Upscale Living Magazine Spring 2022 by Upscale Living Magazine

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S PR I N G 2 0 2 2

The Ultimate BOTSWANA SAFARI

Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Car

Venice, The Watery City of Winged Lions

5 Exquisite Diamonds

Most Luxurious Porcelain Chandeliers

Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com

Tecnomar Evo 130 Superyacht

CONTENT

ART + CULTURE 10 World’s Most Luxurious Porcelain Chandeliers 36 Naturalistic Pottery, How Bordallo Pinheiro became an International Symbol of Luxury Design AUTOMOBILE 12 Gordon Murray T.33, A Wonderful Analogue Supercar 16 Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, The Fastest Koenigsegg Car Ever Unveiled 18 Aeolian Hyperbike, A Silent Assasin with its Electric Heart TIMEPIECES 14 Timepiece Trends 22 Maurice Lacroix Eliros Sunshine Takes Gold as an Alluring Canvas FASHION 20 Peyman Umay’s Eco-Conscious AY Menswear

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JEWELRY 21 5 Exquisite Diamonds YACHTS 24 Tecnomar Evo 130 Superyacht, Combining Performance with Luxury HOME + DECOR 26 McCelland House, Making Guests Feel Truly at Home 46 Home Trends 48 Outdoor Living PROFILE 30 Bergman Design House, A Flamingo in a Pigeon World TRAVEL 38 The Ultimate Botswana Safari 43 Venice, The Watery city of Winged Lions 51 Serondella, Place of Elephants

TRAVEL (CONT’D) 54 What’s New! - Fairmont Windsor Park, Gili Lankanfushi, Nobu Santorini, The Adria, The Cloudveil, Met Hotel, Mpala Jena Camp, 62 Wilderness Experience at the Broadmoor 66 Royal Malewane, A Majestic Stay

UPSCALE The Ultimate

BOOK REVIEWS 70 Cookery Books for Every Foodie’s Collection RESTAURANTS 72 7 Best Steakhouses in the USA WINES + SPIRITS 76 World’s Largest Bottle of Whisky

™

S PR I N G 2 0 2 2

BOTSWANA SAFARI

Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Car

Venice, The Watery City of Winged Lions

5 Exquisite Diamonds

Most Luxurious Porcelain Chandeliers

Tecnomar Evo 130 Superyacht

Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com

COCKTAILS 78 A Vodka Espress Martini

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PUBLISHER | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | FOUNDER ALINA LEYVA (CABRAL) PUBLISHER@UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM | 786-760-9133 MOBILE WWW.UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM

office phone: +1-833-623-4443 | 1-847-461-4120

CONTRIBUTORS

Heléne Ramackers, Somnath Chatterjee, Jarone Ashkenazi, Damon M. Banks, James Essex, Angela Sara West,Tracy Beard, Rebecca Underwood, Adam Jacot De Boinod, James Wong, Anthony DeMarco, Deve Sanford, Felicity Carter, Fran Miller, Gerard Vallecello, Karen Berlinier, Kevin Pilley, Leslie Royal, Nikita Vivek Pawar, Priscilla Pilon.

Copyright 2021 Upscale Living Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Upscale Living Magazine and ALP Publishing Inc. The Publisher 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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ART + CULTURE

World’s Most Luxurious

PORCELAIN CHANDELIERS | BY JAMES ESSEX

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ART + CULTURE

ndreea Braescu grew up surrounded by art. Or as she puts it, “living and breathing it, really.” Her grandparents were both painters, her mother was a sculptor, and her father a designer. She spent her childhood blissfully painting or creating ceramics, and maybe that is where she developed her subtle ability to create tasteful, balanced, and refined fine art. Braescu’s youthful creativity was focused further when she studied ceramics at the National University of Art in Bucharest. It was there that she became incredibly fascinated by the intersection of design and art. In the six years since she left the educational world, Braescu has developed an “emotion-led approach” to art creation that has produced a number of stunning pieces. Each one,” she says, “aimed at recreating the spirit and energy of the natural world within interior spaces.” If you’ve never seen work you must immediately find an image of her bespoke light sculpture. Whether you’re looking at the custom lighting that was designed for the living room of an Abu Dhabi palace belonging to the royal family or the fifteen-meter-long lighting installation for the hallway of a Paresian hotel, you’re going to notice one thing — there’s nothing else in the world quite like Braescu’s work. That’s because each installation is unique and meticulously crafted with an individuality and form of its own, meant only to fit her client’s spaces. Each element is precisely positioned to best capture, illuminate, and reflect the space for which it’s designed. “The most distinctive attribute of my style,” Braescu said, “is that I consciously erase manufacturing conformity from my work. Irregularity and individuality are two main characteristics that are encountered in living nature. If you look at leaves of a tree, you cannot find a regular pattern; each leaf has its own unique shape and position, orienting itself towards the sun. You can find the same natural movement in my light sculptures. This is very hard to achieve, as you know most of the chandeliers are symmetrical, they have a regularity as this is easier to produce.” From her studio in Bucharest, Romania, Braescu works with a dedicated team of fifteen individuals to replicate the skill of nature’s harmony through randomness. She rejects machine-made pieces—which would always have an element of uniformity—in favor of handcrafted pieces. “The real challenge of this,” she states, “is to combine this with outstanding engineering, product, and lighting design. Breaking from the conformity of manufacturing, as I mentioned before, was no easy task, but a truly multidisciplinary endeavor.”

dominate the creative process. Braescu knows she’s hit her mark when her work “evokes joy and happiness.” When I asked her why she decided to focus her career on lighting, Braescu noted that given her background in ceramics, it was incredibly important for her to combine the purpose of art to transmit feelings and emotions to the viewer with the craftsmanship functionality of ceramics. “One day, I realized that with typical art objects, there are only brief moments when works of art actually “work” – when they elicit emotions in the viewer contemplating the piece. So, why not create works of art that have a prominent place in their surroundings and emanate the positive mood and feelings all the time? For me, lighting was the ideal incarnation of this; it typically represents the most dominant object in a space. Of course, there was still a long way to go from this idea to the final result, so it took me several years of models and iterations until the idea became a reality.” Today Braescu works primarily with private clients on bespoke designs. She begins by working to understand the space for her creation and then maps her ideas out in a series of CAD drawings and sketches. Her task is more one of creative visualization and her final products speak for themselves. But her expertise and past work rarely reveal the extreme difficulty and craftsmanship involved in creating her unique lighting designs. “The biggest challenge in the creation process is the porcelain – working out how to maintain the structure of the porcelain leaf shapes when they go into the oven. When it is fired, phosphatic porcelain takes on the consistency of warm honey – beautiful but very unpredictable. If unsupported, it melts and changes shapes – which can be a nightmare! By mounting each piece on steel frames before going in the oven, we are able to retain the individuality without losing the form.” Regardless of difficulty or setting, every work thus far has been a stunning illustration of her supreme artistry and expertise in her craft.

Though it may be an endeavor, she hits the mark spectacularly well. Each installation is unique yet precise. She dedicates herself and her team to her clients and spends a lot of time thinking about how to craft lighting for their space. Questions like, “how do we best capture, illuminate, and reflect in this space?” are what

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AUTOMOBILE

Gordon Murray T.33 A Wonderful Analogue Supercar

| BY SOMNATH CHATTERJEE

s the world moves to an increasingly digital age, our obsession with rekindling our love affair with analogue trinkets from the past knows no bounds. It is the same with supercars as sales of old supercars with manual gearboxes are growing along with special naturally aspirated engined cars appreciating in value. We seek solace in analogue things and that sentiment seems to be shared with the new supercar from Gordon Murray. If you do not know already, he is the father of the McLaren F1 and a genius when it comes to combining new age materials alongside classic musical instruments like a V12 engine or even a manual gearbox. Gordon Murray Automotive created the T.50 which is a hardcore hypercar with a three-seater lay-out like the F1 and is built to replicate the value of the F1 albeit within a modern-day supercar mold. It is fast yet comes with analogue driving characteristics embedded in it. However, it is also stratospherically priced at $3 million a piece which means it is more of a Billionaire collector toy. That said, the more accessible T.33- expected to be priced at $1.83 million, comes across as a more approachable supercar with dripping the core values of what Gordon Murray emphasizes. Hence, the T.33 is not your average supercar. Let us explain. In essence, like the T.50, it is a rare, hand-built automotive sculpture with minimalism sprinkled all over. That said, unlike the T.50, the T.33 is less hardcore and designed for long distance touring. There is luggage space, a conventional two-seater lay-out and even an option for a paddle shift gearbox. A six-speed manual transmission is offered with a low inertia clutch and a Limited-Slip Differential (LSD). Whatever be the case, Gordon Murray is obsessed with lightness as explained by the fact that the gearbox weighs 82kg while being the world’s lightest supercar unit. The paddle

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shift gearbox is also the lightest of its kind. Amongst this whiff of traditional analogue mechanisms like a stick shift, the T.33 is being built like any bona-fide supercar with exotic materials. It is entirely built around a carbon fiber monocoque and features cored carbon fiber panels. The lightness adds to the flexibility and also the performance of the car. Hence, that’s why it does not need some heavy battery system to make it go very fast. Yes, the T.33 uses a traditional gas-powered motor- as it should be! The engine is a 3.9-liter V12 which revs to 11,100rpm and produces 615PS @ 10,500rpm and 451Nm @ 9,000rpm. Supplies by Cosworth, the engine weighs 178kg but provides a driving experience where the driver has more revs to play with along with embracing a beautiful V12 soundtrack. Everything is a mix and match of the old and new with a hydraulically assisted steering system providing a more layered rich, steering feedback to the Carbon Ceramic- something of a norm at this end of the supercar game. Even the interior is simple but made for the act of driving above anything else. The steering wheel is made from carbon fiber while unnecessary distractions are simply thrown out. All control, including the rev counter are all analogue while basic gadgetry is still provided. Some of the switchgear is from aluminum alloy including the pedals for a tactile feel. With a small production run, owners would be catered to their ultimate whims and fancies including high levels of personalization. The T.33 is very much what Gordon Murray wants and likes along with showcasing what’s currently plaguing the rest of the supercar industry with too much complication.

AUTOMOBILE

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TIMEPIECES

TIMEPIECE TRENDS | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

If you love a stylish timepiece, we have a selection to suit your distinguished taste.

A NEW STAR

Arnold & Son Nebula 41.5 Steel Harmonious, radiant and intense, the Nebula’s skeleton movement reveals a structure in grey and blue tones. It combines steel with a PVD treatment on diametrically opposing bridges for a perfectly chic visual effect. In addition to being the most symmetrical of Arnold & Son’s watches, it is ultra-thin, at just 8.73 mm. Available with a steel bracelet or a blue rubber strap, the Nebula 41.5 Steel radiates cool and intense elegance. | arnoldandson.com

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FOR THE SERIOUS COLLECTOR

THE EVOLUTION OF AN ICON

Kross Studio, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC releases “The Batman”

Angelus Chronodate Red Gold & Chronodate Titanium

Kross Studio and Warner Bros. Consumer Products expand their ongoing partnership with their latest collaboration featuring two new projects in celebration of the Warner Bros. Pictures’ film “The Batman,” including a new 10-piece, limitednumbered “The Batman” Collector set and a new series of “The Batman”-themed watch rolls. The luxury collector set includes “The Batman” Tourbillon watch and an illuminated Bat-Signal functional art piece. The new collection of watch rolls, each sold separately, will feature four distinct representations inspired by iconic DC characters from the film: Batman (two editions), Selina Kyle (Catwoman), and The Riddler. | kross-studio.ch

Launching Chronodate, Angelus is paying homage to the first collection made famous by a chronograph caliber presented 80 years ago, in 1942. The Chronodate is available in three limited series of 25 pieces whose aesthetics are inspired both by historic Angelus references and the sleek, openworked lines of its recent pieces. With its modular 42.5 mm case, the Chronodate combines red gold, titanium and carbon. Its bicompax automatic chronograph movement is encircled by a peripheral date in reference to the original model. | angelus-watches.com

AUTOMOBILES

Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut

The Fastest Koenigsegg Production Car Ever Unveiled

| BY NIKITA VIVEK PAWAR

t’s been over three years since Koenigsegg launched the incredible Jesko at the Geneva Motor Show, followed by the Jesko Absolut in 2020. Since then, the world has endured a pandemic, a war, and so much more, but we still go strong and Jesko Absolut stronger.

