JULY 2019

UPSCALE â„¢

JULY 2019

E x p e r i e n c e T h e Di f f e r e n c e w w w. u p s c a l e l i v i n g m a g . c o m

FEATURES 10 Bugatti “La Voiture Noire”, the One and Only

JETS 14 Victor’s Golf World Tour On-demand Jet Charter Platforms

FASHION 18 Top 8 Best Suit Brands for Men 24 David Meister A Passion for Fashion

TIMEPIECES 21 Vintage Watches The Steady Rise of the Vintage Watch Market 37 Timing is Everything

PENS 23 Bentley Unlimited Centenary Edition T he fountain, rollerball and ballpoint pens by Grav von Faber-Castell 6 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

2019 www.upscalelivingmag.com

ART 26 Hotels with Extraordinary Art Collections - Delaire Graff Estate, South Africa - Domaine Des Etangs, France - Hotel Esencia, Mexico - Perry Lane Hotel, USA - Provenance Hotels, USA - San Clemente Palace Kempinski, Italy - Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, Spain - The Merrion, Ireland - The Surrey, USA - The Westbury, Ireland

PROFILE 39 Q+A with Four Seasons GM John Conway An Engaging Look at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort 40 Justina Adorno A Rising Star

TRAVEL 44 What’s New! - Andronis Arcadia, Greece - Hotel Chateau, France - MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa, USA 48 The Beauty of Halong Bay Living It Up in The Eternal City 54 Kapama Karula Private Game Reserve Hoedspruit, South Africa 60 Volcanoes Safaris Paving The Way for Primate Conservation 64 Cape View Clifton Kloof Road, Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa

GOLF 52 Corales Golf Course At Punta Cana Resort & Club

WINE + SPIRITS 66 Jay Z’s D’Usse XO 10-Year Old Cognac

COVER

67 Jack Danield’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey, Champagne Bollinger Rose NV + Malene Rose

Reflecting Bugatti’s French heritage and French identify, the hyper sports car encapsulates elegance through minimalism, and refinement through intensification.

Read more about this sculptural beauty on Page 10.

REAL ESTATE 68 Spanish Colonial Revival 887 Flintridge Ave in La Canada Flintridge 7 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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Upscale Living ALINA ROSA LEYVA

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10-15 SEPTEMBER 2019 CANNE S - V I E U X P OR T & P OR T C A N TO

1ST EUROPEAN ON WATER BOAT SHOW & THE LARGEST EXHIBITION OF NEW SAIL BOATS IN THE WORLD

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23/04/2019 17:52

F E A T U R E

Bugatti

“la voiture noire” The One and Only

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F E A T U R E

By Heléne Ramackers Photographs courtesy of Bugatti

When French luxury brand Bugatti launched its one-off Bugatti ‘La Voiture Noire’, they once again demonstrated that producing the world’s most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive hyper sports car is a continuation of their heritage.

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F E A T U R E

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F E A T U R E

“T

he true form of luxury is individuality.

‘La Voiture Noire’ is now at the cutting edge of automobile production. It is a sculptural beauty with unique technology, the ideal grand tourisme,” say Bugatti President Stephan Winkelmann.

A coupé, with the comfort of a luxury limousine and the power of a hyper sports car, shaping the future of the brand. Combining a pioneering spirit, a passion for perfection and the desire to continually redefine its limits have been the fundamental characteristics of Bugatti since the brand’s establishment 110 years ago.

“Our history is both a privilege and a responsibility – the responsibility for continuing the Bugatti heritage into the future. With ‘La Voiture Noire’, we are paying homage to our heritage and bringing speed, technology, luxury and aesthetics forward to a new era,” says Winkelmann.

Reflecting Bugatti’s French heritage and French identity, the hyper sports car encapsulates elegance through minimalism, and refinement through intensification. Comparable with the haute couture of exclusive Parisian fashion designers, this tailormade creation is the most elegant way of traveling. www.bugatti.com

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J E T S

Golf Lovers Rejoice with

VICTOR’S GOLF WORLD TOUR |By JARONE ASHKENAZI

A

s one of the leading on-demand jet charter platforms, Victor is giving golfers to play some of the world’s best courses with an exclusive offer. Victor’s Ultimate Golf World Tour allows those who love the links to play 15 of the top courses over the course of 26 days.

Their fully-transparent, subscription-free, globally ‘on demand’ marketplace gives members the access to thousands of aircraft via a global network of over 200 partner operators. Born out of personal need, CEO Clive Jackson was driven by the mantra of enabling customers to get more hours out of their day through the flexibility of private aviation.

Victor partnered with Golf.extra to ream up to launch this exclusive Ultimate Golf World Tour starting in November 2020. Limited to just 60 people, the once-in-a-lifetime golf experience will cost $81,000/person and afford guests the opportunity to take their putters out to sink that clutch birdie on beautifully manicured greens.

