"SCENTSATIONAL" FRAGRANCE JOURNEY - Hyde Park Corner - Johannesburg

We love nothing more than a chance to travel and, thanks to the many stores in Hyde Park Corner, we were afforded a trip to remember.  We embarked upon a "Scentsational" fragrance journey, an exploration into the realms of perfumery to discover the notes and extracts making up some of the most exclusive fragrances in the world.  Along the way we encountered a few familiar scents as well as some we had not come across before. 

Krishen headed for the Lancome display, like a moth to a flame,
no doubt tempted by the sight of Julia Roberts - one of his favourite
actresses.

With her infectious smile and 'girl-next-door' look, Julia Roberts joined
the Lancome family in 2010 establishing herself as one of their
most enduring ambassadors. With its fruity composition, the perfume has become 
one of the fragrance house's best sellers. The name itself "Life Is Beautiful"
is one of Krishen's pet mantras

It's Krishen's dream to one day become Julia!

Alan on the other hand likes a touch of the exotic and no perfume
(in his eyes - or should that be 'his nose') is more exotic than
Black Opium from Yves Saint Laurent.

The latest YSL fragrance was launched in September last
year. Black Opium blends notes of coffee with jasmine, vanilla
and cedar in a bottle embellished with sequins to give a
glam rock star feel.

Sorry Alan, Edie Campbell does a much better job as
the face of Black Opium

Some journeys and explorations can be treacherous - you could
meet opponents at every turn.  Krishen and Irina Doman found
themselves dueling with cameras along the way.

Next it was off to Britain for a sniff of the classic Burberry cologne
 Brit Rhythm - its blend of citrus notes lending an air of the casual swinging
60s.  Krishen was keen to exchange his standard bottle for the
"help-me-get-it-to-the-car-size" version on display.

There were diversions along the way, including an awesome
performance of excerpts from Swan Lake by the Johannesburg Ballet 

Alan then came across some old friends - his favourite range of
fragrances from Paul Smith - the perfect thing to compliment.
the brightly-coloured Paul Smith socks he has become known for.
The combination of top notes of lemon and bottom notes of musk has made
Paul Smith's 'Extreme' one of Alan's all time favourite colognes.

Kevin McLennan was overwhelmed and
decided to step one side and "reflect" on
his own personal fragrance journey.

Thank you Hyde Park Corner - a big kiss from each of us.  Now
the problem of deciding which of the numerous fragrances to buy
for ourselves on Valentine's Day.