“The Absolut feels very natural to drive. Because of its seamless shifting, whether up or down, everything just happens much faster. There are no delays, it is very responsive and behaves exactly the way you would want it to,” comments Koenigsegg test driver Markus Lundh. The company released new images of the first pre-production Jesko Absolut, adorned with Tang Orange stripes. With a 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and nine-speed transmission from the standard Jesko, this car can produce up to 1600 hp and 1500 Nm of torque and has a phenomenally low drag of only 0.278 Cd. There’s no doubt that the Absolut is set to be record-breaking. The Jesko Absolut is predicted to be the fastest production car globally. The V8 engine combined with the nine-speed gearing makes the Jesko Absolut attain a theoretical top speed of around 330 mph, competing with the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+’s unofficial speed of 304 mph. Bugatti is the first automaker to surpass the 300-mph mark in a production car. The founder has said the Absolut to be the fastest Koenigsegg will ever make. The Graphite Grey Absolut will now become an official factory testing vehicle and lead the Jesko Absolut program. 

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AUTOMOBILES

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MOTORBIKES

Aeolian Hyperbike

A Silent Assassin with its Electric Heart

| BY SOMNATH CHATTERJEE

his stunning hyperbike is called ‘Aeolian’ and is named after Aeolus, the Greek god of wind. This is an electric hyperbike and the styling sure takes motorcycle design to a new level in terms of combining sharp lines over an EV canvas. The bike is designed as a racing inspired hyperbike with the riding position designed to mimic that of a Moto GP rider. You sit low and lean forward with a crouched tiger position. The edgy looks are influenced by an amalgamation of Italian superbikes like the MV Agusta and Ducati’s to Suzuki nakeds. Designer Prathmesh Banubakde has applied a dash of futuristic detailing to the sensuous lines. The headlamp design looks sci-fi with being a complicated unit consisting of, what it looks like to be, four headlamp modules flanked by a LED outer edge. Elsewhere, you can see that aerodynamics are also thought off in terms of the design philosophy. The rider display is a big enough screen with all info like drive modes, settings or various other features.

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One crucial element of the Aeolian is that despite its electric hyperbike origins, the design clearly adheres to the standard superbike template of alluring proportions but within a conventional rulebook. The rider’s legs for example sits between a large battery pack and the sculpted fuel tank is not obviously that but a luggage compartment. The motor and transmission are placed alongside the batter pack with the drivetrain positioned at the back. There is also a radiator, CPU and alternator. For the bike’s performance and handling, the battery pack location is very important as with any electric car/bike, that’s the heaviest component. Like the strip of LED lighting, exotic materials would be showered on the bike with the same level as seen with hypercars. Electric components add weight while materials like carbon fiber off-set that with their lightness. This rather interesting rendering shows the future of superbikes or even being a ‘hyperbike’ with fast performance coupled with zero emissions via a stunning exterior look. 

MOTORBIKES

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FASHION

Peyman Umay’s Eco-Conscious AY Menswear Collection

| BY SOMNATH CHATTERJEE

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ashion designer Peyman Umay has announced a new ready-towear leisure brand, Ay by Peyman Umay. This is more about casual menswear and fit for active lifestyles. The concept for this brand was created by Peyman Umay on his travels and he saw a demand for casual menswear but in a new avatar. He received any requests and got great feedback on those designs which resulted in this new collection. The Peyman Umay brand makes use of structured suiting and liberal use of color, pattern, and texture, Ay lets loose with soft draping and a harmonious, muted palette. The brand name “Ay”, means moon in Turkish. Ay would be made in Mexico and Turkey by local artisans using eco-conscious materials sourced from five continents. Ay by Peyman Umay is available at Ay boutique locations in Tulum, Mexico and Bodrum, Turkey, as well as retail partners throughout the Mediterranean, with more locations set to be announced this year in Greece, Spain, and the Caribbean. Peyman Umay first launched his own luxury clothing brand in 2010 and in 2013, he expanded his brand to offer made-tomeasure womenswear and a ready-to-wear men’s collection in 2014. In today’s world, eco conscious ready-to-wear line is becoming more and more popular with a keen focus on leisurewear. The collection is priced between $130 to $330 while the designs are premium lounge and lifestyle wear reimagined in a radical new avatar. The materials sourced from eco-conscious sources goes further in making an environmentally friendly statement.

JEWELRY

EXQUISITE DIAMONDS

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Whether it’s a diamond necklace or a pair of sparkling earrings, we sourced 5 exquisite diamonds to add to your collection.

1. EMERALD-CUT DIAMOND BYPASS RING Toi et Moi rings bring together two different yet complementary gemstones. Like soulmates, the twin gems in this distinctive ring style from Silicon Valley jeweler Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry offer a perfectly balanced symbol of everlasting love. This stunning handcrafted platinum bypass ring from Stephen Silver features two glittering emerald cut diamonds; a 3.00-carat diamond (L-M color, VS2 clarity), and a 0.82-carat gem (M-N color, VS1 clarity) that altogether totals 3.82 carats of diamonds.| shsilver.com 

2. MAYFAIR DROP EARRINGS Add a sense of movement to your jewelry collection, and find lasting brilliance in the Mayfair Drops from 77 Diamonds. These drops place matching diamonds in a lustrous setting that will emphasize their sparkle. | 77diamonds.com  3. GRADUATED SMILE NECKLACE Adorn your neck with this sparkling piece smiling back at you. A row 13 round Forevermark diamonds symmetrically increase in size on both ends with the largest diamond sitting beautifully at its center. Great to wear on its own or layer with other Forevermark necklaces, this piece can easily adjust to 16 inches, 17 inches, or 18 inches. | forevermark.com 

4. DIAMOND BRACELET This spectacular piece from Diamonds by G.St, features exactly that, a staggering 9.40 of mixed cut diamonds, scattered throughout. The ultimate statement of luxury with an alternative twist. | greenwichjewelers.com 

5. LEURA, WHITE SAPPHIRE, SILVER EARRING These lab-grown sapphire Leura drop stunners are the epitome of vintage revival, drawing from the graphic lines of the Art Deco period and fine jewelry design from the 1900s. Cascading into a blue sapphire pool, these sensational earrings are sold as a single and designed to be styled with everything from your favorite hoodie to a flirty, cocktail frock. | www.shopdorsey.com

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TIMEPIECES

atches with a golden hue are often steeped in tradition along with dripping beneath the canvas of extreme luxury. The new Maurice Lacroix Eliros Sunshine however, takes the golden hue and turns up with volume with its radical approach. The watch is edgy, approachable and futuristic while taking golden hues to the next level. The watch is certainly one of the boldest that we have seen from them and the distinctive pyramidal texture is draped all throughout the watch. The studded texture is repeated on the strap for a visual feast and it is a striking design for sure. While the movement is a standard Quartz, the rivets are gold plated which goes well with the whole theme. There is no contrast as both the dial and the strap are fused together. The strap is also one of the best bits of this timepiece in way how it joins in for the fun. The design details are layered very well. The strap is also practical for daily use with not being a showpiece designed for being a ‘one-time’ wear kind of watch. The dial is a Gold 2N pyramid embossed dial with 2N M-logo and print. Measuring 40mm in diameter, the dials are generous in their proportions along with delivering a ‘unisex’ appeal according to the watch maker. Leaf-shaped hour and minute hands, along with a slender center seconds hand chime in plus with a quartz movement, there is no need to wind the watch each day.

Maurice Lacroix Eliros Sunshine Takes Gold as an Alluring Canvas | BY SOMNATH CHATTERJEE

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The packaging is also unique in a way that it can be carried off as a hand bag also. It’s not the usual extravagance of a timepiece with being drowned in gold but a summer’s watch with immense personality along with a loud but classy design. The retail price of this watch is $850 and we think it’s a cool design which embodies the spirit of summer along with showcasing a strong design aesthetic. It’s a watch worth adding to your collection simply because its’ not gold on cold but the unique motif and the slender proportions add meaning to the philosophy behind the watch. It’s more than a fun watch to be worn during summer but that is also a part of the appeal which makes the Maurice Lacroix Eliros Sunshine such a head turner!

YAC HTS

TECNOMAR EVO 130 SUPERYACHT Combining Performance with Luxury | BY SOMNATH CHATTERJEE

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YAC HTS

uperyachts are fast machines on the water with the same performance seen with supercars. The latest yacht from Italian builder Tecnomar follows this template with a gorgeous design that is a sight for sore eyes. The sharp lines mimic a streamlined racing boat with this 130 footer behemoth disguising its visual bulk very well. It is the flagship superyacht that follows on from the EVO 120 with added speed, luxury, and a sleek design. The sculptured shape is governed by aerodynamics while designer Gian Marco Campanino has taken references from the automotive world for the overall design. The sleek surfacing shows various cuts and creases draped nicely over the yacht while the stance is reminiscent of a supercar. The flowing design is less upright when com-

pared to the usual yacht design and veers towards something that is a lot sportier. Despite its sportier pretensions and futuristic design; the core of this yacht is still luxury albeit with a modern twist. The EVO 130 has wide spaces and comes with six guest cabins that can accommodate up to 12 passengers. The yacht is said to feature an ‘avant-garde style’ design with materials such as thin leathers, technical microfiber upholstery, and various furnishings. As expected, it is decked with luxury trappings like a vast sun lounge and beach club. There has been considerable thought poured into combining various areas of the yacht-like how the terrace and the bar flow blend with the dining and living room. In terms of power, the EVO 130 comes with no less than two 1,800 hp V-12 diesel engines which propel the yacht to an esti-

mated top speed of 19 knots. That said, it is not a racing yacht with a low range as it can cruise at 17 knots while having a range of 2,000 nautical miles. This yacht neatly carves its own niche and will appeal to those who want something sportier yet without sacrificing the luxuries of a superyacht. The EVO 130 has the athleticism of a smaller yacht and isn’t burdened by being too large. The price and other exact details have not been announced while the superyacht is construction ready. Tecnomar is best known for its radical Lamborghini speedboat of which only 63 were made and that caught the attention of the yachting world with its radical proportions. The speedboat backed up its extreme design with a power output of 4,000 hp from its twin V12 MAN engines along with a top speed of 63 knots.

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HOME + INTERIORS

Mcclelland house Making Guests Feel Truly at Home

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Built in 1878, McClelland House has a new lease on life following a major renovation. Upscale Living magazine spoke exclusively to CMCA’s Managing Principal Jill I. Cole about the intricacies of this project. Jill, tell us a bit about yourself. My company, Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates (CMCA) has been designing hotels and resorts for about 40 years. In 2009, my husband told me he wanted to move out of Los Angeles, we discussed where and settled on Napa Valley. 26 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

It’s a great place to live and up until the pandemic, was an easy commute to and from our LA design studio by air. McClelland House is steeped in antiquity, dating back to 1878. Were there restrictions placed when renovating such a historic establishment? The exterior of the building had to be maintained more or less ‘as is’. When we began the project, there were a number of beautiful original interior details such as ornamental plaster and woodwork that although not historically ‘protected’, we felt deserved being restored and incorporated in the new interiors. How long did the remodel take?

We began planning, designing and the permitting process about thirty months before the hotel reopened. Physical construction took around 18 months. How did you manage to maintain the history of the house? When the building was acquired by the client, many of the original details had been neglected and allowed to deteriorate. We made every effort to restore as much of the original building including floors, moldings, doors, windows, fireplaces, hardware, etc. as possible. You were able to keep most of the original architecture. Were there challenges with that?