Whisked away in a luxury private jet, guests will indulge in five-star hotels and restaurants prior to and after playing 18 on some of the top courses in the world. While at these top destinations around the world, the package comes with a daily cultural program in each location allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the local culture and explore. Guests will have the opportunity to yell 14 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

“four!” in multiple languages all while traveling across seven countries aboard an A340-VIP jet.

Customized for optimal comfort the jet features lie-flat leather seats meaning that each row is limited to two people and a lounge area to take in the views high up in the clouds. Through entering VIP terminals and short transfer times, Victor ensures a smooth travel experience with dedicated personalized cabin crew service in the air.

Starting in Frankfurt guests are able to combine all the best golfing weekends ever imaginable into one epic trip. First stop is Muscat in Oman to test their skills at Al-Mouj Golf and Ghala Golf Club, while staying in the Kempinski Hotel Muscat, a five-star luxury beach resort. Next is south to Singapore two play at both the Sentona Golf Club and the New Tajon Course before being surrounded by the visual beauty of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.

From there aboard the A340-VIP jet, the nonstop flight takes guests to the land down under for a three-night stay at The Langham, Sydney.

When it is time to hit the course, guests are in for a challenging round at the coastal St. Michael’s Golf Club. Following a relaxing stay in Sydney, the group is whisked away to neighboring New Zealand for rounds at Millbook Country Club and Jack’s Point Golf Course located in Queenstown while all while resting their heads at the Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa.

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The tour then heads to the Americas stopping first off in the United States before cumulating with a trip to Mexico. First stop in the USA is Maui for a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua at one of the most breathtaking seaside resorts on the island. While on Maui, travelers get to experience three stunning courses at Kapalua’s Bay Course, the Plantation Course and the Gold Course at Wailea Golf Club which features remnants of prehistoric lava rock walls.

Next stop is to the historic Fairmont San Francisco for tee times at the TPC Harding Park – site of the 2020 PGA Championship – and a round at the Ocean Course at Half Moon Bay with ocean views at nearly every hole.

Last but certainly not least, guests fly down to Playa del Carmen to stay at the lush Fairmont Mayakoba located within 240 acres of a tropical forest. This last stop affords the opportunity for rounds at three of the country’s top rated courses, El Camaleón Mayakoba, El Tinto Golf Course and the Riviera Cancun Golf Club.

Fly high with the Ultimate Golf World Tour and take a world tour from a unique perspective that will leave all your golf buddies back home jealous of your travels.

Find more information about the Ultimate Golf World Tour or book your trip by emailing worldtour2020@flyvictor.com, or calling +44 (0)20 7384 8550.

Dumont JETS | Dumont MRO | Volo Direct

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F A S H I O N

TOP 8 BEST SUIT BRANDS FOR MEN | By NIYOSHI SHAH

A pinnacle of style for centuries, the suit stands as the true hallmark of status, prestige and class. It lends gentlemen all over the world a sense of sophistication and significance that other garments cannot. From ready to wear to custom bespoke, from the fit to the fabric and the way it’s constructed, the seemingly standardized suit can be spun off in a million enticing ways. We give you a round-up of the brands that best deliver this sharp and world-wise ensemble so you can make the best sartorial decisions.

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

GIORGIO ARMANI

For expertly crafted suits using the finest fabrics, Ermenegildo Zegna is a leader in its field. While many luxury brands claim to care about the provenance of their output, Zegna takes that ideal to its extreme, setting up initiatives worldwide to improve the quality of its product from start to finish. This Italian luxury brand keeps their suit colours classic and sophisticated, allowing their high-quality fabric to take centre stage. With headquarters in the leading fashion capital of Milan, the brand grows its famous wool down in their Australian mils.

Zegna has its finger on the pulse of forward-thinking contemporary tastes and trends. It is the definitive go-to destination for the best suit you will ever own, and deserving of its hefty price tag.

Perhaps the most prolific designer when it comes to tailoring, Giorgio Armani is the man who remade the suit in the 1970s with a fluid drape and soft shoulder line. Made in Italy from a cashmere-wool blend, the suits feature cropped jackets and tapered pants, so it gives you a nice torso-to-legs ratio (which hides “flaws” like a long torso vs. short legs) and an elegant V-shape silhouette. Contemporary designs emblematic of the Armani heritage, the suits have clean lines and the wool fabric comes in a very subtle Prince of Wales check, with a technical finish, giving it a slight sheen and a classic look.

GUCCI

CORNELIANI

If you’re seeking a suit in bold colours or a jacquard print, Gucci is your go to. Looking for a suit jacket featuring bright piping, embroidery, or unique details? This genius design house and epitome of maximalism under the stewardship of Alessandro Michele, amalgamates style with eccentricity. Eclectic, extravagant, and always at the forefront of high fashion, the world’s biggest-selling Italian brand are masters when it comes to tailoring.

If, however, you’re after something a little more traditional, they also design suits in sleek, classic colours and cuts.

