exposure, Son of Kite will offer personalized training as well as spot-on and reliable advice. And, as Son of Kite is also a specialist store, the instructors will also be able to guide you when choosing and purchasing your first-ever kitesurfing equipment. Once you will have mastered the basics, the coaches will also give you advice in regards to the best spots. After all, Son of Kite’s mission is simple; their aim is to turn you into a wholly independent kitesurfer.

Good news: no prerequisites are required for beginners. They simply need to be able to swim for at least 15 minutes and to be in good health condition. As a thrill seeker, you are probably already conscious of the risks associated to extreme sports. You will be required to sign a discharge statement relieving Son of Kite and its instructors from any responsibility. Each person is responsible for their own actions.

You now know what your  next move needs to be ! Why not kill two birds with one stone (figuratively speaking of course) and enjoy a sunny escapade to Mauritius while also discovering a sport which you have had always dreamed of trying? You may rely on Concierge Hotels and our privileged partner JC Galey from Son of Kite, to make sure that kitesurfing no longer holds any secret for you.

The Four Seasons Golf Club at Anahita hosts the AfrAsia Golf Tour Master

Golf clubs will sparkle, the green will been cut to the millimeter and the sun will certainly be up and shining  for the fifth edition of the AfraAsia Golf Master Tour which will be held from December 1 to 7 at the Four Seasons Golf Club at Anahita Mauritius. This international competition will bring together exceptional golf players on this magnificent green. The impatient public expects spectacular confrontations. And it should not be disappointed. Get ready for a show that will keep you in suspense.

Organized by Tv Sport Events, the Mauritian tournament is highly anticipated by the French and international professional golfers. This edition will feature Asian professionals, a first reflecting the country's willingness to open up to Asia. The five Asian golfers will meet ten players of the European Tour, the top fifteen French golf players and two Mauritians players. Two days of qualifications will reveal the names of the participants.

Big names have won this tournament in the past: Nicolas Colsaerts (2010), Gregory Havret (2011), Christophe Brazillier (2012) and François Calmels (2014). From December 1 to 7, 2014, the golfers will compete to be the next on this impressive list of winners. The tournament will be as follows: December 2 and 3, two Pro-Am followed on December 4, 5 and 6 by three professional tours. With 100,000 €, this tournament will seduce many. The peculiarity of this international tournament will be in the “Alliance” format of the first two professional rounds; Professional players will indeed be assigned an amateur partner who can participate in this tournament with the same euphoria and get the same media exposure as their partners.

A significant media crowd is expected for this event. Canal+ channels such as Golf+ and Sport+ will broadcast the Golf tournament and it will also be aired in Asia and the Middle East via partners such as Fox Sports or OSN. A little less than 300 million viewers will watch Philip Price’s putt on the 6th hole and Hennie Otto’s swing, the South African winner of this year’s Italy Open. The latter, failed to win this Mauritian tournament three times already and is thus returning this year determined to win this coveted title. Those two big stars and their opponent coming directly from South Africa, Jaco Van Zyl, have confirmed their presence on the Anahita golf course in early December.

Other big names are expected, such as Francois Calmels, the last champion to date, Alexander Levy, Julien Quesne and Victor Riu... With all these prominent golfers coming, this tournament should be one full of surprises. Mark your calendar for the AfrAsia Golf Masters 2014, an exceptional event not to be missed !

Credit Photo: AfrAsia Golf Master Tour 2013

Luggage - Travel light with Gideon Kasfiner

However much you want to, you simply never seem able to travel light. And you dread ending up carrying tons of luggage from one airport to another. No need for alarm, this burden is about to become feather-light thanks to Concierge Hotels. Our partner, Gideon Kasfiner, and his company First Luggage, will be more than happy to ensure that  all your suitcases reach their destination.

For a good 35 years now, Gideon Kasfiner has been in the English transport industry, mainly in maritime transport, working, amongst others for Argid Shipping Ltd. and WT. This year, his own baby, First Luggage is celebrating its tenth anniversary. It all started after September 11, when there was a substantial increase in security checks which had also become tougher. As luggage restrictions suddenly made travelling more complex, Gideon Kasfiner identified an opportunity on the market. He set up First Luggage, a revolutionary service which takes away all the stress and fuss that usually come with luggage.

Do you usually travel with many suitcases? Do they all seem to be getting bigger and bigger? And, would you rather not even imagine the drama that would unfold if your children’s luggage did not reach the desired destination, leaving them without their favorite toy, be it only for one day? Are you a golf player or a surfer? Is the fact of carrying your equipment giving you the feeling that you are trying to assemble a puzzle with missing pieces? Are you planning wedding in Mauritius or a land faraway? Is it obvious that all your outfits and accessories will by no means fit in a 23-kilo suitcase? We have the solution to all your luggage worries!

