Under the Sea

Whether you’re taking a trip to local islands or on a family vacations to the Great Barrier Reef, Down Under, there is always fun in store for the whole family, adults and children alike. Especially with the abundance of beautiful nature in the form of coral reefs, schools of fish and other gorgeous sea creatures. In this article, I&P Living takes a dive into two very prominent beach/seaside vacation activities that promises fun for the whole family: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving.

Scuba Diving

SCUBA, originally the acronym for self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, is now a word in its own right. Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater. Scuba divers carry their own source of breathing gas (compressed air) this allows them great freedom of movement. It also allows them to stay underwater significantly longer than breath-holding techniques employed during snorkeling and free diving. A diver usually moves underwater with swim fins attached to his/her feet. External propulsion can also come from and underwater vehicle, or even a sled pulled from the surface. You may find yourself migrating to a more specific type of dive. You may prefer a dive where you are able to float with the currents while relaxing and taking in the sights. On the other hand, getting the adrenaline rush as you move with hundreds of hammerhead sharks might be more to your liking.

Up close & personal with nature

Most people begin though recreational diving, as scuba diving can be performed purely for enjoyment. It also comes with a number of distinct technical disciplines to proliferate interest underwater, such as cave diving, wreck diving and deep diving. Recreational scuba diving does not have a consolidated certifying or regulatory agency, and is mostly self-regulated. There are numerous large diving organizations that train and certify divers and dive instructors, and many diving related sales and rental outlets require proof of diver certification from one of these organizations prior to selling or renting certain diving products or services.

Underwater Sightseeing

Being a rather popular recreational activity at tropical resorts and scuba diving locations, the primary appeal of snorkeling in the opportunity to observe underwater life without having to deal with the complicated equipment and training usually associated with scuba diving in an ultimately natural setting. It also has the advantage of appealing to individuals of all ages because of this simplicity. 

Being non-competitive, snorkeling is considered more a leisure activity than a sport. It is generally accepted that a snorkeler’s outfit is made up of only a mask and a snorkel. As mentioned, snorkeling requires no special training. It only requires the ability to swim and breathe through the snorkel.  For safety reasons, however, most people are advised to obtain certain instructions, which cover equipment usage, basic safety, what to look for, and conservation instructions (corals and the likes are fragile and are easily damaged by divers and snorkelers) and a brief orientation from an experienced snorkeler. In popular snorkeling spots, like in tropical resorts or famous reef spots, the individuals who rent out the snorkeling gear, tour guide or even a resort-hired instructor, usually handle this part. Similar to scuba diving, it is highly recommended that one refrain from snorkeling along, but instead with a buddy, guide or tour group.  Snorkeling is possible in almost any body of water, however snorkelers are usually found in spots where there a minimal waves, warmer water, and something fascinating to see near the surface of the water.

Beautiful corals

Staying Safe

Some of the most threatening dangers to snorkelers are small inshore crafts such as jet skis, speedboats and the likes. This is because a snorkeler is usually submerged under water with only the snorkel tube visible above and since these small inshore crafts can access the same areas snorkelers do, the chance for an accident is very likely. More worrisome are the sailboats and windsurfers; the quiet propulsion systems they possess could mean that the snorkeler may be unaware of their presence. To help preventing this from happening, choose to wear bright or highly reflective colors/outfits. Another way is to employ dive flags to ease being spotted by boaters and other visitors.

As for snorkelers’ and divers’, their backs will be exposed to the sun for extended periods and burn badly even though submerged under water, without being noticed. Wearing the appropriate coverings such as a rash guard, a t-shirt, wetsuit and, not forgetting, sunblock, will alleviate the risk of getting sunburnt. Another concern is dehydration. It is highly recommended to hydrate yourself well before going in, especially if you intend to snorkel for several hours. Proper hydration can also mitigate the risk of cramps. Some snorkelers can experience hyperventilation, which can lead to “shallow water blackout”. This is why it is paramount to have a snorkeling buddy and to be aware of your buddy’s condition at all times.

Finally, where snorkeling or diving near coral reefs, always remember to exercise great care to avoid contact with delicate (and possibly sharp) coral and its poisonous inhabitants. Wear protective gloves at all times and be aware of your environment. Booties and surf shoes are particularly advantageous as they allow trekking over reefs uncovered by low tide, to drop offs or deeper waters of the outer reef. Also, for ecological reasons, contact with coral should be ultimately avoided because even boulder corals are fragile. A soft touch can instigate decades worth of growth to be undone in mere seconds, and the coral may never recover.