Alfredo Corneliani was a forerunner in the Italian menswear sector in the 1930s. The brand likes to fancy itself with custom details that are a sure fire way to get you noticed by curating new emerging styles with a singularly exclusive made-tomeasure experience. The Corneliani man is modern and world class, somebody who is well travelled and cultured - which they refer to as the C generation. Someone who has an appreciation for excellence and wears it in an effortless way.

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F A S H I O N

RALPH LAUREN PURPLE LABEL Ralph Lauren is one of the most influential, consistent, and successful designer brand in the world, so every collection delivers in quality and taste level with utmost perfection. Garments need to be strong enough to stand on their own, but also able to mix and match with other pieces in a collection so that customers don’t have to worry about creating a perfect outfit or look. Lauren has captured all of this in Purple Label. Playing on the tradition of the 1970s leisure suit, Ralph presented a three-piece denim suit as a part of his luxury Purple Label Collection.

Hybridizing two classically favoured menswear items such as the navy suit and contempo-rary favourite dark denim, Lauren is able to suggest the marriage of two very distinct garments. The look tiptoes the line between dressy and casual daring the fashion industry and consumers alike to keep evolv-ing beyond the status quo.

BRIONI

GIANNI CAMPAGNA

HERMES

For men who like their martinis shaken not stirred, the Brioni suit represents the ultimate in men’s tailoring. The venerable Italian menswear maker, is named for an archipelago off the Croatian coast frequented by Europe’s rich and famous in the first decades of the 20th century. Available in exquisitely cut ready-to-wear styles or entirely customised bespoke pieces, these suits exude true luxury.

Founded in Rome in 1945, Brioni has dressed Daniel Craig and Pierce Brosnan’s James Bonds, showcasing their collections at the men’s runway shows, with thousands of hours of work put into each suit, these timeless designs epitomise men’s high fashion.

Milan is the true birthplace of Italian tailor ship, and Gianni Campagna comes from a long strain of traditions and heritage.

Founded in 1962, after having studied under tailor Domenico Caraceni, Gianni founded the brand by created bespoke suits that revolutionaries craftmanship.

The bespoke Campagna suits are crafted in-house from an array of exquisite fabrics like Super 250s and rich wool blends, but much of the suit construction methods remain hush-hush—“family secret.

The father-son duo work together to preserve the business’s heritage, while making an effort to mix history with technology. For instance, Campagna’s signature silk linings, which can now feature digital prints of photographs, patterns, or custom designs blends tradition with contemporary style to create something truly special and unique.

Suits from this brand are iconic in their simplicity and modern design.

Hermes was established in 1837, hence they have an unmatched experience in the realm of luxury and excellence. Their suits are some of the most comfortable and widely sought after by luxury connoisseurs. Boasting a tailored waist and hip (giving you a nice, shapely silhouette) the suit pieces are crafted from high-twist worsted wool yarn, which makes it crease-resistant. It makes a great go-to for the travelers who needs to unpack and impress while on the road.

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T I M E P I E C E S

VINTAGE WATCHES The Steady Rise of the Vintage Watch Market | By Barbara palumbo

If you were a middle-class child growing up in the seventies, chances are that at some point your parents purchased items for you from your local thrift store. Maybe it was something as practical as what they referred to as “play clothes.” Or maybe it was a larger purchase like a gently used bicycle or a desk on which you could do your homework. But no matter the item or cost, you likely thought what many Gen-X kids thought: “When I grow up and have a job of my own, I will never buy anything used again.”

Then along came the second decade of the 2000s, the popularity of the social media phenomenon known as Instagram, and an amalgam of information available on the internet, and all of those reservations you had about buying something old or preowned went out the window.

“There are a variety of reasons why we have seen such massive growth and interest in vintage watches, and social media – particularly Instagram – is certainly one of them,” states Eric Wind, former vice president of Christie’s Watches, U.S., and founder of Wind Vintage, which specializes in sourcing rare, vintage timepieces.

“Many current collectors have gotten excited by beautiful vintage watches they’ve seen on Instagram and decided they wanted to acquire one for themselves. These types of watches started to become more mainstream in the last seven or eight years, with particular turbocharging of the market over the last three years, largely because of social media.”

TIME, IN AN INSTANT Typing the hashtag “#vintagewatches” into an Instagram page’s search section will pull up nearly 440,000 results. Instagram accounts such as the popular “@watchfred” showcase a variety of vintage timepieces in a plethora of styles and brands just for the sake of it, while accounts like @vintagewatchcollective and @vintage-

watchesonly are in the market to buy and sell.

But who exactly is their customer?

“I have met vintage watch collectors who are teenagers and I’ve met some in their eighties, but I feel vintage watches have found a particular resonance with men between the ages of twenty and forty,” Wind states. “Speaking from my own experience as someone in his 30s, I grew up with so many digital things in my life, but when I inherited my grandfather’s Hamilton watch when I was in college, I realized that seeing a timepiece powered by a series of small parts without any battery was mind-blowing.”

