OCTOBER 2019

UPSCALE â„¢

OCTOBER 2019

Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com

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Copyright 2019 Upscale Living Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Upscale Living Magazine and ADMS Publishing Group, LLC. Neither the publisher nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publisher accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Ads in this publication are not intended as an offer where prohibited by state laws. www.upscalelivingmag.com

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CONTENT FEATURES

TRAVEL

10 Laura Hammet Interiors 38 andBeyond Tengile River Lodge

28 Discover Toronto’s Luxurious Side 43 The Most Extraordinary Train Journeys 55 What’s New! - andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge - Raffles Singapore 58 The Inn and Lodge at The Presidio, San Francisco’s Best Kept Luxe Hotel Secrets

FASHION 16 Luigi Bianchi Mantova creates Capsule Collection dedicated to artist Giulio Romano

REAL ESTATE

18 Alexander Wang X Bvlgari

32 London’s Residential Building Clarges

TIMEPIECES

RESTAURANT

20 Elemental Shifts: The Breitling Summit Takes Time to the Air, Land & Sea

34 Le Caprice Restaurant, UK

AUTOMOTIVE

43 Seabourn unveils Custom Sub to take Travelers Below the Surface

23 Bugatti unvails The Centodieci 24 Bentley’s Exp GT 100 AR App Takes Owner Experience Beyond Mobility 8 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

GADGETS

WINE + SPIRITS 60 Liber Pater to launch World’s Most Expensive Wine

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Laura Hammet interiors | BY NATALIE KING

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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alking into a space designed by Laura Hammett you will find yourself surrounded by exquisite materials and furnishings that have such a harmonious feeling of balance, proportion and detailed beauty. Each property is individual to the resident. Having been in the business for a decade, she talks with the self-assuredness of someone who has been involved with every aspect of growth alongside her husband, also a designer, Aaron Hammett. She recalls the moment in 2008 when they decided to take the plunge and hire their first employee and then the moment when they decided to open the design studio, which is a major financial investment and also a commitment to the growth that she projected for the company. It takes a lot of courage to take this leap, which she describes as essential in taking the business to the next level. Hammett now has 18 employees and a new design studio complete with a gorgeous sitting room for client visits. Much like the preparation, inspiration and foresight that it takes to design a property, Hammett has used her imagination and ingenuity to plan out her career trajectory and evolve into one of London’s most successful residential design firms.

Hammett works alongside her husband and their team, with each person having a dedicated position. The bespoke element of her work means that there is a dedicated FF&E team designing custom furnishings and lighting. Hammett oversees each project at the start and the lead designers take her vision and begin mapping out each element from layout to accessories. When a client sees the reveal of their home each element will be uniquely their own, with their clothing neatly put away, family photos in frames and a curation of books to enjoy.

Before the process of creating an interior begins, the client will meet with Hammett and her team to start work a questionnaire which is quite a reflective process giving insight to how the client lives or hopes to live with 11 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

INTERIOR DESIGN

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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INTERIOR DESIGN

all of their preferences thought out. The questionnaire covers everything from their wardrobe needs, cooking, entertaining and how the client wants to feel in the space. Hammett will often meet with the client for lunch to delve into questions to be sure that her team has a full picture of the wants and needs for the project. Hammett shares a story of visiting a client in India for dinner to talk about their upcoming design. While there she was able to notice that before dining, the family gathers for appetizers together in a separate area of low tables and chairs. She was sure to design a custom version of this arrangement for their new space so that the tradition can be kept but with a new design. These details of the client’s lifestyle are integral in creating interiors that enhance the client’s lifestyle of which she is well known for.

In terms of style, their work is self-described as classic contemporary, with each property being influenced by its surrounding landscape and architecture. A coastal home will have discreet elements of the sea, with a relaxed compilation of organic textures and hints of the surrounding landscape in the color tones.

A townhome will have a more formal feel for entertaining and gathering with friends. As she often designs multiple properties for the same client, the homes will differ based on surroundings and usage, but the personal ele-

ments of each residence are the same. She will know the client’s arm height preference on a chair, that they prefer a bath to a shower, to hang their pants rather than to fold them, and would enjoy a movie at home rather than at a theater, etcetera. These details are what has secured the trust of her client base which has expanded to multiple countries including the US. On the horizon for Hammett is the November opening of the new design studio and projects multiple residences in the US. Laura and Aaron are currently dreaming up ideas for a Grade 1 listed building in London that the team will be designing. This iconic property will be done in a way that will bring in contemporary elements while restoring and retaining the beautiful historic elements of the architecture and finishes. She says, “Design is not just an indulgence, it is a way to enhance and beautify everyday life. The inspiration that you feel whilst living in a well-designed home will translate positively into other areas of life and work”. Laura Hammett interiors are beautifully done and an inspiration see as is the business that has built from her vision to reality. 

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INTERIOR DESIGN

1.

WHAT ELEMENTS DEFINE A LAURA HAMMETT INTERIOR: Balanced proportions, layering of tones and textures, and acute attention to details from the architecture throughout to the furniture and styling.

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR AN ENTRYWAY: Making it feel instantly welcoming.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR SELF-CARE AFTER A LONG WEEK: Time with my kids is obviously the best self-care out there, but also reading and music are big passions of mine, so a bath with a book and my favorite playlist will always restore me after a long week.

WHAT COLOR TONES OR ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS MAKE YOUR HEART SING: A base palette of warm pale neutrals is where I usually start, both architecturally and with furnishing and then my favorite combination is layers of warm bronze tones, and rich navy.

A match made in heaven and inviting, done through layered architectural and decorative lighting; adding softness with upholstery and mirrors; flowers and a welcoming scent, but not

forgetting practicality like a surface to put down keys or small drawer for post, etc.

ANY FASHION INSPIRATIONS FOR FALL: I am not big on following fashion trends so my fall wardrobe this year will probably include many of my staples from last year - black leather trousers, a cashmere jumper and a pair of Gianvito Rossi suede heels. I live in heels.ď ľ

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FASHION

Luigi Bianchi Mantova creates Capsule Collection dedicated to Artist Giulio Romano | BY ADINA LAURA ACHIM

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uigi Bianchi Mantova always had a powerful bond to the picturesque city of Mantua in Lombardy, Italy. And it shouldn’t come as a surprise that as a retail brand focused strongly on arts and craftsmanship, it has selected the ratification of its designs. In fact, Luigi Bianchi Mantova is challenging traditional concepts by backing artistic endeavors like the renovation of the Susano Dominican complex, the restoration of the 52 statues at the Basilica delle Grazie and the designing of a capsule collection that pays tribute to Renaissance artist Giulio Romano’s upcoming exhibit “With New and Extravagant Manner”, that will premiere at Palazzo Ducale in Mantua on October 6, 2019, with the remarkable collaboration of the Musée du Louvre.

Apart the sartorial craftsmanship, the collection stands out through its vitality, unique patterns and individual designs. In fact, art lovers will easily identify Giulio Romano’s acclaimed artworks that create an unique aesthetic, outrageously extravagant. On the other hand, the collection becomes an artwork mirroring

an artwork. Thus, fashion is finally freed from the constraints of a dynamic industry and entitled to artistic freedom. Naturally, Luigi Bianchi Mantova is an expert in blending art and fashion.

According to Peter Assmann, director of the Palazzo Ducale Museum Complex, “Giulio Romano was truly an exceptional artist in his ability to focus on creativity. His new and extravagant manner – as biographer Giorgio Vasari describes it - was applied in many different artistic forms, from the design of a small vase to the reorganization of our Palazzo Ducale in Mantua.” Assmann mentions that with the same vigor and joy, they welcomed the initiative of their ongoing partner, Lubiam, who proposed a capsule collection signed by Luigi Bianchi Mantova.

Evidently, Lubiam shares the same ideology, favoring strong ties to the community and the artistic and creative scene.

As for the high-end collection, every item designed by Luigi Bianchi Mantova impresses

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with its attention to detail, and unsurpassed quality and craftsmanship. Moreover, various quality fabrics will be used to create a carefully selected apparel collection designed by Giovanni and Giulia Bianchi, two of the fourth generation’s siblings of the Bianchi family and heads of the company’s creative team.