You no longer need to have your luggage registered upon your departure ; your check-in will be quick and easy. No need either to squeeze in at the carousel upon arrival; your transfer from the airport to your hotel or home will be done in no time. Your luggage travels on its own and reaches your final destination before you do so. You may therefore hop on and off totally stress-free. As Gideon Kasfiner, founder and CEO of First Luggage explains, 65% to 70% of his clients also use the First Luggage service to therefore have their suitcases delivered to their holiday destination as well as back home. It is however not always possible to send one’s luggage back this way due to the legislation of certain countries.

In spite of this, in 2004, First Luggage became number one for luggage pick-up and door-to-door delivery in the UK. The service is nevertheless not limited to Britain. It knows practically no boundaries.

How does First Luggage work ? Simple. “All you have to do is call us, or email us your request” summarizes Gideon Kasfiner. The date and time of pick-up will depend of the date on which you need your luggage to be delivered. Gideon Kasfiner further explains that, according to the chosen destination, customs clearance procedures and quarantine requirements, the delay for delivery may vary. It may take a few hours in certain cases, and up to a few days in others.

While on holiday in London, you suddenly opt for a quick shopping trip to Paris. Thanks to First Luggage VIP, which was launched this year, you will be sure to get your luggage back on the same day. On the other hand, if you are leaving London for holidays in the land down under, your suitcases will need to be ready for take-off  five or six days before you. This delay is required due to Australia’s 24-hour quarantine policy and complex customs clearance process.

It is also worthwhile to know that for security reasons, all luggage will be scanned before being sent off. They will be thereafter safely key under lock and key between pick-up from your house and final delivery. You can entirely rely on First Luggage for taking good care of your personal belongings. The company’s network covers nearly all destinations. “There are only about 20 to 25 countries which we do not cover”, says Gideon. “This list varies from time to time according to the political and social climate prevailing in these countries”. Six months ago, for example, First Luggage’s service was available in Russia. Today this is no longer the case. But, in six months, this might change once more, according to how things evolve.

Some might think that this door-to-door pick-up and delivery service is simple to manage. This is not always the case. The more routes, and the more combinations you have, the more spicy it all gets. According to Gideon Kasfiner, this would explain why only a handful of companies throughout the world are in this business. When asked what makes First Luggage stand out, Gideon explains that the service offered is “more flexible” than the one provided by competitors, and that the First Luggage is fast. “Nowadays, we are able to propose a pick-up service within a delay of six hours, nearly everywhere in the world. Very few companies are able to do that”, enthusiastically points out Gideon. Moreover for VIP clients based in London, First Luggage offers packing and storage services.

There is also more to First Luggage. The company offers a whole array of services to a diverse client base. It not only provides the VIP service – the delay for pick-up is shorter for customers who choose this option – but may also cater to the needs of everyone. The Luggage Delivery Company, which is available only in Europe, proposes very competitive prices, and is the ideal solution for all those travelling on low cost airlines having restrictive baggage allowances. And, the Student Luggage Delivery allows students to travel with all those things that will help them create their new home away from home.

With First Luggage, there is no set limit on weight nor on the number of pieces of luggage allowed. And, rates are very reasonably priced! To transport, for example, 30 kilos across the Atlantic using the VIP service, applicable charges will amount to £125. And, in order to move 30 kilos from England to a major European city, using Luggage Delivery Company ou Student Luggage Delivery, you should set aside about £25.

One thing is certain : together with its subsidiaries, First Luggage offers to each and everyone a luxury service which will totally transform one’s travelling experience. By choosing Concierge Hotels and its privileged partner, Gideon Kasfiner of First Luggage, you are certain to travel light, and even very light. By mentioning Concierge Hotels when you contact First Luggage, you will also be entitled to non-negligible extras. And, if you are heading to a destination within the Indian Ocean, you may go directly through Concierge Hotels. We will take care of everything.

Events - A dream wedding in Mauritius delivered by Vedna Essoo

The planning of a wedding is no simple task. Trying to do so from a distance, and on your own, may turn out to be a real challenge. But, if you enlist the services of Concierge Hotels and our privileged partner, Vedna Essoo, your wedding in Mauritius will be the most wonderful day of your life.

You have dreamed of your wedding day since … well… forever. Walking down the aisle, you best friends holding your wedding dress train… you have imagined all of this many many times, hundreds of times. Today, you have met your own Mr Perfect and to add the icing on the cake: he has proposed.  You both dream of an unforgettable wedding, say, in land far away, for example on an exotic island. You have decided that Mauritius would be just the place but do not know how you could possibly organize everything from a distance. Concierge Hotels has the solution: Vedna Essoo, our privileged partner for the organization of weddings, will take care of everything for your special day, from A to Z.