JUST FOR MEN… OR ARE THEY? While Wind feels the vintage watch market is still very much dominated by male buyers (95% of his clients are men purchasing for themselves), he hopes he can help change that number. “I recently helped singers Aly and AJ find beautiful vintage watches (a gold OMEGA and gold Audemars Piguet, respectively), which they have been wearing during their current tour. In

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T I M E P I E C E S

general, I think women need a place they can try on great vintage watches and style them from a fashion perspective, but since that doesn’t really exist, women often opt for new watches from Rolex, Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and others.”

Jason Nichinson, co-president of rare vintage watch and clock purveyor Ye Olde Timekeepers, believes that collectors of gemset vintage watches – who oftentimes are women – look for very specific criteria. “I believe there is a mutual appreciation by both collectors of watches and also people who collect jewelry,” says Nichinson. “Many collectors of gem-set timepieces may seek out elements of innovation and technological advancements on the exterior of the case, whereas a traditional vintage watch collector may seek those same characteristics internally. But timepiece collectors are widening their perspectives as they attempt to expand their collections to include gem-set pieces, given their obvious advantages.”

BEYOND THE CROWN AND CROSS Auction houses such as Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Phillips have also aided in bringing the interest in vintage timepieces up a notch by allowing bidders and members of the press to use programs like Facebook Live while auctions are going on. There isn’t a watch lover in existence who doesn’t remember the now-famous Phillips 2017 auction of Paul Newman’s own Rolex Daytona, and likely because they watched it happen in real time on some form of social media. But do vintage watch sellers and auction houses only operate successfully if their inventories contain Rolex and Patek Philippe? Or are there other brands on the verge of a vintage boom? “I hesitate to name brands that I think are going to become hot,” said Wind. “Over the last few years, we have seen too much speculation for certain brands, which led to bubbles that then burst once the speculators became scared or lost interest. But we have certainly seen increased interest on the vintage side for brands like OMEGA, Longines, Heuer (the predecessor of TAG Heuer), Breitling, Universal Geneve, and Movado. Independents are also becoming trophies that collectors have begun fighting for at auction, particularly Philippe Dufour, Roger Smith, F.P. Journe, and Kari Voutilainen. We are seeing recordsetting prices, often significantly above the original retail price a client paid, for special models from these watchmakers, which I’m extremely happy to see.”

Nichinson was less hesitant in naming the brands he thinks will become more and more sought after. “If I were forced to answer solely based on the price and value points which vintage watch brands traditionally command at auction, on the men’s side, I’d have to say Vacheron Constantin, which I feel is one of the most influential and innovative watch manufacturers out there, regardless.” And when asked which brand he felt would be of interest for the women vintage collectors of the world, he replied, “I would have to say Cartier, hands down. There is no other brand like Cartier, although that being said, I feel as though what Piaget is doing today is going to result in that brand becoming even more collectable in the future.”

But what does it all mean for the everyday wearer of their grandfather’s watch? For now, it simply means it would be a good idea to keep it in the family. 

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P E N S

GOLD DETAILS ON CENTENARY CARS REFLECTED IN THREE EXCLUSIVE PENS | By Lucy Deliney

To mark the extraordinary milestone of Bentley’s 100th anniversary, Graf von FaberCastell introduces a limited edition Centenary range of writing instruments, inspired by an incredible century of fine British craftsmanship

T

he anbition of founder and racing enthusiasts W.O. Bentley - “To build a fastest car, a good car, the best in its class” - is an intrinsic part of Bentley’s DNA, and is what continues to power the world’s leading luxury car maker to this day.

Two special editions are being launched for the anniversary year, each one limited to only 100 pieces: The “Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner”, reminiscent of the last car designed by WO Bentley, and the “Continental GT Number 9 Edition

by Mulliner”, inspired by Bentley’s history in classic motor racing and the famous winning No. 9 Blower.

Every Bentley built in 2019 will feature a special “Centenary Specification” pack, including unique Centenary Gold badging, distinctive seat embroidery, unique tread-plates and other special details which identify each part as part of the celebrations.

With a company history of also making exclusive writing instru-

ments and accessories for more than 250 years, Graf von Faber-Castell pays homage to Bentley’s “100 Extraordinary Years” with a timelessly beautiful yet uniquely dynamic trio of products. The fountain, rollerball and ballpoint pens of the “Limited Edition Centerary” range come in a sophisticated black color, reminiscent of sports cars of the past. All metal parts, the barrel and the nib of the fountain pen, have an anthracite-colored PVD coating made of titanium.

In September of this year, the “Graf von Faber-Castell for Bentley” collection will be expanded to i nclude another extraordinary series of writing instruments. 