“The aspect that makes this project so stimulating comes not only from the undisputed prestige of the exhibition and the partners involved, but from the request to use our creativity and the know-how of the company to make absolutely new clothes. This challenge immediately flattered and enthused us, and that made us work to respect the proposed theme. Unlike other types of partnerships that we have already experimented in the field of art, this collaboration translates into a real four-handed work with the Museum,” says Giulia Bianchi.

The exhibit will include seventy-two drawings, which present the professional career of Giulio Romano, from his debut in Rome, to his energetic activity in Mantua.

FASHION

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FASHION

Alexander Wang X Bvlgari | BY NIYOSHI SHAH

The Italian luxury brand has been working on “Serpenti Through the Eyes of ”, an ongoing series of capsule collections in honor of their iconic Serpenti handbag and jewelery style. They have recently collaborated with acclaimed designer Alexander Wang to re-imagine the trademark motif in a limited edition capsule collection.

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hen a collaboration like Alexander Wang and BVLGARI finally comes through, editors mark their calendars and fashion critics and connoisseurs wait with bated breath.

Announced in trademark Wang style with a plush party held at 712 Fifth Avenue, the former headquarters of the now-defunct Henri Bendel department store, the alliance has all the makings of creating fashion history. The hallmarks of a 135-year-old luxury house is fused with a contemporary label so seamlessly, you just know you’re looking at the next ‘instagram-favorite’ collection of the season.

The series is centered around the reinterpretation of the Iconic Serpenti Forever Bag, which Wang has virtuously refashioned in a belt bag, a duette, a shoulder bag, a shop-

ping tote, satchel and Minaudière. The collection comprises of six leather handbags in white, black and mint green. Wang aims to create designs with a focus on utility for everyday mundane tasks. Each bag features a contemporary update of the snake-theme gold hardware of the Serpenti line and Wang’s current muse Hailey Bieber fronts this illustrious campaign.

From Adidas to H&M and Uniqlo, Alexander Wang has always had a natural instinct for collaborations that appeal to millennials across the globe. With some high-end finesse and a free reign from the Maison’s team, this collection fuses the best of NYC street style with Bvlgari’s Roman luxury aesthetics and pedigree. He injects a succulent dose of post-modern playfulness without steering too far from the brand’s inherent

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artistry and design model. Drawing unexpected inspiration from designer packaging, Wang has introduced new silhouettes that reference dust bags, paper shopping bags and watch boxes, provoking everyone’s idea about what luxury means right now.

His key inspiration was derived from the Maison’s prolific history. While accessing the Bvlgari archives he found the original snake-head piece from the 1960s, this kickstarted the design process for him – in his own words, “It was a nod to the sinful woman, and that was something I could relate to. I always think about thrill-seeking when I design.”

TIMEPIECES

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TIMEPIECES

BREITLING Elemental Shifts: The Breitling Summit Takes Time to the Air, Land and Sea | BY BARBARA PALUMBO

There may be no better way to make a member of the press, retailer, or collector take notice of a brand than by that brand partnering with a recognizable face. In the case of Swiss watch brand Breitling, the face introduced at September’s “Breitling Summit” in Southern California may very well be one of the most attractive in all of Hollywood: the one and only, Brad Pitt.

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he Four Seasons hotel in Beverly Hills served as an ideal backdrop to the first leg of a two-day event that brought in Breitling retail partners, sales associates, and members of the media from all over the world. Breitling’s recent departure from a struggling Baselworld watch fair seems to have opened up new opportunities for the brand to showcase its big guns – with no guns bigger than on Pitt, himself – in a variety of settings that are more intimate, relaxed, and memorable than a multi-million-dollar booth in the middle of a Swiss trade show held during the winter.

Guests of Breitling were treated to a garden-style outdoor lunch before being escorted into a darkened room and greeted by the brand’s CEO, Georges Kern. Kern quickly took the stage and thanked his esteemed guests before beginning his presentation by reminding those present of the three elements that play a huge part in the Breitling world: air, land, and sea.

AIR PLAY When it comes to the air, there are few watch brands that can compete with Breitling for ownership of the skies. For years, the label has associated itself with everything from fighter jets (it has its own team) to astronauts (both Kelly brothers are friends of the brand) and recently, with its promise to put more emphasis on women, it added Spanish pilot Rocío González Torres – a commandant in the Spanish Air Force and the first Spanish woman to log 1,000 hours at the controls of an F­18 fighter jet – to its “Aviation Pioneers Squad.”

But at this year’s summit, Breitling added an unexpected layer of depth to its aviation-related group of ambassadors. The brand recognized that the “air” world goes beyond machines in which humans can fly and should expand to machines that 21 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

TIMEPIECES

humans – younger humans, particularly – are able to fly remotely. That’s when nineteen-year-old Luke Bannister joined Georges Kern onstage.

Back in March of 2016, Luke Bannister won $250,000.00 at the World Drone Prix racing event in Dubai, and since then, he has been an avid racer on the drone circuit, winning three consecutive DCL Championships from 2016 to 2018.

Bannister seemed thrilled to join the Breitling family and believes the partnership will shed light on a sport that will likely become bigger and more intense with each year that passes. “With first person view (FPV) drone racing, there are no boundaries – the sky is limitless and my horizons are constantly expanding.” Stated Bannister. “Racing is adrenaline pumping excitement. There’s always the challenge of learning new maneuvers, tricks in freestyle, and perfecting piloting skills. It’s a futuristic sport akin to scifi: it’s dramatic and virtual yet it’s reality – a surreal mix!”

It was during the “air” portion of the presentation that Breitling introduced its newest novelties in its Avenger watch series, the Super Avenger Chronograph 48 and Chronograph 48 Night Mission, the Avenger Automatic 45 Seawolf and 45 Seawolf Night Mission, the Avenger Automatic 43, the Avenger Chronograph 45 and Chronograph 45 Night Mission, the Avenger Swiss Air Force Team Limited Edition, the Avenger Automatic GMT 45 and GMT 45 Night Mission, the Avenger Chronograph 43, and last but not least, the fan favorite Aviator 8 Mosquito which was inspired by the famed de Havilland Mosquito, a plane constructed almost entirely of wood.

BEYOND THE SEA When it came time for Georges Kern to move on to the “sea” portion of the program, he did so with a splash, by introducing seven-time world champion surfer and Australia native, Stephanie Gilmore. Dressed in the most spectacular green suit, Gilmore talked about her hopes and concerns with regard to the 2020 summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, where for the first time in Olympic history, surfing will be a competitive sport.

“As surfers, we’re pretty much hoping for a typhoon.” Quipped Gilmore, to the laughter of audience members in attendance.

The demonstrations were followed by a “touch and feel” in the gardens of the property where attendees could try on the new Superocean Outerknown and the Outerknown ECONYL Yarn NATO Strap Collections; all part of the brand’s releases for this particular event, and also part of the Breitling’s initiative to create eco-friendly products that are as appealing to the senses as they are to the soul.

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Day fell into evening and evening brought with it a beautiful sit-down dinner al fresco where guests were awed by the discussion between Breitling partner Brad Pitt and brand CEO Georges Kern. But with a three-and-a-half-hour ride north to Lemoore in the morning, many of the brand’s guests called it an early night.

SURF’S UP Kelly Slater is as close as it gets to being a household name in the surf community, and with a successful Surf Ranch in Lemoore, California and plans for a similar type of venue in Palm Beach County, Florida, his name is going to become even more recognizable, surf community or not, which is why being invited as a guest to spend an entire day at the Lemoore location was such a huge deal.

Breitling Summit attendees dined on gourmet lunches at the 20-acre property before signing up for activities such as paddle boarding, jet skiing, and surfing the 6-to-8-foot man-made waves for the 2,100 straight feet they’re designed to last. Guests of the ranch were given gift cards to spend on Outerknown merchandise to take home as a reminder of the day they spent watching one of the world’s greatest surfers and some of his guests do what they do best on their own turf.

The 2019 Breitling Summit did what years of being in a booth at Baselworld could not: it created an experience for attendees unlike any they’d had before. It gave each person a moment to call their own and did so while also introducing timepieces that are worth every dollar for which they ask. The brand is alive again, in a way they never were, and the squad who represents them is truly a squad that’s on a mission. 

AUTOMOBILE

BUGATTI UNVAILS THE CENTODIECI | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

Italian for 110, Centodieci celebrates Bugatti’s 110th birthday.

