I toured New Zealand rather sensibly. The first time two years ago, when I covered the North Island and this Spring, when I traveled through the South Island. Which is the UpperCrust destination of this issue. It would be a tough call to select between the two islands, but if I were forced to, I�d select the South, it�s prettier, there�s more action, entertainment, adventure, nicer towns, perhaps even better restaurants. But for the eating out pleasure, I intend to go to NZ again.

The Spa culture has set in and is here to stay � for sure. New ones are mushrooming by the day, particularly in Bombay. We shortlisted a few and sent Naini Setalwad, nutritionist and a spa addict, to go check these out so we could give you, our loyal UpperCrust readers the lowdown. In keeping with wellness, the Eating Out this quarter is Pure. The restaurant at Taj Lands�End which emphasizes on using organically grown ingredients and which has been put together by the famous Chef Michel Nischan.

The UpperCrust Show has really become the food and wine event of India. Held in the first weekend of December, the one that just concluded had people thronging to the World Trade Centre on all three days. The crowd just wouldn�t let up. And they came in droves, both from the world of food and wine, hospitality as well as the end consumer. To shop, watch cookery demos, eat exotic fare in the open air courtyard, hang out, just chill.

We are truly glad we are contributing towards changing food habits and trends, bringing world cuisine and exotic ingredients right to our door step, for every one to have easy access to. Besides, UpperCrust is also creating waves by doing unique events: like the Chocolate Fashion Show which was very much appreciated, for the first time ever in the country.

The well-heeled Indian is really traveling far and wide. Keeping that in mind, we had Nupur Mahajan Sinh write about Barbados, an island of fun and laughter, not to forget the mouth watering seafood one can get there.