SEPTEMBER 2019

UPSCALE ™

COURTESY OF TIME + TIDE. PHOTO BY ANDREW MACDONALD

SEPTEMBER 2019

JAEGER L E COULTRE’S M OONPHASE WATCH FOR WOME N THE $3.5 MILLION PAGANI HUAYRA ROADSTER BC HYPERCAR

TIME + TIDE

MIAVANA Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com

CONTENT FEATURES

HOMES + INTERIORS

12 Time + Tide Miavana 52 Abu Dhabi, Beach, City & Sound

44 Glamorous Home Furnishings

ART + CULTURE 18 For the Love of Art, creating a Dialog between two Worlds FASHION 20 Virginie Viard’s, First Couture Collection 26 Baudoin & Lange, a British Belgian Loafer-Makers are single-handedly changing the luxury footwear game.

CARS + YACHTS 31 Amazing Yachts + Car Collaborations 40 The $3.5 Million Pagan Huayra 42 Alexander Selipanov joins Koenigsegg as Head of Design

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TIMEPIECES 22 The new Jaeger LeCoultre’s Moonphase for women 29 For the Love of Langes: Why Collectors are drawn to A. Lange & SÖhne FINE JEWELRY 30 David Yurman Jewelry for Him PROFILES 45 Charles Villoz, a time-honored history with Longine’s 48 Nicole Shelley, Time Waits for No-One TRAVEL 62 What’s New! - Cobbler’s Cove in Barbados - Jumby Bay Island in Antigua - Six Senses Krabey Island

TRAVEL (CONT’D) 67 Where to Stay for a Girl’s Getaway to Paris 70 Tales of Two Tusks at Jabulani 74 The Most Lavish Hotels for Solo Travelers WINE + SPIRITS 83 British Liqueurs

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CONTRIBUTORS

Heléne Ramackers, Jarone Ashkenazi, Dellvin Roshon, Tim Cotroneo, Barbara Palumbo, Angela Sara West,Tracy Beard, Smitha Sadanandan, Jordan Fuller, Debbi K. Hickham, Rebecca Underwood, Alona Martinez, Adam Jacot De Boinod, Amy Bizzarri, Anthony DeMarco, Archana Pandey, Raj Gill, Adina Laura Achim, Niyoshi Shah, Christine Hinz, Christopher Kanal, Dalit Aulakh, David Danzig, Deve Sanford, Felicity Carter, Fran Miller, Gerard, Vallecello, Jake Bright, Jordan Fuller, Karen Berlinier, Kevin Pilley, Leslie Royal, Shaun Melady, Antasha J. Royal, Nicole Trilivas, Nikita Pawar, Pamela & Gary Baker, Priscilla Pilon, Rahim Kanani, Lara Candido Porter,

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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TRAVEL

TIME + TIDE MIAVANA Engulfed in a Sea of Turquoise | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TIME + TIDE MIAVANA AND BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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TRAVEL

Situated on the pristine island of Nosy Ankao off the north-eastern coast of Madagascar, Time + Tide Miavana is the sparkling jewel of the western Indian Ocean Islands. This exquisite island sanctuary is barefoot luxury in its finest form, coupled with the ethos that makes Time + Tide leaders in conservation.

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azing down from my unobstructed view in the Miavana helicopter, I am elated that I get to ride ‘co-pilot’ when pilot Hein Brittz asks who would like to occupy the seat next to him.

My daughter is sitting right behind me. Every now and again she taps me on the shoulder to show me the beauty of the landscape and lastly the ocean stretching out below us.

We left O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at 09:30 on Airlink’s comfortable Embraer 135 to Nosy Be Airport in Madagascar.

With Airlink’s year-round and additional season-al flights between Johannesburg and Nosy Be, getting to Time + Tide Miavana is very convenient, which includes excellent on-board service. Being a threeand-half-hour flight, passengers are served a delicious meal, tea, coffee and a beverage of choice.

Upon arrival at Nosy Be Airport, we are met by pilot Hein from Time + Tide Miavana, who ensures that we make our way through passport control and out the other side to the stunning Miavana branded

Robinson R66 Turbine helicopter. With our life jackets fastened and headsets on, we depart the tarmac into the blue yonder. The one- hour flight is over in a flash and as we set down on Time + Tide Miavana’s heli-pad, we are warmly welcomed by management couple Rosco and Sarah-Jane Wendo-ver, and our butler Jero.

Jero whisks us away in an electric buggy (golf cart), which is the ideal way to get around on the island.

My daughter and I are dropped off at our Villa and after changing into something a little bit cooler, we explore the island with our very own buggy!

Witnessing the laborious work that went into constructing Time + Tide Miavana, it’s impossible not to get lost in the island feeling.

The team responsible for such an astounding project is Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, creating specialized high-end bespoke island design, safari lodges and private homes for over twenty years. “It was very exciting to be asked to design and furnish Miavana,” says Silvio. “This was the perfect project

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TRAVEL

for us, with a pure, clean canvas to take our journey designing island language to the next level.”

“For us, the idea was to create extreme luxury without the design becoming overpampered,” he explains. “Ultimately, our focus remained on the island and the experience, with the guests being submerged into a world of barefoot luxury, but with all the modern conveniences at hand. Extracting the island essence was imperative in creating a seamless connection between sea, sand and sky.”

Looking down from the deck of our Villa and walking out onto the beach, I notice that the colors are all intertwined. Even the rocks used for the exteriors of the building bear the same shade of sand. Another captivating factor is

the use of light for the buildings, with the architecture and design team’s clever application of a sophisticated proportioning system, merged with the simplicity of the structure.

We drive ourselves to dinner, served at the Time + Tide Miavana Village. The food is scrumptiously prepared, with the menu consisting of tsaky tsaky, beetroot & goat’s cheese, wood roast duck for main course and lemon & thyme for dessert. The sky has become dark and looking up, the stars in the galaxy are out in full force.

Back at our Villa, we retire for the night after a cleansing shower with the fragrant Terres D’Afrique products. Our one-bedroom Villa is ample in size (4,844 sq ft), with a kitchen, dining room, lounge, a study (it can convert into a child’s bedroom), a main bedroom with

inside and outside shower, deep soaking tub with views of the beach, an outside veranda and your own private pool.

After a good night’s sleep, we head to breakfast, consisting of an array of pastries, juices, bread, charcuterie, seasonal fruit and a hot breakfast of choice. We choose to unwind in our beautiful surroundings with the only activity being stand-up paddle boarding in the late afternoon.

A few more activities are lined up for Day 3, consisting of snorkeling off the house reef and lemur trekking in the afternoon. The lemurs were brought in from mainland Madagascar, where their biggest threat is poaching and deforestation. They are so happy here, that the family has grown with the addition of

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TRAVEL three lemur pups born in 2018. Flying through the air is evidently a lot of fun for them as we witness during our trek.

The day before our departure back to South Africa, we embark by boat on a visit to Nosy Manamphao, where about 70,000 terns have taken up residence.

Prior to visiting the terns, we savor a delightful al-fresco picnic on the island. The sooty terns are nesting, and our first encounter is of new arrivals who are here for the breeding season. Next up are the ones who are guarding their precious eggs.

When guide Simon Andrianiaina instructs us to watch where we step as there are chicks everywhere, we first think he is joking. They are so well camou-flaged that it’s really hard to spot them. It’s difficult to describe the overwhelming noise emitted from these birds, who feel threatened by human presence and we leave with a few ‘blessings’ (bird droppings) bestowed on us.

On our last morning, we enjoy a delectable breakfast and a swim in our pool. Time + Tide Miavana is a place of beauty and I observe what Silvio says in his parting words: “We wanted the décor to grow out of the island, with the color scheme being the sea and subaquatic world. One day, we were scuba diving and there seemed to be a very influential submerged space that led to the color choices for the curtains. When you close the curtains, it makes you feel as if you are in an underwater room, with soft light permeating into the room.”

As I open the curtains to take in the incredible vistas of the ocean and swaying palm trees through the floor to ceiling windows, I realize a lot of time and effort had gone into constructing an island paradise that is far off the beaten track. I am able to gather my thoughts during our helicopter flight from the island back to Nosy Be Airport. Sitting at the airport, I ponder on the amazing time we enjoyed at Time + Tide Miavana, even though we would have liked to have stayed longer.

My daughter is puzzled by our seat numbers for our flight to Johannesburg. I quietly wonder if there is a larger plane on its way as our inbound aircraft was the Airlink Embraer 135. We are both delighted to see the arrival of the Airlink Embraer E-Jet, flying us back in true Airlink style.  For more information, contact Kayleigh Woodman, kayleigh@timeandtideafrica.com *** Thank you to Kayleigh Woodman and Mindy Roberts from Time + Tide Africa for our accommodation arrangements. Special thanks to the friendly and hospitable staff at Miavana for ensuring a memorable stay. Views expressed are the author’s own.

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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 Johannesburg to Nosy Be, Madagascar.

Connectivity: Through our alliance with SAA, travellers 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 program -Voyager.

Discover more:Â www.flyairlink.com Book Direct: https://www.flyairlink.com/destinations/ flights-to-nosy-be Travel Tip: Visitors require a Visa when entering Madagascar. Ensure that you have enough USD or GDP in cash as they do not accept credit cards at the airport.

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ART + CULTURE

FOR THE LOVE OF ART Creating a Dialog between Two Worlds | By Heléne Ramackers Photographs courtesy of the Oetker Collection / MadC

Select properties in the prestigious Oetker Collection showcase art in their gardens and foyers as a means of fashioning a narrative between hotel and artist creativity. We focus on the colorful exposition at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in BadenBaden by graffiti artist Claudia Walde, better known as MadC, and the pop-art expo by Romero Britto at Palácio Tangará in São Paulo.

ance of calligraphy that is typically associated with graffiti art. Her inspiration for the exposition at Brenners was a collocation between past and present brought about by global change.

“The world is talking about change. Brenners has been living with change ever since 1872, yet it has not lost its character nor compromised on its quality. Brenners has always been closely linked to the history of art and culture, and that’s why I am particularly delighted to see this beautiful place open its doors to graffiti art,” MadC asserts.

n view until 19 November 2019, the expo at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa features five large-scale sculptural paintings displayed in the hotel gardens, as well as a photography series in the foyer depicting MadC’s famous murals from around the world.

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At the age of 16, Claudia started painting graffiti after reading about it in a book. Back in the 1970’s, teenagers in Philadelphia and New York started writing their nicknames on trains and thus caught the attention of the press.

Thanks to this, a global movement started, which spread all around the globe and right into MadC’s new favorite book.

Born in Halle, Germany and educated at Central Saint Martins in London, Claudia is known as the most active female graffiti artist in the world. Her spray-painted works are characterized by the bold use of color, depth and superposition, with only an occasional appear-

The structure of the sculptural paintings by MadC exhibited at Brenners are made of steel, aluminum, and rivets to remind of the surface of a train. The painting itself is done with acrylics and spray paint and show her recognizable style, developed over many years.

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All sculptures also have a direct link to the hotel and their placement in the garden. The idea of the exhibition is to create a dialog between the two worlds. The first piece in the front of the entrance ‘Ultramarine Line’ is composed on a noble, deep blue that feels like a deep breath, combined with fresh colors and lines to add spirit, levity and attention to detail.

‘Neon Vermillion’ in the garden right in front of Fritz&Felix is encouraged by the restaurant’s philosophy of combining what was good in the past as well as in the present. Deep red is combined with fresh orange and yellow as well as silver. The new dynamic that emanates from the restaurant is shown through calligraphic lines and loose shapes.