The already sold-out supercar pays tribute to original EB110 while adding a huge 8.0-liter W-16 engine. The Bugatti Centodieci came to market at $9 million and only 10 will be made.

Producing 1,600 hp, the stunning supercar goes from zero to 60 miles an hour in just 2.4 seconds, with a top speed of 236 mph. Contrasting the black La Voiture Noire, the white Centodieci won’t be ready for another two-and-a-half years.

The sporty and extreme edges create an elegant, powerful and timeless car that stays true to the past while echoing the future. Newly designed narrow LED headlights and an added extra air inlet to help cool the engine, are just few of the several features that make this stunning car shine. Along with its classic Italian wedge-shape, an additional feature is the cars permanently raised rear wing, which can be lowered.

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AUTOMOBILE

Bentley‘s EXP GT 100 ar App Takes Owner Experience Beyond Mobility | BY DELLVIN ROSHON WILLIAMS

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AUTOMOBILE

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his month Bentley, the most sought-after luxury marque in the world, celebrates its Centenary with the launch of the futurist Bentley EXP 100 GT. To celebrate in grand style, Bentley have also launched an immersive app that allows users to explore the new GT from anywhere in the world in real time.

By using a printable QR code that allows users to experience the GT via Augmented Reality (AR), users can explore the car, and never seen before materials and technologies in 3D. At select Bentley retailers, users can also download and explore the virtual version of the car at full scale, complete with narration from JP Gregory and Brett Boydell, Heads of Exterior and Interior Design at Bentley. But wait, there’s more! Users can also see the car in 3D as 3:4 and desktop models… anywhere.

“EXP GT” refers to experimental grand tourer. That means it is a concept car—Bentley’s thirteenth, following the 2017 EXP 12 Speed 6e. Inspired by a bold, unapologetic march toward the future, the EXP 100 embraces Artificial Intelligence (known as Bentley’s Personal Assistant) to reassert the car as a place for capturing an extraordinary range of human experiences and emotions for the Grand Tourer of 2035.

“The engineers are a lot more pragmatic,” Gregory says. “They have

mapped out until 2035 a pretty detailed technology roadmap, so every one of the ideas we’ve played with here has some sort of integrity against that roadmap. It’s either stuff we’re developing for upcoming cars at Bentley or something that is an extrapolation of a tech that we know we can deliver. None of it is fluff–it’s something we believe is right for the brand.”

To appreciate the moment, however, one must get a sense of the EXP 100 GT’s scale. It is a two-door with the space of a four-door. You can drive in an autonomous (2-seat) configuration, or a 3 or 4-seat configuration with driving capability. It is 5.8m (19 ft) long and 2.4m (7.8 ft) wide with motorized 2m (6.5 ft) doors that open up to be 3m (9.8 ft) tall—top to bottom; there are 1,100 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to go from 0 to 62mph in 2.5 seconds; top speeds reach 300km (186m); and 80% of a 700 km (434 mile) of driving range is charged in 15 minutes.

Sustainable innovation is at the heart of the Bentley EXP 100 GT experience. They engineer the car to create a greater awareness of the world outside, with a curated collection of bespoke materials, including the 5,000-year-old Copper Infused Riverwood (think: dark wood from 3,300BC); Compass exterior paint made from recycled rice husks; 100% organic leather-like

textile from wine making; and British Farmed Wool carpets and embroidered cotton interior surfaces which all create a sustainable future luxury.

Fine craftsmanship, Bentley heritage and expertise alongside innovative technology, give us a hint at what we might see in the next generation of Bentleys. A much larger, taller cutting glass matrix grill with 3D textured OLED lights, for example, come to life as you approach it… her… it. The car knows when you are inside and can adjust to your preferred driving position and settings anywhere in the world.

Biometric readings allow the car, through its air purification system, to capture and replicate sounds, smells, experiences. This gives the owner complete control to play with color, smell, light, and tone to influence and direct emotion, making the EXP 100 GT a living machine. that translates immersive, self-directed experiences into a powerful automotive narrative.

One that blurs the line between the driver and the driven. The EXP 100 GT is not just another concept car.

It is the future of luxury mobility.

The app can be downloaded by visiting - https://apps.apple.com/gb/ app/bentley-100-ar/id1469201009

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TRAVEL

Discover Toronto‘s Luxurious Side | BY TRACY BEARD

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oronto, the capital of Ontario, Canada, is a vibrant cosmopolitan city residing on the banks of Lake Ontario’s northwestern shore. This dynamic metropolis embraces its history, strives for progress and showcases Canada’s appreciation for opulence. Soaring skyscrapers stand beside vast green spaces, and quaint residential streets morph into luxurious neighborhoods. Visitors can bask in luxury at The St. Regis Toronto, dine at delicious high-end restaurants and shop for designer clothes and services. Toronto is the perfect place to splurge on today’s modern luxuries.

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LAVISH ACCOMMODATIONS Toronto excels in public transportation, but a chauffeured trip from the airport with Global Allure Management to The St. Regis Toronto will launch your vacation with style. The hotel was once the Trump Hotel, located in the financial/entertainment district downtown, and built in 2012. New management took over in July 2017, and a rebranding and remodel took place over the next year and a half.

Toronto’s first St. Regis hotel is one of the most stunning hotels in the downtown area. It is a wonderful blend of refined style and modern sophistication. The luxurious guest rooms and suites, tailored butler service and impeccable hospitality make The St. Regis Toronto the perfect place for people to live, holiday or connect and socialize.

curtains and a Nescafé machine. Chandeliers graced the living room, bedroom and hallways. The master bath featured a deep soaking tub and a massive shower stall with a delightfully large rain showerhead.

The St. Regis brand is known for its iconic butler service. Guests can text their butler for a cup of coffee or tea, arrange for garments to be pressed and indulge in the hotel’s complimentary packing and unpacking service. Alex stated, “The only thing our guests cannot buy is time; therefore, we give them the gift of time.”

The Spa at The St. Regis Toronto features a wellness menu with numerous modernized spa treatments designed for those seeking treatments for the mind, body and soul. The discriminating spa setting is the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

GLAMOUROUS BEGINNINGS

EXCEPTIONAL DINING

John Jacob Astor IV founded the first St. Regis Hotel in New York City in 1904.

At that time, he was one of the wealthiest men in America, and his mother, Mrs. Caroline Astor, set many of the standards for high society. Marketing & Public Relations Manager at The St. Regis Toronto, Alex Marconi said, “The Astors were known for doing things grandly—it was the gilded age filled with glamour, champagne and opulence.”

LOUIX LOUIS is the principal restaurant and grand bar in The St. Regis Toronto. It is a place to hand-pick the type of experience you’d like for the evening.

LOUIX LOUIS boasts one of North America’s most extensive dark spirits collection waiting to be savored 31 floors above the city. Toronto’s history as the largest distillery back in the turn of the 19th century inspired the stunning décor, and “The Bouquet of Whiskey” mural on the ceiling, designed by Madison van Rijn, appears as if whiskey is swirling at the top of a glass.

EXTRAORDINARY ASPECTS St. Regis hotels worldwide are known for their three signature rituals—the Afternoon Tea Ritual, the Evening Ritual and the Bloody Mary Ritual. Alex shared how each St. Regis hotel creates its own unique tea blend and Bloody Mary. In Toronto afternoon tea is served every Saturday and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 pm, and Bloody Marys are available from early in the day until late at night seven days a week.

The Evening Ritual in Toronto begins each night at 6:00 p.m. with a formal announcement and finishes with a champagne sabering and a toast for guests in the Astor Lounge. Caroline loved this ritual and felt that it was a fabulous way to “bid farewell to the working day and welcome in the evening.”

Rooms and suites at the hotel are enchanting. My corner suite boasted a fireplace, heated tile floors, six gigantic pillows on an enormous king-size bed, remote control

My dinner at LOUIX LOUIS was terrific.

It began with a champagne cocktail and a squash soup with pumpkin seeds and Parmesan foam. The perfectly cooked and seasoned beef filet arrived topped with a pat of tarragon butter and a drizzle of red wine sauce. I ordered a side of crisp-tender green beans with local blue cheese crumbles and thick-cut bacon lardons. It was my birthday, and the staff surprised me with a piece of scrumptious King’s cake, 13 layers of decadent chocolate topped with gold flakes.