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F A S H I O N

A Passion for Fashion

DAVID MEISTER | By HelÉne ramackers

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F A S H I O N

His obsession with singer Cher paved the way for his venture into the world of fashion design. Today, David Meister dresses the who’s who of Hollywood for red carpet events, keeping them and the world glamorous, one dress at a time.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. I grew up in Cincinnati, OH and from a young age I was very creative and opinionated. I always wanted to know “why,” and that was my constant question of choice. I had a great childhood and my parents always taught my brothers and I that you can do or become anyone you want to, as long as you work hard and do your best. When it was time for college, I was either going to be a designer or a brain surgeon. I know, I know … crazy… what can I say? I studied at the University of Cincinnati. It was a great program. It was a 5-year program and I had to do six internships before I graduated. Most of them were in NYC, including Danskin and Ellen Tracey.

DID YOU HAVE AN INFLUENCE IN YOUR YOUTH THAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A FASHION DESIGNER? I was always very interested in clothing.

My favorite outfit in kindergarten were my purple bell bottoms, red and white floral shirt and a red, white and blue belt. I loved it!! My poor parents. The first time that I was really aware that someone actually designed fabulous clothing as a career was when I saw the mid-summer premiere of the Sonny and Cher Show. Bob Mackie’s designs were flawless and when put on Cher they rocked the fashion world. I was obsessed. No one was like Cher. No one could wear clothes like Cher. I was in heaven. To this day, I must be honest - I am still obsessed with Cher.

21 YEARS SINCE LAUNCHING YOUR DAVID MEISTER BRAND. WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HIGHLIGHTS DURING THIS ‘COMING OF AGE’?

I have had many highlights during the 21 years since I launched my brand. The biggest one is that I have been able to build a company that has existed so long and continues to go forward. Fashion is a very tough business and I am very proud of this fact. I have been lucky enough to have the most amazing teams of talented people.

WERE THERE DISAPPOINTMENTS ALONG THE WAY? There were many disappointments along the way. So many things often don’t go the way you planned. You need to stay focused on the big picture and be quick with creative solutions.

LESSONS LEARNED …

The most important things I have learned are always to listen to your gut and keep moving forward. Don’t stop ...if you do, you’ll get run over.

YOUR HAVE DRESSED SOME REALLY INFLUENTIAL WOMEN – SHARON STONE, VIOLA DAVIS, DIANE LANE, SOFIA VERGARA, TINA FEY, SIGOURNEY WEAVER, JANE FONDA TO NAME A FEW. WHAT IS IT LIKE DRESSING THE WHO’S WHO OF THE SILVER SCREEN?

hate the word ‘No’. I love interacting with people and most importantly laughing with them. I love to learn something new every day. I don’t take myself so seriously. It’s fashion, not a cure for cancer.

WHO IS DAVID AT HOME? Hmmm, David at home - I am pretty chill ... for me. Which means I am a low-grade type A instead of full throttle type A! I have been together with my partner Alan Siegel for 25 years and we are obsessed with Petey, our Havanese, who is in my humble opinion the cutest dog in the world. We live in Los Angeles and Palm Springs. We are really into traveling, interiors and adding to our art collection.

EXCITING PROSPECTS ON THE HORIZON? I am currently working on finalizing additional licensing deals as well as partnering with digital firms to create some specific products for online retail. I intend to keep the world glamorous one dress at a time. www.davidmeister.com

It is always fun to dress famous celebrities for the red carpet. I have been lucky enough to work with some of the most amazingly talented women. When you are on the red carpet the entire world is watching. You need to not only look great but feel great.

WHAT DOES YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS ENTAIL? My creative process is very fluid. Sometimes I start with a sketch and sometimes I start with fabric or some other inspiration.

Fashion is a reflection of what is going on in the world - economically, socially, musically, creatively. It is global. I love to be aware of as much as possible that is happening in the world. As a designer what you create needs to be a reflection of what is happening and to be relevant.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR SUCCESS? I think I have been successful because I love what I do and have a great passion for the fashion business. I am very determined and

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H O T E L S

HOTELS WITH EXTRAORDINARY

ART COLLECTIONS | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

For art lovers, staying somewhere where extraordinary paintings adorn the walls, exceptional murals make a splash or sculptures are displayed throughout the property is equivalent to visiting an art museum. Upscale Living magazine found 10 hotels where the art speaks for itself.

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H O T E L S

DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE

STELLENBOSCH, CAPE TOWN Delaire Graff Estate is a world-class art destination in the Stellenbosch Valley. As a prominent collector of South African art, each piece that adorns the walls and gardens has been personally handpicked by Laurence Graff from a much-treasured personal portfolio. The collection features works by artists such as Anton Smit, Deborah Bell, Dylan Lewis, Lionel Smit, Cecil Skotnes, Kendell Geers, Ndikhumbule Ngqinambi and William Kentridge.

Frequently named as one of the world’s top art collectors, Laurence Graff began his impressive collection by acquiring classic Impressionist paintings - one of the first works purchased was a small Renoir in the late 1970s.