The sculptural painting in front of the conservatory is called ‘Indigo Coelin’ and represents the fresh breeze and light that floats through the restaurant. The pink elements add sweetness and a bit of cheek, while the gold lines are inspired by the golden elements inside of the hotel. Depending on the light, the gold changes throughout the day, just like the light does inside the restaurant.

ART + CULTURE

In front of the Villa Stephanie is a fourth painting called ‘Black Carmine’. This piece is of a refreshing nature thanks to the silver looking blues on a black background and courageous lines with purposefully integrated drips. It encapsulates the modern touch of Villa Stephanie as well as the inner renewal you will find in the spa.

The photo exhibition in the lobby shows a selection of MadC’s work on walls around the world and is a little trip into her creative history. Because of all MadC’s first paintings on canvas were on a white base, the sculptural painting here is also painted on a white background. This piece is reminiscent of the past and present in her career, with all the elements that make her artistic style unique – a combination of calligraphy, watercolor and spray paint.

Palácio Tangará in São Paulo is exhibiting works

by Romero Britto in the fourth edition of the hotel’s open-air art gallery. The show ‘O Senhor das Cores’ is curated by his brother, Robson Britto, and continues the hotel’s project to transform its public places into an outdoor art gallery, on display until November 2019. Representing twenty works, including paintings and sculptures displayed in the hotel lobby as well as the Parque lounge, Terrace restaurant and garden, ‘O Senhor das Cores’ marks Romero’s first exhibition in Brazil in five years.

“The Open-Air Art Gallery project connects guests and visitors with art and artists. Palácio Tangará is proud to offer a choice of leisure and culture with an artist with the prestige of Romero Britto for the area. It is an honor to receive the artist after such a long time without exhibiting here. We were pleased to be able to provide world-renowned works of art, such as those in ‘O Senhor das Cores’ in the common spaces of the hotel, shortening distances and democratizing art, as they are open to visitors all day for guests and visitors”, comments Celso do Valle, General Manager of Palácio Tangará.

Born in 1963 in Recife, Romero Britto began his career at the age of 18, a decade after recognizing his interest in fine arts. Based in Miami for over 30 years, he became one of the most prestigious artists among US celebrities with over 60 public works spread across countries such as Switzerland, Germany and France, in several Brazilian airports and in New York’s two main airports. As the most successful Brazilian artist of international acclaim, he seeks to express in his vibrant, colorful and geometric-shaped works an optimistic view of the world around him. He has had shows in galleries and museums in over 100 countries and, due to his pop style, worked with major consumer brands. 19 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

FASHION

VIRGINIE VIARD'S First Couture Collection | BY ADINA - LAURA ACHIM

Fashion journalists loved to compare Karl Lagerfeld to his predecessor, Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel. Every time when journalists lacked the depth to understand Lagerfeld’s brilliance, they interpreted his bon mots and beautiful designs though a comparison with Chanel. After a while, the analogy became gruesome because it stole from Lagerfeld’s creative identity and reduced his work to a parenthesis in Coco Chanel’s legacy. Indeed, Chanel had a profound influence on Lagerfeld; nevertheless, he was still his own master. Having said that, Oscar Wilde’s famous words, “The public is wonderfully tolerant. It forgives everything except genius,” come to mind as Lagerfeld’s sins carried the stigma associated with genius. And then Karl Lagerfeld passed away and a new chapter began at Rue Cambon.

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new round of speculations and comparisons. This time the victim is Virginie Viard, Chanel’s former studio director named by the media, Lagerfeld’s former “right-hand woman.” A title that diminishes her importance and her place in the brand’s history. In fact, Viard is not a new addition to the house of Chanel and her connection to the brand goes back to 1987. If Lagerfeld saw in Viard a confident, trusted ally and fellow genius, the title of a “right-hand woman” is encouraging toxic misogyny. Evidently, a luxury brand built by a feminist icon who “freed women from corsets as well as from prohibitive and archaic moral codes,” and where women have been promoted to executive positions way ahead of the #metoo and #girlboss era (the appointment of Maureen Chiquet as CEO), Viard and the house of Chanel deserve better.

Appointing Viard as the Artistic Director of Chanel Fashion collections was a master stroke. Not only that she’s familiar with the brand and its history, but she also understands the legacy of her predecessors; consequently, she can incorporate their distinctive design elements in her creative vision. Her first Couture collection was an ode to Chanel and Lagerfeld while simultaneously being something new, fresh and very personal to her.

Selecting as the backdrop, a grandiose circular library fully equipped with banquettes, coffee tables and wing chairs created a calming, intellec-

FASHION

tual setting. This year, Chanel didn’t blast us into space in a very SpaceX and Elon Musk-kind of way. Let the world innovate, consume itself with AI, AR, new technologies, and its unbearable fast pace, because Viard’s muse will cuddle up on a plush couch with her favorite book. This signals the return to intellectualism and the world of profound ideas, and it represents an ode to liberal-arts education in an age that favors STEM fields. It’s a brilliant and yet understated critic of our modern society. A world in which we focus more on Lagerfeld’s bon mots than his brilliance or the fact that he was the biggest bibliophile and couturier of his generation. Karl Lagerfeld collected over 300,000 books and he shared the passion with Viard. Chanel herself confided to Paul Morand, “Books are my best friends.” Basically, books and intellectual pursuits are written in Chanel's DNA and Viard reinvented the core of the brand.

“I dreamt about a woman with nonchalant elegance and a fluid and free silhouette; everything I like about the CHANEL allure," said Virginie Viard. Indeed, her debut collection is an ode to nonchalance and sophistication. Fluid volumes, loose shapes, modern and yet classic designs that recall the 1930s style. A collection with a Fitzgerald “old money” twist, where the garments define the socioeconomic class and the savoir-faire of the Haute Couture ateliers shines through. And it’s exactly this craftsmanship that transforms each dress, top and jacket into an art piece.

Some garments stand out because of the ingenuity of the design, such as bomber jackets and sheer tops embroidered with feathers, fabulous layered collars that resemble book pages, and the most marvelous pleated and embellished robe. The colors are a return to the classic Chanel look: black, white, navy blue and burgundy.

We should easily bond together literature and fashion. For instance, Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde loved fashion. Likewise, Truman Capote’s timeless book Breakfast at Tiffany’s helped us understand the power of “a slim cool black dress, black sandals, a pearl choker.”And while Capote sketched the image of the perfect Swan, Viard redesigned the image of the modern Chanel woman. Slender, well-bred, chic and educated. The Chanel muse isn’t found on Instagram and social media platforms but in libraries and bookshops.

However, there’s also a ray of modernity with flashes of pink, fuchsia and orange. Viard’s aesthetic comes to light when analyzing the wide-cut trousers perfectly paired with discreet and never too flashy Chanel jackets. Tweeds and wool crêpe are used in delicate combinations, and every garment appears expensive but discreetly elegant.

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TIMEPIECES

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TIMEPIECES

JAEGER-LECOULTRE‘S Moonphase for Women: A spectacle of Diamonds | BY NIYOSHI SHAH

What could be more enchanting than watching the cycle of the moon on the dial of a watch with phases? New moon, first-quarter, full moon, last quarter: the cycle is as unchanging and the display is majestic.

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ost often, it’s the aesthetic value rather than the technical prowess that draws watch enthusiasts to the timepiece. First seen in the Antikythera mechanism in 205 BC — an archiac Greek analogue device used to predict astronomical events — the moonphase technology was subsequently incorporated into clocks and pocket watches. It was not until the 20th century that luxury watchmakers started featuring this admired complication in wristwatches.

It takes 30 days — or exactly 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 3 seconds — to complete a lunar cycle. The venerated Moonphase complication tracks the current phase of the moon using advanced engineering, indicating whether it’s a new, full, half, or quarter moon. This specific technology has made the collection a path-breaking and iconic range for the luxury watchmaker.

The latest is a series of Dazzling Rendez-Vous models unveiled over the past year—include the Dazzling Rendez-Vous Night & Day (in white gold or pink gold), Rendez-Vous Moon (in white gold) and ruby-set Dazzling Rendez-Vous Red—the rose gold and mother-of-pearl model places the line’s signature moon phase complication front and center.

with diamonds completes the look of the watch and transforms it into a piece of jewelry. In addition to diamond-set lugs and a diamond-set winding crown, the Dazzling Rendez-Vous Moon comes on a lavish bracelet flooded with 22.27 carats of diamonds. The unique white mother-of-pearl dial features diamonds on the hour markers, the main hours ring and on an inner circle of 47 diamonds, while an opening at 6 o’clock offers a glimpse of a mother-of-pearl moon against the backdrop of a starry glorious night sky.

This collection eludes the same glamour and has successfully achieved the same popularity as the legendary Rendez-Vous Celestial watches. This specific range had gained a cult reputation due to the unique bezel which is set with a color-graduated circle of baguette-cut sapphires, encircling a mother-of-pearl dial that has been hand-painted to replicate the shimmering swirls of the Northern Lights.

Whether you’re adding another watch to your collection or making this the season you invest in a timeless piece, the Moonphase for Women is practically glistening with alluring options and potent dexterity. 

The champion model launched recently is the luminous Rendez-Vous Moon, packed with 24.7 carats of ice. The bezel set 23 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

FASHION

BAUDOIN & LANGE

British Belgian Loafer-Makers are single-handedly changing the luxury footwear game | BY NIYOSHI SHAH

The unique collaboration of a former computer specialist and Apple alumni, and a former racing driver turned financier – Allan Baudoin and Bo Van Langeveld launched the luxury loafer brand in the summer of 2016.

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FASHION

The self-taught bespoke shoemakers were looking to create loafers that hallmarked longevity, comfort and charm. Not only are “Belgians” the footwear of choice for fashion connoisseurs across the globe (scroll through #menswear on Instagram and you’ll see plenty parading around the world’s most photographed pavements), but they’re also somewhat of a style chameleon - easily adaptable into any wardrobe or age and foppish to a fault.

Located at London’s east end, the brand originates, predictably, from the Belgian capital, where shoemaking has been a legacy since the past 300 years the city houses some of the best footwear artisans. Each pair is crafted using exquisitely supple and soft full grain leather. Tanned locally and artisan-ally, with a keen eye on quality enforcement, treated to be water-resistant, ensuring an unmatched butter-soft feel and breathability without looking too trussed up.

Their signature shoe is called the Sagan—named after Carl Sagan, the late French astrophysicist—and since the brand’s launch three years ago, this particular style has become a cult favorite among fashion aficionados across the globe, stocked in Barneys, Harrods, Selfridges and others among the world’s foremost department stores. The Sagan takes the form of an unstructured lamb’s suede slipper, which to quote Baudoin & Lange themselves “wraps around your foot like a glove”.

More recently, the brand has unveiled the Sagan Grand, an enhanced version of the original made with denser sole in soft French calf leather. Lounged in the more rewarding space between a stiff welted shoe and a soft Belgian loafer—with padded footbeds and cushioned arch supports, this exclusive range has seen a global wave of admiration very few brands can boast off. If the Classic Sagan is an office shoe to keep under your desk, the Sagan Grand is the more aristocratic and exclusive sibling – perfect for a night out for celebratory occasions. “The style mixes English shoemaking tradition with a Parisian aesthetic”, explains Baudoin. It’s an uncommon formula but it does seem to work.

Baudoin & Lange might be a young brand, but its fresh approach and smart designing techniques are treading a resolute path to success. Contemporary comfort amalgamated with timeless designs and functionality brews a potent concoction for the brand to become bigger with a steadfastly growing group of exclusive clientele. 