PLEASURABLE PAMPERING Her Majesty’s Pleasure is the ideal place for pampering, whether you opt for a manicure, pedicure or a fresh look created by one of the professional makeup artists. The elegantly designed beauty bar offers multiple sensory beauty services while 29 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

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simultaneously offering creative cocktails for purchase during your visit.

ENTICING EATS Kevin Durkhee is the owner of Culinary Adventure Co. I met Kevin and three other guests for his yearly Artisan Cheese Market VIP experience at the St. Lawrence Market. He enlightened us about the city’s early history and downtown architecture, and he shared stories about long-term merchants at the market. We tasted oysters, cold-smoked salmon, perogies and Portuguese coconut tarts before heading to the Artisan Cheese Night Market where we sampled numerous Canadian cheeses.

Luma restaurant, located on King Street West, serves artisanal cuisine made from local ingredients. I ordered a sparkling rosé and paired it with the tender skewered calamari with shizo and caramelized garlic dressed with goju jeng sauce. Cold charred eggplant salad with whipped goat cheese and pomegranate molasses made a great accompaniment to the spicy calamari. I concluded with the chocolate bar—dark chocolate ganache shaped into a bar with a brownie, cookie crumbles, candied peanuts, brûléed banana and peanut butter ice cream—so rich and tasty.

Toronto is a multicultural city catering to every preference. Planta, a vegan restaurant,

serves tasty vegan meatballs, delectable lettuce wraps with fried mushrooms and many other mouthwatering options. Plan ahead for an upscale dinner at Alo. Chef/Owner Patrick Kriss presents one of Canada’s top French tasting menus. Enjoy the multicourse tasting menus with sommelier-selected wines from numerous regions.

neighborhood that embraces their version of Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive. This mecca of designer shops is fun to browse, and delightful eateries pepper the area. Toronto’s first Eataly, a 50,000-square-foot Italian food marketplace with three stories of food markets, restaurants and small eateries will open in this area in the fall of 2019.

DECADENT DRINKS

TANTALIZING TOURS

BarChef Toronto on Queen Street in West Toronto proposes an assortment of classic and multisensory cocktails. Whether it looks like a bouquet of flowers or an erupting volcano, these drinks are not just cocktails, they are events. Aromatics, decorations and breathtaking demonstrations take these concoctions over the top.

VIP Ontario Tours offers a variety of tours inside and outside the city. Roy, my driver and tour guide, escorted me to Niagara Falls. After a fabulous boat trip out into the spray of the falls, we continued to Peller Estates Winery where I dined on the patio and tasted three ice wines. From there we proceeded to Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery for more tasting. It was a full day before Roy drove me back to the St. Regis.

The “Spring Thaw” was the creator’s expression of the season with vivacious spring blossoms and aromatics from Ontario’s green fields and winter thaw. The cocktail is comprised of sparkling wine, London Gin, chamomile syrup, grapefruit and orange blossom air. Edible flower petals, basil, and a Campari and vanilla sphere-shaped granita complete the presentation.

FIRST-CLASS SHOPPING Briar de Lange heads up all the business redevelopment in Yorkville, Toronto’s elite

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Toronto is Canada’s largest melting pot with over 135 diverse cultures all converging and mingling in one spot. It is an incredible city with history, architecture, culture and elegance.

Contact SeeTorontoNow.com to help you book a fantastic visit to this enticing city.

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REAL ESTATE

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REAL ESTATE

Clarges, Mayfair | BY RAJ GILL

Whilst the lower ends of the London market remain cautious over Brexit concerns buyers at the upper end are jumping at the opportunity to invest in a market in which prices have fallen and the drop in Sterling since June 2016’s EU referendum has further added to the potential windfall for dollar and Euro-denominated buyers.

The city’s new landmark residential building Clarges, a development of 34 luxury residences located in Mayfair sold a new penthouse for in excess of £55m and this demonstrates that in spite of Brexit uncertainty, London’s super-prime property market is going from strength to strength.

British Land has now reported that its first super-prime scheme, Clarges Mayfair, is close to being fully sold. With a select few premium apartments remaining, the unique selling point is the unparalleled views of Green Park and Buckingham Palace, and of course the coveted postcode.

Squire & Partners, the esteemed architects are responsible for the residences and interiors are by Martin Kemp Design and also Brady Williams. The development complements the surrounding architecture of prized Piccadilly landmarks, including The Ritz Hotel and The Wolseley, through the use of traditional Portland stone with contemporary detailing. Internationally renowned Martin Kemp Design has spearheaded the interiors throughout the development, including wellness facilities that rival the world’s finest five-star hotels.

The facilities draw on the traditional English spas of Harrogate, Bath and Cheltenham. The 25m swimming pool is lined with colonnades and cloisters, with a barrel vault ceiling, while the tiling features bespoke designs inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian periods.

Designed to cater to each residents’ fitness needs, facilities also include a state-of-the-art gymnasium with flexible, specially designed areas for private training, a hydrotherapy pool, and a sauna and steam room.

Every detail inside and out has been painstakingly planned to embody Mayfair’s illustrious history of tailoring, craftsmanship and ateliers including a quadruple height domed ceiling – the designers modern take on the traditional chandelier was designed by light sculpture special-

ists, Haberdashery. This unique feature located in the grand entrance hall is quite outstanding and a talking point in itself. The dome depicts a reflection of everything the Mayfair heritage represents.

Maria Averkina, Head of Clarges Mayfair, comments: “The success of Clarges Mayfair to date is testament to the international appeal of this beautifully designed residence with a quintessential British address. As the first new development of its kind to complete in Mayfair, there’s a real opportunity for purchasers looking to buy and move-in straight away.”

The attention to detail throughout Clarges Mayfair extends through the communal areas and into each of the apartments. Materials include black onyx and Nettuno marbles, as well as Tanganika timber and dark stained oak. Rich, luxurious fabrics, including hand woven tufted carpets in wool and silk, feature alongside nickel polished ironmongery and art deco inspired doors with embossed metal detailing which references the local street network of Mayfair.

Continuing the tradition of Mayfair’s world-class craftsman and ateliers, a handpicked selection of British based artists and artisans have created bespoke pieces for Clarges Mayfair. These include ‘tapestries’ of cast and gilded flowers, by artist Sophie Coryndon, which draw inspiration from the development’s natural surroundings.

Classic materials such as bronze, marble, plaster and porcelain give subtle nods to Mayfair’s past. Details on the sweeping staircase balustrade echo traditional watch mechanisms, and three striking decorative copper sculptures by designer-maker, Yasemen Hussein, are reminiscent of the Elizabethan lace ruffs, from which Piccadilly acquired its name.

Location wise this is the dream, there are fabulous galleries, fashion flagships and the finest restaurants that London has to offer right on your doorstep. So if you have a spare £4.25million rattling around in the bank, head straight over to Clarges before all the apartments are all snapped up. Prices of Clarges Mayfair start at £4.25 million For more information please visit www.clargesmayfair.com 33 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

RESTAURANT

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RESTAURANT

LE CAPRICE RESTAURANT | BY RAJ GILL

I lived in London in the late nineties and sadly had never made it to Le Caprice. It was a haunt for the rich and famous and always had a massive waiting list. As I could never plan ahead thanks to my crazy schedule, I missed the opportunity to eat there. Princess Diana called it her “home from home”, now endorsements don’t come much better than that.

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ocated in the heart of Mayfair, in St James’s, the restaurant is a stone’s throw from The Ritz, and also Bond Street is nearby.

On my most recent visit to London I had the foresight to book well in advance. And I was lucky as the restaurant with Head Chef Will Halsall at the helm, has just recently launched a new initiative the “Aperitivo Hour” from 3pm-7pm, offering guests a sharing platter filled with Le Caprice’s famous dishes.

The restaurant is part of Caprice holdings, owned by Richard Caring who owns a whole host of fabulous restaurants in the UK, the most famous perhaps being the Ivy. Opened in 1947 by Mario Gallati, former Maître d’ of The Ivy, it was relaunched in 1981 and quickly became a social institution with a devoted international clientele who enjoy unsurpassed service and a lively atmosphere, expertly marshalled by its Director, Jesus Adorno.

The restaurant was pivotal as one of a small number of pioneering establishments that challenged the institutionalized methods used for formal dining: service was more confident, menus less formulaic and standards were softened. This novel approach combined the best of what the American and French had to offer, creating a new genre of restaurant altogether. And, at the heart of Le Caprice’s remit is an always fresh and imaginative menu with international influence throughout, sourced from the finest suppliers, along with seamless service.

