Hi,

Luck, romance, and the overall energy for the Chinese New Year—here’s everything you need to know according to geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez. “In Chinese mythology, the dragon also symbolises water, so it caught rain and poured it into the village. Its generosity only placed him fifth in the order of zodiacs,” he adds. The geomancer believes that the overall energy for Chinese New Year 2024 will rely on the legend of the dragon. “Find where you’re good at–business, government, education, and whatnot. Be generous and find a way to help the world through your capabilities,” Fernandez asserts.

Aside from knowing more what's in store for you this year, dig deeper into the vibrant Filipino-Chinese culture that we have by checking places to see in Binondo restaurants to celebrate this festive day with your family, and more.

Other newsletter highlights this week:

• Gallery hop around the metro for Art Fair PH 2024
• Sabato de Sarno presents his inaugural collection as creative director of Gucci in Singapore
• Coming of Age: Meet the dazzling participants of the 2023 le Bal des Débutantes
• Where to stay: The most beautiful new hotels in Asia

Cheers,
Franz Sorilla IV
Assistant Digital Editor, Tatler Philippines

Upon Gucci Philippines’ invitation, we watched the live presentation of the brand’s latest collection at the Blackbird restaurant last September. What went down the runway was in stark contrast to the creations of Alessandro Michele, Gucci’s former creative director. A reset button was pressed in less than 15 minutes, wiping out the seven years of the previous designer’s stamp. What we were now seeing was a new Gucci. It recalled the early days of Tom Ford, less skin but with the same aura of sophistication, sexiness and confidence.

Sabato de Sarno is taking over the reins as creative director of Gucci from Alessandro Michele.

An enchanted evening of elegance and tradition unfolded last November 25, 2023, as a double-door entrance into the ballroom of the Shangri-La Paris Hotel showcased several young ladies and their dashing cavaliers captivating onlookers, gowns swirling around the dance floor in dazzling bespoke couture. The hotel, located in the fashionable 16th arrondissement of Paris, has hosted the grand event since 2018.

Meet the ladies at the front and centre of this year's le Bal des Débutantes.

The Macallan unveils a limited-edition whisky in collaboration with Chinese mixed-media artist Nini Sum, the perfect drink to welcome the new year in style.

Capturing the essence of homecoming and reunions, The Macallan's A Night on Earth - The Journey is a single malt Scotch whisky that offers a lush experience from unboxing its innovative packaging to savouring each decadent sip.

Designed by Nini Sum, the multi-layered pack depicts the journey of coming home, with vivid imagery of locals travelling out of the city and being greeted home with the warmth of lantern light. The drink's flavour profile is just as evocative, incorporating cherished memories with loved ones in the whisky's rich balanced taste, nuttiness, and toasted oak aroma. 

“This is the perfect whisky to savour at special moments, best enjoyed with friends, family and loved ones while reminiscing of the year past and looking to the future," shares Jaume Ferras, global creative director at The Macallan. 

Learn more about this limited-edition blend here.

Soak up the beauty of nature or revel in the urbane cool of the region's most popular cities with a stay at one of the most beautiful new hotels in Asia. Be it a cooling family trip out to Japan or China, a quiet escape to Bhutan, an indulgent holiday in Australia, a short getaway to Indonesia, or even a staycation right here in Singapore, these luxurious hotels cover all the bases.

Here’s the shortlist of destinations offering a wealth of indulgent experiences and design inspiration.

Revel in and experience the beauty of art on the go. From February 9 to 18, celebrate the best in Philippine contemporary art with Art Fair Philippines’ partners around the metro.

Art events and exhibits across Makati, Quezon City, Manila, and Taguig await you and your friends.