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FOR THE LOVE OF LANGES:

WHY COLLECTORS ARE DRAWN TO A. LANGE & SÖHNE

| BY BARBARA PALUMBO

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n 1845, not far from the city of Dresden (the capital of the eastern German state of Saxony), in a town by the name of Glashütte, Ferdinand Adolf Lange opened a pocket watch manufacturer that he decided to call A. Lange & Söhne. Roughly three decades prior to the opening of its German School of Watchmaking, Glashütte had established itself as a competitor to other well-known cities in the 19th century horological world, and A. Lange & Söhne had quickly become the region’s MVP. Today, 174 years after Glashütte’s first watch manufacturer produced its first timepiece, A. Lange & Söhne continues to live up to its superstar status, but not in the way one might think.

Unlike some of the other more recognizable names in the watchmaking industry (noting here that recognition does not necessarily equate to quality), A. Lange & Söhne has no official brand ambassadors; celebrity, sports figure, or otherwise. The only “face” representing the brand is the elegantly enameled or meticulously engraved one behind the markers and hands, telling the wearer the hour of the day. And for the most part, owners of A. Lange & Söhne watches are completely fine with that, because for them it’s not about who has been paid to wear the watch, but rather what has gone into creating it.

Twenty years ago, watch collectors were largely under the radar, but thanks to social media and enthusiasts’ groups such as the worldwide phenomenon known as Red Bar, the modern-day collector can find others in their community much more easily than before. Today, something as simple as a hashtag can help those who show interest in a specific brand to find their “people,” and those people, once recognized, often become unofficial ambassadors for said brands. Thus is the case with those who’ve invested dollars and their time into collecting A. Lange & Söhne watches.

Professor Michael J. Biercuk, a quantum physicist and Director of the Quantum Control Laboratory at the University of Sydney in Australia, is both a collector of A. Lange & Söhne timepieces as well as a card-carrying member of what is known on Instagram as the “#LangeNation.”

When asked what drew him to the brand in the first place, Biercuk said, “Overall, the brands one loves are defined in part by how those brands connect with one’s own values. Lange, or at least my interpretation of Lange, really spoke to my heart. To me, despite operating in a luxury goods market, they represent an eschewing of conspicuous consumption. Lange watches are relatively stealthy in presentation, with the most extraordinary views generally offered from the case back. That case back reveals a focus on detail and craftsmanship that is unique in a market largely focused on catering to mass consumption.”

Gary Getz, who is not only a well-known collector within the horological community but has also garnered a notable social media following largely due to his watch photography skills, feels similarly. “The watches just scream ‘quality’ in everything from their thoughtfully created complications to their robust construction to the best finishing among the major brands,” states Getz. “For instance, every single Lange watch – not

just the high complication pieces in the line – is assembled twice, before and after finishing, to ensure the highest quality of manufacturing.” Case in point, this year’s release of the Zeitwerk Date, a nod to the original Zeitwerk – Lange’s first mechan-ical wristwatch with a precisely jumping digital display – for that collection’s tenth anniversary.

And while Lange has, for years, been more of an “insider’s brand,” both Getz and Biercuk think that will change. “I believe the brand will become more popular once the next generation of collectors has a chance to see the great work Lange is doing,” said Getz. “I very much like the way Lange has been branching out with recent items that can attract a broader set of buyers. The brand is also making big investments in reaching out to consumers more effectively through its new design and marketing location in Berlin. Plus, let’s not forget that the revived Lange is just now twenty-five years old, and while I think Lange has suffered a bit in the recent fervor for all things vintage, it is now old enough for some of its designs to be seen as true classics that all collectors will prize.”

Biercuk adds, “I see two major dynamics that are likely to shift collectors to Lange in the future. First, we’ve seen Lange rapidly ascending from a largely unknown German brand to the pinnacle of high horology within just twenty-five years. Nevertheless, within the collectors’ market, there is clearly a historical focus on the ‘Holy Trinity’ Swiss brands (Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Vacheron Constantin), where speculative investment has run rampant. As the luxury asset bubble speculators drive up the cost of steel sports watches to ridiculous heights, we’re already see-ing that collectors are choosing deeper value options, including Lange. Second, Lange seems to be offering a greater number of modern designs while maintaining a traditional overall aesthetic. I think expansion of their designs will help capture a newer and more youthful segment of the market that wants something a bit edgier without going over the edge.”

But even with their devotion to the brand for the reasons mentioned above, both collectors have their own internal desires as to what they’d like to see from Lange in the future. For Gary Getz, it would be something along the lines of an everyday piece. “I’d love to see a Lange sport watch in steel, with the quality we expect from Lange in a true daily wear watch that matches today’s active lifestyles.” For Professor Biercuk, it’s more about contemporary design elements within existing product fami-lies such as Lange’s Lumen line. “I think ‘stealth’ black numeral disks and bridges would be interesting, or potentially even new case materials like black ceramic. Just having more options in this direction would be very exciting.”  29 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

JEWELRY

2.

1.

DAVID YURMAN

3.

Perfect Jewelry for Him

4.

5.

(1) Maritime Compass Amulet with Diamond Center (2) Waves Tag Enhancer with Forged Carbon and 18k Gold (3) Maritime Compass Cufflinks with Diamond Center (4) Waves 18K Gold & Forged Carbon Signet Ring (5) 9mm Chevron Bracelet in 18k Gold and Titanium.

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AUTOS + YACHT

Amazing Car/Yacht Collaborations Luxury car manufacturers are taking their talents on water for some sleek looking sports boats. From Aston Martin to Bugatti to Lexus to Porsche, here are four collaborations that just might blow you out of the water matching speed on the water to speed on the pavement.

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AUTOS + YACHT

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AUTOS + YACHT

ASTON DBS SUPERLEGGERA VOLANTE + ASTON MARTIN AM37 YACHT As Aston Martin’s fastest convertible, the DBS Superleggera Volante is Aston Martin boasts a 715 hp twin-turbo V-12 and is priced at $329,100. In collaboration with Mulder Design, Aston Martin’s Q Dicision designed the latest AM37. The 37-footlong speed boat comes in at a cool $1.64 million and comes standard with twin 370 hp Mercury diesel engines, while the upgraded AM37S, features two 520 hp Mercury Racing V8s, hitting 50 knots.

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AUTOS + YACHT

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AUTOS + YACHT

BUGATTI CHIRON SPORT + BUGATTI NINIETTE YACHT The latest Chiron Sport a limited-edition 20-piece run commemorates the French marque’s 110th anniversary. With 1,500hp and a top speed of 261mph at $3.26 million, it is one of the world’s most expensive super cars. With a matching color scheme, the Bugatti Niniette at $2.99 million is a 66foot superyacht capable of top-speed of 44 knots due to its twin 1,000 hp MAN diesels engines.

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AUTOS + YACHT

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AUTOS + YACHT

LEXUS LS 500 F SPORTS + LEXUS LY 650 SPORTS YACHT

The new flagship LS 500 F Sport comes in at $81,450 packing a twin-turbo V-6 packing 416 hp comfortably seating five. At 65 feet, the Lexus LY 650 produces up to 1,3500 hp thanks to its Volvo IPS engines. As the companies first-ever production yacht, it is the first production marine vessel to use L-finesse, the design language of Lexus

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AUTOS + YACHT

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AUTOS + YACHT

PORSCHE 918 SPYDERÂ + DYNAMIQ GTT 115 The hybrid-electric Porsche 918 Spyder at just over $1 million pushes 900 hp from a 4.6-liter V-8 gasoline engine and two electric motors. Starting at $14 million, just seven of the Dynamiq GTT 115 hybrid-electric mini-superyachts are being offered. Designed

by Studio F.A. Porsche, has many impressive firsts for a yacht its size aiding it to deliver a transatlantic range and a top speed of 21 knots.

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THE $3.5 MILLION

PAGANIÂ HUAYRA ROADSTER BC HYPERCAR

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AUTOMOBILES

| By Jarone Ashkenazi Italian-Argentinian sports car makers Pagani, unveiled their new Huayra Roadster BC, a twin-turbocharged V12 hypercar. Limited to only 40 units made, the new Huayra Roadster BC comes in at a cool $3.5 million USD per unit.

official zeto-to-60 time has yet to be given, the Roadster shouldn’t be too far behind the 2.5 seconds the coupe takes to get to 60mph.

Some other unique features to the car include: • • •

Removable roof Forged aluminum allow wheels Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires designed specifically for Pagani Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes Double-wishbone suspension made from a forged aluminum alloy Electronically controlled shock absorbers.

Powered by a 6.0-liter AMG V12, the car pushes 791 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 774 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. The real • wheel drive car features seven-speed Xtrac • sequential gearbox with a lightweight single clutch which is 35-percent lighter than the • usual dual-clutch. At a relatively light 2,685 pounds, 66 pounds less than the regular roadster, the BC Roadster generates up to 1.9Gs Read more about the street-legal Pagani of max lateral force in corners. Although an hypercar here.

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AUTOMOBILE

Christian von Koenigsegg and Sasha Selipanov. Photo courtesy of Koenigsegg

Alexander (Sasha) Selipanov joins Koenigsegg as Head of Design | By Dellvin Roshon Williams

Alexander (Sasha) Selipanov, the man behind some world’s most exciting exterior luxury sports car designs, most notably Bugatti’s CHIRON—the fastest, most powerful super sports car in Bugatti history—joins Koenigsegg as Head of Design.

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AUTOMOB ILE

Founded by Christian von Koenigsegg (at the tender age of 22) in 1994, Koenigsegg set out to design “the perfect super car.”

In 1991, he invented a new solution for joining floor planks together without adhesive or nails, aptly named “Click.” A Belgian and a Swedish company would later patent the same solution as Christian’s Click floor-turning it into a multi-billion dollar industry, without Koenigsegg. But it was Jesko who took a young Christian von Koenigsegg to see the Pinchcliffe Grand Prix, the Norwegian animated film that inspired the dream that would become Koenigsegg Automotive.

The carbon-fibre tub chassis is the core of a Koenigsegg car. The Koenigsegg chassis a pre-impregnated carbon-fiber construction with an aluminium honeycomb core structure (the same as a chassis used in Formula 1). This allows for increased crash protection. It integrates the aluminium fuel tank into the tub chassis, inside the hollow box sections across the rear and along the right and left sills. This gives the fuel tank maximum protection and allows for optimal weight distribution. Long story short: it means that a Koenigsegg car is agile, resistant to twisting or flexing when under pressure (e.g. at 2g’s in a corner).

Apart from developing, manufacturing and selling the Koenigsegg line of sports cars, Koenigsegg is also involved in developing “green technology” development programs, beginning with the CCXR («Flower Power») flex-fuel sports car, with the Jesko.

Koenigsegg is also active in development plug-in electric car systems and next-generation engine technologies. Koenigsegg has also developed a camless piston engine which found its first application in the Regera, first introduced in 2015.

Koenigsegg develops and produces most of the main systems, subsystems and components needed for their cars in-house instead of relying on subscontractors. At the end of 2015, Koenigsegg had 97 employees with an engineering department of 25 engineers.

So, it makes sense that Selipanov, a graduate of Art Center College of Design graduate would join a brand that develops and builds its own record-breaking engines.

After a brief stint at Lamborghini where he contributed to the Lamborghini Huracan and appointed Sasha Head of Exterior Design Creative at Bugatti, and was responsible for the exteriors of the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo and the Bugatti Chiron. As Head of Global Advance Design at Gene-

sis, Selipanov and his team worked on the most recent series of Genesis show cars, the Genesis Essentia and Genesis Mint.