With its black and white décor, and long dining bar, Le Caprice is a model of urban elegance, steeped in a rich history. In September 2011, the restaurant received a design refresh by Martin Brudnizki with touches including black oak panels, beveled mirrors and a new black marble floor with a white double inlay border. A larger reception area was created by a back-lit ivory onyx bar with granite counter and 12 dining stools. Outside, royal blue awnings and topiary planters adorn the terrace for all-day dining overlooking the bustle of St James’s.

The interior decor is rather simple and it is a pleasure to dine in, the black and white decor has a rather soothing effect. The walls are adorned with black and white snaps of celebrities and royalty, from a beautiful image of Diana with her boys to an iconic shot of Elton John. All of the photographs have been taken by world renowned photographer John Swannell, and have been on display since January.

Our fellow diners were all very elegant and well spoken, we engaged in conversation with the lady at the table next to us, my sister was convinced she was a famous actress! I just wanted to know the name of the dessert she was having, it looked delicious and she was making haste with it!

The Aperitivo Hour consists of a platter of light and indulgent bites.

We had opted for the pescetarian version of the platter, therefore we were treated to scallops topped with a delicious chilli and coriander garnish which tasted of summer! Delectable popcorn shrimp tempura with spicy mayonnaise, tuna ceviche with avocado, deep girolle and manchego croquettes and of course caviar served with blinis all accompanied by a small bottle of Laurent Perrier Champagne.

Just the right amount of food for an Aperitivo Hour. Did Le Caprice live up to my high expectations? Yes it certainly did and I hope to be back soon to sample the regular menu. www.le-caprice.co.uk

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GADGETS

Seabourn unveils custom subs to take travelers below the surface | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

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he ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn, has just announced two new expedition ships, the Seabourn Venture and its as-yet-unnamed sibling vessel, to take travelers on a new expedition below the seas.

Custom-built for the cruise line, each futuristic looking vessel will carry two U-Boat Worx Cruise Sub 7 submarines to journey nearly 1,000 feet below the surface.

Carrying six guests and one pilot, the battery-powered sub will allow adventurers to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat and explore for sunken wrecks and buried treasure. The design of the ship sees a central pilot station in between two clear acrylic spheres for guests. With views in almost all directions, each sphere has three mounted seats that rotate giving nearly 360-degree views of the sea below.

Along with underwater LED flood lights, imaging sonar and an advanced underwater navigation system, the subs will have a six-func-

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tion manipulator arm, capable of lifting up to approximately 70 pounds. Another unique feature of the ship is its 4K underwater video camera system as well as internal video recording system. This gives passengers a recording of the beautiful imagery they saw along with their reactions in real time, The Seabourn Venture is scheduled to launch in June 2021, with its sibling vessel to follow in May 2022. ď ľ

Privacy, elegance with a hint of rustic charm,

AN AFRICAN DREAM

awaits you at Motswari Geiger’s Camp.

Tel: +27 21 427 5900 Email: reservations@newmarkhotels.com www.newmarkhotels.com

motswari_private

Motswari Private Game Reserve

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andBeyond Tengile River Lodge A Natural Symbiosis | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ANDBEYOND AND BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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andBeyond’s brand new Tengile River Lodge opened on December 1, 2018, in the wildlife-rich and iconic predator-dense Sabi Sand Game Reserve. With only nine guest suites dotted along the banks of the Sand River, a refined spaciousness fused with sleek interiors ensures an exceptional experience is guaranteed.

The impala alarm calls signal a possible threat.

As we approach the area where ranger Chris and tracker David think it is coming from, giraffe and impala all look in one direction - the drainage line. With fresh drag marks, we know we have struck gold. We must have missed the kill by a few minutes, as we are staring at the white tipped tail of the Teardrop female leopard and an impala carcass. She has two young cubs to feed and this will go some way in sustaining her and her offspring.

My daughter and I left Cape Town the previous day on our Airlink flight between Cape Town International Airport and Skukuza Airport.

The streamlined Embraer 135 flies directly to Skukuza Airport in just 2 hours and 30 minutes, ensuring that passengers reach their destination well in time for lunch or High Tea and an exemplary afternoon in the bush.

We are collected at Skukuza Airport by ranger Chris, who drives us to the lodge in the andBeyond Tengile River Lodge safari vehicle. A warm welcome is bestowed on us by the staff, with a cool refresher towel and a thirst-quenching drink. The entrance is strikingly designed and as we walk down the stairs, we reach the level for the bar, library and dining area.

Lunch is a gastronomical indulgence, cooked up by executive chef Tamarin and the mezze platter consists of the most delicious food.

We are joined by a lone elephant, who grazes adjacent to the boma. After an enjoyable meal, we are taken to our suite and given the option

whether we would like to walk or use the golf cart to get there. Wanting to immerse ourselves into the bush adventure, we opt for the walk to our suite, but decide after realizing our level of (un)fitness, we will from here on out be zipped around in the golf cart by our butler, Simon.

The guest suites at andBeyond Tengile River Lodge are sized at over 2,150 sq ft, making them both spacious and comfortable, with the emphasis on privacy. Designed by Johannesburg-based architects Nick Plewman (design architect) and Ursula Randall (project architect) from Nicholas Plewman Architects (NPA), with interiors by Durbanite Michele Throssell from Michele Throssell Interiors, they merged their collective areas of expertise to create something so classic and contemporary, it’s breathtakingly worlds apart from the typical safari lodge build and color choices.

“I was inspired by so many different aspects of the surroundings for the interiors,” says Michele. “Bringing the outside in, playing on bark surfaces from trees as a source of inspiration, as well as textures from animals and their different coats, such as velvet and frayed edged upholstery. As we all know, the bush has an intoxicating lure, with the dangers of big game and the elegance of certain animals married together to create a relationship of electric tranquility.”

Michele worked on the premise of electric furnishings – patterns on fabrics, design details, organic elements, contemporary & colonial to create a modern mix. Coupling the electric with

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tranquility, she created comfort, privacy and becoming one with nature. “We have brought this concept into our design by producing contrasting pieces, organic elements and items with bespoke designs.”

This is evident in the repurposed aspects of the lodge, such as the stone from the Selati Railway, which was used to create the terrazzo floors throughout the lodge and suites. Rich in history, the railway used to run through the area, connecting the gold mines of Johannesburg with the port city of Maputo in Mozambique. The stones have many contrasting colors, with dark greens, rust colors and varying shades of black. Slatted raw wood on the ceilings wrap down onto the walls as cladding creating a cabin-like feel, whilst celebrating the amazing trees and bark outside. High ceilings with great expansion of glazing create beams of natural light.

“We enjoy working closely with our interior designers”, says Ursula. “This enables both the architect and interior designer to create a more integrated and user-friendly end-product. The NPA philosophy is to always fashion architecture that is site appropriate, hence our material palette resonated with elements such as the Setali railway stone floor, local quarry stone cladding and reused railway sleeper cladding.

This allowed the building to blend effortlessly into the surroundings.”

An emphasis on sustainability is a core ingredient at all the andBeyond lodges and is mirrored by their treading lightly on the earth ethos when constructing a lodge, especially in a remote location such as the Sabi Sand. “There are naturally many logistical problems working in an otherwise inaccessible area, the biggest stumbling blocks being material transport and on-site coordination”, Ursula explains. “Fortu-

nately, we worked with an experienced group of professionals – Mike Buyskes Construction, who conducted the operation without a hitch.

This helped us to lessen the impact on the environment and have a minimally invasive construction process. This meant that we had amazing close-up encounters with the resident animals, which was the greatest feather in our cap that the wildlife did not feel disturbed or threatened by our presence.”

After the most delectable High tea, consisting of home-made pastries and nougat, we set off to see what the bush has on offer for us. I had learned that we are in good hands as Chris’s favorite animal also happens to be a leopard.

Traversing through the 26,000-acre concession, Chris gets notified that Ncila is still ‘static’ at his current location. This could only mean one thing – this gorgeous male leopard has a meal suspended from a tree branch and will only leave the area when there is no more food left.

I snap a photo of Ncila, looking up to see if the half-eaten impala is still where he’s positioned it. He’s not taking any chances as hyenas have made it known that they are there for the taking.

