Say oui to South Forbes

MANILA, Philippines - France is what we refer to as a multicultural society and it is hard to imagine that its way of life is homogenous throughout the country.  With its colorful history and deeply-rooted regional traditions, one will find France anything but boring.

In France, a unique blend of customs has emerged, where the traditional rural and new urban lifestyles live side by side. In South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the forefront of the Metro Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay corridor, a seamless fusion of traditional French culture and modern Filipino sensibilities has become the cornerstone of an enclave whose lifestyle is built around pleasure and leisure, both indoor and outdoor – Châteaux de Paris.

“Enclaves like our Châteaux de Paris are what earned South Forbes Golf City international acclaim such as the Best Golf Community Development by the 2007 CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards program, and the Highly Commended Award for Best Development by the 2010 Bloomberg Asia-Pacific Residential Award,” said Cathay Land president Jeffrey Ng. “While it’s no secret that we’re not in France, we have made ways that we can feel more connected to that French lifestyle like we are living that life, even from so far away.”

A Flair for French.  Nothing says I’m gettin’ my French-on like speaking or understanding the language. Not only will this go along way if you plan to travel to France, but you’ll find yourself excitedly dropping bonjours, mercis and a beintôts any chance you get with a smile on your face and French in your heart.

Spend your days at any of the many gardens for some peace and quiet.

Going around Châteaux de Paris is like touring the streets of France with streets named after notable cities or regions.  In fact, all the street names begin with “Rue” just as how it is in France.

Châteaux de Paris’ tree-lined and elaborately-lit major avenue allows one to reminisce walking along the Champs Elysée in the French capital sans the shops and cafés, of course.

Mon Coeur.  You know how sometimes we skip meals, grab fast-food, eat in the car and swill our food down in about five minutes flat? Not only is that bad for our health, but it’s really no fun! In France, eating is a social event and something the French take pride in.

When living in any of the model chateaus of Châteaux de Paris, families are encouraged to learn how to set a proper table, use the good china and silverware, light some candles, and adorn the table with fresh flowers.

The Chambord model chateau, for one, is a modern rendition of a French palace which gives the impression of romance, aristocracy, and sophistication.  Its dining room uses modern Louis XV furniture that is juxtaposed against an ornate chandelier.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.

Joie de Vivre.  Big draws to the French lifestyle include the culture, the weather and access to world class music, art and cuisine, along with a wide range of sporting and outdoor activities. And no less desirable is the access to a rhythm of daily life which makes time for family, food, and friends.

Celebrate soirées and balls at the Grand Clubhouse.

The Grand Clubhouse is every resident’s castle of leisure.  An intricate French garden is laid out like a red carpet in front.  Along with the colorful field of flowers, hedges, and topiary, a series of reflecting pools surround the clubhouse entirely like a castle moat.  Entering into the voluminous main lobby is a breathtaking experience where a grand piano that lies beneath an elegant grand staircase plays sweet melodies as residents and guests make their way through the gala.  This is the perfect venue for a young lady’s début or a village soirée. On normal days, families can frequent the swimming pool or taste the café’s hors d’oeuvre selection at the al fresco lanai.

Magnifique.  We can say that the French find true pleasure in simple things most of us take for granted. In Jardin du Luxembourg, Parisians took advantage of the spring weather to bathe in the warm sunshine during their lunch break. Elderly Parisians gathered on one end of the park for a game of boules. Lovers sneak a kiss beyond the shadows of the Medici Fountain. Parisians walk a lot, both out of necessity and the sheer enjoyment of discovering the best of everything.

The whole Châteaux de Paris enclave is divided into four quadrants, each featuring a uniquely themed garden yet similar in exuding the Parisian environment.  The largest garden, of course, is the world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club where membership comes free at no activation cost with every lot or condominium unit purchase.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.