Most would concur that it's for the sheer enjoyment of experiencing the underwater world. This world is a vastly unexplored environment for many people. Be it the beautiful and brightly colored marine life or the thrill of watching the power and grace of a school of sharks or discovering a cave and even artifacts such as a sunken ship, it is incredibly addictive because there are endless dive sites around the world. Ultimately, it’ll be the perfect addition of memories to your family album!

Written for AMG International, contract publishers of I&P Living Vol. 2

Picnics - Entertainment Al Fresco

What could be a better to way to spend your weekends, if not by gathering your friends and family and going out for a day of games, good food and good company? With a history dating back to the 17th century, picnics have long been a pastime for adults and kids alike. In the next couple of pages, I&P Living takes a look at some lovely ideas for picnic foods, themes and locations that will have you out with your basket in hand and kids in tow before we can say croissant.

From Paris with Love

Picnics are a pleasure excursion at which a meal is eaten outdoors (al fresco) usually taking place in a beautiful landscape such as a park, beside a lake, at the beach or any setting with an interesting view. The term, pique-nique which first appeared in France in 1692, was used to describe a group of people dining in a restaurant who brought their own wine. For long a picnic retained the implication of a meal to which everyone contributed something. It became especially popular amongst newly enfranchised citizens after the French Revolution is 1789, when royal parks became open to the public for the first time, sparking the tradition of picnicking in parks.

Location! Location! Location!

Picking your picnic spot is almost certainly the most fundamental element of the planning, from beach-side barbecues to lakeside feasts, locale is the most important variable of any picnic experience. It is imperative to remember, not all picnic spots aren’t created equal and choosing the perfect one can make or break the picnic experience altogether. When deciding on a picnic spot, it is paramount to look into these areas to help pick the most ideal location. First, who will be attending? Just adults, or will there be children as well? Taking children along is where the tricky bit comes in; you must ensure the necessary bathroom facilities are easily available. If you are looking at something close by a body of water (i.e. lake, stream, beach), ensure that you have enough hands and eyes on board to keep an eye on the children. Secondly, are you looking for something a bit more outward bound or something located in a central position, like a city park? Remember, choosing a remote, far-off spot may sound like a good idea but you don’t want your attendees spending half the day looking for the spot. Nothing irks certain picnickers than having to share their spot with someone else. Do a little background checking to gauge how popular the site is and when peak period is to avoid disappointment and frustration. If all else fails, your very own backyard will provide you with the facilities and privacy everyone desires. Plus, you can even save cleaning up for later!

Remote areas are ideal for picnics 

Planning the Menu

It definitely goes without saying that if there isn’t any food, you don’t really have a picnic anymore. Although the food is considered the backbone of the picnic, try not to lose your hair over it. The best idea is to keep it as simple as possible. No one goes to a picnic expecting to dive into a medium-rare steak or even to chuck all cutleries aside for some rice and chicken curry. Some easy picnic foods include finger sandwiches with tuna, egg or cucumber fillings. Next, it doesn't get much simpler than crackers and cheese at a picnic.  Whether you're into spray-on cheddar or craving a peppercorn spread, a nice portion of crackers and cheese is always solid picnic fare. Cole slaw is a classic side dish of the picnic and is also a lip-smacking dish containing vegetarian-friendly ingredients like carrots, cabbage, green onions and herbs. Though it's conventionally made with mayonnaise, there are other choices to spice things up, such as herb dressing and tofu mayonnaise. If you are planning on having a barbecue at the picnic, keep the options simple to cook and easy to eat, for example sausages, burgers or chicken wings. Nobody really wants to sit in with a knife and fork to devour that lamb chop however amazing your marinade is. Whatever you do, do not forget dessert! Go in the direction of cakes and tarts and a fruit platter to keep everything well balanced of your fun day out.

Vegetarian-friendly skewers

Spice It Up!

Although the idea of a picnic in itself adds excitement to the meal and will always bear promise of a wonderful time but if you are looking for a truly different experience there are a number of unique ways to take your picnic to the next level. Themed picnics and picnic games are the perfect way to do it. If you would rather not go all out with an elaborate theme, a Colour Themed Picnic is the way to go. Just assign an agreed upon colour for everyone to wear (don’t forget the blankets too!) be it all red, white, black etc. That way even if you lose someone, it will make it so much easier to spot him or her. Another great idea is to organize a Fun n’ Games Picnic, which is ultimately all about picnic games. Some good suggestions are: frisbees, bubbles, kites, remote control airplanes, footballs, beach balls, volleyball sets, etc. Kids will love this one! Moving along, who says an all-girls outing has to revolve around shopping or sipping cocktails in nightclub? Plan a Girls-Only Picnic with sparkling cider, plenty conversation and girlie foods like finger sandwiches and chocolate-covered strawberries. Add a little more fun to it and make sure everyone wears a pretty summer dress for an all-inclusive experience. Other themes like Parisian Picnic, Italian Picnic and Spanish Picnic would be ideal for an all-adult picnic, each theme with its array of local delicacies and beverages.