Only two vehicles are allowed per sighting, and we leave Ncila to continue his slumber on the tree branch. In a typical cat-like manner, he has fallen asleep on the branch, with his paw tucked in underneath his face. The sun has started setting, and the silhouette of a troop of baboons bounding around in a tree catches our attention.

Back at the lodge, we are treated to pre-dinner drinks in the bar area and a scrumptious supper. Simon drives us to our suite where we look forward to a good night’s sleep and the prospect of what lies ahead for us the following day. After a cleansing shower with andBeyond’s

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Argan Oil & Lemon Verbena Healing Earth products, we retire to bed, with the only nocturnal disturbance the faraway sound of a lion roaring.

Pre-dawn in the bush is always an extraordinary preamble to what the day has in store and this morning is no different. After our incredible sighting of the Teardrop female and her cubs, we stop for a morning coffee break. On our way to the lodge, my daughter is impressed that she gets the use of Swarovski binoculars during our stay to view her favorite feathered creatures up in the treetops or on the ground. We pause to admire a lilac-breasted roller, perched against a bright blue sky, and further afield, wait for a martial eagle to take flight.

Breakfast is served in the dining area and is a veritable feast of pastries and hot breakfast. We spend the afternoon at leisure in our room, taking in the wonderful scenery from our sunken lounge and having a dip in the pool. Our option to have lunch provided in-room is a genius idea, and we dine on the most perfectly prepared gourmet burgers, fries and pizza.

Our afternoon game drive is jam-packed with leopards – Ncila has hoisted the remnants of his impala so high up in the tree, he has to perfect his balancing act not to let his prey fall to the ground into the claws of the waiting hyenas or unceremoniously lose his footing. With dusk drawing closer, we notice an animal crouching down in the long grass. It’s the Tamboti young female, taking a chance on an unsuspecting herd of impala grazing in the distance. Using the game drive vehicles as cover, she stalks closer, but doesn’t manage to gain enough momentum to make a catch.

The animals of the Sabi Sand certainly make an impression on guests and visitors alike.

“Early one morning, around 06:30 am, we

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were startled by movement and the sound of running animals,” Michele recalls. “We were not sure where they were coming from, when all of a sudden, a herd of bushbuck and kudu ran through the lodge. Unsure of what was happening, the whole team ran for cover. A few seconds later, once the frightened bushbuck and kudus had disappeared, we saw a pack of twenty-two wild dogs who had been on their morning hunt.”

Ursula remembers the young female leopard, who was born around the start of the project with fondness. “She made the building site her home. We watched her grow up, practicing her stalking skills, closely monitoring the construction workers from a nearby tree, checking in on the electrician and hiding her kills under the decks. She became the ‘mascot’ in a sense and was later named Tengile, after the lodge.”

Today, we are Johannesburg-bound from Skukuza Airport. Our onward journey takes only on hour on the Airlink Embraer 135, with the prospect of an unforgettable island experience in Madagascar’s Nosy Ankao. *** Views expressed are the author’s own. Thank you to Sarah Coyne and Chloe Hager from Alice Marshall Public Relations for arranging our stay.

AIRLINK – HOW TO GET THERE Airlink: Airlink is a privately owned and funded entity. It operates as a Regional Feeder Airline and franchisee of South African Airways using its own visible brand intellectual property. Connecting travelers to more than 55 routes within southern Africa and St Helena island.

Route Specific Information: Direct scheduled flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Skukuza Airport, Kruger National Park.

Connectivity: Through our alliance with SAA, travelers can connect conveniently, effortlessly and seamlessly, with SAA, their Partner airlines and other carriers throughout Southern Africa and the world.

Frequent Flyer Programme: Airlink is a member of South African Airways Loyalty programme -Voyager.

Discover more: www.flyairlink.com

Book Direct: https://www.flyairlink.com/destinations/flights-to-skukuza 41 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

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The Most Extraordinary

TRAIN JOURNEYS

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

The art of rail travel takes one back to a bygone era of slow-moving, stylish voyages from your departure point to your destination. Upscale Living magazine’s Travel Editor has found The Most Extraordinary Train Journeys where sophistication and luxury go hand in hand.

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BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER, PERU

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picture windows that offer the perfect vantage of the ever-changing scenery of the Andes.

Anticipate a series of unique dining experiences against a backdrop of spectacular mountain scenery.

The elegant carriages take guests through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world; offering vast, uninterrupted views of snowcapped-mountains, enormous skies, majestic lakes, and herds of alpacas, llamas and vicunas grazing on the altiplano.

Aboard Belmond Andean Explorer, sample the full spectrum of Peruvian flavors in the hands of acclaimed chefs. Besides delicious lunches and nightly feasts, enticing breakfasts each morning fuel your daily discoveries. The dining cars’ interiors showcase muted hues and luxurious leathers that mingle with artisanal millwork.

Polished macramé divider screens keep culinary adventures as intimate as you wish. After

aunched in May 2017 as South America’s first luxury sleeper train and one of the highest train journeys in the world, Belmond Andean Explorer traverses the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa on one- and two-night journeys.

Interior designs reflect Peruvian culture, mixing vibrant colors with natural tones, and large

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dinner, explore the boutique for a memoir of your adventure.

There are two bars in the Lounge Car and an Observation Car. From the semi-open Observation Car, guests can enjoy the scenery with an outdoor terrace that becomes the social hub of the train by night. The train also features a dedicated spa carriage with treatments that feature an exclusive Andean collection made of local, natural ingredients as well as the renowned Germaine de Capuccini collection. 

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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS, SOUTHEAST ASIA

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astern & Oriental Express was the vision of American businessman James B Sherwood, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Belmond, who purchased the carriages of the Silver Star train operating in New Zealand. The carriages were then transferred to Singapore and remodeled to highlight the spirit of classic Indochina with a colonial aesthetic.

The train made its inaugural journey from Bangkok to Singapore in September 1993. It is the first train ever to transport passengers direct from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok. Prior to its launch, passengers would have to transfer trains when crossing the border

between Malaysia railways to Thailand railways (or vice versa) as the railroads were built and maintained separately. An agreement was reached in summer 1991 between Eastern & Oriental Express, Malaysia railways, and Thailand railways to allow a single train to travel the full distance.

Accommodation on the train is simply superb – behind the glossy green and cream livery of this luxury train are interiors full of intriguing details and romance. Intricate marquetry, fine fabrics and vintage touches will leave you breathless.

A fabled journey through the exotic East awaits when you step into the world of classic glamour as you travel between ancient wonders and cosmopolitan cities. There’s a certain magic to this voyage, combining adventure with total relaxation. Handsome green and gold carriages conceal magnificent cherrywood paneling, Thai silk and Malaysian embroidery. Raise a toast as you meander past lush jungle, ancient temples and quaint villages. Some journeys deserve to be savored.

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ROVOS RAIL, SOUTHERN AFRICA

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elebrating three decades as the Most Luxurious Train in the World, Rovos Rail didn’t start off as a runaway success. “It took a decade for the company to break even,” says Rohan Vos, owner and CEO of Rovos Rail Tours. “We managed to side-step bankruptcy more than once. I was inexperienced and had no idea just how expensive trains would be to operate.”

With perseverance, this family-run business launched its first overnight journey with a seven-coach train to what was then the Eastern Transvaal and have through the years expanded exponentially. Rovos Rail now offers eight trips around Southern Africa with more trains

that can accommodate 72 passengers. Journeys range from 48 hours to 15 days with the newest route, Trail of Two Oceans, successfully completing its maiden voyage on August 2019 from Dar es Salaam to Lobito in Angola and back again.

It was the first time in history that a passenger train traveled the east-to-west copper trail.

“Our new route coincides nicely with our 30th birthday. I’d like to say it was planned but I can’t take credit for the serendipitous timing,” Mr. Vos explains.

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A maximum of 72 guests are accommodated in three variations of suites onboard Rovos Rail.

Meals are served in one sitting only in the dining cars and are complemented by a selection of fine South African wines. Traditional dishes are prepared with the freshest ingredients, with proudly South African fare like game and milk tart on the menu. 

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THE GHAN, AUSTRALIA

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rom the moment you step aboard The Ghan, you can feel it. You are embarking on the trip of a lifetime, a folkloric journey. The incredible kilometer-long train that transports you on two different journeys – Darwin to Adelaide and Adelaide to Darwin is a 360° travel experience melding fine food and wine, amazing excursions, sumptuous comfort and wonderful camaraderie.