In the Owner’s Villa, a personally curated gallery space includes celebrated African works from Laurence Graff’s private collection. From South Africa, Zimbabwe, the Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Mali and the DRC, the pieces displayed throughout the 660-square meter villa are a pan-African convocation of vibrancy and poignancy.

Intricately crafted, the sculptural collection boasts clay works by Madoda Fani, ceramics by Chuma Maweni and the arresting figures of Conrad Botes. The restrained color palette of the sculptures is juxtaposed with bursts of color from canvas, textiles and photographic works.

Embraced within the profundity of this African-centric collection are intriguing artists from various international hubs of creativity including Paris, Los Angeles and New York. Celebrated American filmmaker and artist, Julian Schnabel, is under the spotlight in the dining area with the monumental piece, In Love with the Obvious, and you are invited to bask in the surreal energy of Kenny Scharf ’s, Vivagua. www.delaire.co.za 27 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY 2019

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H O T E L S

DOMAINE DES ETANGS MASSIGNAC, FRANCE

Launched on 24 May 2019, and running until 15 December 2019, Domaine de Etangs is hosting an exclusive new art exhibition in their La Laiterie: La Lumière des Mondes (The Light of the World). Hervé Mikaeloff, advisor and curator for Louis Vuitton, and Ingrid Pux curated the exhibition alongside owner of the Domaine Garance Primat, celebrating “the connection between nature and people and how light helps to reveal it”.

Through a varied selection of 30 pieces by 25 international artists from across the creative spectrum, La Lumière des Mondes is the second group exhibition to be displayed at La Laiterie at Domaine des Etangs.

The exhibition includes sculptures and drawings by the likes of Louise Bourgeois, best known for her large-scale sculptures, and Annette Messager, renowned for her work on the French Pavillion, while German painter and sculptor Anselm Kiefer’s book takes visitors on a journey through the representation of universal and ancestral knowledge.

Additionally, works by Turner Prize Winner Anish Kapoor, Angel of the North sculptor Antony Gormley and contemporary American artist Sam Falls explore alchemy, humans and the earth and celebrates the plant and mineral world. Visitors of the exhibition will also experience masterpieces by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse alongside the additional artists: Jean-Marie Appriou, Miquel Barceló, Jean Dubuffet, Jeremy Demester, Witjiti George, Romuald Hazoumè, Wang Keping, Bharti Kher, Anselm Kiefer, John Mawurndjul, Kris Martin, Annette Messager, Vik Muniz, Tomas Saraceno, Wangechi Mutu, Giuseppe Penone, Niki de Saint Phalle, Kiki Smith and Pascale Marthine Tayou. www.domainedesetangs.com 28 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

HOTEL ESENCIA XPU-HA, MEXICO

Art meets the beach at this chic, aristocratic bolthole, located just 50 minutes from Cancun and 30 from Tulum, full of character, charm and heritage. Set along the ivory sands of the Riviera Maya, Hotel Esencia was originally built as the private hideaway home of an Italian duchess on what is considered the most beautiful beach on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

The much-loved boutique retreat is located on a private 50-acre estate surrounded by lush Mayan jungle. Famous Xpu-Ha beach (pronounced ‘shpooo-ha’ by those in the know) is hailed as being the finest stretch in the region, and one of the most protected and untouched white sand beaches in Mexico. Under the ownership of American entrepreneur, Kevin Wendle, and still fresh from a major refurbishment, Hotel Esencia is the perfect blend of European and local influences.

Since taking over, Wendle has reimagined the hotel to accentuate its natural beauty and add a one-off collection of art and antiques, including traditional mid-century furnishings and authentic 1950s works of art by celebrated Spanish, Latin American and Mexican artists – including Pablo Picasso, Fernando Botero and Eduardo Santiere. There are Pierre Jeanneret chairs, lamps by Serge Mouille and Pierre Guariche, and a table by world-renowned architect and designer Charlotte Perriand.

Combining the modern and traditional, the original design template was done by C.S. Valentin, who also designed an entire collection of original furniture and rugs exclusively for the hotel. Today, the hotel’s Creative Director, Juan Carlos Gutiérrez continues to travel across Mexico to carefully source special items from around the country for the hotel. www.hotelesencia.com 29 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

PERRY LANE HOTEL SAVANNAH, GA

A visionary hotel that is redefining the traditional Savannah hospitality experience, Perry Lane Hotel offers well-traveled guests a refreshed take on luxury in Savannah, Georgia. A member of the esteemed Marriott Luxury Collection, Perry Lane Hotel boasts 167 elegant guest rooms, including 12 luxurious suites, each an intimate representation of the beautiful city and its many stories.

Perry Lane Hotel showcases unique and gorgeous artwork reflective of the hotel’s personality – eclectic, worldly, idiosyncratic and brimming with sophistication, wit and intrigue. The collection found throughout the hotel is revolved around a single collector, the hotel’s muse Adelaide Harcourt.

