Editor's Picks: October Update

October Update

Style File: Cambodia

The gorgeous silk creations of Eric Raisina may have created waves around the world’s fashion capitals, but the Madagascar-born designer has stayed true to his adopted home country: Cambodia. When he isn’t busy working in his Siem Reap atelier, where visitors are welcome by appointment, he travels for inspiration and promotes the Khmer artisanship that lured him to southeast Asia in the first place. “What we have done in the last ten years is amazing,” he says. “Young people are beginning to design bags and scarves. We need another ten years, and the establishment of a real fashion design school in Cambodia, to get Cambodians to design for Cambodians. Then we can have a true fashion identity.” Read an interview with Raisina and find out how to visit his showroom, as well as a member postcard about a meaningful philanthropic trip to Cambodia.

Culture Trip: Art Basel Miami Beach

Among culture insiders, Art Basel Miami Beach, held every December, is known as the younger, sexier sister to Art Basel. But the stateside version, now in its seventh year, is by no means less of a heavyweight cultural extravaganza, or easier to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. To go with an insider and get behind-the-scenes access, art aficionados can join Opus, a recently launched art company founded by Muriel Quancard-Johnson. The New York–based Frenchwoman, who has a strong background in the contemporary art scene and is an avid fair-goer herself, is bringing a group to the fair for the first time this year. “Attending Art Basel Miami Beach offers visitors an adventure unlike any other, and it also provides an incredible opportunity to make contacts within the art world.” Sign up and read about the special events and activities planned during Opus’ six-day trip, including the boutique hotel where guests will be housed. Coming soon: tips from regular fair attendees.

In the Know: Punta del Este

For the South American smart set, there’s only one place to spend the week after Christmas: Punta del Este, a short flight from Buenos Aires. Though blessed with gorgeous beaches and fantastic nightlife, the Uruguayan resort has managed to maintain a wonderfully authentic sense of place–its barefoot-chic sensibility and distinctive style unmarred by cookie-cutter luxury and big chains. But for American and European travelers, finding lodging is tricky, as most hideaways are booked a year in advance. Indagare has the solution: we have access to four houses that are available for rent, including a Mediterranean-style villa set on beautiful grounds, and a six-bedroom house overlooking the Atlantic. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local scene.

First to Go: Holiday Availability

We know a lot of you still haven’t finalized your holiday plans and the Indagare Booking Service is here to help! One of the benefits of your Indagare membership is that we do the legwork for you- and can often secure preferential rates and/or special amenities as well. We are in constant touch with major resorts around the world scouting for last-minute openings and cancellations. We are happy to report that right now there are fantastic opportunities at some of the most coveted resorts, including in usually impossible to book spots like St. Barth’s, Mustique and Cabo. We have great options for those seeking sun, exotic and ski destinations — both far-flung and close to home.

— The Editors 10/15/2008