This famous transcontinental journey will take you through the outback, the tropics, farmlands and cities for an unforgettable holiday experience. Your journey is not just the ultimate showcase of the incredible diversity of the Great Southern Land, your experience and enjoyment

of the amazing landscapes and environments you’ll see is enhanced by interactive Off Train Experiences that physically connect you with each landmark destination on this epic journey.

Tailored to complement the train timetable as you move through the heartland of Australia, these immersive activities are included in your fare. Take your pick from a range of excursions designed to suit your level of fitness and personal interests.

encompasses the style and ambiance of the art deco that salutes the golden era and romance of rail travel. When your menu can offer top end barramundi, locally-produced beef and lamb, Margaret River cheeses, Barossa Valley smallgoods and native Australian fare including kangaroo, saltbush and wild rosella flower, it’s hard to imagine you could be thousands of kilometers from the nearest hatted restaurant. 

For your dining pleasure, The Queen Adelaide restaurant, named after the monarch who was the consort of King William IV in 1836, 47 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

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GOLDEN EAGLE, TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS

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rom the moment passengers step onboard the Golden Eagle hotel-on-wheels, they can relax in the knowledge that everything is taken care of. Expect fine dining menus, a fully guided sightseeing program, cabin attendants and even an onboard doctor. Private en-suite cabins provide a sanctuary while the elegant Bar Lounge is the place to meet like-minded travelers. A variety of on-board activities are available too, including Russian language classes, vodka tastings, lessons on improving photography skills and talks on local history.

steel ribbon across Russia connecting the east with the west. At 9,288kms in length it is the longest single-service railway in the world and crosses eight time zones as it weaves through Russia’s vast and little-visited interior, over the Urals and across the steppe. Opened in stages between 1891 and 1916, this extraordinary engineering achievement is a vital link for the many communities that live close to the line, and it also allows passengers to draw back the veil and glimpse the cinematic landscapes of this mysterious part of the world.

Undoubtedly the world’s greatest railway journey, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs like a

Journeying along the Trans-Siberian line from Moscow to Vladivostok, disembark to visit the

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picturesque city of Kazan, the modern Soviet city of Novosibirsk and the ‘Paris of Siberia’, Irkutsk. The Golden Eagle then detours along the shores of Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, and into Mongolia to explore its capital, Ulaan Baatar, ahead of arrival in Vladivostok and covers a massive 6,835 miles over two weeks.

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THE PRESIDENTIAL, PORTUGAL The crown jewel of the Portuguese Railway, The Presidential Train transported Kings, Presidents, Heads of State and Popes for more than a century. Built in 1890, it served the Court of D. Luís I as its Royal Train, hosting aboard guests as reputable as Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II and His Holiness Pope Paul VI. Rebranded as the “Presidential Train” in the turn of the century, it served the Heads of the nation of State until 1970, when it was officially retired from circulation. Exquisitely restored in 2010, it maintains its original furniture and charm and can be found on display at the National Railway Museum in Portugal.

The Presidential returns to the Douro Valley for its most exclusive edition ever and brings with it a selection of the very best Portuguese Chefs.

Joining once again for a unique annual edition during the harvest season in what will be the penultimate edition of the project. The last edition, in September 2020, will have unforgettable features but also an extremely limited number of tickets available to the public, making this edition the last chance for most visitors.

Pessoa, a repeater on The Presidential kitchen, on September the 27th and 2th. Alexandre Silva takes over the train on October the 4th and 5th. Chef Nuno Mendes returns home on October the 11th and 12th. October the 18th and 19th are maned by Chef Óscar Gonçalves.

Kicking off on September the 20th and 21st with Chef Leandro Carreira, retuning to Portugal after 26 years abroad. Next is Henrique Sá 49 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

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TWILIGHT EXPRESS, JAPAN West Japan has a wealth of regions offering traditional and unspoiled Japanese landscape: the rich history and culture of Kyoto, Matsue, Izumo and Miyajima, and the beautiful scenery of the Sea of Japan, Mt. Daisen and the Seto inland sea islands. Discover the allure of Japan from the comfort of Twilight Express, with the superior quality of a hotel with breathtaking scenery, exquisite haute cuisine by top-class chefs, sophisticated cars and charming sights along the route.

The design concept is based on ‘superior quality with a touch of nostalgia’, with a nostalgic

and modern design, creating an air of refinement and a relaxing, evocative atmosphere.

The ‘Mizukaze Green’ exterior, inherited from the former Twilight Express, blends into the surrounding landscape, and is accentuated with a gold emblem and trim. The streamlined head car has an observation deck surrounded by five sweeping rails, complete with round headlights and a driver’s compartment reminiscent of locomotives from a bygone era.

The interior is inspired by Art Deco, a style popular in the 1920s and 1930s. The cars contain decorative touches from regions along the

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routes. The large windows give sweeping views of the spectacular flowing scenery. Relax next to an open window or step out onto the observation deck to feel the breeze.

Cuisine on board Twilight Express include the wonders of Japan savored in the food served on Mizukaze. Planned by Takeshi Kadokami and overseen by top-class culinary artisans, dishes contain an extravagant variety of ingredients from along the route and are made on-board.

TRAVEL

VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT EXPRESS, VENICE A 1920’s Art Deco icon, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is nostalgic of the golden age of travel with its restored vintage carriages.

Crisscrossing through Europe, it makes stops in major cities, including Paris, Venice, Prague and Budapest. For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, couples can book one of the three Grand Suites. Each suite features private bathrooms with showers, double beds, and spacious living areas, the Art Deco accommodations bring the already elegant train experience to new, luxurious heights.

The Grand Suite experience will begin even before boarding, with private transfers to the

train station where guests will then be greeted by their personal cabin steward. During journeys between London, Paris, and Venice – with an annual trip from Paris to Istanbul – Grand Suite guests will also enjoy free-flowing Champagne, private in-suite dining, and a complimentary art-deco bathrobe as a souvenir.

An additional three Grand Suites will be added with the 2020 season, named Vienna, Prague and Budapest, the iconic cities the train travels to every year. The epitome of luxury, each Grand Suite has been created with scrupulous craftsmanship that embraces the train’s iconic

history throughout. From the hand embroidered cushions to intricately carved marquetry, the suites offer an unmatchable experience with perfectly placed mosaics, silk patterns, en-suite bathrooms, double beds and a private living area with underfloor heating.

The three new Grand Suites will bring the total number of suites on board to six as they join Venice, Istanbul and Paris, the existing winners of the ‘AHEAD: World’s Best Suite 2019’. 

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YOUR PORTAL TO THE WORLD OF LUXURY w w w. u p s c a l e l i v i n g m a g . c o m

786.760.9133

TRAVEL

WHAT’S NEW “Bringing you the finest places around the world is what we love to do here at Upscale Living magazine. In keeping with this tradition, we are focusing on introducing you to new kids on the block or accommodation establishments with a re-looked lease on life.

Grab your travel diary as you want to get to these places as soon as possible!”

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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TRAVEL

ANDBEYOND PHINDA MOUNTAIN LODGE

PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KWAZULU-NATAL Following a complete renovation and sporting a brand-new look, andBeyond’s flagship Phinda Mountain Lodge offers the ultimate experience, steeped in its Zulu heritage. Drawing inspiration mostly from the reserve’s collection of rare Vintage Zulu bead work, the largest lodge at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve introduced blue to its color theme to reflect the close proximity of the Indian Ocean and nearby Sodwana Bay. Further enhancing the lodge’s dramatic hilltop location, the lodge subtly opened up the guest areas with features such as a new bar stocked with artisanal spirits and South African wines, a dining room with a pizza oven, and an interactive cooking area ready to prepare the abundant produce of KwaZulu-Natal. The deck has also been extended to 56 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2019

follow the contours of the land and to offer 180° views of the landscape, with an elevated walkway linking it to a brand-new rim-flow swimming pool, gym and a massage sala.

Guest suites also feature vintage Zulu bead work to create bright accents throughout the rooms, along with freshly installed parquet flooring and handmade herringbone shower tiles to reflect the geometric designs of traditional basket ware.

Each suite features a sunken lounge with a built-in sofa that has been positioned to enhance the view of the surrounding landscape.