Adelaide, the descendant of a long line of financiers with a penchant for collecting, has lived most of her life in Savannah, yet traveled the globe from New York to Paris to Istanbul. Adelaide is drawn to images of dancers, especially in black-and-white photography, showcasing the exquisite lines of the human form in motion. She also loves ornate patterns and vibrant color, epitomized by exotic birds and their intricately patterned and colored feathers.

Along with Adelaide’s art collection found in the boutique hotel, artwork created by the best young Savannah artists also decorate the hotel’s walls and truly brings the perfect “local” element to the hotel.

For the guest room artwork, the habits of individual collectors helped to establish Adelaide’s collecting patterns and develop thematic concepts.

As the only living member of the Harcourt family, Adelaide treasures keepsakes such as family letters, performance programs and travel souvenirs. The guest rooms provide an intimate glimpse into Adelaide’s history. https://www.perrylanehotel.com/ 30 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

PROVENANCE HOTELS

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON + PALM SPRINGS, CA Provenance Hotels are in a gallery frame of mind with art taking center stage at every hotel. These properties are for the creatively inclined, where art photography and music are paired with an exceptional restaurant, playful amenities, and plenty of attitude, to create a one-of-a-kind hotel experience.

Hotel Max is downtown Seattle’s destination where commissioned works from innovative artists adorn every floor of the hotel – photographs, paintings, collages and sculptures – reflecting a myriad of voices and attitudes. In the lobby guests will find Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Can I – Vegetable (F&S48). There is an Ed Ruscha there, too – it’s called “Gallo.” And, Ivan Navarro’s “Revolution #2” – a sculpture that uses light and the suggestion of sound in the form of stacked drum heads to evoke the revolutionary spirit of his native Chile.

Villa Royale is home to an original, commissioned collection of more than 50 large format oil paintings, which were painted on site in the year prior to the hotel’s opening by Juan Antonio Casas, Lou Kregal and Sara Radovanovich. These artists lived and painted at the property for weeks at a time, separately and together, channeling the history and vibe of Palm Springs in their eclectic body of works featuring desert landscapes, classic cars and icons of popular culture, film and music.

At Hotel Theodore, the guestrooms feature photography and patent drawings curated in collaboration with the Museum of History & Industry from their collection to highlight Seattle innovators whose ideas revolutionized daily life in Seattle and around the world. On the 15 guestroom floor elevator landings, custom built museum-quality cases house artifacts from Seattle’s industrial history. https://provenancehotels.com/ 31 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

SAN CLEMENTE PALACE KEMPINSKI VENICE, ITALY

San Clemente Palace Kempinski, the exclusive luxury resort on its own private island in the Venice lagoon, located eight minutes from the bustling St. Mark’s Square, recently launched two new exhibits in honor of the 58th Venice Biennale with sculptures by English artist Tony Cragg and Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos. Cragg’s nature-inspired collection has four sculptures on display with three in the main garden (Caught Dreaming, Runner and We) and his work Pair in the hotel lobby.

In a new exhibit curated by Nina Moaddel titled What are you hiding?

May you find what you are looking for, Joana Vasconcelos blends the 58th Venice Biennale’s theme, May you live in interesting times, with Portuguese pop culture, reinterpreting contemporary art. One of the three fascinating pieces of Vasconcelos that San Clemente Palace is showcasing includes I’ll be Your Mirror #1 (2019), a giant Venetian carnival mask made of mirrors, which has previously been exhibited in the Guggenheim Museum Bilboa. Viewers can look through the mask from any angle without ever losing sight of their own reflection.

Also featured in the gardens is (Betty Boop PA), Vasconcelos’ most iconic work and part of the artist’s famous shoe series. The high-heeled shoe is crafted out of saucepans and questions the meaning of the word ‘feminine’ in today’s world.

Vasconcelos first became known internationally after her participation in the 51st Venice Biennale in 2005; and in 2012, she became the first woman (and the youngest artist) to exhibit at the Palace of Versailles. https://www.kempinski.com/en/venice/san-clemente-palace-kempinski/ 32 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

SANT FRANCESC HOTEL SINGULAR MALLORCA, SPAIN

Sant Francesc Hotel Singular is situated in the heart of the historic centre of Palma, Mallorca. Not only is it the perfect base for a city-break or romantic weekend away, the hotel is home to an exceptional collection of contemporary art, elegantly displayed throughout the hotel. The five-star, boutique hotel is set within a former Mallorcan mansion, built in 1860, which was lovingly restored in 2015 with meticulous attention to detail, respecting and exposing many of its original features, such as beams, stone floors, wooden coffered ceilings, frescoes and murals.

The Neoclassical gem dates back to 1860 and boasts features characteristic of the magnificent mansions of Mallorca; large entrance doors, arches, a grand staircase, a paved inner courtyard, a well, stables and a watchtower with its dovecote.