“This is a dream come, Selipanov says,” “I have followed Koenigsegg’s path for years and have been a huge fan of the company’s free spirit and commitment to innovation. In today’s world, Koenigsegg’s story and achievements are unparalleled; I am honored to offer my professional expertise and my lifelong passion for sports cars to Koenigsegg.”

Besides serving as Head of Design, Sasha will also serve as the Managing Director and Chief Designer at the established RAW Design House in Angelholm, Sweden in October of this year. RAW Design House will offer a wide spectrum of design services to a select group of clients with Sasha at the helm.

“It shows how far Koenigsegg has progressed that we can attract talent like Sasha.

I look forward to fusing the Koenigsegg way of developing and designing cars with Sasha’s experience and radical methods. I expect spectacular results,” said Christian von Koenigsegg, Founder and CEO.

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HOME + INTERIORS

Gustav Carroll, a family owned and operated LA-based fine furniture business, bases their handcrafted pieces on 18th and 19th century design, using traditional elements for heirloom furniture meant to be passed down for generations.

Glamorous HOME FURNISHINGS for any taste

Horchow Fauteuil 21st Century - Horchow Design, based out of Houston, believes in not just creating traditional furniture pieces, but adding an exciting and bold take to each.

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Bongรณ Cabinet - Wooden bar cabinet lacquered in high-gloss bronze powder Champagne. Sliding doors in polished Sahara Noir marble. Interior with cup holders, bottle holders and 2 drawers in Walnut and back in polished Patagonia Granite with LED lighting.

Michael Taylor Collections is known for furnishings and home accessories that reflect a contemporary furniture sensibility while maintaining their traditional furniture heritage.

MR. CHARLES VILLOZ, VICE-PRESIDENT OF LONGINES

PROFILE

A TIME-HONORED HISTORY WITH

LONGINES | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Magnificent timepieces that have enduring longevity has secured Longines as one of the most prolific watchmakers of all time. Upscale Living magazine spoke to Charles Villoz, Vice-President of Longines about the history of the brand and their longstanding connection with the equestrian world.

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PROFILE

THE LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIPS TOUR MIAMI BEACH HELD ON FRIDAY, APRIL 19TH, 2019

LONGINES IS BOTH A PARTNER AND OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER FOR INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN SPORTS. The first reason for our involvement is historical. In 1869 already, Longines produced a silver pocket watch with a horse head engraved on the back, tracing the relationship between the brand and the equestrian world back to the first years of the Longines’ Company in Saint-Imier.

Moreover, in 1878, the firm developed a chronograph movement fitted in a case engraved with a jockey and his mount. Seen on American advertisements as early as 1881 and extremely popular among jockeys and horse-lovers, this model enabled its user to time performances to the second. Since then, Longines’ commitment to horseracing - and more generally to the equestrian world - has never stopped growing and, over the years, the brand has created stable, lasting relations with this discipline.

Furthermore, our involvement in horseracing represents a perfect match with the brand’s image and philosophy, as we share similar values, such as performance, elegance and tradition. It is also a discipline where men and women compete together, and which appeals to a female and male audience alike. This fully reflects our line of business, as Longines proposes a wide range of ladies and men’s watches.

HORSERACING IS NOT THE ONLY SPORT YOU ARE ASSOCIATED WITH – YOU ALSO PROVIDE TIMEKEEPING IN GYMNASTICS, ALPINE SKIING AND ARCHERY AT AN INTERNATIONAL LEVEL. HOW IS THE CHOICE MADE AS TO GET INVOLVED IN A TYPE OF SPORT? True to our motto Elegance is an attitude, elegance is the key word when it comes to the decision whether we partner with a sport or not. Consequently, the sports we choose to get involved in reflect our slogan and our values.

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I also would like to stress that we can rely on a rich history in timekeeping and that we are really proud to offer our expertise to the various sports we are partnering with. We are then not only a sponsor, but a real partner.

THE BRAND COMPRISES MANY FACETS – TIME, ELEGANCE, PRECISION AND STYLE. TALK US THROUGH THE PHILOSOPHIES OF THIS INCREDIBLE SWISS BRAND OF WATCHES. Today, Longines is known and recognized worldwide. This is the result of the brand’s loyalty to its origins and its values of tradition, performance, and elegance, which have characterized Longines’ production since its inception. We have always remained reliable, timeless and constant throughout the years, no matter what was happening in the world or the industry. This is the key to our success.

THE STUNNING AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN HAS BEEN AN AMBASSADOR SINCE 1999. YOU HAVE A VARIED MIX OF AMBASSADORS; WHAT DOES THE SELECTION PROCESS ENTAIL TO BECOME A LONGINES AMBASSADOR? Our Ambassadors of Elegance are part of the Longines’ family. It is then really important to us to build a strong and lasting collaboration with them. Consequently, our ambassadors are chosen very carefully.

They embody Longines’ identity and image around the world. Thus, they have to live up to our motto “Elegance is an Attitude” and illustrate the true elegance, the elegance of a generous heart.

WITH THE INCREASING POPULARITY OF ‘LIFESTYLE OR SMART’ WATCHES ASSOCIATED WITH THE BENEFITS OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, IS THAT A MARKET LONGINES WOULD EXPLORE AT SOME POINT? Smartwatches and “traditional” watches are two different products. On one side, you have an electronic product, on the other side, you have

PROFILE

a long-lasting product that suits you and gives you an identity. It also marks your personal sense of taste and style. Today a watch is more and more considered as a status symbol. This is what we are offering at Longines and are good at.

YOU LAUNCHED A STRIKING ROSE GOLD POCKET WATCH IN 2014 IN CELEBRATION OF THE HORSE: THE LONGINES EQUESTRIAN LEPINE. DO YOU THINK POCKET WATCHES COULD MAKE A COMEBACK? In my point of view, pocket watches are a niche market. They complement a sophisticated style and are worn for a special occasion. As far as Longines is concerned, the brand has never ceased to produce pocket watches and offer its customers this kind of product. Today, we propose The Longines Equestrian Pocket Watch collection, which is a line consisting of reinterpretations of historical timepieces, which celebrate the rich heritage of the brand and its links with the equestrian world.

WHAT IS / HAS BEEN YOUR MOST POPULAR WATCH FOR 2019?

This year we introduced new models in our iconic sport line HydroConquest. Preserving the traditional style of diving watches, these latest variations feature a colored ceramic insert on the bezel. This highly technical and scratch-resistant material enhances the sporty, modern character of the models, which will appeal to dynamic people looking for distinctive, contemporary timepieces.

Additionally, we went even further in using ceramic by offering a model entirely made from this material. This new all-black ceramic version features a dynamic profile with its 43mm case and the different finishes of each of its components: a matte dial, a polished case, a round satin bezel and a back blending a circular satin and matte finish.

ANY EXCITING PRODUCTS / LAUNCHES IN THE PIPELINE? Indeed! Nevertheless, it is too soon to give you any details on our novelties to come. I can only tell you that we have some beautiful surprises in store for you.ď ľ www.longines.com 47 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

PROFILE

P H O T O C O U RT E S Y O F PAU L P R I N C E .

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PROFILE

Nicole Shelley Time Waits For No-One | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

C

elebrating twenty years in 2020, Nicole Shelley has built her company with the maxim that deadlines are everything and time waits for no-one. This gorgeous businesswoman with her trademark curls sports vibrant colors every chance she gets, showing power is best served with style and confidence.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. I was born in St. Lucia, Caribbean and went to school in St. Lucia, Denmark, Paris and Miami. My tertiary education took me to Paris and Rome, each time allowing me to learn the language, so I’m fortunate to speak English, Italian, French, Spanish, Danish, German and Creole.

I graduated from Magna Cum Laude from Florida International University with distinctions and recognition from Phi Beta Kappa, the National Dean’s List, the book of Who’s Who, the Dean’s List and the Honor’s College after studying International Relations, Western European Studies and Modern Languages.

I moved to Denmark to complete my secondary level education, then on to Barbados, Paris, New York and finally Miami in 1996 with the intent of putting into practice what I learned and starting my own company.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS VENTURE, NICOLE SHELLEY MODELS AND NICOLE SHELLEY INC.?

I started both companies in 1997, officially launching them in 2000.

YOUR COMPANY HAS TWO DISTINCT FACETS: ELITE EVENT / PROJECT MANAGEMENT. HOW SIMILAR OR DIFFERENT ARE THEY IN EXECUTION? Both divisions serve primarily the luxury market. Some event activations may marry talent booking services, but several of our event clients in more provincial businesses such as law and finance may not require talent booking services. On the other hand, various clients who book talent from time to time require event services. The divisions work beautifully collectively, and also in isolation of each other.

I ASSUME YOU MUST BE SUPER ORGANIZED WHEN IT COMES TO LUXURY EVENTS. HOW HANDS-ON ARE YOU OR DO YOU BELIEVE IN A FAIR AMOUNT OF DELEGATING?

I usually curate the ideas and delegate execution to my team, but I still love to be involved through to fruition and post-production. I don’t micromanage; I love personally handling our clients as if they were family. I also thoroughly enjoy the personal touch by overseeing the concepts which I uniquely create through to completion as envisioned.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? It’s sometimes challenging finding and retaining reliable and consistent help in South Florida. I’ve overcome that hurdle by often importing staff and despite it being more costly than hiring local candidates, because of complex immigration laws, I am blessed with an amazing staff complement and couldn’t be happier.

I’M SURE THE REWARDS MAKE UP FOR THEM. Seeing a happy and repeat client is the best. Growing my relationship with clients so they become like family is what’s it’s all about. Being at the core of clients’ businesses and new B to C relationships forged by us, taking root and flourishing is an invaluable reward.

YOUR EVENTS LOOK SUPER STYLISH AND OH-SO GLAMOROUS. WHAT ARE YOUR GO-TO ITEMS FOR LOOKING LIKE A MILLION BUCKS? They are, and thank you for that. We are proud of what we do and are so fortunate to be in such a niche space with access to products, services and companies. Keeping my hair color and style uniquely identifiable. Trendy, colorful and vibrant looks that speak power, style and confidence. Tailored suits, jackets, shift dresses and pencil skirts.

Comfortable but sexy heels and ballerinas to alternate throughout my day, so my countenance never exudes agony from painful shoes. Wellshaped full eyebrows, mascara and bronzer for a sunkissed look. Never mundane. Finally, no matter what adorns me, I try to consistently wear a great smile and while radiating positive energy.

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PROFILE

N I C O L E S H E L L E Y, S H E M A R M O O R E A N D B I L L B E L L A M Y F O R T H E WO M E N ’ S I N T E R NAT I O NA L F I L M F E S T I VA L .

DO YOU HAVE ANY STYLE TIPS? I always have an extra pair of shoes at hand. Beautiful flats and a beautiful pair of pumps. Even if you don’t wear make-up, always take care of your skin to achieve an even tone. Never look like you rolled out of bed and landed at your destination. Make an effort. I mirror how I feel, and hope people feel happy and good when they look at me.

WE ALL LOVE LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES. WHAT CAN’T YOU BE WITHOUT IN THE CREATURE COMFORTS DEPARTMENT? A nicely fitted button-down or V neck sweater, shift pants, silk, cashmere or cotton pashmina/scarf, tailored jacket, always a fabulous well-crafted leather bag and wallet and a nice pair of shoes (stilettos, flat or kitten heel), they must suit my garb.

Inappropriate shoes can ruin an entire outfit.

EXCITING PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON? Longines Global Championship and Super Bowl support. We are known for intimate events and most are fashion, finance and law related. We have not explored much in the sports arena or for a large event either. The Longines Global Championship is one of the world’s premium sporting events, catering to a very elite audience which fits directly into our DNA. We are proud to give clients the opportunity to reach this audience.