Everything you need for an All-Girls Picnic –
Sparkling Juice, fruits and a shaded patch of grass 
to catch up with the girlfriends.

Some useful tips in packing your picnic – avoid squishing; remember to always start with heavier foods and items at the bottom, followed by the lighter one on top. Keep it cool – freeze juice boxes the night before, that way by the time you get to your picnic it you’ll have yummy slushies for everyone. Avoid sticky, messy food like sticky cakes, caramel apples and so on. They can be a real nuisance to transport and before you know it, the bugs will be having a glorious picnic instead!

Written for AMG International, contract publishers for I&P Living Vol. 2

Good Living - The Andrew Suvalsky Inspiration

Andrew Suvalsky - Jazz musician cum interior designer

In a swift career shift in 1998, Andrew Suvalsky left the music scene for the Big Apple to work with internationally renowned interior designer, Benjamin Noriega Ortiz. Now, his firm, Andrew Suvalsky Designs, offers clean, fresh and intimate full interior architectural and design services dedicated to creating all-embracing visual stories that divulge the soul of a home, drawing inspiration from the unique makings of the dwelling and the people living there. Blending the many elements of architectural embellishments, layout and a palate of sophisticated colors, Suvalsky applies his copious experience to conjure the dreamiest ideas with maximum optimization of space. 

Imperative Styles

One of the paramount challenges for Suvalsky is finding the equilibrium between comfort, beauty and function. Suvalsky prides himself on the realistic approach he takes to design although feelings and aesthetics are some of his foremost influences. Determined never to forgo beauty for the practical or vice versa, he believes that design should not be a just a two-dimensional pretty face but should be made to be comfortable and livable as well. Style is a combination of vision and artistry. If you have a wide room, accentuate it with neutral paint colors and contrasting furniture. Consider, also, lining the edges of the room with the furniture to allow easy traffic flow through main corridors. Arranging furniture is more of an art than a science, so try a few different arrangements on your paper floor plan before attempting the real thing. High traffic areas can spell trouble for top-heavy lamps and other tabletop ornaments. Be sure that the shade of the lamp does not extend beyond the edge of the table. Additionally, multifunctional furniture can provide invaluable benefits. Futons are ideal for small apartments, since they serve two functions - sleeping and seating.

Positioning furniture along the edges 
can help with traffic flow.    

The Suvalsky Method

Suvalsky’s method is systematic; emphasizing the adage that design is a process. No matter what look he tries to produce, he believes that it should always be inviting and authentic which he strives to achieve by forming personal and intimate connections with his clients. One of his favorite parts of living in a big city is that everywhere he looks there he finds inspiration, such as the dramatic outline and colors of tall buildings set against the sky, which he later incorporates in his designs of interior living spaces. Some visible design features include solid colors with contrasting properties against blank slates of walls and floor. Use minimal number of accent pieces for a clean and open look for visual charm. To avoid your accent wall/floor looking like a cliché technique, Suvalsky advises to avoid choosing a color that exists within the room’s original palate. Try for instance to use a color that bridges the fabrics and other wall colors and the exciting, accent wall.

Use a contrasting color to perk up 
and accentuate other elements of the room    

Keeping it Clean

Andy also loves things that feel clean and fresh and finds that the easiest way to do this is via the liberal use of whites. He stresses that it has to be used with real intention; otherwise it might end up looking generic or unfinished. If you love the sleek, modern kitchens you see in IKEA or even in magazines, the solution is to use white on everything: cabinets, countertops, walls and ceilings. Place a few accessories, each sitting on an oasis of white to further accentuate the room. For ease of maintenance, shiny is always better as sheen is more washable than matte finishes. Tip: Try to stay away from dull laminates and matte colours.

Find the perfect balance between style and comfort

Named “One of the Top Designer’s to Watch” by New York Spaces Magazine in 2008, Andrew Suvalsky has been featured in the New York Times, The New York Observer, Passions International and The Robb Report and has appeared on HGTV, Oxygen, Better TV, Fox and NBC. Log on to www.goodlivingbyandy.com for more design tips, ideas and solutions to bring out the soul of your home.