HOME + INTERIORS

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HOME + INTERIORS

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HOME + INTERIORS

Yes, planning and designing modern luxury bathrooms and the large new kitchen were the most challenging. The original kitchen and baths simply could not be kept. All these rooms had to be gutted, expanded, and completely reimagined to meet the luxury standards expected by the owner. The staircase is absolutely gorgeous and really draws the eye to the upper part of the house. Was that tricky to restore? Because of the historical nature of the building, we were allowed to keep and restore the main stairway although it is steeper, and the railing is lower than current building code requirements. An elevator was added to provide easy second floor access for guests and housekeeping. The back stairs were removed to fit the elevator shaft into the building. Talk us through the introduction of modern amenities while keeping the old-world charm.

We went to great pains to ensure the new bathrooms, for example, reflect an ‘old world’ sensibility. Each bath has unique finishes and custom-made furniture grade sink consoles, special light fixtures, plumbing fixtures and fittings. The spectacular blue enamel range in the kitchen is both functional and a design feature. It was custom made in France and took nearly a year to get. The high ceilings make the rooms look extra voluminous, yet the bedrooms have a cozy Victorian feel. Bed styles, bedding, chairs, and window coverings are intentionally tall and in proportion to the unique high ceilings. The bathrooms – one word – WOW! They were completely demolished and now boast a beautifully modern look. We would love to know more about the different aspects incorpo-rated into the space.

Each bathroom was designed to afford the guests a complete luxury experience. They are all unique offering features and details a guest is not likely to see anywhere else or have at home. McClelland House is wonderfully warm and intimate without being over the top. Please talk us through your process. Before we began the actual design, we spent much time with the client discussing their goals and ambitions for McClelland House. In addition to being luxurious, their desire was to ensure guests felt they were truly at home, able to enjoy the experience of being in Napa Valley. Without making it sound like a cliché, McClelland House was designed to offer a oneof-a-kind experience for those fortunate enough to stay there.  | Photos by R. Brad Knipstein

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PROFILE

bergman design house A Flamingo in a Pigeon World | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Melding their Egyptian and Swedish roots, Marie and Albin Bergman encapsulate the essence of style when it comes to design. Marie and Albin, tell us a bit about yourselves. Marie: I was born and raised in Egypt, studied interior architecture for five years, always played with forms, creating shapes since a young age and sold my first sculpture by the age of 10 for £10, which made me the happiest and richest (in my little head) kid in the universe. I’ve lived in London since 2010. Albin: Born and raised in Sweden, I worked as a fashion photographer across Europe and managed private members clubs in Barcelona before moving to London to focus on design. Marie and I met at HBA London, and we became best friends instantly. We now have a Doberman and four businesses together. Did you have an influence in your youth that shaped your career path? Marie: Kelly Wearstler has always been my inspiration since the age of 20. I loved her fearless celebration of patterns, colors and extravagance. When I see my image next to hers in maga30 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

zines, I get that warm and fuzzy feeling.

What is the favorite part of your job?

When did you start your firm, Bergman Design House?

Albin: Pitching for the job and doing the final photoshoot. Pitching is like the first stage at dating, it has a butterfly effect. That preliminary concept phase where my mind is bouncing with all the creative ideas and client presentation, an absolute thrill for me. The photoshoot is the celebration of success, seeing how the pitch has evolved and became true to life.

Albin: We launched Bergman five years ago – the name being a blend of our surnames (Bergland and Soliman). It somehow happened organically. We were doing small freelance jobs such as small townhouses on the side, and then we met Olia, the owner of BXR (Lon-don’s Luxury Boxing Gym), and she asked us to design the gym. From there, Soliman and Berglund began picking up wellness, hospitality and high-end residential projects, and we left Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) to focus on Bergman full-time. Marie: Totally by coincidence, a very beautiful one, after the huge success of BXR, we found our names everywhere as Albin and Marie. We were asked to set up a company, design a logo and launch a website, which we did in November 2016 in my living room. The universe had given us a massive push forward, we took the leap of faith and Bergman Design House was born. What and who inspires you? Marie: Theater is a huge influence for me, and is all about lighting, layering, what you drive and lead the eye to look at. Each house or hotel, each space we design is a stage. For Albin, it’s the photography, creating frames of different experiences and how to capture an emotion though a space.

Marie: We are often asked when we show the client the renders: “but Marie, will it look like this”? and I say “YES! It will look ten times better when you see and touch it.” Marie, as a designer, you cover all aspects pertaining to a project – interior as well as exterior design. Is it easier to merge the two instead of working with an outside specialist? Being an interior architect with theatre background does help to see the space as a whole; I can’t work in isolation. As a young designer, I never understood when firms used separate teams for architecture and others for FFE (furniture, fixtures and equipment). Weaving threads and thoughts to see the whole story come together is what design is all about. Marie, your art is incredible! You are such an immensely talented artist. How often do you incorporate your art into a client’s home, and I assume it’s a special commission each time? We start with the art! Art is a main focal point

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PROFILE

in each space and a great conversation starter. I love colors, using my hands, and creating a colorful mess. Art is my mental yoga, where I have a dialogue between my mind and the brush. How do you embrace change as a designer? Marie: By having fun. I love change, I love moving houses too to create different styles! I love traveling and embracing different cultures. Change is good as we learn not only about ourselves, but about others, and it brings new opportunities. Learn to be flexible as change is the essence of life. And push boundaries? Marie: Every minute of each day, never be too shy, worried or scared. Why be a pigeon when you can be a flamingo? Life is too short to play it safe, especially in design. Do you have vastly different ideas when it comes to design? If so, how do negotiate / solve it amicably? Marie: Albin believes ‘less is more’. I believe ‘more is more and less is a bore’. Ha-ha. That really encapsulates it. What I absolutely love about Albin and is that we fall in love with 32 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

the project more than we fall in love with our own voice. The decision is usually made of what will be the driving force of this project: will it make revenue for the client? Who is the guest? Who is the avatar? Or if it’s a home, we start understanding the lifestyle of others as it’s their own home. They should be happy and comfortable there. When it comes to our own personal home, we had to buy two! One makes me happy when we visit, and one makes Albin happy … I like subtle, moody colors; Albin favors white and zen. You have done some exquisite projects. Has there been a favorite? Marie: Such a tricky question! We love them all, they are all my babies, but I do love a hidden speakeasy I designed in Canada Vancouver called Where is Laowai. Have there been projects you declined? If yes, why? Marie: Only is we are out of capacity. Honesty is everything and we would like to always give our very best to our clients. Running a business as husband and wife sounds amazing, but when do you switch off

or close the proverbial office door? Or is it advantageous to have a sounding board? Marie: It’s very tricky and sometimes is overwhelming, but it’s fun because we get to travel the world together while working. I like to believe that I have spare rooms for separate topics in my head. I am trying to master the art of being a wife and a business partner – those are two different roles. Putting in the effort to work through challenges and as partners, building trust to speak frankly about business and negating opposing opinions. What do you do for fun? Marie: My daughter is my life. She is turning 11, acting 18. She is a math genius thanks to her paternal genes, and may I say she got her lovely spirit from me. Emma has been painting since she was 18 months old, using acrylic colors on a big canvas, which resulted in a beautiful mess I will treasure forever. It’s not your first foray into hospitality design – you have quite a substantial list of completed projects. It must be rather challenging, and just picking a bucket-list client like Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, which is situated in the African country of Botswana. Set on a private island

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PROFILE

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PROFILE

in the Okavango Delta, there were certainly ob-stacles as there isn’t a shop around the corner, instead lots of vast waterfilled channels! Marie: It was my last project I was leading at HBA before starting our firm. I loved it because of the beautiful landscapes, the wildlife, and our daily guests of elephants and monkeys. How to make the room bells safe, so the monkeys don’t steal them? Ensuring sustainability with 80% of our products sourced from Africa. Please tell us about the Other House. Marie: We are so excited to be partnering with The Other House to create a totally new design proposition and the ultimate second home for guests as long as they are in town. We wanted to create a brand that is different from anything else that exists. The Other House is about fan-tasy – a hotel, a club, your other house!!

riors, while encapsulating the client’s lifestyle, creating a home, an environment within the design that pushes the boundaries, shaped only by the natural elements in which it surrounds itself with. 2022 looks set to be an amazing year for your firm. What other exciting plans do you have on the horizon?

Bergman Design House Unit 3, Thames Works W4 2PD, London United Kingdom ---------------------------+44 (0)208 742 7306 info@bergmaninteriors.com

Marie: We are launching our own hospitality brand, The Lund Collection, which is design-led, one-bedroom private cottage. What’s been so enjoyable about this project has been the ‘treasure hunt’ for the most incredible antique and vintage finds, all of which tell their own unique story while highlighting the beauty of the newer items next to them. It’s an approach I like to call ‘organized chaos’; the creation of a space that is both functional and timeless, with a playful hint of surprise or whimsical energy. | https://bergmandesignhouse.com 

We’re very interested to learn about Njord by Bergman Design House. Marie: Taking its name from the Norse god of wind and waters, Njord is a superyacht for which we have been tasked to design the inte35 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

ART + CULTURE

NATURALISTIC POTTERY How Bordallo Pinheiro Became an International Symbol of Luxury Design | BY JAMES ESSEX

aphael Bordallo Pinheiro was one of the most influential Portuguese artists of the nineteenth-century. Creator of the infamous Portuguese everyman, Zé Povinho, Bordella used his artistic talents to create a unique style of design that helped define Iberian ceramics for a century. His work was well known throughout Europe for its fine technical quality as well as for its naturalistic creativity, and his original factory in Caldas da Rainha still stands, and still produces a variety of ceramics — though they’ve undergone quite a significant change. Rather than manufacturing caricatures of the Portuguese poor working class, Bordallo Pinheiro now focuses their efforts on producing timeless tableware products that look more like something you would find in a fine art gallery than on your dinner table. From watermelon styled plates to grape inspired serving jugs, it seems the designers at Bordallo Pinheiro have a fascination with creating pieces that stand outside of industry norms. The company’s most recent success includes a stunning collection of cabbage leaf-themed dishes that were launched in partnership with John Lewis, and the reception couldn’t have been more positive. When Upscale Living Magazine asked about their inspiration for these design choices the company said, “After almost 140 years of history, Bordallo Pinheiro remains faithful to the artistic direction of their founder and namesake. Naturalism is always present in all our creations and we love to use flora and fauna as constant references. We look to nature as a

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source of inspiration, not only in the themes but also in the visual characteristics that define the object of study.” Bordallo Pinheiro’s values haven’t changed much either since the early days of their ceramics productions. The company not only still focuses on producing original, creative pieces that are utilitarian in nature and practical in function, but they still hold true to the belief that everything they produce should be made to the same exacting standards of quality that they had in the late 1800s. All of their earthenware products are made from traditional Portuguese raw materials, which allows their designers to work with a greater amount of freedom when sculpting new pieces. Even the painting process remains somewhat the same with traditional colors being used to create a hyper realistic look to their more natural designs. The whole ethos of creation is one that focuses on quality craftsmanship so that they can create a unique experience for their customers. This is why the brand has been so successful in the international luxury market among their traditional audience and younger generations. Bordallo Pineheiro’s products are so unique, creative, and original that they truly do provide their clients with a different level of tableware luxury. But they maintain a high level of traditional craftsmanship that make them appealing to all demographics. Their products are symbolic, and their representation of a certain animal or piece of fruit takes one on a journey. Every-

time you sit down with their unique tableware you’re creating a memory and a new experience that you’re reminded of every time you see that plate or glass again. This, they’ve said, “is what creates such a strong connection with their customer.” People want to continue to buy their product because it is a reminder of what’s important in life. “In Portugal, this feeling is even stronger. In our families’ homes there is always at least one Bordallo Pinheiro item. So, we have grown up with the presence of the brand. The brand has a very clear and distinctive identity, easily recognisable by the consumer. It is easy to identify a Bordallo Pinheiro product. Our aesthetic is unique, always related to naturalism. The techniques and processes learnt throughout the almost 140 years of history make our pieces often complex and difficult to manufacture. The shape and texture of the pieces has a high level of detail, like a sculpture. The glazes and hand painting make the piece even more unique while giving it a great realism. The traditional consumer remains faithful to tradition while the younger consumer uses the product in a more relaxed way.” This is why you see Bordallo Pinheiro present in the first house of a young urban couple, but also in the country house, or the holiday house. It’s why you see their products on a Christmas table, on the halloween table, or on a summer table by the pool. And it’s why you should consider bringing their style to your table. 