The Super Bowl coming to Miami is also a great opportunity for us to engage some of our clients to reach a large audience. We are also expanding our talent management division to represent influencers, underscoring our core principle. This is designed to aid our clients in having an expanded yet substantive consumer reach and thus increased revenue. We are also expanding our training and development division, so talent is better prepared to serve our clients in an optimal way. This expansion will go to fourteen new markets as we turn twenty in 2020. 50 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

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TRAVEL

Abu Dhabi Beach, City and Sand | BY CHRISTINE HINZ

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TRAVEL

Abu Dhabi, the oil-rich capital of the United Arab Emirates, rises with a skyline of striking modern architecture where the desert sands of the Arabian Peninsula meet the azure waters of the Persian Gulf. Made up of a swath of desert on the Arabian Peninsula, a ‘main island’ that is the city’s center, and outer islands developed for leisure, luxury, and culture, I’m on a quest to experience all Abu Dhabi has to offer, with a beach, city, and desert experience.

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TRAVEL Made up of a swath of desert on the Arabian Peninsula, a ‘main island’ that is the city’s center, and outer islands developed for leisure, luxury, and culture, I’m on a quest to experience all Abu Dhabi has to offer, with a beach, city, and desert experience.

SAADIYAT ISLAND BEACH CULTURE My first stop upon arrival are the unspoiled beaches of Saadiyat Island. Bringing new meaning to the term ‘beach culture,’ this outer island of Abu Dhabi offers a mix of luxury resorts, as well as the highly anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first institution of what will become an entire museum district.

I’m staying at the new Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. This low-rise beachfront property offers a contemporary take on Arabian design and my guestroom, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and beach house vibe offers balcony views of the resort’s three pools, protected dunes, and Arabian Gulf.

To celebrate my Middle East arrival, I dine at the hotel’s TEAN restaurant, offering a Levantine-inspired menu with grilled seafood and meats prepared with Arabic spices like za’atar. I soak up my king prawns with traditional pide bread, a glass of Lebanese wine, and enjoy the evening breeze drifting off the Gulf.

After a morning beach walk of spotting dolphins offshore, I head to Louvre Abu Dhabi to explore the museum’s permanent exhibit that weaves a story of cultural connection through its collection of ancient and modern art and artifacts from around the world.

Despite these priceless works, it’s the architecture of this Jean Nouvel-designed structure that leaves me in awe, and I’m glad I’ve taken time to meander the museum’s perimeter pathways that offer hidden art spaces and spectacular city and water views. As the sun moves across the museum’s dome, a ‘rain of light’ provides a cooling shade canopy reminiscent of desert oasis palm fronds.

CITY LIFE AT ABU DHABI EDITION For a sense of Abu Dhabi’s city life, I check into the newly opened Abu Dhabi EDITION. Located in the exclusive Al Bateen Marina neighborhood, this Ian Schrager-curated property meshes with the area’s new retail and dining outlets, becoming the city’s most vibrant gathering spots for Lamborghini-laden Emir-atis, well-heeled expats, and international jet setters. The curved five-story lobby atrium, suspended artwork, airy seating areas with furnishings by Emirati designer Latifa Saeed, alongside a pool table encourages guest interaction, and despite this sleek modernity, there is an inviting feel reminiscent of a private social club here. My guestroom features a balcony with water views to Abu Dhabi’s skyline, and the herringbone floors, dark woods, and desert dune photography provide a tranquil space to recover from the city’s heat and energy.

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L

. . .

• &

••

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TRAVEL

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TRAVEL

On my first evening, I enjoy a gin and tonic in the cool vel-vet coziness of the Abu Dhabi EDITION’s Library Bar, then head to the Oak Room, a Tom Aikens take on a classic En-glish steakhouse with a British rock-and-roll twist. There’s Tomahawk, Ribeye, Wagyu, and Kobe on the menu, but it’s learning about the restaurant’s own ‘meat sommelier’ and a view to its meat lockers that wins the night.

furthest reaches of Abu Dhabi’s borders. Qasr Al Sarab is located on a land reserve at the edge of the Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world. Turn-ing into the main gates, it’s a seven-mile approach along a narrow-paved road through the dunes before we reach the five-star resort that looks like a small city rising from the sands in an Arabian fairy tale.

With proximity to the city’s newest cultural sights, during my stay, I visit Qasr Al Hosn, a 1700s fort and royal residence that was once Abu Dhabi’s only permanent structure. Now a museum, Qasr Al Hosn offers an interactive history of the region, people, and founding ruler Sheikh Zayed, who once made this his home.

Inside, Qasr Al Sarab feels intimate, with a sitting room and library offering panoramic sand scape views and a staff that welcomes us with cold water and towels. My room features a large private balcony overlooking the Empty Quarter, and while it’s well over 110 degrees Fahrenheit, my shaded veranda, chaise lounge, and glass of lemonade and mint is all I need to relax and take in the view.

After, I head to Qasr Al Watan, a newly accessible cultural landmark within the UAE’s Presidential Palace compound used for State visits. The opulent Arabian architecture recalls the region’s heritage and artistry, with halls of geometric and floral patterns. Highlights of my tour include a collection of ancient objects demonstrating the contributions of the Arab world to science, art, humanities, and literature, as well as a display of gifts received from foreign dignitaries that include coins, carpets, and even samurai armor.

Late in the day, I meet for desert activities that include camel treks, dune walks, and falconry demonstrations, and opt for a desert drive into the resort’s reserve. Our skilled driver leads our small group of Toyota Land Cruisers through the dunes, cruising along at forty-five-degree angles along dunes several stories high with only gravity and the gas pedal keeping us upright. As the sun begins to set, we break for dune photos, then drive a bit further to a sand summit where were toast the end of the day with champagne.

DESERT DREAMS

My trip ends with a last night’s meal at the resort’s Al Falaj, a Bedouin-style dining experience set among the dunes. Plush carpet and cushions over the sand and views of the

Eager to head to the emirate’s interior, I enjoy watching the cityscape turn to desert on the two-hour drive to the

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TRAVEL

Arabian night sky and dunes provide a stunning backdrop for our grilled lamb served fresh off the spit.

With the full belly of a sultan, I wonder if Abu Dhabi’s real wealth lies not in its oil fields, but in the days spent with new and exotic experiences in these lavish surroundings. ď ľ

FLIGHTS: Etihad Airways is the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates and offers non-stop service to Abu Dhabi from Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Washington, DC. For travelers visiting and returning to the States, Etihad offers U.S. Immigration Preclearance from Abu Dhabi International Airport, enabling travelers to be treated as domestic passengers upon U.S. arrival.

Through the end of 2019, Etihad offers two free nights of hotel accommodation in Abu Dhabi for all guests booking flights to and from all Etihad destinations via Abu Dhabi. For more information, and to book, visit www.etihad.com HOTELS AND RESORTS: Jumeraih at Saadiyat Island Resort Phone: 1-877-854-8051; Email: reservations@jumeirah.com Abu Dhabi EDITION: Phone: +971 2 208 0000; Email: reservations.auh@editionhotels.com Qasr Al Sarab: Phone: +971 2 886 2088; Email: infoqas@anantara.com Info, Tours, and Activities: For more information on travel to, tours, dining, and other activities visit the Department of Culture & Tourism Abu Dhabi at www.visitabudhabi.ae

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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 relooked 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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COBBLER’S COVE

ST. PETER, BARBADOS Cobblers Cove, one of the Caribbean’s finest family owned-hotels, will unveil a dramatic new look this October following an ongoing five-year refurbishment. Located on the island’s quiet West-coast, the refurbishment of the all-suite hotel has been overseen by the watchful eye of Sam de Teran who has transformed this iconic property into one of the chicest places to stay in the Caribbean. The final chapter of this story will see a unique collaboration with leading interior designer Soane Britain.

Set in a former plantation this iconic hotel embodies British elegance with Caribbean charm. The ongoing work has seen the transformation of all the suites, guest areas, swimming pool and pavilion while retaining the heritage, charm and character the hotel is best

known for. The powder pink exteriors with its pretty white woodwork are complemented inside with elegant shades of blue, pink and green, hand printed linens and rattan furniture.

The final stages of this design story reflect the synergy between Cobblers Cove and Soane Britain including their dedication to local craftmanship, originality, comfort, charm and old school elegance. A first of its kind for both brands, this partnership will give an exquisite new look to the plantation era Great House and a style quite unlike anything else in the Caribbean. Lulu Lytle, Founder and Creative Director of Soane, has created specific pieces in new colors for the Great House and its honeymoon suites.

Drawing inspiration from the history of the building,

the island and the fauna of the much-loved gardens, delicate and intricately woven rattan and glorious hand-printed fabrics have lifted its décor to a new height of sophistication, deepening the irresistible charm of the hotel. Think fern-inspired console tables, shell-shaped chaises, crisp white rattan day beds, glimmering silver and glass hurricane lanterns, ripple skirted tables, twinkling basketwork lanterns, and fabulous gauzy billowing curtains printed with parrots and climbing vines. Sam de Teran, owner and designer of Cobblers Cove comments, “I am thrilled to see the Great House at Cobblers Cove dressed by Soane with such glamor and grace and at the same time enhancing the homeliness for which we have always been loved.”

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JUMBY BAY ISLAND ANTIGUA, WEST INDIES

Set in one of the most beautiful, untouched locations in the world, Jumby Bay Island is a 300-acre private island of simple pleasures in the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda.

Ringed with coral reefs and reachable only by boat with no cars in sight, this private isle comprises three stunning white-powdered beaches and countless winding bicycle paths to create a one-of-akind hideaway known, quite simply, as the finest resort in the Caribbean.

In addition to 40 tastefully decorated rooms and suites, Jumby Bay Island features 21 exquisite, ultra-luxe Private Residences available for rental. The Private Residences are dotted around the island and offer discerning travelers the utmost privacy from the main resort, without compromising access to the 64 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2019

facilities. Ideal for a family reunion or a special celebration, Jumby Bay Island’s Private Residences set the standard high for Caribbean luxury.

Having joined the prestigious Oetker Collection in late 2017, under new management, the resort recently underwent an inspired restoration program to inject a new lease of life into the much-loved island. Each Private Residence is today totally unique in style and design and comes equipped with individually exclusive features from infinity pools to private tennis courts to state-of-the-art design, complete with private staff.

Guests staying in the Private Residences also benefit from full access to Jumby Bay Island’s amenities and services, as well as a 25% discount on food and beverages within the resort.

Named after the story of a puffin that was blown off course and ended up on one of Jumby Bay Island’s beaches, the Lost Puffin residence is as charming as its back story. Set on Pasture Bay Beach and offering direct access to the sea, the property was uniquely designed as a Swedish beach house. Ideal for larger family gatherings and celebrations. Lost Puffin is a seven-bedroom property, which includes two duplexes for children and can accommodate up to 18 guests.

Designed in shades of blue, dove grey and ecru, Lost Puffin features an ocean-salted water pool; a modern fully equipped kitchen; serene indoor and outdoor living spaces; tennis court; football nets and cricket bats and balls.

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SIX SENSES KRABEY ISLAND KRABEY, CAMBODIA

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has expanded an exciting island location in Cambodia, a country steeped in history and re-emerging onto the world stage of exotic destinations, with the opening of Six Senses Krabey Island on 1 March 2019. Located on the private island of Krabey, the resort is comprised of 40 Pool Villas set around the naturally landscaped 30acre island, with its highest point at 42 meters above sea level. The island is a 15-minute cruise from the resort’s mainland jetty and provides a tranquil setting in which to reconnect and relax.