With predators such as lion, leopard and hyena frequently preferring to hunt in the dark, andBeyond has launched the andBeyond Night Eye Experience at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, making use

of infra-red technology to allow guests to see in the dark and unlock the mysteries of the African bush. Equipped with three separate screens, the safari vehicle ventures into the night with a guide, tracker, and cameraman to capture real-time footage of nocturnal wildlife. As an additional bonus, guests are provided with a short, high quality video including some of the highlights of their night safari experience.

The pangolin, the world’s most poached and trafficked animal, is making a comeback at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. andBeyond has released a number of pangolins by the conservation team, retrieving them from poachers or illegal wildlife traffickers into the reserve and carefully monitoring the animals to ensure the success of their adaptation to their new habitat. 

TRAVEL

RAFFLES SINGAPORE SINGAPORE

Raffles Singapore is delighted to officially announce its highly anticipated reopening, heralding an exciting new chapter in the iconic property’s rich history and heritage. A flagship property within Accor, the world’s leading augmented hospitality group, Raffles Singapore is welcoming guests and visitors, following the iconic hotel’s careful and sensitive three-phased restoration, which began in February 2017.

“There are few hotels in the world whose names have become virtually synonymous with the cities in which they are located – and none more so than the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The newly restored Raffles will provide an experience like no other,” said Christian Westbeld, General Manager, Raffles Singapore.

“It is our wish and desire that our guests will continue to create treasured memories at

the hotel, while rediscovering what makes it so special – the distinctive architecture, heritage and legendary service.”

The meticulous restoration led by acclaimed interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud was also supported by Aedas, a leading global architecture and design firm. Together, the designers created a refreshed social haven that delivers a compelling mix of culture, beauty and gentility. Exquisite new suite categories, vibrant lifestyle experiences and exclusive dining concepts are designed for international visitors and Singaporeans to meet, stay, shop, dine and celebrate.

Discerning travelers can expect new levels of unrivaled comfort and inimitable service with enhanced suite experience, brought to life by the fabled Raffles Butlers, while enjoying the new and re-imagined spaces at Raffles Singa-

pore. The revitalized Raffles Singapore offers luxurious allsuite accommodations, with a total suite count increase from 103 to 115 suites.

Jeannette Ho, Vice President, Raffles Brand and Strategic Relationships, Raffles Hotels and Resorts, commented, “We are very pleased to be part of the reopening of the iconic Raffles Singapore officially returning to the city, refreshed, re-imagined and revitalized.

This is where it all started and faithful to its roots, Raffles Singapore reinvents emotional luxury. As the hotel concludes its restoration and embarks on the next chapter, the return of this flagship property to Raffles Hotels & Resorts paves the way for the expansion of the brand as we deliver this same level of unparalleled service and sublime experiences to new destinations in cities such as Udaipur, London and Boston.”

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TRAVEL

The Inn and Lodge at The Presidio San Francisco‘s Best Kept Luxe Hotel Secrets | BY FRAN MILLER PHOTOS BY PAUL DYER

Planning a San Francisco getaway? Sidestep the Union Square crush, avoid the Fisherman’s Wharf frenzy, skip the mobs atop Nob Hill and head to The Presidio, the city’s pastoral playground. Home to miles of hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, a golf course, museums, gourmet restaurants, and stunning views, The Presidio stretches across 1,500 acres of some of the most beautiful real estate in the Nation and at every turn reminds visitors that there is no rational reason to stay anywhere else in San Francisco. Surrounded by groves of fragrant eucalyptus and panoramic Golden Gate Bridge views, the two luxury hotels within this former U.S. Army Post are San Francisco’s best kept hospitality secrets.

Transformed by The Presidio Trust, a federal agency created to preserve the area as a natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational resource, the region’s former military barracks and officer’s quarters still stand, but each is re-purposed.

The Inn at The Presidio for instance was originally a bachelor officer’s quarters built by the army in 1903. Today, the building features

22 spacious guest rooms and welcoming communal areas that meld history with posh, modern amenities. History buffs appreciate the location’s colorful past and the artifact-filled Georgian Revival-style building. Luxury seekers enjoy the beautiful furnishings and linens.

Gourmands relish the complimentary wine, appetizers, and European style breakfast buffet.

And environmentalists value the Inn’s LEED gold certification.

17 of the rooms are ultra spacious, highceilinged suites featuring casually chic living rooms with gas fireplaces. Large, doublehung windows allow guests to enjoy the area’s refreshing Eucalyptus scented Bay breezes.

Two long verandas – on the first and second levels - run the length of the building and feature shaker style rockers. A large fire pit is the focal point of the back patio. Plush throw blankets for warding-off nighttime chill are tucked into baskets in the welcoming lobby.

Four additional rooms are located just down the street at The Funston House, a separate Victorian-style home with modern furnishings

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where guests can reserve either individual quarters or the entire abode.

Just across the Main Parade Ground is the newer Lodge at the Presidio, offering the city’s closest hotel proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge. The Lodge takes full advantage of its accessibility to the orange icon; several of its 42 rooms directly overlook the span, and a fire-pit heated courtyard sits in its shadow. Like the Inn, the Lodge features authentic architecture paired with modern amenities. Furnishings and fabrics include canvas ottomans and headboards, and cashmere-like throw blankets.

Well-stocked mini bars include wine, beer, and deluxe-sized spirits. Outside, a veranda runs the length of the building and features shaker style rockers overlooking a grass expanse. A vast collection of museum quality watercolors, mixed-media pieces, and photographs line the walls. And like at the Inn, guests enjoy complimentary evening wine and appetizers and a European style breakfast buffet served near a roaring fire in the dining room.

TRAVEL

Stay on a Thursday or Sunday during warmer months and enjoy Off the Grid’s Presidio Picnic at the Main Parade ground; its party-like atmosphere and menagerie of food trucks attract all ages. Nearby destination-level eateries include Arguello, serving Mexican cuisine in an indoor/outdoor setting, and The Commissary, featuring Spanishinfluenced dishes and located in the former mess hall of the 1895-built Montgomery Street Barracks - both under the direction of awardwinning chef Traci des Jardins. Beer lovers will want to check-out the more than 100 selections at Sessions at The Presidio, where the large outdoor, heated patio overlooks Letterman Digital Arts Center’s parklike setting.

Disneyophiles won’t want to miss the Walt Disney Family Museum, where Disney’s life is illuminated through innovative and interactive galleries. History buffs will enjoy the Heritage Gallery, located in the stately Presidio Officers’ Club and featuring interpretive exhibits about the Presidio’s role in shaping California and serving the nation. The Park Archives and Records Center, housed in a former cavalry stable, provides public access to more than five million documents, historic images, artifacts, and objects associated with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Throw down a few strikes at the 12-lane Presidio Bowling Center, practice your putting at The Presidio Golf Course, or simply explore by foot or on bike and pause for a scenic break at one of the eight Bayfacing overlooks. The newly opened William Penn Mott, Jr. Presidio Visitor Center provides a great starting point with maps, videos, historical context, and friendly staff that can help you plan your day.

Museums, recreation, shopping (the Visitor Center has one of the best collections of San Francisco-themed gifts found anywhere), gourmet restaurants, and first-class overnight accommodations – The Presidio delivers everything for which San Francisco is known, and then some.

Bonus: Parking is always plentiful!

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WINES

Liber Pater to Launch World‘s Most Expensive Wine | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

Bordeaux is snatching the claim of the world’s most expensive wine with the release of the Liber Pater, 2015 vintage which will cost $34,110 per bottle. Loïc Pasquet, the man behind Liber Pater, is taking the title from Burgandy’s Romanée-Conti Grand Cru which was priced at $20,510 per bottle.

P

asquet’s highly coveted release of the 2015 vintage also brings the story of years past as he specializes in old-school winemaking with wine growing techniques from the 19th century. Liber Pater’s high price is in part due to the vineyard’s history of scarce output, no wine was produced in 2008, 2012 or 2013, and due to vandalism in 2016 and frost damage in 2017 no wines of that vintage either.

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The release in September will be limited to just 550 bottles but only just over one half, 240 to be exact, will be sold while the rest will be cellared with a few on special hold for his daughter. The 2015 vintage will be sold or reserved prior to release by contacting Liber Pater (info@liber-pater. com).”

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