ART + CULTURE

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Duba Plains 38 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

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The Ultimate Botswana Safari | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

The name Great Plains Conservation is synonymous with ultra-luxurious safari camps in the most incredible locations in Africa. Adding the most exquisite stay with every creature comfort imaginable taken care of, this really is the best way to savor what the continent has to offer.

otswana, a striking landlocked country in Southern Africa, and a magnet for all things safari. Having visited on two previous occasions, I can hardly contain my glee when an invitation by the extraordinary Charlotte Rous Communications enlightens me that my visit to not one, but three different Great Plains Conservation camps has been confirmed. Anticipation doesn’t even begin to describe my feelings as a trip of this significance is in short, a once in a lifetime experience. HEADING UP NORTH TO THE SELINDA RESERVE My first stop is Zarafa Camp in the Selinda Reserve, set amongst mopani woodland and towering palm trees. Hailed to be one of the finest camps in Botswana, in true Great Plains style it overlooks a permanent lagoon on the extensive Selinda Reserve. “Zarafa Camp,” says Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains Conservation, “is a beautiful sweeping design we had a little fun with and epitomizes the romantic Botswana safari many seek. The décor is handmade in a colonial style, all from reclaimed wood, and this is the first camp where we added our iconic copper baths to the suite’s bathrooms.” A drive from the Selinda airstrip to camp brings with it some great animal sightings: guides Joseph and Obie point out red lechwe in the swamps and warthogs foraging for food. I am welcomed by camp managers Jamie and Ruby, who usher me to a delicious lunch of deconstructed beef burger with monkeygland sauce and parmesan fries, perfectly prepared by Executive Chef Wijan and served by waitrons Game and Wilfred. Going out on game drive to the eastern side of the sizable Selinda Reserve, which comprises 790,000 acres, I spot a Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater for the first time as a large breeding herd of elephants make their way into the lush greenery. Fellow guests regale tales of the day with pre-dinner drinks around the fire, after which dinner is served. Wijan has gone all out with an aperitif of caramelized onion & camembert cheese tart, followed by a main course of beef fillet with fries, vegetables, and butter

with mustard. For dessert, the delicious fried chocolate with berry panna cotta and chocolate ice cream is simply sublime. My suite is magnificent, with a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. The doors to the suite and the bathroom are eye-catching, forming a wonderful departure from the traditional safari look. On our morning game drive, the little ones are out in full force – a baby python, a baby crocodile, and a marsh terrapin. An amazing find is the coalition of six male lions, affectionately referred to as The Army Boys. Next up is Selinda Camp, situated on the Selinda Spillway and my chosen mode of transport between the two camps is by boat, with skipper Master at the steer. Before boarding the boat, guide Reuben collects me at the airstrip and a veritable game drive paves the way to my smooth lagoon transfer. There is so much to see en route to the lodge from a boating perspective – water lilies, African Jacanas, hippos and a herd of elephants crossing the water in swimming mode. At the jetty, general managers Michael and Anica, and manager MD wave us in. This is not your average arrival – gliding across the water to this well-crafted walkway, and looking up, I notice the entrance to Selinda and the pristine craftsmanship. “Selinda is a handmade camp in many ways,” explains Dereck Joubert. “Molded around the trees, Selinda visualizes five essential elements: Earth, Wind, Water, Fire and Metal.” Chef Assistant is ready to whip up something for lunch, with waiters Amon and Kenosi serving my dish of tilapia, tempura zucchini and chips on a bed of peas. After a respite in my comfortable suite, Reuben heads out to the north-western side of the reserve, where leadwood forests take center stage. Impalas are enjoying the fresh plant leaves and moody clouds serve as the backdrop for a few elegant giraffe passing in the distance. We also find a side-striped jackal and The Army Boys lion pride causing havoc with two female lionesses, chasing them out of the area. Dinner is served alongside the fire, and chef has concocted a starter of new style eggs Benedict with spring onions, hollandaise sauce and quail eggs, followed by a main course of beef fillet and brisket, and concluded with rice pudding, poached pears and caramelized chai ice cream. We are going north to see what we can find and are not disappointed when we happen upon a lioness with six adorable cubs, three being her own and the other three belonging to her sister. Short legs are trying to keep up with her and one of the cubs keeps falling behind, and he’s sure to make his displeasure known, albeit very vocally!

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Zarafa Camp

THE JEWEL OF THE OKAVANGO DELTA In the heart of the Okavango Delta, Duba Plains takes pride of place amongst palm-dotted islands, floodplains and woodland. Flying in with Mack Air and looking out the window, the landscape below resembles snaking arteries that form the lifeblood of the Delta. Keen eyes might spot watering holes from the sky, where elephants delight in a muddy splashdown to cool their bodies. I’m collected at Omdop airstrip by my guide Gee, and after a quick 3-minute transfer to the arrival area at Duba Plains, I relish the cleansing handwashing ritual that is presented at each Great Plains camp after every outing. General managers Justin and Vero give me a tour of the large communal area, when I notice some of Beverly Joubert’s must-have fine art photography adorning the walls. Out on the deck, my table has been set for lunch with wraparound views of the marshlands. Food and beverage manager Prem enquires what my cuisine preferences and dislikes are, and chef Raymond immediately goes to work to craft the perfect gourmet beef burger with fries, served by waiter Evans. Vero shows me to my opulent suite, decorated in shades of cream, burgundy and wooden 40 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

finishes. A nod to the classic African style of the 1920s, all rooms are raised on recycled railway sleeper decking. The spacious suite contains a lounge area, a dreamy bedroom, a large bathroom with double vanities, an inside and outside shower, a flush loo and a signature Great Plains copper bath. Outside on your private verandah, there is a pool and a shaded sala. A superb modern amenity is the environmentally friendly air-conditioner, with heating or cooling, forming a cozy cocoon at night when the mosquito net is closed. Meeting in the main area for our first game drive after a scrumptious High Tea, Gee is excited to announce that we can start off at the airstrip. He can probably sense my confusion when he clarifies – “there are three opportunistic lionesses trying to catch themselves an afternoon snack of warthogs.” The warthogs escape unscathed, and we make our way over the long wooden bridge onto the plains. We pass by kudu, red lechwe, then suddenly stumble upon the most phenomenal sighting of a lioness and her two young cubs playing in the middle of the path. These boisterous siblings have boundless energy, pouncing on one another until mom exclaims that she’s had enough. She gets up and effortlessly scales a flat brush to use it as a vantage point, leaving the cubs on the ground. This is intolerable to them, and with lots of noise and loads of effort, they

both manage to clamber up the tree, where one unceremoniously falls, fortunately landing on his feet. Back at Duba Plains, I decide to go straight to dinner as chef let it slip that tonight, there is brisket on the menu. Plated to perfection, the tender brisket is accompanied by vegetables, potatoes and served by waiter Edwin. After a good night’s sleep, the sunrise over the Delta is a sight to behold as Gee and I set out on our morning game drive. Two lionesses are out in the open on the grasslands, clearly in hunting mode, but the alarm calls of red lechwes put a stop to any catch they might have made. I opt for breakfast at the lodge and enjoy the afternoon at leisure in my impressive suite. Following lunch and a siesta, Gee informs me that today, he will focus on finding the most elusive of them all, a leopard, no small feat I might add. As we leave the lodge, he instructs me to get my camera ready. Not one to argue when it comes to wildlife photography, I carefully attach my new Sigma 150-600mm contemporary zoom lens to my Canon 5D Mark III camera body. I can feel the Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 slowing down and then the vehicle stops. I glance upwards and emotion washes over me. Right in front of us, is the most stunning rosetted species I have ever seen – a gorgeous leopard cub of only four months

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Selinda Camp

Duba Plains Main Deck

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Great Plains Camp

old. He looks forlorn, and according to the guides, has been separated from his mother for more than a week. His sister, who kept him company, has also not been seen for a few days. We sit quietly and watch this hopeless scene with the lovely Soowal family from New Jersey, and for the rest of our stay, we are all deeply distressed about this poor baby. All our attention has shifted to this lonely cub and time after time, we see if we can catch a glimpse of him. Gee and I find him one evening, hidden in the long grass. Through his binoculars, Gee just makes out the top of his ears. He eventually repositions and now only can I see his soulful eyes. Gee and I sit in quiet wonderment for about an hour, when the cub decides to climb up the base and use the tree stump as a lookout point. We leave him as the sun starts to set, hoping he will stay safe from predators. Back in South Africa, the heartwarming news reaches me that the mom and sister have returned, and are reunited with the cub. What a marvelous conclusion to an unforgettable stay at Great Plains, reconnecting people and nature. *** Views expressed are the author’s own.

HOW TO BOOK WITH KARELL TRAVEL Heléne’s international flights between Cape Town International Airport and Maun International Airport on Airlink were kindly sponsored by Karell Travel. Run by wife and husband duo Norman & Cathy Pieters and son Craig, Karell Travel is renowned in the travel industry for their commitment and personal attention in orchestrating customized trips to Southern and East Africa. To book, email land@karell.com or call them toll-free on +1 800 434 1323.

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San Clemente Kempinski

Venice

The Watery City of Winged Lions | BY ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD

enice has been a constant in my life, my having visited the lagoon over twenty times and never has a revisit ever been a repeat. There’s always something new to see or that I have overlooked and it is always with a wistful heart that I depart. At the airport I was greeted at the kiosk of my first hotel, San Clemente Kempinski to be whisked away in style aboard a water taxi scudding across the lagoon. How thrilling and eye-opening. I challenge anyone who arrives in Venice not to be transfixed by their dramatic entry into a foregone world. No cars, just boats and water and stunningly and arrestingly beautiful buildings. All worldly concerns disappeared as I took part on this historical stage. The hotel opened in 2013 with an unique history as a former monastery, a Napoleonic military base and a hospital. I looked longingly out over the lagoon from my room (one of nearly 200), romantically positioned beside the island’s 1131 church before I went downstairs to enjoy all that the Clemente bar had to offer before eating at the hotel’s Acquerello

restaurant with its confident menu offering swordfish carpaccio with black olive crumble, capers and lemon dressing, then by beef tenderloin ‘Rossini’ with foie gras, truffles, potato and vegetable Parisienne followed by poached pear in saffron syrup with creamy ricotta cheese. To walk it off I wondered around the hotel gardens over the small bumpy ‘hills’ past the 16th century herb garden, the protected linden trees (the largest in Venice) with their gorgeous white flowers, down jasmin-scented aisles, past tulips and pheasants and finally onto a lounger beside one of only four swimming pools in the whole of Venice to watch the sun set. How luxurious! I recommend a Venezia Unica City Pass with which to travel at leisure. If you spot a green church door open seize the moment to look inside as often they are shut. Take the lift at San Giorgio Maggiore for a panoramic view of the lagoon as it’s quicker and cheaper than St. Mark’s campanile. From here I looked down upon the churches evenly spaced along the Giudecca crowned with statues that seem to converse with one another on an altogether higher plane. 43 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

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San Clemente Kempinski

Church in Venice

I walked through the gorgeous rooms of the Bauer Palazzo with their green Fortuny wallpaper and Murano chandeliers to reach the De Pisis Restaurant where a dapper and attentive waiter greeted me with a glass of Bellini (the famous local favorite concoction of champagne and peach juice) before I tucked into the menu offering some mixed fried seafood and vegetables from the Rialto market. The restaurant is perfectly placed to absorb the basin (the ‘Bacino’) (the central waterway hub of boating traffic) that emanates from the Grand Canal. To want to feel further enriched at night then go and listen to music performed at the various churches be it at the Chiesa San Vidal or at the Scuola Grande San Teodoro or Vivaldi’s own church Pieta. It’s so uplifting! For the true 44 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

romantic come at Christmas and attend the midnight mass on Christmas Eve in St Mark’s Basilica where the ‘smells and bells’ of Catholicism fuse with the Byzantine gilded décor and darkness is alleviated by lanterns and candles. To round things off hop on a vaporetto and let yourself go up and down the Grand Canal to peer into the lit-up drawing rooms (‘piano nobile’) and into the true splendor of the gilded ceilings and expansive rooms of the opulent palazzos. Truly serene! No one writes about Venice more insightfully than Jan Morris in her book ‘The Stones of Venice’ and no guidebook can better that of Mitchell Beazley where I learn little eyebrow-raising snippets such as Michelangelo spending three years exiled on the Giudecca

from 1529 as well as the abandoned island San Giorgio in Alga, once a radical monastery and then a political prison, being a secret Nazi base. I stayed next at Palazzo Giovanelli. Open since 2010, it’s a boutique hotel fantastically positioned along the Grand Canal halfway between the station and the Rialto bridge, right between two of Venice’s touristic sites: the Cà Pesaro and the Church of San Stae. It’s extremely wellserved by a ‘vaporetto and airport stop’ right outside and a ‘porta d’acqua’ for the water taxis. The approach is down a small, discreet alleyway into a peaceful and exquisite garden. It has a chic and contemporary mix with elegant, classical references and modern-day furnishings.