All villas include a private plunge pool and decking ideal for sunbathing and al fresco dining, while some also feature outdoor rain showers. The resort also includes two unique restaurants with menus focused on quality

local produce and seasonality, much of it grown at the resort’s own 40,000 square feet (3,700 square meters) organic market farm and herb gardens. Dishes offer a contemporary twist on traditional Khmer cuisine as well as a creative interpretation of Southeast Asian and international favorites.

There is also a Sunset Bar, furnished with comfy sofas and lazy hammocks offering stunning views of the sun dipping over the Gulf of Thailand. An ice cream parlor serves up more than 15 flavors daily on a complimentary basis for guests. A highlight of the resort is the Six Senses Spa, featuring a Six Senses specialty menu as well as several ancient Cambodian healing traditions and multi-day rejuvenation journeys, detox programs, yoga sessions and workshops.

Like at all Six Senses properties, sustainability is at the heart of the resort. Six Senses Krabey Island has its own water bottling plant with reusable glass bottles, Earth Lab and coral propagation program. In addition to this, the resort supports school programs in nearby villages and introduces sustainable practices within the local Khmer communities. Experiences abound at Six Senses Krabey Island from a range of under and over-water activities that include snorkeling, diving and kayaking. Six Senses Krabey Island takes a proactive approach within the local community by supporting the education of disadvantaged youth, the introduction of social activities and in marine conservation.

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HOTEL REVIEW

Where to Stay for a Girl’s Getaway to Paris | By Priscilla Pilon

When traveling to Paris with girlfriends, we love to stay in adjoining rooms or suites to maximize our time together without compromising individual space. This past spring, we had the delight of staying in adjoining suites in one of Paris’ greatest gems, Le Burgundy Hotel and found it to be a perfect match for our getaway needs.

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HOTEL REVIEW

The Burgundy is a study in sophistication and modernity. The attention to detail and flawless interior design, cleverly juxtaposing contemporary and antique accents, makes this a standout property in Paris’ most chic of areas, the 1st arrondissement.

The Executive level rooms and suites are generously sized with well-thought-out layouts. The junior suites and full suites are a good fit for families with children who need a little more space. I traveled with my friend Christine and she and I were delighted with our individual suites that connected in the Pavilion wing of the hotel. Our private entryway led to the Tuileries (upstairs) and Opéra (downstairs) suites with a lovely secluded outdoor terrace off the back. We felt like we had our own mansion-house in the heart of the city. Each was replete with copious closet spaces, double-sink vanities, exquisitely decorated living and dining areas with the finest of fabrics and eclectic artwork.

We had our individual upscale bedrooms for quick cat naps or long slumbers and lounging spaces aplenty for our late-night “girl talks” recapping our daily excursions.

The smallest of details were planned for and executed well in each room. Light switches next to the bed were thoughtfully placed, as were the plugs (both USB and converter

plugs for U.S. devices), and remote controls for the curtains leading to the patio. An iPad bedside meant room service or concierge advice was just a click away. We gals appreciate a technologically equipped hotel.

No task is too great for the concierge team at Le Burgundy and, in fact, they reach out in advance to see if there is any special request on your wish list. Christine and I took advantage of their hospitality and had them book private appointments for tours at Dior and Chanel, both of which just happen to be mere steps from the lobby of the hotel. Pretty Woman eat your heart out… after an exclusive tour of the spring’s latest fashions we were whisked away to the second-floor salon of Chanel, handed perfectly chilled glasses of Champagne and began our private shopping experience in earnest. I won’t divulge the extent; let’s just say mission accomplished.

Shopping all day can be tough work – the cobblestone streets in heels, changing and unchanging into designer getups with finicky zippers and trying to see as many French boutique stores as one can in a day. Time to hit Le Burgundy’s Spa by Sothys for a relaxing full-body massage and facial. The soothing cool palette of the spaces set the tone for relaxation. Our expert therapists were talented and helped us choose the right

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treatments for our skin and made helpful, not pushy recommendations for aftercare. We came out refreshed and invigorated to shop another day!

The ultimate ending to an over-the-top amazing trip was our dinner at Le Burgundy’s Michelin-star restaurant Le Baudelaire. We chose the tasting menu, leaving the wine to the experts. The sommelier paired each course with delicious fruity, dry, robust or sweet wines accordingly. One dish after another tasted as wonderful as it looked. Sea urchin, smoky crunchy beetroot, lobster spaghetti, lamb with a spicy Spanish wine and three gorgeous desserts for the finale were executed so well. It is difficult to say whether Executive Chef Guillaume Goupil or Pastry Chef Pascal Hainigue created the best dish of the night – it would be like picking a favorite child. Both chefs are creative, innovative and rock stars of the culinary world. I am expecting another star or two soon!

From start to finish we found Le Burgundy the perfect place to stay for a girl’s getaway.

Our only regret; we couldn’t stay longer in our home away from home.

Le Burgundy Hotel, 6-8 rue Duphot, 75001, Paris

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Tales of Two Tusks at

JABULANI | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF JABULANI AND BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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Spanning a success story of fifteen years, Jabulani, situated in Kapama Private Game Reserve in Hoedspruit, South Africa, is regarded as the benchmark for elephant conservation and sustainable tourism in South Africa. Named after the tiny four-month-old elephant that got stuck in the mud of a silt dam in 1997, his rescue and rehabilitation is a story worth knowing.

“Gently Jabu”, the mischievous elephant’s handler reprimands him. It’s feeding time during the Elephant Interaction at Jabulani and this 3-ton 2,8 meter high pachyderm is getting overexcited for the treats he is about to receive. My daughter is standing with a fist full of ‘boskos’ in her hands, but it doesn’t seem to be quite enough for this gentle giant as he tenderly nudges her with his trunk, which has now snaked around her to search for more food. Not realizing his size, he nearly knocks her over.

that, the warthogs have become accustomed to the feeding schedule and are waiting their turn to clean up any morsels left by the elephants.

Jabulani has now mastered the art of ‘trunk up’, which is also considered a shortcut in place of trunk to mouth – this is a more direct route. Standing in front of him, the experience seems almost surreal – I can count his eyelashes one by one, I can see how many teeth he has at the back of his mouth and I can feel the leathery texture of the skin on his trunk.

It’s my turn to feed him. I take as much food as I can manage in both my hands, walk closer to Jabulani and tell him to ‘trunk up’. His handler repeats “Jabu, trunk up”, after which he lifts up his trunk and opens his mouth for me to throw the food in. This isn’t very successful as a lot of it lands up on the ground, but it’s not a problem because an elephant’s trunk can also act as a vacuum cleaner! Failing

I’ll rewind a bit. My daughter and I are collected at Hoedspruit Airport by our ranger, Liesa Becker. The only female ranger at Jabulani, she is every bit as competent as her male counterparts, sometimes even more so. With her effervescent personality, we are immediately immersed in her joyful temperament. Driving through Kapama Private Game Reserve to Jabulani, out of nowhere, a leopard appears!

We go in search of him, but he is playing a shrewd game of hide-and-seek, popping up behind a termite mound, eventually scurrying off into the bush.

Our arrival at Jabulani is met with a very warm welcome by safari manager Schalk Human with butlers Isaac and Shadrack ready to show us to lunch. We forego the starter choice of chilled tomato & apple soup or smoked springbok carpaccio served with orange segments, red onion salsa, sushi mayonnaise & soya dressing and order the main course straight away. Explaining the menu choices is Head Chef Alex van As, who ensures that our choice of beef fillet served with confit capsicum peppers, Danish feta, sweet chilli yoghurt dressing & parmesan shavings is perfectly grilled to medium-rare. For dessert, I opt for the very sweet Jabulani eaton mess, while my daughter orders two scoops of homemade vanilla ice cream.

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We are shown to our expansive suite, named after the famous elephant in the Amarula advertisement, Sebakwe. Using only natural resources and acquiring leadwood logs over a period of time from the adjacent area, the lodge was designed and constructed with the majority of trees still intact. The dark wooden interior is perfectly complemented by all the white comforts in our room, from the bed draped in white linen with mosquito net cover to the alluring freestanding stone bath and double vanities. I love the ample shower with the complimentary L’Occitane range of luxurious products. Outside our suite is a large wooden deck with a plunge pool for those hot summer days.

Liesa meets us out front for our very first game drive. The sky is overcast, with the threat of rain looming. Etched against the gloomy background we spot them – seven members of the Guernsey lion pride. One sub-adult is having a playfully ambitious time chasing after a few giraffes.

Being the tallest land mammal, we can almost see the somewhat humorous and perplexed stare the giraffe is giving this bold lion.

Dinner is served in the main dining room and the food is delicious. We can pick our favorite fare; my daughter and I both skip starters and order the roasted rack of lamb served with new crushed potatoes, butternut puree, baby beetroot, asparagus spears, baby carrots & red wine jus. Dessert is the delectable rooibos tea souffle served with homemade ice cream.

A suspension bridge joins the main area to the suites, making it an eye-catching feature. I feel the trepidation in myself when it moves slightly; my daughter runs back and forth with no fear whatsoever. We aim for an early night – tomorrow is an exciting day as we are visiting the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC). After a cleansing shower and a good night’s sleep in our opulent suite, we are eager to get going.

But first, breakfast, consisting of any early-morning choice you can possibly imagine, and a beverage to wash it down with. Liesa joins us for coffee, after which we depart for Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. The center is the fulfillment of a dream realized by founder Lente Roode, who initially started a cheetah breeding project with the hope of releasing these endangered animals back into the wild, which has been done successfully. Today, HESC is at the forefront of wildlife conservation, caring for orphaned rhinos, orphaned or injured elephants, and rehabilitating a wide variety of endangered animal species. I am completely speechless at the sight of a King cheetah, with his regal pose he is a dream to photograph.

Back at Jabulani, we spend the day at leisure in our magnificent surroundings. Later this afternoon, we are doing the Elephant Interaction, where we get to meet three of the ele-phant ambassadors. The herd consists of fifteen elephants and today, we get to meet Jabulani, Somopane and Sebakwe. All three elephants are

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kind-natured and being around them is a soulful experience. It’s difficult to put into words the effect it has to stand in close proximity to such an extraordinary animal.

Once the Elephant Interaction is over, we depart for sundowners by the dam. As the sun starts to set, the elephants walk on the opposite side of the dam, casting the most brilliant reflection in the water. One of the younger ones stops for a drink of water and has to be cajoled back by his handler to join the herd again. The story of how the herd came to be is fascinating and as I can attest, the work that has gone into creating something so special is definitely worth a visit.

Thank you to Amanda Brighton and Rita Aganostopoulus from a2b Destination Marketing for arranging our stay and to the Jabulani staff for their wonderful hospitality. *** Views expressed are the author’s own.

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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.

AIRLINK – HOW TO GET THERE

Route Specific Information: Direct scheduled flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. With an all Jet service, Airlink provides a Business Class service from Cape Town, styled in the manner of a European intra-continental service.

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-hoedspruit

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The Most Lavish Hotels For SOLO TRAVELERS | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Traveling on your own has a number of advantages.

You have the entire bed to yourself, the contents of the mini-bar is all yours and you can order whatever you want off the menu without someone batting an eyelid. Upscale Living magazine’s Travel Editor went in search of the most lavish hotels for solo travelers who relish the finer things in life.

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ADARE MANOR, LIMERICK, IRELAND

That legacy is vividly alive in the manor house itself: sumptuously restored, brimming with gothic splendor, and perfectly appointed in every detail. It is reflected by a world-class staff whose personalized, intimate service centers you in the heart of the home.