With Vedna Essoo, director of Marry-Go-Round, in charge, you will have nothing to worry about. Have you ever been to a wedding where the bride and groom have a tight smile all the way until the bride tosses the bouquet? Or where wide-eyed couples are fidgety and on the lookout for any problem; so much so that they miss out on all the best moments of their special day? Your wedding will be different. On that day, your mission shall be to enjoy each and every minute, to party with your family and to turn every moment into a wonderful memory. For that, you simply need to send a request to Concierge Hotels and we shall put you in contact with Vedna and her team.

For three years now, it has been Vedna’s job to organize weddings. Prior to that, this enthusiastic and dynamic young woman had been a businesswoman for 15 years, working at senior management level for Accenture, the call center giant, and for the Mauritius Employers’ Federation. Today, Vedna puts the experience she has acquired in management at your service. For years, she has been accustomed to conceiving projects for international customers, to monitor them from start to finish, while dealing with very short deadlines, and being creative. All of that, on a daily basis. Vedna’s passion however is to plan and prepare dream weddings, and, in order to be able to do so, she has surrounded herself with a team of professionals.

Vedna believes that there is a secret to holding a wedding that will leave all guests speechless. One must: define an innovative and personalized theme, choose suppliers who will become partners rather than just third parties, establish a planning that is very strictly adhered to, and most importantly, the wedding day or days need to be built around the couple’s own wishes. Vedna and the Marry-Go-Round’s team therefore go well beyond administrative management. “I do not offer all-inclusive packages. Each wedding is unique, and each wedding is personalized. I see each wedding as a film scenario which needs to be written, with a main plot, and with a variety of characters” explains Vedna Essoo.

It all starts with a first contact, a first discussion between Vedna and the soon-to-be-wed couple. Vedna makes it a point of getting to know the couple, and their story. From then onwards, THE discussion about the wedding starts. “We will talk about the type of wedding which they want, be it for an intimate wedding with twenty guests, or for something absolutely grand with three hundred guests. Once they will have chosen the theme, it will all flow. Together, we shall be able to choose the main color, imagine the decor, chose the menu, and so on…”.

With a hint of emotion and pride, Vedna tells us about some of the weddings she has previously organized, including the one for young photographers and amateur artists whose theme was: “You are the Wind in my Sail”. “For that wedding, the main color was blue. The theme was developed based on a photo taken by the couple of two catamarans at sea. The bride designed her own logo representing a sailing boat. And, they had offered typical Mauritian boat ship models to their guests” recalls Vedna, moved. She also tells us about this other couple whose story indicates that they were destined to meet, that it was written in the stars. “The theme chosen for this wedding was therefore “serendipity”, a happy coincidence. The theme was symbolized by stars. This wedding spread over three days and everything revolved around the stars. The starfish for the Mauritian night, the star anise for the Indian night, the tables were star-shaped… Every detail was reminiscent of the main theme” highlights Vedna.

How are these services different to those offered by hotel-based wedding planners? By choosing a hotel, you will only have limited options in regards to the venue for the ceremony, as well as for the choice of suppliers. By calling upon Marry-Go-Round, you will be able to decide exactly where you want to get married: on the beach, in a colonial manor, or in a hunting camp nestled in a luxuriant natural setting for example. There will be no limit, except your budget. And even then, through her network, Vedna always manages to find the best prices so as to turn your dreams into reality.

You now know what your next step needs to be… However, it is worthwhile to know that the first contact with Vedna is usually done more than a year prior to the wedding! Some couples start even before that, and other a bit later. The preparation of a grand event requires time, and Vedna takes the time to plan even the smallest of details. Once you will have gone over all your wishes and expectations with her, she will take over and will be in charge of the coordination with all partners. The only thing which will be left for you to do will be to fully enjoy your big day.

Frederic Bonnet: A unique know-how for tailor-made jewellery creations

You have always dreamed that a jeweler would create a unique piece just for you, inspired by your wishes. This is now possible with Concierge Hotels. Frederic Bonnet, jeweler, has partnered with us to turn your dreams into a reality.  We met him.

Walking fast, Frederic Bonnet opens to us the doors of his Bangkok workshop. The place is a private sanctuary to which, even his most prestigious clients, do not have access. Frederic uses various techniques for his art, but keeps them confidential. Handsome and stylish, Frederic is a hurried man who does not waste time. Since he put down his suitcases in the Thai capital nearly two years ago, this French craftsman has not taken time out. Each one of the creations emerging from his workshop are more unlikely than the next, more majestic. Frederic conceives very few series. He believes in uniqueness. And this is what he aims at bringing to each and every client of Concierge Hotels. “Whether for a simple ring or for a complete set, I work for the client; with the client. According to his or her tastes and desires, I devise a tailor-made piece”.