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Suite at Hotel Palazzo Giovanelli.

How romantic it was to wake up and open the shutters of this 16th century palace to look out at boating traffic criss-crossing the Grand Canal to ply its trade. It has a lavish air without being over-the-top and had all I needed in which to rest my feet from a hard day traversing the cobbled city streets. It’s at an affordable rate and the staff are friendly and effortlessly efficient. Another night at Aromi restaurant at Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, a hotel converted from a floor mill on the edge of the Giudecca I enjoyed seared scallops with curry sauce and black poplar mushrooms followed by a turbot cooked in nut butter and lime with peas puree and seaweed, all helped along by a glass of Valpolicella Ripasso. Aromi is cozy and intimate and has a

‘below decks’ nautical feel with wooden beams and robust pillars. While steeped in history, Venice is nonetheless visually highly progressive, staging artistic and architectural Biennales that are the envy and forums of the creative world. These are staged in the gardens, again a healthy walk north of St Mark’s. But for me nothing compares to Tintoretto the artist with his dramatic and often massive paintings. All halos and diagonals, chequered floors and whirling gestures and upward looking beseeching glances. Many new concepts begun in Venice. The word for a public open-air swimming pool comes from the Italian Lido, the famous Venetian bathing beach. The original arsenal developed

in the 11th century and was the heart of the naval industry. The original ghetto was established in 1516 on the site of a foundry (‘getto’). The word quarantine itself originates from the Venetian dialect ‘quaranta giorni’ (forty days). I must return. Whenever but soon!

FACTBOX San Clemente Kempinski has rooms from E 550 and Palazzo Giovanelli has rooms from E 380,00 per night.

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HOMES + INTERIORS

2. 3.

HOME TRENDS Beautiful Furnishings & Accessories to add to your Home | BY ALINA ROSA LEYVA

Baruka Door Pull hardware is our cultural manifest, a perfect reflection of a thousand of years old legacy, an ode to Japan. Made of brass, Baruka represents culture, customs and values becoming a modern and strong mid-size door pull to embellish your entryway decor.

Arendal Dining Chair. Defined by its wood frame and metal-tipped feet the Arendal offers up a simple yet stylish look. With its curved back and plush cushions, this chair is sure to invite you to settle in and stay, while adding a touch of Norwegian mid-century modern to your dining room. | kkbykoket.com

Geode, a hand-cut stone mosaic shown in honed Thassos, polished Indigo, Orchid, Cornflower, Hydrangea, Aloe, Lotus, Periwinkle, Celeste, Carrara, Blue Macauba, and Aurum, is part of the Biome Collection for New Ravenna. | newravenna.com

Kelly Wearstler 20 Light Chandelier | perigold.com

Kosas Home - Hepburn 69” Mango Wood Sideboard. | perigold.com

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MASTER BEDMAKERS VISPRING ARE PROUD TO INTRODUCE THE NEWEST EDITION TO THEIR LINE-UP OF LUXURIOUS HANDMADE MATTRESSES- THE CASHMERE SUPERB FIND YOUR NEAREST RETAILER AT VISPRING COM OR CALL

HOMES + INTERIORS

OUTDOOR LIVING Bringing the feel of home outside with these valuable accessories | BY ALINA ROSA LEYVA

Teak Emoe Outdoor Solar Shower is a perfect outdoor shower for your backyard with duckboard included. Free standing shower with temperature control with an overall weight and dimensions of 88”H x 32”W x 47”D. | wayfair.com Onda Outdoor Conversation Set Collection, Pininfarina Ferrari Luxury Italian Life style with top quality and environmental-friendly coating finish, teakwood and fabrics withhold the ability to withstand all kinds of outdoor conditions. | higoldgroup.com Mont Alpi 805 Deluxe Propane Gas Island Grill with Beverage Center, Infrared Side burner, and Rotisserie Kit. Black Stainless Steel. | bbqguys..com

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10’ Modular Market Umbrella with heavy duty 280g Olifen and no colorfastness waterproof fabric and Uv Protection by RST Brands. | perigold.com

Del Mar Concrete Propane/Natural Gas Fire Pit, a classy California coast inspired fire pit has a gorgeous rectangular structure that is sure to provide a feeling of warmth to you and your guests. | perigold.com

Stainless Steel Footed Planter - These weatherresistant planters are impeccably hand-patterned from solid, rust-free stainless steel. Fill to one-third capacity with soil when using with live plants. 1/4” drainage hole. A Grandin Road exclusive. | grandinroad.com

TRAVEL

SERONDELLA Place of Elephants

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

There are safari lodges and then there is Serondella. Setting the benchmark for the most luxurious stay imaginable, this newly built lodge is sure to make an indelible impact on the safari industry.

such gusto that we stop to admire him gingerly picking each fruit up with his trunk. “Will the fruit have an effect on him?” I ask TJ. “Only the fermented ones might make him slightly tipsy,” TJ responds.

As we reach Serondella, General Manager Kevin extends a hand to assist me out of the vehicle, with butler Wilfred offering me a refresher towel. Lodge anchor Faith escorts me to my two-bedroom suite named Botsotso, where I will be staying for three glorious nights. An impressive dwelling to say the least, the interleading bedrooms are similar in size but vary in color finishes, with a comfortable lounge and kitchenette separating them.

En route to the lodge, we encounter an elephant shaking a marula tree in order to feed on the fruit that has fallen on the ground. He does it with

The suite where I’ll be sleeping is decorated in shades of whites, beiges and light grey accents. My private heated plunge pool on my verandah serves as the perfect respite from the heat, and at the end of the wooden walkway is the most beautiful bath with a view of the bushveld.

ituated in the North-eastern sector of the Thornybush Game Reserve in South Africa’s Limpopo province and tucked away in a serene corner, Serondella is home to the most magnificent safari accommodation. I am collected at Hoedspruit Airport by Operations Manager & Head Guide Togara, affectionately known as TJ for my transfer through the Thornybush Reserve.

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Back at the main area, lunch is ready and chef Thomas has cooked up the most delicious fare – a mezze platter with avocado salad, hand-cut crisps and tender chicken kebabs. The food at Serondella is out of this world, with different dining options at every sitting. Breakfast is served on the main deck, overlooking the watering hole that is frequented by elephants coming for a drink. Lunch can be enjoyed next to the rim-flow pool, in your suite or in the library. Choices where to have dinner are vast – in the lounge next to the fire, in the boma or in the garden under a blanket of stars. Chef really goes out of his way to ensure that all my dietaries and food preferences are catered for, and I am not disappointed. Nothing is too much effort for guests at Serondella, which I discover at a gin stop. What an amazing surprise when I realize that they had gone to the trouble of especially purchasing my choice of sundowner drink! The Thornybush Reserve is famous for its Big 5 sightings, and on our first game drive, TJ, with eagle-eyed Andries in the tracker seat, immediately catches sight of a leopard perched in a tree. Said big cat has been chased up the tree by a female, who is hiding in the tall grass. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to wildlife sightings, and we find her again on my last morning hiding behind dense bushes along the dry riverbed. She has two young cubs! 52 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

Other spectacular sightings include a pride of fourteen lions, plenty of bird species, giraffe, elephants, impalas, buffalo, African wild dogs, hyenas and the absolute highlight – the greeneyed beauty of Thornybush, Saseka the leopard. Having visited Thornybush for more than two decades, the Cordia family are third generation custodians with a keen interest in preserving this prime piece of wilderness. With Serondella, they have created an anchor as well as a home on African soil, leaving a legacy for their children to maintain roots in the natural world. The name Serondella was inspired by one of Eliane Cordia’s first encounters with the wild residents of Thornybush – there was a meeting that left a distinct impression on their hearts and set the tone for the journey ahead. “When I arrived, there was a great elephant standing at a waterhole. My presence did not deter him at all, and he looked at me as if to say, ‘what are you doing here?’ He just stood, completely at home in his surroundings, labeling me the visitor. In that moment, I realized that Serondella really was the Place of Elephants. This was indeed his home, and it was meant to be.” It is time to head home after a hearty breakfast and as I wait for my direct Airlink flight from Hoedspruit to Cape Town, the familiar sound of the jet engines indicates the aircraft’s arrival. Coming into view is the gleaming Airlink Em-

braer E-Jet, and excited fellow passengers snap some photographs of the exquisite new livery, with the distinguishable sunbird and larger name branding set amongst the bluest of skies, framed by the backdrop of the bush. On board, friendly flight attendants serve a delicious snack and a choice of beverage enjoyed in the comfort of Airlink’s cabin with ample leg room and wider seats. Being the most on-time airline in South Africa, we land 15 minutes ahead of schedule at Cape Town International Airport, just another reason why I prefer to enjoy The Freedom of the African Skies with Airlink. https://serondella.co.za/ *** Views expressed are the author’s own

HOW TO GET THERE Direct scheduled flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. https://www. flyairlink.com/destinations/flights-to-hoedspruit. Book direct on www.flyairlink.com, the FlyAirlink app or your favorite travel agent.

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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 re-looked lease on life. Grab your travel diary as you want to get to these places as soon as possible!”

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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FAIRMONT WINDSOR PARK EGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM

Elegantly set beside the 4,800 acres of Windsor’s Great Park with its historical monuments and ancient forests, Fairmont Windsor Park is a brand-new countryside hotel. Designed to reflect the site’s heritage – where history and iconic elegance merge to create an outstanding destination, it offers UK staycationers access to a new destination. An elegant countryside retreat boasting more than 200 stylish rooms and lavish suites – what sets it apart is its heart for wellbeing. The sprawling state-ofthe-art spa is a destination in itself, with 18 treatment rooms, a six-person hammam, a cryotherapy chamber, a 20m indoor pool, a Himalayan salt room, a courtyard hydrotherapy vitality pool and a Japanese Ashiyu foot ritual bath. Offering a variety of sophisticated culinary concepts and a wealth of activities within the grounds, Fairmont Windsor Park is an idyllic, refined English countryside es-

cape, within close proximity to Heathrow Airport and Central London. “We wanted to create a sanctuary for those who wish to escape the stresses of modern-day life and provide an intimate space for families, friends and couples alike to reconnect after another challenging year,” says Surinder Arora, Founder and Chairman of Arora Group. “We can’t wait to welcome guests both from the UK and overseas who are looking forward to traveling again and enjoying luxury hospitality.” Designed to reflect the site’s heritage grandeur, each of the 200 rooms and suites, including the Signature Royal Suite, feature natural stone and soft textures – creating an elegant, timeless and sumptuous feel. Spacious and sophisticated, many offer sweeping views of the surrounding lush open grounds, the tranquil lake and nearby forests.