As you roam the 840 acres of pristine parkland, play your way through the magnificent golf course, and sound the depths of relaxation in the spa, you will start to understand the soul of Adare Manor. It’s prestige without pretense and magic without nonsense. Above all, it is the sense of belonging.

Known. That’s how it feels.

This is a place where even your first visit feels like a homecoming, where the first glimpse stirs something familiar down in your bones. When you arrive at Adare Manor, that mo-

ment of recognition is mutual.

It’s your drink the way you like it and the best seat by the fire.

It’s the feeling that everything is possible and the knowledge that nothing is left to chance.

A cherished heritage of Irish hospitality has been distilled into the spirit of welcome you feel within these walls. Adare Manor was a labor of love from the very start, created to delight, astonish and impress.

Every room in Adare Manor is worthy of the Dunraven’s grand legacy of beauty and luxury, with every decision made with your comfort and enjoyment foremost in mind, something that will become immediately obvious when you step across the threshold.

BAUR AU LAC, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND

The hotel offers 119 rooms, including 27 junior suites and 18 suites. Great emphasis was placed on spaciousness, top-quality materials and superior craftsmanship.

The rooms are individually decorated in different styles such as Art Deco, French Louis XVI, and English Regency, combined with contemporary features and the most exclusive French, Italian and English fabrics.

With fantastic infrastructure, world-class shopping, museums and unmatched hospitality, Switzerland is one of the most welcoming countries to solo travelers. Visitors should begin with a visit to Zurich, known for its charming old

town and innovative design shops. Situated in the heart of the city, the Baur au Lac hotel (one of Europe’s most historic hotels, owned by the same family for six generations and more than 170 years) sits in its own private park on the shores

of Lake Zurich and boasts a collection of over 3,000 wines and spirits; a concierge team with members of the acclaimed Les Clefs d’Or; Pavillon, a two Michelin-starred restaurant; a luxury car garage and its own beehive.

All furniture and lighting features are custom-made in France, Belgium, England and Germany.

Each item was hand-selected with an unfailing sense of style. While offering the ultimate in comfort, luxury and privacy, the rooms and suites have been equipped with every, yet hardly noticeable technical refinement. The large, luxuriously appointed marble bathrooms with separate shower and toilet, heated floor and daylight match up to the highest demands of comfort, design and equipment.

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tication of a period building and yesteryear charm is passionately preserved from generation to generation.

Currently in the hands of the fifth generation of Mayer family, this is the ideal home away from home. A meticulous renovation was unveiled last year, modernizing rooms and suites, with the introduction of six immaculate new lake view loft suites, with a grand staircase leading up to a king or twin bed and a ceiling window for stargazing from bed.

Often overlooked as a leisure destination, Geneva is home to the UN Headquarters, charming Old Town, luxury shopping, museums, the International Red Cross, sublime gastronomy and the most beautiful scenic lakes and mountains.

Beau-Rivage Genève has been an iconic hotel in Geneva since 1865 and is an extraordinary place. Your timeless retreat offers an exceptional location facing Geneva’s jet d’eau, which is firmly anchored in both the past and present.

One of Geneva’s landmark luxury hotels, Beau-Rivage Genève’s 70 rooms and 25 suites with their remarkable style ensure that you have a unique experience in the heart of this global city. For over 150 years, the elegance and sophis-

Named after notable guests, the suites include the Henri Dunant suite, adapted for guests with disabilities, as a tribute to the founder of the Red Cross and recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize. The Sissi Terrace suite is decorated with exquisitely preserved artefacts and period furniture from the era of the Austrian Empress who stayed there.

lon and the jewel in the hotel’s crown, the Eden-Roc Suite.

HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC, ANTIBES, FRANCE

BEAU-RIVAGE GENEVA, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

TRAVEL

For years, the great and the good have plotted love lives and world politics as they have sipped from a chilled glass on the deck of the Eden-Roc overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the hotel’s swimming pool. The legendary Hotel du Cap, therefore, introduced a glamorous new Champagne Lounge for its devoted clientele in May 2013.

Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc, a super resort for the rich and famous on the glittering Côte d’Azur will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2020. It has a glittering list of past guests, including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, F Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Picasso,

Cary Grant, and Elizabeth Taylor – it is even the place where Prince Aly Khan was introduced to Rita Hayworth by the former General Manager.

The hotel’s iconic pool offers panoramas of the magnificent coastline. With 115 gorgeous

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guest rooms in three different locations, Hotel du CapEden-Roc’s main hotel, Napoleon III houses 67 spacious, elegant rooms including five new deluxe rooms and two new suites on the second floor.

There are 31 Junior Suites located in the Eden-Roc Pavil-

In the hands of Chef Arnaud Poëtte for 27 years, the EdenRoc Restaurant offers traditional Mediterranean cuisine; while the hotel’s “Chocolaterie”, run

by Chef Lilian Bonnefoi, is a true experience for chocolate lovers.

Purchased by the Oetker family in 1970, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is the ideal place to explore the Riviera’s culture and countryside.

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HOTEL HASSLER ROMA, ROME, ITALY

elers can try the bustling Hassler Bistrot for lunch, treat themselves to a Michelin-starred dinner at the hotel’s panoramic restaurant, Imàgo, and enjoy an after-dinner cocktail at the intimate Hassler bar.

Located on the Hassler’s 8th floor, the 3,552 sq ft Hassler Penthouse suite offers the most breathtaking view over Rome’s city center skyline, including the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna with its Barcaccia fountain by Bernini as well as the famed Via Condotti, Rome’s most exclusive shopping street.

ROYAL CHAMPAGNE HOTEL & SPA, CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE

Set atop the Spanish Steps and featuring a panoramic view of the entire city, Hotel Hassler Roma offers the ideal solo getaway for travelers looking to stay like the world’s most elite guests. The Hassler has hosted everyone from Charlie

Chaplin to George Clooney and is the hotel in which Audrey Hepburn stayed when she was filming “Roman Holiday.”

Solo travelers can enjoy staying right in the heart of Rome, with easy access to all the top sites and incredible dining and

shopping that the city has to offer.

The on-site 24-hour concierge can assist in planning guests’ stays, and can even provide a complimentary electric car to get around the city. Solo trav-

Featuring elegant, contemporary décor, blending seamlessly with a stateof-the-art music and lighting system, the Penthouse suite’s elevator provides direct access to the suite, with two panoramic terraces in Travertine marble, a grand piano and fully stocked cocktail bar area in the spacious elegantly decorated living room with dining area.

and Hautvillers of Dom Pérignon fame. Reimagining a wine-country retreat for all seasons, local Reims-based architect, Giovanni Pace has designed the property in the style of a contemporary amphitheater, incorporating the original 19th Century Post House, where it is said that King Charles X of France stopped over before heading to Reims for his coronation.

The storied history of Champagne - one of the world’s great wine regions - has taken on a new dimension with the launch of the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa. The hotel is the destination’s first contemporary luxury hotel, which

embraces the lush bounty of the wineries. Guests have exclusive access to private Champagne houses, harvesting sessions with local wine producers and tastings with Champagne producers giving true insider access, all personally curated by

the in-house concierge team.

The Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa boasts an enviable location, situated right in the middle of the vineyards that stripe the hills of Epernay and the historic villages of Champillon

Each of the 47 rooms and suites affords spectacular views of the Champagne valley, appointed with Hermès amenities and state-of-theart comforts. Led by Vincent Parinaud, the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa has unveiled the region’s first world-class destination spa spanning 16,000ft². In partnership with acclaimed French brand Biologique Recherche, the wellness center comprises nine treatment rooms; state of the art fitness facilities; a wood-lined yoga studio; eucalyptus-infused sauna; manicure and pedicure stations and a mosaic tiled Hammam.

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THE MULIA, MULIA RESORT & VILLAS, NUSA DUA, BALI

MARQUIS LOS CABOS RESORT & SPA, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

TRAVEL After extensive repair and renovation, Marquis Los Cabos’ spacious, residential-style accommodations fuse effortless luxury with romance and authentic Mexican flair. All 235 suites across five categories – 203 Deluxe Suites, 26 One-Bedroom Casitas, five Master Suites with private plunge pool and a two-bedroom Presidential Suite – have been fully revamped with new beds, linens, minibars, L’Occitane bath amenities, hydro-massage tubs and furnished outdoor terraces. Suites range in size from 650 sq. feet to 2,600 sq. feet approximately.

Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa is a luxury, all-inclusive and all-Suites, adult-only resort situated directly on the beach at the tip of Baja California Sur – where the desert mountains meet the Sea of Cortés just 15 minutes from San Jose del Cabo and 30 min-

utes from Cabo San Lucas.

Marquis Los Cabos features 235 newly renovated suites with ocean views; three pools overlooking the ocean expanse; a full-service, 13,000 squarefoot Spa Marquis; five gourmet restaurants, a café and a bar all helmed by Master Chef

Thierry Dufour; 12,000 square feet of meeting and convention space; access to several 18-hole golf courses within miles of the resort; and a wide variety of well-curated on-property activities and entertainment, ensuring a world-class experience.

Upgraded culinary experiences range from the re-installation of the signature Marquis Wake Up – each morning’s in-suite delivery of fresh coffee and sweet rolls – to the several-times-daily handpassed trays of local treats such as churros, pastries or corn-on-thecob throughout the pool common areas.

Here, among the stunning beach frontage along Nusa Dua’s bay, we invite you to experience the tranquil beauty of Bali and the magnificent nature that surrounds you.

The accommodations at The Mulia all-suite resort was designed with a feeling of luxury both inside and out, providing the ultimate indulgent getaway.

Relax in your spacious suite that opens to a balcony overlooking the pristine Geger Beach and the Indian Ocean or the resort’s breath-taking gardens. Wake up to the sound of the waves crashing on to the sand and enjoy your private breakfast for two amid the relaxing ocean breeze.

Mulia Bali is the epitome of luxury, offering world-class amenities with unparalleled service and attention to detail.

Our expansive beachfront resort compound, located within the exclusive area of Nusa Dua on the southern

part of the island, allows you to choose from three distinct experiences - luxurious suites, serene villas and elegant rooms - overlooking the resort’s infinity pools and pristine beach, inviting you to relax and indulge in paradise.

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Overlooking the dramatic coastline of Nusa Dua, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas are among the most luxurious 5-star hotels in Bali. Our exclusive Nusa Dua resort reflects the tranquility of our picture-perfect surroundings.

Whether you choose our garden-facing or beachfront accommodation, The Mulia’s signature lavish bedding, first-class amenities and spacious bathroom with separate bath and shower all aim to spoil you with unmatched luxury.

hotel’s restaurant, Town House, is made up of interconnected drawing rooms, bursting with natural light, complete open fireplaces and intimate porticos overlooking Kensington’s tree-lined avenues.

The Kensington is London’s finest townhouse hotel, sitting in the heart of South Kensington, where Queen’s Gate meets the Old Brompton Road. It is made up of four traditional white Victorian townhouses, making the hotel feel more akin to a beautiful private residence than

traditional hotel. Situated in one of London’s most affluent neighborhoods – home to the monarchy at Kensington Palace since 1689 and the official ‘Royal Borough of London’ since 1901 – The Kensington itself has a decidedly regal feel.