This is why none of his creations look alike. And this means that there is no chance of “your” jewel being worn by someone else... It all starts with a meeting, a phone call, or an email exchange. Concierge Hotels will coordinate the contact. However, as Frederic loves contact with people, he will make the trip if circumstances so allow. Such meetings will allow him to determine which clients know exactly what they want, and which ones have absolutely no idea. In the latter scenario, Frederic then proceeds by elimination. “By knowing what they do not want, we may then find out what they do want” points out the jeweler. From there onwards, Frederic has no boundaries. “I can make any wish come true. Like a tailor’s work, and it will be made-to-measure. Each jewel has its own story,” explains the craftsman. Gold, platinum, and precious stones, semi-precious stones – you choose and Frederic will take care of the rest. Our advice? Do not stick only to jewellery. You want a replica of your yacht, your bike or even your estate? Frederic's know-how will be at the service of your wildest wishes. His aim: propose a jewel (or a decorative object), which will convey into emotions, something stunning, sexy, out of the ordinary. For both, women and men.

This exclusive service comes at a cost, and, requires some time. Following the first contact, it may take from one to three months until delivery of a jewel. Being a perfectionist, Frederic takes time. “Things which are well done take more than just five minutes” argues the jeweller. Do you wish to see a sketch of your project so as to be able to better visualise it? For that, Frederic works with internationally renowned designers. For him on the other hand, “it’s all in the head”. “I draw sketches very rarely. Based on the client’s request, I visualize the jewel in 3D and get down to work straight away,” explains the artist.

Frederic works on a jewellers bench pin. He does not simply imagine the jewel about to be created; he works on it, hands-on. He sits at his workbench and crafts his hand-made creations. “I have a whole team working with me, but my role is not merely to supervise,” confides Frederic while sitting behind his workbench. The jeweller concedes that technology does have a role to play. While certain things may be entirely hand-made, others are not. This is where 3D technology and machines come in. “Technology allows us to make things which one could not even have thought of creating 25 years ago. It also allows us to gain time”. Nevertheless, Frederic makes it a personal issue to ensure that all finishing touches are done by hand. He has acquired this eye for detail, and this need for precision and uniqueness throughout his training, which was started more than 23 years ago in France.  Frederic was barely 16 years old when he started in the jewellery universe.

As a child, he used to take apart all sorts of objects just so he could understand their mechanism. He was bored at school. His creativity and dexterity are left unused. When he is fifteen and a half he becomes an apprentice in a jewellery shop situated in the street where he grew up.  His parents who are shopkeepers from father to son encouraged him to follow this chosen path. And, Frederic remains loyal to France.

Later however, as he is about to turn 29, Frederic wants to discover new lands, and longs for new horizons. He moves to Bali and gets a job as “Technical Adviser” in an American multinational. He participates in the setting up of a factory and grows the number of employees to 250. He supervises the gold and silver production. During that time, he also undertakes experiments of his own, works with silver, and creates a collection for women and men. Paris Hilton, after a stay in Bali, goes back to the States with one of Frederic’s creations named “Paris”… Frederic, chosen to play Javier Bardem’s double on the set of Eat, Pray, love, meets Julia Roberts. The Hollywood superstar leaves Bali with a magnificent large silver cuff bracelet, which later becomes known as the “Julia” bracelet. And, Javier Bardem, will leave with a sumptuous belt buckle made of black ebony and silver…

Although the Balinese experience is undoubtedly enriching, Frederic feels once more, two years ago, the need for new horizons. He longs to elevate his art even further. “I felt the need for a new challenge; for a higher level”. He settles in Bangkok and works for two workshops of internationally renowned jewelers who create marvelous collections and pieces for some of the most recognized European jewelers. The need for adventure knocks again on Frederic’s door and he is offered a unique opportunity: a mission with an NGO, firstly in Jaipur, India and then in Kabul, Afghanistan. In this context, he sets up jewelry workshops, teaches young people his techniques and imparts his know-how. For the participants, this is an opening enabling them to earn a living through their art, and keeping them away from local extremist groups. Frederic is under the spell of Afghanistan. With the help of his team in Thailand, Frederic designed in 3D all the models needed for the afghan silver collection. The mission is a success.

When he gets back to Bangkok, Frederic regains his independence. As a consultant jeweler, he provides advice to international clients, proposes out-of-the-ordinary and made-to-measure creations, and revives jewels, which have been forgotten at the back of drawers. “I give them a second life, and transform them so as to be more modern and in line with the needs of their owners”.

Today, Frederic Bonnet provides the know-how and expertise acquired during 15 years in France and 10 years in South-East Asia working with demanding customers, to the clients of Concierge Hotels. Your desires and wants are unique, and so Concierge Hotel will bring you tailor-made creations. We know you deserve them. Costs for a ring without gemstones start at $2,000, and the price range will be higher in cases of stone setting. They will also vary according to quality and size…

Watch the making of an engagement ring in HD

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