Inspired by nature, guests at Fairmont Spa & Wellness can expect a highly tailored, pioneering and transformative experience for the body, mind and spirit. In addition to the expansive wellness facilities and advanced technology, Fairmont Spa & Wellness will be home to the first spa multi-person cryotherapy chamber in the UK with the ability to treat up to five guests at a time. Guests have access to, among many other things, sports performance coaching, an indoor gym with a reformer Pilates studio, outdoor tennis courts, a hair salon and a Truefitt & Hill barber shop. Home to seven culinary-inspired restaurants and bars, guests will find something remarkable for every occasion at 1215 at Fairmont Windsor Park, 1215 Bar, MOREISH, Schroders’ Botanicals Bar, Orchid Tea Room, The Library Club and Greens Café. www.fairmont-windsorpark.com

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GILI LANKANFUSHI

NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALDIVES Sitting in the middle of a sparkling, turquoise lagoon, 500 meters from the main resort, Gili Lankanfushi’s the Private Reserve is the quintessence of luxury, privacy and seclusion. Sprawled across multi-tiered levels, this rustic-chic fort of dreams is where your idea of the ultimate island escape instantly becomes a reality. Step into the largest overwater villa in the world and explore its master suites and guest bedrooms, as well as its collection of open-plan living and dining spaces. Be amazed by the infinity swimming pool on the upper deck, spacious sundecks, couple’s spa pavilion with a sauna and steam room, air-conditioned gymnasium, cinema, bar and even a water slide that runs from the Private Reserve’s top deck into the sea. A private boat is yours to come and go as you please. Most guests, however, never find the need to leave this exquisite property. 56 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

Over 18,000 sq. ft. and 300 meters from the nearest residence, The Private Reserve comprises five vast buildings, link by open-air walkways, four bedrooms with spectacular lagoon views, extensive private living spaces and open-air bathrooms. The waterslide extending all the way from the top deck deposits guests directly into the lagoon, where they can discover corals, reef fish and eagle rays drifting through the shallows. Sustainability has been at the heart of Gili Lankanfushi’s vision since the resort’s conception, with the preservation of the natural environment and marine ecosystem of utmost importance. The entire resort has been constructed with sustainably sourced and recycled materials, and all rooms provide organic toiletries in refillable earthenware containers, keeping plastic use and wastage to an absolute minimum. A dedicated desalinization plant turns

seawater into still and sparkling drinking water for guests and much of the restaurants’ fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown in the resort’s organic garden, which is composted with recycled food waste. The island’s dedicated marine biology team constantly monitor and protect the health and biodiversity of surrounding coral reef ecosystems, educating guests and regularly hosting visiting scientists and academics. Gili Lankanfushi’s Coral Lines Project encourages guests to learn about coral reef restoration and rehabilitation, to visit the nursing coral on ropes and to even adopt a coral. https://gili-lankanfushi.com/

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NOBU SANTORINI SANTORINI, GREECE

The global lifestyle brand founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper is delighted to announce its first hotel and restaurant in Greece, Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini. Situated on the island’s captivating northeast coast, the boutique hotel houses a signature Nobu Restaurant, a full-service spa, fitness facility, dual-level infinity pool, and five luxurious pool villas. It offers panoramic views of both the Caldera and Aegean Sea from its unique clifftop location in Imerovigli. Just a 10-minute drive from the charming coastal town of Ola, and 20 minutes from Santorini (Thira) International Airport, the hotel is well-positioned along the famed Ola-Fira hiking trail that runs between Ola and Fira, Santorini’s cosmopolitan capital. Nobu Hospitality has entered a long-term management agreement with MonteRock Interna-

tional (MRI), a group with over 25 years of experience in a variety of core industries including hospitality, media, food & beverage, real estate, banking and industrial technology. Trevor Horwell, Chief Executive Officer Nobu Hospitality comments: “We are very excited to be coming to Santorini and to work with the local community on this exciting project. Santorini is one of the most highly regarded destinations in the world with its rare beauty, famed for its distinctive cuisine, whitewashed architecture set with a backdrop of steep cliffs, and dramatic sunsets lighting the sea and the sky. We look forward to inviting locals and international travelers alike to experience the Nobu lifestyle in this special destination.”

brand throughout the years, and we are now more than delighted to expand together in the hospitality industry. In this incredible ‘canvas’ such as the island of Santorini, the finest of what Nobu lifestyle and cuisine have to offer would be served in a picture-perfect setting, catering for every need at the highest standards.” Adding to Nobu’s hospitality portfolio, the launch of Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini marks the 26th hotel around the world and tenth hotel in the European continent, with properties in Rome, San Sebastián also in development. https://www.nobuhotels.com/

Alfredo Longo, Chief Executive Officer MonteRock International comments: “We are really proud of the rock-solid collaboration we are having with Nobu 57 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

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THE ADRIA

SOUTH KENSINGTON, UNITED KINGDOM Luxury Victorian townhouse hotel, The Adria, has reopened following a curated renovation, transforming its rooms into sophisticated spaces for a stay of glamour in the capital. Exclusive and discreet, the fivestar hotel located in charming South Kensington is just steps away from London’s world-renowned museums, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and a gentle stroll from the designer delights of Harrods. With privacy at the fore, guests are invited to ring a doorbell to enter this subtle and unassuming residence. Capturing the very essence of quintessential Victorian architecture, opulence oozes in every room. Each of its 24 luxurious suites, rooms and lounges have been meticulously restored, seamlessly marrying contemporary design with the elegance and intimacy of a timeless ad residential, 19th-century townhouse. Rooms are stylishly decorated with many rooms 58 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

boasting 16ft ceiling heights, revealing intricate, original cornicing detail. The perfect setting to meet and play, rooms elegantly flow into one another – from a lounge replete with a martini trolley, perfect for an evening cocktail, a games room fit for a spot of afternoon backgammon, a light breakfast room and secluded winter garden, guests are invited to make themselves at home. Unique partnerships with local restaurants, including a selection of freshly prepared, organic salads from local farm shop, Daylesford, allow guests to dine throughout the hotel at any time of the day. Flexibility and convenience are the core ethos of The Adria and a team of personal butlers offering unparalleled levels of service are on-hand to cater for guests every need. From a seamless check-in to mixing an evening cocktail to making restaurant

and local attraction recommendations, guests receive a personalized service in a townhouse setting. Commenting on the re-opening, General Manager Gary Redmond, said: “The renovation represents the beginning of a new chapter for The Adria. We wanted to retain our quintessential British charm whilst offering our exclusive guests a truly exceptional 5-star experience with discretion at our heart. Perfect for those seeking a luxury city-staycation and international visitors to the city, we are ready to pamper and cater to the needs of each guest, showing them the very best of British elegance and indulgence.” https://www.theadria.com/

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THE CLOUDVEIL

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING, US The Cloudveil, an Autograph Collection hotel, debuted in 2021 in the heart of Jackson Hole. Rooted in the people and soul of the destination, The Cloudveil name gives both a nod to the Cloudveil Dome within the Teton Range, while also invoking the veil of clouds lifting to reveal the transformational journey guests will undoubtedly embark on as they experience the natural wonder and enduring character of Jackson Hole. Joining Marriott International’s diverse Autograph Collection, The Cloudveil forms part of a portfolio of more than 190 independent properties across the globe, which are each distinct in design, character and charm, and all Exactly Like Nothing Else. Located at the gateway to the Grand Teton National Park, The Cloudveil boasts 100 guest rooms and suites; The Bistro restaurant and bar; an expansive rooftop terrace overlooking Jackson’s Town Square and

Snow King Mountain; a tranquil outdoor pool; a state-ofthe-art fitness center; and 7,500 square feet of indoor-outdoor meeting and event space. General Manager Bruce Grosbety comments: “The Cloudveil was built by those of us who have been changed by Jackson and were moved by a passion to share this special destination and rich history with others. Every inch of this hotel was carefully curated with the destination in mind – bringing the elements of the outdoors inside, and creating an experience deeply rooted in transformation and restoration.” Designed by award-winning firms including TruexCullins, CLB Architects and the IBI Group, The Cloudveil embodies Jackson Hole’s history and natural setting steeped in adventure, wellness and exploration. As a nod to the oldest standing building on Town Square, the design team found inspiration

for the hotel’s exterior through mixed-use of stately stone walls, wood, and metals. The Cloudveil’s timeless interiors flaunt a modern take on its western roots full of ranches, cowboys, and pioneers, and evokes wonder and awe for Wyoming’s natural landscape at every turn. Leveraging raw, natural materials to connect to its locale, the hotel’s lobby showcases a spacious open layout with floor-toceiling windows, modern wood and stone finishes, custom ambient lighting, and natural textures throughout. With a larger-than-life three-story granite stone wall and oversized wood burning fireplace anchored by a 3,000-pound boulder front desk, the lobby serves as a place for social gathering and connection, as well as offers abundant workspace. https://thecloudveil.com/

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MET HOTEL LA PAZ, BOLIVIA

The Panorama Hospitality Group is pleased to announce the launch of MET Hotel, which opened its doors in February 2022 in Calacoto, one of La Paz, Bolivia’s trendiest neighborhoods. At an elevation of 11,975 ft. above sea level, La Paz is known as the city that touches the clouds and is the gateway to the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the Bolivian wine country. The team behind Bolivia’s most awarded and first design hotel, Atix, the Panorama Hospitality Group will adorn the walls of this new property with a contemporary art collection featuring works by local artists curated by Mariano Ugalde of Salar Art Gallery. “La Paz is a bustling city with a vibrant art and gastronomy scene. We are thrilled to be opening MET Hotel to provide travelers with a unique home base for their Bolivian adventures. Calacoto is a residential neighborhood that continues 60 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

to grow in popularity and offers galleries, boutiques, and great dining options,” shares Fernando Rodriguez, founder of Panorama Hospitality Group. MET Hotel is a partnership between New York-based hospitality design firm Los Designers and Bolivian architect Ivan Valdez, who has worked with the late Zaha Hadid Architects in London. Overlooking the Andes Mountains, the hotel is centrally located to Mi Teleférico, an aerial cable car that offers epic views of the city. The property boasts 76 bedrooms comprising one penthouse suite and 75 rooms ranging from standard to deluxe and includes Dominga Restaurant, a spa with a 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, outdoor relaxation garden, and event space that can host up to 200 people. The premier suite, MET Penthouse, is a two-room suite with panoramic views over La Paz and a robust art collec-

tion featuring local artists. With pale woods and muted colors throughout, the guest rooms at MET Hotel are bright and airy, providing a relaxed space to unwind after a day of exploring the city. Modern accent décor pieces such as the pillows celebrate the rich weavings from the Jalq’a culture in Southern Bolivia and the bedroom rug patterns take inspiration from local historic textiles from Tiwanaku, an ancient city and sacred site consisting of former pyramids and enclosures, gateways and monuments located in western Bolivia near the southeast shore of Lake Titicaca. www.metlapaz.com

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MPALA JENA CAMP

ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK, ZIMBABWE Offering the perfect Victoria Falls accommodation, the spectacular Great Plains Mpala Jena Camp is an intimate safari camp positioned along the beautiful tree-lined banks of the mighty Zambezi River. A haven that epitomizes barefoot luxury in its finest form, the architecture team of Craig Hayman and Hannah Charlton, with the assistance of interior designer Tracy Kelly combined the elements of the pristine location by using thatched roofs in the main areas and flowing canvas luxury tents for the bedrooms. The sand floor in the bar area, and the adjacent swimming pool, set the scene for the guests to kick their shoes off and relax after their morning game drive or river cruise. The private concession is within the 138,000-acre Zambezi National Park which has a healthy and ever-increasing number of wildlife species, with higher concentrations of buffalo and

elephants from June through to October. The Zambezi National Park has become an absolute gem of a reserve with some of the highest lions per density than any other Zimbabwean park. The river is a magnet for wildlife and ensures consistent sightings of massive crocodiles and hippos who make their presence seen and heard throughout the day and night. This area is perfect for bird watching throughout the year. Mpala Jena is by design sensitive to the environment of the Zambezi National Park. This is achieved by using canvas and local thatch in its construction and ensuring all the camp’s electricity needs come from its solar farm. The three double or twin bed configuration Suites, plus two 2-bedroom Family Suites, are under sand colored, flowing canvas, with canopy ceilings and open (yet netted) views of the river frontage and are beautifully decorated by Tracy Kelly. Decking in front of the tent

leads to views of the Zambezi River’s calming and peaceful flowing waters. Mpala Jena is conveniently located 10 miles inside the Zambezi National Park. Access to Victoria Falls town for opportunities to visit local attractions like the craft market, gorge swing, bungy jumping, white river rafting, and to see the iconic Victoria Falls themselves is possible. Mpala Jena is far enough away from the hustle and bustle, allowing guests to relax and unwind amidst the wild habitat of the Zambezi National Park. https://greatplainsconservation. com/portfolio/mpala-jena/