Written for AMG International, contract publishers of I&P Living Vol. 2

Frontyard Zen - Exploring Oriental Landscaping

Landscaping is the activity of transforming visible features of a piece of land while incorporating several elements, for example, flora and fauna, landforms and terrains and other elements such as buildings and fences. One of the core features of I&P is the focus on the aesthetic values incorporated into its townships. In this issue, I&P Living looks eastward for a charming aspect of landscaping – Japanese Gardens.

Antiquity

Japanese Gardens are traditional gardens that craft miniature idealized landscapes in a very intangible and stylized manner. The evolution of the gardens can be seen across the various historical periods in Japan beginning with the Heian period (794-1185). Developed under the influence of Chinese gardens, the Japanese gardens also carried with it influences Chinese philosophies of Daoism and Amida Buddhism. However, by the Edo period (1615-1857), Japanese gardens developed a distinctive aesthetic value, encompassing Japanese materials and cultures.

Arched wooden bridge – 
a recurrent element in large Japanese gardens.

Aesthetics

The gardens are designed as a miniature idealized view of nature. Large rocks are used to symbolize mountains and ponds or small streams are used to represents bodies of water such as the sea or a lake. Miegakure (literally ‘hide and reveal’) is the art of concealment which is employed especially in promenade gardens, where bamboo or tree groves are hidden behind hills to be discovered by the visitor who follows the winding path around or through the garden. A more intriguing aesthetical element is Shakkei or borrowed scenery. Smaller gardens are designed to integrate features outside the garden such as hill, trees or temples; adding to the scenery and increasing the ostensible size of the garden. Asymmetry also contributes to the beauty of the gardens as they are not laid on straight axes. Features are positioned to be seen from a diagonal by integrating vertical elements, such as buildings, with horizontal features, such as water.

Dry rocks used in the Karensansui design 
to symbolize water

Garden Styles

There are several types of Japanese Gardens, the most prominent being Karensansui (dry mountain and water gardens) a dry rock garden with white sand used to epitomize water. Gravel and rocks are age old symbolization for denoting sacred areas in Japan and are essential in facilitating meditation. The Roji or ‘dewy ground', is the garden, through which one passes to the chashitsu for the tea ceremony and it generally fosters an air of simplicity. usually divided into an outer and inner garden, with a machiai (waiting arbor), a typical Roji includes features such as the tsukubai (ablution basin), tōrō (lantern), tobi ishi (stepping stones), and wicket gates. Kaiyu-shiki-teien or Promenade gardens (go-round style) are designed to complement houses that are commonly modeled after the tea house. These gardens were meant to be perceived by following a path clockwise around the lake from one prudently designed scene to another. Finally, there is the tsuboniwa, literally meaning pot garden. This type of gardening is popular within areas fashioned by the junctions of building or between buildings. More often than not, they are shady, and obtain a good deal of the run-off from neighboring roofs during rain and snow. This cool, damp, shadiness is mirrored in the predominantly shiny, dark-green flora frequently encountered in tsuboniwa.

Cherry blossom trees add color and beauty to the garden.

Building Your Own Japanese Garden

There are several important steps you must take before building your own Japanese garden. The first and probably most important is to consult with a contractor. It is important to remember that the design should suit the site and not vice versa. This is also to ensure that the land is viable for landscaping and that water sources are available should you choose to incorporate a pond or mini-waterfall. It’s best to pick a piece of land with hills and slopes, which are analogous with most Japanese gardens, this will definitely add to its charm. Next, you should pick a theme you would like to design your garden after. This will help you in choosing which elements to include in your garden such as the type of gravel and stones, which plants to purchase i.e. bamboo, moss, cherry blossom trees, the size of the pagodas, pavilions, and what type of sculptures (stone lanterns, stone walls etc.) you should include. Placing the plants and elements in the planned area and imagining them ‘in-situ’ is a critical step in the designing and building process as it helps you envision what the garden will look like and allow for you to change the positioning of elements and plants if necessary.

A few useful tips in building your own Japanese garden - remember that every element should reflect the pure essence of nature. For example, you would never find a square pond or lake in the wild; therefore you should not include one in your garden. Waterfalls are the best option, fountains – not so much. Finally, don’t forget to ensure balance or ‘sumi’. Not solely for aesthetics reasons but to attain spiritual equilibrium as well.




Written for AMG International, contract publishers of I&P Living Vol.2