Editor’s Note

There is no time for maudlinism at the start of the year, but having just entered a new age category, I can't help but feel a little pensive about life in general. Long debates about personal responsibility, monologues about ticking off some imaginary bucket list and wistful thoughts about taking up in a monastery in Nepal to seek enlightenment  are entertained, but soon to be ignored and eventually forgotten till I get my foot in the next age category.

The Year of the Dragon seems to be in full flourish. Luxury labels are never ending new inspiration in the East, and the mythical beast is appearing as motifs on timepieces, coffee machines and bags, et al. Fecundity is also in the air, especially in our offices where nearly every other week, someone seems to be announcing impending parenthood.

Incidentally our cover personality for this issue, Joe Manganiello, is also a son of the Dragon. The Hollywood actor, who is currently on the top of numerous popularity lists in the world, has made his fame later than most in the entertainment business, in the HBO television series True Blood. But 2012 seems to bode well for the 36-year-old, starring in two movies this year: What to Expect When Your're Expecting and Magic Mike. Manganiello would have been appearing on the silver screen as the new Clark Kent, but filming schedule confirmation resulted in him opting out of the movie.

January also marks the beginning of the intense series of watch affairs and fashion shows that are taking place in Europe. The European Union financial stomach may be suffering a bad case of gastroenteritis, but its sense of style has not taken a step back, nor suffered from lack of demand. Our deputy editor Celine and fashion director Janie who have spent weeks in Europe will tell you what you can expect in the luxury industry this year.

Our annual motoring guide also kicks off the year with a slew of useful tips, great experiences and what we feel are the best automobiles that have been introduced over the past year.

This month, August Man (Indonesia) debuts a thrilling and exciting new addition to the family of our Indonesian followers a local edition of the magazine to enjoy. We've also recently expanded our magazine’s availability to the Singapore Airlines entertainment systems, so you can peruse our articles without encumberment to your luggage.

We hope your year is starting out as excitingly as ours is. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for the Chinese New Year lottery draw.

Happy 2012,

Darren Ho
MANAGING EDITOR
darren.ho@burda.com.sg