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Wilderness Experiences at

The Broadmoor | BY TRACY ELLEN BEARD

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The Broadmoor, an incredible Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort, consists of The Broadmoor Resort and three unforgettable Wilderness Experiences perfectly placed in four ideal locations near Colorado Springs, Colorado. Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp, and The Ranch at Emerald Valley, which comprise the Wilderness Experiences, focus on exciting outdoor adventures while providing rusticluxe housing and appetizing cuisine. FLY FISHING CAMP Fly Fishing Camp, located just 75 minutes west of the main resort, boasts more than five miles of worldclass fishing on the Tarryall River. The camp sits on 85 acres and borders 120,000 acres of Lost Creek Wilderness. This Wilderness Experience features vast grassy meadows, a diverse array of trees, incredible wildlife, numerous places to sit and ponder, and abundant pathways to wander and explore. Aaron Kuper, Broadmoor’s Fly Fishing Camp manager, oversees all aspects of the camp, including the accommodations, food, activities and the staff. SLEEP TIGHT Accommodations in the grand lodge or one of the seven meticulously restored miners’ cabins originally built in the 1920s are well-appointed and extremely comfortable. I arrived alone and stayed in the Tabeguache cabin with a private bathroom, living room, bedroom with a queen bed and a loft and twin beds. Two cabins at the camp have private baths, and the five share an opulent bathhouse. The bathhouse has tiled showers, embroidered towels and lovely woodwork, making it worthy of any high-end spa. Fly Fishing Camp is all-inclusive, so accommodations, meals, fishing, guides, and most other activities are included in the initial price. EAT HEARTILY Meals at the lodge are hearty, mouthwatering and served family style. Happy Hour began with a help-yourself open bar at 5:30 p.m., and Aaron served empanadas with a tomato sauce and nachos with pulled pork shortly afterward. Dinner started at 7:30 p.m. in the dining room we all sat at one long table. There were eight guests, and we savored bone-in pork chops with broccolini and a casserole similar to a frittata made with eggs, cheese and green chilis. It was just the right amount of spice and went fabulously with the pork chop. For dessert, Aaron made the Broadmoor’s Death by Chocolate Cake. It had a chocolate wafer on the bottom, making it gluten-free, chocolate mousse and chocolate crispies topped with dark choc-

olate ganache and dark chocolate shavings. It was all quite tasty. I returned to my cozy room and went to sleep. The following day I awoke energized and ready for my fly fishing lessons. It was pouring rain, and at 9,000 feet elevation it was freezing cold. I meandered over to the lodge and filled my mug with hot coffee. I spiked it with a bit of Baileys Irish Cream to speed up the warming process from the inside out. Aaron served a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, hashbrowns and blueberry pancakes. CATCH AND RELEASE Although some guests visit solely to bask in the peaceful ambiance of the camp, most come for the spectacular fly fishing. Boots, fishing gear and Broadmoor’s expert guides are available to all guests. My guide, Taylor, arrived with waders and boots in hand. After I got dressed, he carried the fishing gear, and we made our way down to the river to the first hole. Taylor shared many words of wisdom with me throughout the morning. “Always cast at a 45-degree angle, let your indicator or bobber go and keep a lazy J in the line. Whenever you catch a fish, wet your hands first so that you don’t hurt the membrane on their scales and let them go facing upriver so that the water fills their gills faster.” There are many “secret” fishing holes and spots along the river where guests catch fish one after another. My morning was a success, and I caught and released five rainbow trout within a couple of hours. There are many other relaxing and fun things to do at Fly Fishing Camp. The Fish House is filled with books and a big-screen TV, and Aaron can direct guests to various board games, horseshoes, campfire supplies and other activities. THE RANCH AT EMERALD VALLEY Located just 30 minutes from The Broadmoor, The Ranch at Emerald Valley is surrounded by more than 100,000 acres of the Pike National Forest. This all-inclusive paradise includes magnificently furnished cabins with modern conveniences. My daughter-in-law Victoria joined me on this adventure, and we stayed in one of their two-bedroom cabins. SLUMBER IN LUXURY We entered the cabin, and the gorgeous stone fireplace immediately caught our attention. Keurig coffee machines were in each bedroom and the living room. Earth-toned, high-backed chairs and a leather couch with fur pillows were the perfect furniture to snuggle up in and get warm by the fire, and a table and wooden chairs graced the corner of the room. Our cabin was next to the pavilion with a fireplace and one of two hot tubs on the property. The lake was just across the path, and the local mountains made a stunning backdrop.

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After settling into our room, Victoria and I took a short hike around the lake, traversed through the woods and then returned via the grassy knoll, where we saw the targets set up for archery practice. We ended at the lodge and stopped for a cocktail on the front deck.

sauce, sausages, spectacular macaroni and cheese, stuffed potatoes, French fries, mashed sweet potatoes with oats, fried chicken, beans, salad, macaroni salad, coleslaw, potato salad and individual coconut cream pies, rhubarb crisps and more. Yummy.

DINE DECADENTLY

CLOUD CAMP

Dinner was amazing. My salad consisted of frisée greens with refreshing watermelon, savory feta, spicy radish, crunchy cucumber and a mint vinaigrette. Victoria opted for the venison sausage rolls wrapped in puff pastry with piperade sauce for her appetizer. For dinner we both chose the braised bison short rib with mashed Yukon gold potatoes, roasted broccolini, tomato jam and bourbon jus, and the delectable individual apple pies for dessert. The pies were perfectly sweet/ tart, and the crust was light and flakey. We returned to our room and changed for a dip in the hot tub. The bounty at the buffet breakfast the following morning was a sight to behold. We had eggs, sausage, a gigantic croissant (Victoria and I shared) and coffee. We joined a few other guests and headed to Elk Glade Ranch, where we had hoped to participate in a cattle drive. Unfortunately, we could not bring the cows in due to Zarafa Camp plant blooming in the area. Once a poisonous we arrived at the ranch, Jim, the owner, shared some horseback riding tips and took out the first group.

Cloud Camp rests on the top of Cheyenne Mountain looking down at The Broadmoor from 3,000 feet above. This all-inclusive experience includes lodging in one of the 11 oneor two-bedroom cabins or one of the seven well-appointed rooms in the grand lodge. The Fire Tower Suite with its 360-degree view from the summit is also available for guests.

RIDE WITH ZEAL Victoria and I went out on ATVs with Chris, a local retired police officer. The ride was exciting and the scenery incredible. Chris was amazing. I rode with him so that I could video and take pictures. I got some great shots of Victoria racing through the water. After the thrilling adventure, we returned to the house where Lauren, Jim’s daughter, fixed a lovely lunch. The ranch is entirely off the grid. After we had our fill, Jim selected our horses and we mounted up. Jim confirmed that Victoria and I were experienced riders and asked me, “Are you up for a double-black-diamond technical ride?” I said, “Sure!” The ride was exhilarating with many steep ups and downs through trees and streams and over and around huge boulders. It was a bit scary, and Victoria almost lost her seat once when her horse unexpectedly jumped across a creek, but she held on tight and stayed steady. After a challenging two-hour ride, we were exhausted. We returned to the house and headed back to The Ranch at Emerald Valley (EV) for dinner. It was EV’s twice-a-week cookout: lobster tails with drawn butter, sauteed shrimp, ribeye on the bone, brisket with horseradish and BBQ 64 | U P S C A L E L I V I N G M A G . C O M | SPRING 2022

SLEEP IN THE CLOUDS My son Garrett joined me on this trip. After riding the first half up the mountain in an SUV and the second half up on mules, we settled in. Our two-bedroom cabin, nestled in the forest, was very spacious, boasted a lovely porch and a warm, cozy ambiance. We joined the other guests in the lodge for a cocktail and a cooking demonstration with one of The Broadmoor chefs. The main lodge, adorned with memorabilia from Kevin Costner’s movie Dancing with Wolves, was awesome and the views of Pikes Peak outside were breathtaking. After class everyone relaxed by the fire in the lodge while snacking on delicious appetizers and sipping on tasty cocktails. The dining table seemed like something right out of a castle. It set the stage for a delightful dinner served family style. EAT LIKE A KING The meal began with a tasty corn soup followed by a few salads. Next, platters with potatoes and asparagus with Hollandaise sauce arrived and a hot plate of the chef ’s fried chicken. The chicken recipe was handed down from the chef ’s grandmother. Entrée options included beef, salmon, duck and a vegetarian option, and a fresh berry cobbler or a chocolate tart finished the meal. ENJOY THE OUTDOORS After dinner Garrett and I joined a few guests for a short hike through the woods to the wood barrel hot tub. It was fun to be out in the forest at night soaking in the steamy water and meeting new friends. The following day we got an early start watching the sunrise from the lodge’s wraparound deck. Hummingbirds frequent the area, and I waited very still until one perched on my finger. We watched the morning sky light up the city below

while enjoying hot coffee and warm pastries. The chef served breakfast after everyone was up, and I joined a yoga class on the deck before we headed down the mountain. The Broadmoor Resort is a magnificent, opulent, incredible place to visit, and the three Wilderness Experiences are equally luxurious in their own unique ways. Each one offers fabulous accommodation, tasty cuisine and first-class activities. Book a trip to one or all of the Broadmoor Wilderness Experiences to create special memories for you, your family and your loved ones.

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ROYAL MALEWANE A Majestic Stay

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| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

Two days into her retirement, Liz Biden, with the unwavering support of husband Phil, decided to turn their private bush home into a hotel for guests. The result is the glorious Royal Malewane, situated in the greater Kruger National Park and has been the favored foothold of dignitaries, celebrities and enamored guests for over 22 years.

ollowing a stay at The Farmstead in 2019, I secretly wished to return for a stay at Royal Malewane, having read about the fascinating history of the property in their beautiful coffee table book, A Perfect Stay – Inside The Royal Portfolio. My daughter and I arrive at the stately entrance to Royal Malewane with greetings of ‘welcome home’, making us feel embraced by the warmth of hospitality experienced here. Out on the main deck adjacent to the waterhole, our table has been set for lunch and the personalized menus present a lovely touch. Smidgens of color enliven the dark wooden dining table and leather chair. A soft cherry red throw doubles up as a knee blanket while sprightly shades of green equipoise the glorious silver service. Scottish born Executive chef Archie comes over to introduce himself and with over 15 years of culinary prowess in England, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, diners are in for unrivaled cuisine at Royal Malewane. We dine on exquisitely prepared lamb shank, perfectly prepared beef fillet, melt-in-the-mouth chocolate brownies and my daughter’s favorite ‘best pizza ever’. We are staying in suite number 7, and the resident nyalas momentarily look up from grazing as we meander past them. Handcrafted doors open to an exquisite haven, with all the opulent furnishings handpicked by The Royal Portfolio’s illustrious interior doyenne Liz. Not conforming to

the norm of ‘safe’ safari colors that include beiges and creams, the imitable use of pure cotton bedding makes you feel like you’re sleeping under the fluffiest cloud. Persian carpets are carefully placed next to the bed, under the couch in the lounge and in the glorious bathroom. Slide the doors open to let that bush feeling permeate or take reprieve under the pergola while luxuriating on your daybed under the watchful eyes of the passersby that include giraffe, elephant and in our case, the most adorable nyala. Subsequent to a leisurely afternoon spent on our private veranda, we are met in the lounge by ranger H.J. and tracker Selby for our game drive through the renowned Thornybush Game Reserve. Amidst a cloud of dust, we see them – a pack of seven African wild dogs. One of them has an injury to his back leg as well as a broken jaw and cannot keep up with the rest of them, falling behind until they stop and ‘nurse’ his wound by licking it. We spend time with two elephants feeding, stripping the leaves off dry tree branches. After our sundowner stop, night is starting to fall and on our way back to the lodge, H.J. gestures to Selby to fine-tune where he needs to go, as a once-in-a-lifetime sighting has just been reported. In all our years on safari, this is a first for my daughter and I – setting eyes on a pangolin in its natural habitat. We are informed that we may exit the vehicle to take a closer look and the intricate detail on this scaled mammal makes us distraught that this is the most trafficked animal in Asia and Africa. We leave her to go about her business, exuberant in being able to have seen something so phenomenal. Returning to the lodge, we dine on the finest food in the Masiya Bar before retiring for the night. The following morning, we find a mating pair of lions on our game drive, as well as a large lion pride feasting with some uncomfortably round bellies. It is time to head home after another wonderful meal and as we wait for our Airlink

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TRAVEL

flight at Hoedspruit Airport, my daughter and I wish we could have spent a few more nights at Royal Malewane. Boarding the steps of the Airlink Embraer E-Jet, we take comfort in the kindness of the flight attendants, the plane’s ample leg room, wider seats and landing at Cape Town Inter-national Airport ahead of schedule. Just another reason we prefer to enjoy The Freedom of the African Skies with Airlink. *** Views expressed are the author’s own 68 | UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM | SPRING 2022

How to Get there - Direct scheduled flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. https://www.flyairlink.com/ destinations/flights-to-hoedspruit. Book direct on www.flyair-link.com, the FlyAirlink app or your favorite Travel agent.