The hotels rooms and suites

have been individually designed with elegant fabrics and custom furnishings to complement the hotel’s period architecture and those after the true ‘Royal’ experience can stay in either The Brompton Suite or The Knightsbridge Suite - some of London’s most majestic accommodation. The

The recently launched London Landmarks Afternoon Tea, which takes inspiration from London’s most recognizable and historic landmarks, comes served on a London Eye-inspired stand. Meet for drink at the K Bar, the hotel’s discreet cocktail bar, set by its elegant décor – oak panels, polished brass accents, mirrored walls and slate floors, lending a sophisticated feel, matched by creative & classic cocktails. In addition, the hotel has partnerships with nearby V&A museum as well as The Royal Albert Hall and can secure VIP tickets and exclusive access for guests.

destination expert-guided tours through Beijing’s maze-like alleys known as hutongs, walks through the tree-lined Old Legation Quarter, or through the paths of old imperial scholars such as Confucius, offered exclusively to guests of The PuXuan.

THE PUXUAN, BEIJING, CHINA

THE KENSINGTON SOUTH KENSINGTON, LONDON

TRAVEL

The PuXuan is the newest addition to Urban Resort Concepts’ ever-expanding portfolio of luxury hotels throughout Asia and is centrally located in Beijing’s arts & culture district, boasting unparalleled views over the Forbidden City. Rooted in

a tradition of hospitality, the hotel is centered on the philosophy of ‘hostmanship’ and features two flagship restaurants, interiors by MQ studios and a signature spa.

Ideal for solo travelers, The PuXuan is committed to

celebrating the rich local culture. Through an immersive program guests are given exclusive access to local, hidden gems and landmarks alike, offering travelers a completely new way to experience Beijing. These half and full day programs will consist of

Furthermore, with world class service The PuXuan is rooted in a service culture of Hostmanship™.

Hotel staff are dedicated to creating a genuinely respectful and tailored experience for each guest that reflects contemporary interpretations of China’s deeply rooted hospitality traditions. The hotel captures the intimacy of a home run by an accomplished host with unparalleled standards of service centered around the needs and comforts of guests.

The PuXuan provides guests with 24-hour check-in and checkout, complimentary access to the fully stocked mini-bar, breakfast anywhere in the hotel, best-inclass WiFi, meeting room use, and laundry and pressing services.

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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

SPIRITS

British Liqueurs | By Kevin Pilley

B

ritain has become a nation of liqueur makers. Last year, the UK consumed 51 million bottles of gin. It spent £461m, with an average consumption of 0.55 litres per person.

The British gin boom spawned “handcrafted” artisanal gins made not only from junipers but nettles, saffron ,watercress, sea lettuce, truffle, ant ( David and Penny Connor’s “Shooter’s Gin” ), Christmas Pudding( “Sacred Spirits”) , Earl Grey ( Newcastle’s “Novel Tea”), “Orange

Sherbert” (“Gravity Drinks”) Indian Lassi ( Bruce Nagu’s “Crazy Gin”) and an assortment of other weird and wonderful ingredients.

Says Tom Williams of distributor, “Barcelona Spirits”: “It’s all about flavours, colours and packaging. Prices are getting lower and ideas more outrageous.”

Including now “Stag’s Breath”, jammy dodger, bacon, candyfloss and bubble gum. And the tears of humanely raised unicorns.

A liqueur (from the Latin, “to dissolve”) being an alcoholic beverage with added sugar infused with increasingly strange USP ingredients.

British liqueurs are the new gin. Last year, The UK bought 4m non-creamy liqueurs.

The market is reportedly worth £1.2b.

Pimm’s is considered a liqueur. Invented in 1823 by James Pimm, a farmer’s son who ran an oyster bar in London near the

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Victoria Sponge and Black Forest Gateau. “The Cheeky Gin Co” makes a bubblegum aperitif.

Manchester’s “Sweet Little Drinks” offers novelty gin liqueurs like Pear Drops and Jelly Babies.

And rum liqueurs like cream egg, popcorn, dunka donut and even a pancake, maple syrup and bacon nightcap. Alfred Button makes a Lemon Sherbert liqueur.

“The Sweet Potato Spirit Company” in Evesham , Worcestershire has a lavender gin liqueur. “ Tarquin Leadbetter makes “Peach Ice Tea Gin liqueur” in his South Western Distillery in Cornwall.

Bank of England. His gin-based concoction was originally sold as an aid for digestion and served in a“No 1 Small Cup.” 2019 is the 160th anniversary of Pimm’s No 1. being sold commercially.

In 1903, Berry Bros & Rudd of London ( est.1698) created their “King’s Ginger” for King Edward V11. But probably the oldest British liqueur is Drambuie (from the Gaelic ‘An dram Buideach’ which means “the drink that satisfies”. It was meant to have been offered to him on Skye where he fled after the Battle of Culloden in 1745.

“Bailey’s Irish Cream” was only launched in 1974. Every year, 8000 dairy cows produce 220m litres of cream specifically for the drink. “Gravity Drinks”, Shoreditch, London produces Café Marula liqueur. Every bottle provides a donation to the “Elephant Whispers” conservation campaign. Marula is the elephant tree.

“Benedictine”, or D.O.M (.M. - Deo Optimo Maximo’ (Praise be to God, Most Good, Most Great2) - made at Fecamp abbey ,France- goes back to 1510.“An elixir of life”, Don Bernardo Vincelli’s recipe restored listless brothers.

“Bols”, originally made in Lootsje ( “little shed ) goes back to 1575. Lucas Bols first made “Kummel” from caraway seeds , cumin and fennel. The company’s famous egg and brandy based “Advocaat” means “lawyer’s drink”. About the same time , in Saint-Barthelemy d’Anjou “Cointreau”, was distilled and macerated by confectioner, Adolphe Cointreau.

Green “Chartreuse”, made by Carthusian monks in Tarragona, Spain where they were

exiled after the French Revolution and in 1903, originated in 1737. Its name after the monastery near Grenoble. “ Tia Maria”, made in Italy , is a 1930’s concoction.

The orange-flavoured “Grand Marnier”, named after its inventor and co-investor by the hotel owner Cesar Ritz, first became available in 1827. “Triple Sec” dates to 1834, its birthplace being Saumur in the Loire.

The vanilla-led “Galliano” (1896) is named after an Italian war hero. Farmer’s son, Gaspare Campari” created his iconic beverage in 1860, using chinotto and cascarilla fruit and carmine dye from cochineal insects.

“St Germain” was the first elderflower liqueur. Italy’s almond “Amaretto”, first made in Saronno, was reportedly given to one of Leonardo Da Vinci’s pupils by a model.

The success of British small-batch gin has given birth to a new generation of boutique liqueurists. Hobbies have become successful businesses.

Manchester’s “Zymurgorium”, founded

by Aaron Drake, first came up with Violet Parma liqueur. The company name comes from the Latin for the study of brewing and emporium (shop ).

“It was my Mum’s idea. And next year investment will reach £10m!” says the 28-year-old liqueur entrepreneur. “A zoology student at Aberystwyth my bathroom became a distillery. I sold door-to-door on a shopping trolley” In Halifax, “Mrs Cuthbert’s” makes liqueurs like Lemon Drizzle Cake, Blueberry Muffin,

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“Firebox” bottles “Unicorn Tears”. A former SAS member, Andy Peverick, founded “Pilgrim Spirits Co” in Northumbria and makes candyfloss liqueur.

Probably the most expensive liqueur comes from the west Midlands. Fallen Angel’s herbal liqueur retails at £165. It comes in a ceramic devil’s head.

Sunderland’s “Poetic License distillery boasts the unique “Sarsaparilla” liqueur. In Dudley in the Black “Country, Jordan Lunn makes Dr Eamer’s “Spiced Apple”. In Thornbury, Gloucestershire, the “Bramley & Gage” range stretches from Greengage to Quince liqueur. They are makers of “6 O’clock Gin”. Says Pete Axford : “60kg of quinces goes into one batch (260 bottles), and we make 10 batches a year”.

Foxdenton estate, Buckinghamshire produces a post-prandial apricot brandy liqueur.

Says the founder’s great-grandson, Charles Radyclyffe : “We were founded in 1935

by Major Charles Radclyffe, soldier and adventurer. He fought in the Boer War and World War One. He was twice shipwrecked and train-wrecked once. And tattooed with the family coat of arms on his chest. He made fruit liqueurs for hunts and shoots.”

“Tiptree”, the bespoke jam makers based in Essex boasting the UK’s only jam museum, now make English Strawberry Liqueur. Prosecco is recommended as a mixer.

Also in Essex, “The English Distilling Co” makes the UK’s only anise-flavoured “Sambuca” made with elderflower eau de vie.

“White Heron Drinks” in Herefordshire makes “Cassis”.

Hugh Munro of Warrington’s “Riverside Spirits” manufactures Apple Blossom, Lotus Flower and Passionfruit Shimmer liqueurs. “The boom is phenomenal. At 70, my mother launched

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Christine’s Preserves. In 2012, we made our first liqueur. Growing from a cottage kitchen industry to a multi-million pound company supplying a major supermarket was a slow and organic process.”

Jof Curtoys was a policy advisor on agricultural issues for the RSPB. Now he makes hedgerow gins at Green Farm in Barton-le-Willows, near York. Brother Jules is a mechanical engineer and sister Claire worked in the NHS as an occupational therapist.. They now run “Sloemotion”, making award-winning Sloe liqueurs.

In St Ives, Cornwall the Thompson brothers –Tim, Greg and Bertie -make “tonguetingling tipples “ like orange-flavoured Arancello, Limoncello and Limecello. They run the “Searoom Gastro Bar” on the wharf.

Recommended is a “SILCo Fizz” - Any of their liqueurs with sparkling wine.

Says Tom : “We use the whole fruit to produce less waste and more taste. Peeling and juicing by hand, the peel is infused in 96% natural grain spirit for around 48 hours then infused with sugar syrup. The syrup is added back to neutral grain spirit to steep for two weeks.”

Paul Currie and Nigel Mills run the “Lakes

Distillery” on Lake Bassenthwaite in the Lake District. “Our elderflower is best served with Indian tonic over ice. Our salted caramel vodka liqueur drizzled over ice cream!”

Nearby “Pennington’s makes Kendal Mint Cake and Gingerbread liqueurs. “The Cheshire Gin Company” was formed by Richard Buxton and Simon Spurrell. Richard moved from finance into property investment. Then cheese and gin. Graphic designer Simon founded technology businesses in the UK and India.

day. Hence new distilleries produce gin, vodka and cream liqueurs whilst waiting for the whisky to mature.”

In Glasgow, based loosely on the Italian Nochino , Angus and Frances Ferguson’s Demijohn’s Walnut Liqueur combines Eau de Vie with British walnuts and cloves.

Simon says : “ Our Cherry and Almond liqueur is a nod to Bakewell Tart from neighbouring Derbyshire.”

“Pickering’s”,located in a former veterinary school in Edinburgh, makes Pink Grapefruit and Lemongrass liqueur. “Stag’s Breath” is made by the Meikel family in Newtonmore in the Cairngorm National Park. It’s a whisky and fermented comb honey blend named after a brand mentioned in Compton Mackenzie’s novel, “Whisky Galore”.

“Aber Falls” in the Snowdonia National Park village of Abergwyngregyn uses sustainably sourced ingredients and Welsh-inspired botanicals. Sea salt from the Halen Mon Anglesey sea salt company goes into its Salted Toffee liqueur.

On Deeside, “Haroosh” is made from blaeberry or brambleberries. Says Peter Dignan of “Lost Loch” : “ Haroosh is a 1920s family recipe using heather , clover and local willow herb honey. Each bottle contains at least fifty brambleberries.

“Penderyn” in Aberdare makes “Merlyn”- a combination of cream and the finest Welsh malted barley spirit.”

“Our bees have to travel 4500 miles to collect enough honey for every bottle.”

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