As it turns out, Xanadu does exist, about 1,580 metres above sea level and a three-hour drive from Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. Sure, the voyage, literally, is a lengthy flight from most international airports, but the cerulean skies as far as the eye can see, rolling green hills covered in vibrant flowers and herds of horses galloping freely are well worth the trip.
Of course, it took time for a proud city-goer like myself to adjust to this picturesque reality at the annual Xanadu festival organised by the Genco Tour Bureau. This four-day escapade allows guests to live like Mongolian nomads from the 13th century, but with modern luxuries.
Standing atop a mountain and battling chilling wind speeds that would have me tumbling down if not for the oversized deel-a traditional tunic that comes in an array of colours and ornate embroidery-anchoring me and my resolve to find that one bar of cellular service, I asked myself: "What are you doing?" Disconnected from the world but feeling at peace, I stumbled into the car with the guide and rode back to the campsite, fully prepared to embrace this cultural experience that few get as it remains a by-invite-only event, at least for now.
Do as the Nomads do
When it comes to Mongolian iconography, the ger-modular and portable tents-instantly comes to mind. At the main camp, a dozen of these unique accommodations are scattered around the King Palace, a grand ger at least six metres tall, acting as a common area for guests to indulge in the extensive buffet spread of Mongolianfusion dishes and the open bar at any time of the day.
The King Palace is also a commune for wayward souls who could use a little rejuvenation. Daily sound baths and yoga classes, conducted by professionals, combine forces with the sonic landscape to guide the group into an introspective meditation to free the mind, body and soul.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FASHION IS POWER
American author, filmmaker, psychologist and educator Roberta Degnore who teaches a world-first course called "The Psychology of Gender, Perception, and Self-Expression in Fashion" at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology argues that fashion is anything but frivolous.
The Italian Who Does It Better
After fifty years in fashion, Giorgio Armani—the man and the brand is still a force to be reckoned with.
Most Stylish Women 2024
Stylishness isn’t just about being fashionable. Instead, it’s a blend of self-assurance, passion and stories that makes the idea of style so multifaceted and rich. From a mother and daughter duo who approach dressing up with equal exuberance, to an entrepreneur championing the varied tales of batik to a singer-songwriter showing her chic chops with a walking stick, meet the 10 women who inspire us with their singular takes on personal style.
CITY ON HIGH
One city, 10 collaborators, 10 collections-Moncler lit up Shanghai with its City Of Genius showcase.
PRETTY NOVEL 172
Franck Muller presents its smallest skeleton movement to date in beautiful miniaturised novelties from the Round collection.
THE JOIE
Chopard's newest global brand ambassador Bella Hadid details her appreciation for the Maison and what she loves about its jewellery.
SOUL SEARCHING
In Rajasthan, India, a first-time visitor explores two stunningly singular Aman properties and experiences the raw and powerful beauty of the northwestern state.
INTO THE BLUE
With the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, the watchmaker is on a mission to safeguard our most precious resources, including the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area in Indonesia.
LIFE IN TRANSIT
Entrepreneur and creative multi-hyphenate Sherry Ang shares how her transitional home blends elegant simplicity with the vibrant chaos of family life.
YES,CHEFS!
BAZAAR talks to three of the hottest names in Singapore's culinary scene to get the hot, hard truths of the trade.