BOOK REVIEW

Cookery Books for Every Foodie’s Collection | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

We’ve gathered all the most popular chefs, from Nigella Lawson to Gordon Ramsay, and Jamie Oliver to bring you their latest offerings.

This vibrant, visual recipe guide is inspired by nature’s endless bounties. “Choosing to cook and eat seasonally places a fresh spotlight on what’s being produced in our immediate surroundings,” says Ilse. “It encourages us to buy local, making us aware of what smaller producers are offering in our neighborhoods. Discover the seasons wherever you live and keep home cooking simple, joyful and unapologetically personal.”

In this beautiful book, Nigella Lawson shares the inner workings of her home life, with over 150 of her favorite recipes captured as only she can. The journey for why the specific dishes made it into the book makes this more than just a cookbook.

“This book is my love letter to shared tables of good food,” says Sophie Hansen in the introduction of her book, In Good Company. “It came together over a year of traveling around the country, visiting family and friends and taking over their kitchens to cook for them.

Using her many talents to produce a book that will appeal to vegan and vegetarians on the search for something out of the ordinary, Amerae Vercueil has produced her first book entitled Food That Will Love You Back. Appealing to anyone who simply wants to add more veggies to their diet and inspire those who want to go beyond ‘meat-free Mondays’, will make like-minded cooks sit up and take notice.

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Through the eyes of experienced writer, television host and intrepid traveler, the late Anthony Bourdain, World Travel – An Irrelevant Guide takes readers through a vast number of cities visited by the author. This practical travel guide highlights his favorite places, with essential tips on how to get there, where to stay and most importantly, what to eat.

Gordon Ramsay returns with 100 new and delicious recipes in Ramsay in 10, inspired by his YouTube series watched by millions across the globe. The challenge is on to get creative in the kitchen and learn to cook incredible, flavorsome dishes in just 10 minutes.

Jamie Oliver does it again with his latest cookbook, Together, where he welcomes friends and family back around the table. Minimizing time spent in the kitchen is the aim behind this book that contains 130 recipes, and in turn maximizing time with loved ones or guests.

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R E STAU RANTS

7 Best Steakhouses in the USA | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

There is nothing quite like a good steakhouse. From the white tablecloths and warm ambiance to the smell of a wood-fired grill to impeccable service, people crave a delicious cut of meat in these fine establishments. From traditional chophouses to newwave restaurants, the American steakhouse landscape is changing, but one thing remains the same, meat. Menus are continuing to grow adding exquisite cuts and rare breeds and utilizing proprietary dryaging to make sure their cut of meat stands supreme. Here are eight of our favorite steakhouses, listed in alphabetical order, with a few more to choose from at the end.

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R E STAU RANTS

AMERICAN CUT STEAKHOUSE TRIBECA American Cut, created by John Meadow founder of LDV Hospitality, in partnership with Marc Forgione, presents bold flavors and a unique style on some American classics. The stylish modern steakhouse pays homage to the best original and aspirational New York dining experience, the steakhouse, with favorites including the Chili Lobster and the 40 oz. Tomahawk Chop. For a theatrical experience, tableside preparations include the Plank-Smoked Old Fashioned, OG 1924 Caesar Salad and the 40oz Porterhouse, flambéed tableside. In the heart of New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood, the 180-seat restaurant with private dining options offers a state-of-the-art surround-sound system, with customizable music in each room.| credit: Briana Balducci

BALTAIRE With a menu that focuses on all-Prime beef and tableside preparations, Baltaire opened in March 2015 in Los Angeles’ Brentwood neighborhood. Its expansive restaurant’s airy dining room, fireside lounge and sprawling outdoor terrace present an upscale yet approachable setting for a menu which spotlights premium meats, complemented by a variety of dishes that celebrate the bounty of the sea and the local markets. Highlights of the menu include A5 Japanese Wagyu, bone-in filet, Porterhouse and a KC Strip—all served with new takes on iconic steakhouse sides. Guests can also enjoy 30 options by-the-glass and more than 500 wines by the bottle in their inviting 68-seat dining room or massive 2,500 squarefoot terrace, featuring seating for 90 and a retractable roof. | credit: Erin Doll

BAZAAR MEAT BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Since opening in 2014, Bazaar Meat displays acclaimed Chef José Andrés’ celebration of the carnivorous. Located in the Sahara Las Vegas and mirroring the bold and showmanship of Las Vegas, the design and ambiance highlights include an expansive dining room and a dramatic fire kitchen featuring wood grills and rotisseries. Meat reigns supreme with unique and rare offerings like Vaca Vieja ribeye (a Spanish tradition meaning “old cow”) and the Japanese Wagyu program among others. The shareable plates format offers all guests the opportunity to enjoy a taste of all offerings and guests can also choose to dine in one of two private dining rooms, the Silver Room and Mar. | credit: Jill Paider

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R E STAU RANTS

BUTCHER AND SINGER A Philadelphia staple since 2008, Butcher and Singer’s historic location dates back to the early 1900s. An homage to the glitz and glamor of 1940s Hollywood, the upscale steakhouse features dark wood, high ceilings and beautiful chandeliers creating a refined, cozy and comfortable environment. An unparalleled selection of steaks and chops, expertly prepared, can be topped with Oscar (super lump crab, asparagus, béarnaise) and/or Sauce (steak sauce, horseradish cream, béarnaise). Try their massive 50 oz. Tomahawk Ribeye or an item from their extensive raw bar selection which pairs perfectly with classic American cocktails and one of the most impressive wine lists in Philadelphia. | credit STARR Restaurants

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R E STAU RANTS

ST. ELMO STEAK HOUSE A landmark in downtown Indianapolis since 1902, St. Elmo Steak House is the oldest Indianapolis steakhouse in its original location. Named after the patron saint of sailors, St. Elmo, the restaurant honors its past by maintaining its traditional atmosphere, professional service and presenting an outstanding refined menu. They serve approximately 162,000 lbs of steak annually in eight varieties as well as four prime dry-aged steaks, with the 38oz. bone-in prime rib (limited availability) and its 32 oz. USDA prime tomahawk ribeye being their two premier steak options. Along with serving steaks, seafood and chops, it features 500 framed photos as well as a speakeasy style lounge & bar as well as wine cellar with over 12,000 bottles of wine. | credit: Dave Pluimer

THE OLD HOMESTEAD STEAKHOUSE The iconic Old Homestead Steakhouse has operated from the same footprint since opening its doors in 1868, making it one of the longest continually serving restaurants in America. Located in the heart of New York City’s Meatpacking District they are known for their USDA prime dry-aged Texas-size slabs of beef that include its signature cuts led by the mammoth Gotham rib eye on the long bone and thick slab of porterhouse steak and more. While Old Homestead has undergone multi-million-dollar makeovers, it maintains a perfect balance between modern elegance and flair. From its life-size bovine sculpture on the restaurant’s marquee, Annabelle the Cow, to the exclusive Schnabel Room – a private space designed by world-renowned artist, photographer and filmmaker Julian Schnabel. Along with the claim of inventing the ‘doggie bag’ for leftovers, they also have outposts at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ and at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. | credit: Greg and Marc Sherry

SW STEAKHOUSE Situated on Wynn Las Vegas’ Lake of Dreams is its signature steakhouse SW. Helmed by executive chef Mark LoRusso, the signature steakhouse procures the highest quality steaks from around the world. Featuring classic American fare in an upscale setting, SW carries some of the most coveted cuts from its A5 Japanese Wagyu to carrot-fed Dry Aged Snake River Farm Wagyu to a Chile-Rubbed Double Rib Eye. Originally designed by Vincent Wolf, pocket doors create an “inside is outside” dining environment with two private dining rooms and a lovely patio with prime view of the nightly shows on the Lake of Dreams. | credit: Jeff Green

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WINES + SPIRITS

ake yours a large one. In fact, the largest!... The world’s biggest bottle of Scotch whisky is up for auction at Lyon & Turnbull’s Edinburgh HQ an saleroom on May 25th at noon. A range of charities will benefit from the sale of the 5’ 11” tall bottle containing 311 liters of The Macallan Intrepid 32-year-old single malt whisky. The bottle could break the world record for the most expensive bottle of whisky ever sold at $1.9m. For any amount the sale achieves above £1.3m, 25 per cent will be donated to the Marie Curie charity.

The Intrepid was officially certified by the Guinness World Records when it was bottled last year. The single bottle,contains the equivalent of 444 standard bottles. Daniel Monk and the team behind The Intrepid, a partnership between Fah Mai and Rosewin Holdings, were inspired by a passion for adventure, exploration and a desire to help raise money for charity. They named The Intrepid to celebrate the drive and record-breaking achievements of eleven of the world’s most pioneering explorers featured on the bottle. These include Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Dr. Geoff Wilson, Karen Darke MBE, Olly Hicks, Sarah Outen MBE, Dwayne Fields FRGS, Levison Wood FRGS, Felicity Aston MBE and past Scottish Adventurers of the Year Jamie Ramsay and Will Copestake. The project is supporting the explorers chosen environmental, physical and mental well-being charities. Marie Curie was selected by Sir Ranulph Fiennes, and Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) by Jamie Ramsay. After maturing in two sister casks in The Macallan’s Speyside warehouse for 32 years, the exclusive liquid was bottled last year by Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky, one of the leading independent whisky bottling companies.

World’s Largest Bottle of Whisky | BY KEVIN PILLEY

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To commemorate this momentous event, a small number of exclusive bottle sets were also produced. These comprise a collection of 12 bottles, each filled with the remaining 32-year old Macallan whisky from the same casks used to fill the record-breaking bottle. Each set includes a replica of the main bottle design along with individual versions dedicated to each of the explorers associated with the project. The entire The Intrepid Collection will be auctioned. Operating since 1826, Lyon & Turnbull are one of the UK’s premier fine art and luxury auctioneers. www.lyonandturnbull.com/the-intrepid-whisky

C O C KTAI LS

A Vodka Espresso Martini By Felicity Carter A relatively young cocktails, the Espresso Martini is believed to have been first created in the early eighties by London bartender Dick Bradsel, and according to him, a famous model entered the Soho Brasserie where he was working and requested a drink that would wake her up...and so the cocktail was born. Here's how to make FAIR Vodka's version of the classic cocktail. Ingredients: • 1.5 oz of FAIR Vodka • 1 oz of FAIR Café • Shot of espresso Equipment: • Arthur Price Cocktail Shaker • ProCook Cocktail Strainer • RIEDEL Vinum Martini Glasses Method: • Fill the martini glass with ice to chill, then fill the cocktail shaker with ice as well. • Shake, empty the ice out of the martini glass and pour directly into the glass to help create a rich, smooth froth. • For decoration add a few Rococo chocolate coffee beans.

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Upscale Living Magazine Spring 2022

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