The design strikes the perfect balance between old and new whilst showcasing local and international artists throughout the hotel. Following the renovation work, the well was converted into a gym, the tower into a very special guest suite and the stables into the Quadrat Restaurant.

The art journey begins at check-in with a masterpiece displayed at the reception desk - a painting created exclusively for the hotel by Spanish artist Josep Maria Riera i Aragó. Josep’s work can be seen in renowned museums around the world such as the Vincent Van Gogh foundations, the Museum of Modern Art in Luxembourg and many more. As visitors make their way through the hotel and into the lobby they will encounter the work of Spanish painter and sculptor Guillem Nadal. https://www.hotelsantfrancesc.com/ 33 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY

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H O T E L S

THE MERRION

DUBLIN, IRELAND More than ninety works come together to form The Merrion Hotel’s private art collection, considered one of the largest and most significant private collections of 19th and 20th century art in Ireland. The Merrion has on display artworks from major Irish artists, including Martin Mooney, Paul Henry, Nathaniel Hone, Mainie Jellet (the pioneering Irish abstract painter), Sir John Lavery, Lois Le Brocquy, William Leech, Daniel Maclise and Jack B. Yeats (considered Ireland’s greatest painter).

The hotel offers guests its own Art Tour, an in-depth audio guide to twenty paintings in the hotel’s collection, with exclusive, complimentary access to hotel patrons. Guests can also try The Merrion’s afternoon Art Tea, the most lavish afternoon tea in Dublin. Treat yourself to a slice of 19th or 20th century art served on fine china with miniature sweet creations by the work of J.B. Yeats, William Scott, Louis Le Brocquy and others, inspired by the artworks on display throughout the hotel.

The gracious surroundings of The Merrion’s Drawing Rooms are the perfect place to relax for an afternoon with a selection of delectable treats, accompanied by teas and coffees selected by our in-house tea masters and barista, while browsing through a complimentary copy of The Merrion art collection catalogue. Art Tea is served at 1:00pm, 1.30pm, 4:00pm and 4.30pm daily.

Celebrating The Merrion’s 21st anniversary, the hotel launched a new biennial Contemporary Art Prize called “The Merrion Plinth”. As dedicated supporters of visual art, The Merrion aims to support living artists by sponsoring this prize that honors outstanding talent. https://www.merrionhotel.com/ 34 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY 2019

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H O T E L S

THE SURREY NEW YORK, NY

While located just steps away from New York City’s finest cultural institutions, The Surrey, an iconic luxury hotel located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, is a popular art destination in its own right. The Relais & Chateaux property is home to an intimate collection of modern art, providing additional ways for guests and locals to engage and interact with art while on property.

The impressive collection includes special pieces by established names, including two photographs, You Are My Own and But the Myth of Love, by American conceptual artist, Jenny Holzer. In a hidden niche between the lobby and the bar is an interactive video piece by South African artist, William Kentridge.

London-based artists, Jimmie Karlsson and Martin Nihlmar, best known as Jimmie Martin, were commissioned by Rottet Studio to custom design playful residential furnishings such as an ornate armoire and a customized chaise lounge.

The mainstay of the collection is a tapestry of fashion icon Kate Moss by portrait artist Chuck Close, which takes center stage in the hotel’s lobby.

Close has created portraits from countless media, most notably his work has been included tapestry, a classical and difficult medium possessing Close’s signature tension between abstracted units and a legible, unified surface.

Acclaimed interior designer Lauren Rottet felt that this piece was a great focal point for the lobby, almost drawing guests down the hall.

While Chuck Close has done quite a few similar celebrity pieces, Rottet believes this piece is not about Kate Moss herself, but about how Close perceives her and her overall image. https://www.thesurrey.com/ 35 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY 2019 www.upscalelivingmag.com

H O T E L S

THE WESTBURY DUBLIN, IRELAND

The Westbury, The Doyle Collection’s flagship hotel, is home to one of Ireland’s most extensive and impressive private art collections and works can be spotted throughout the hotel’s public areas and suites. The hotel has now launched a new Art Trail package, in partnership with the Irish Arts Review to celebrate the collection in the hotel as well as the city of Dublin.

The Irish Arts Review has worked alongside Neal Doherty, the Westbury’s art curator and author of book Statues and Sculptures of Dublin City to create the trail that showcases the very best of Dublin’s art scene.

The trail spans 100 years of art history from John Lavery’s 1912 oil painting Miss Haslam located in TheWestbury’s Gallery to Conor Harrington’s Dead Meat mural from 2012 on Merrion Row. Dublin has more than 250 pieces of public art and the bespoke art trail has been designed to tell the story behind some of the most fascinating sculptures, inspiring street-art and magnificent galleries.

Guests who book The Suite Experience: Art Trail package will enjoy an overnight stay in one of The Westbury’s sumptuous suites surrounded by fine art from The Doyle Collection’s private collection and an indulgent Irish breakfast the following morning. Also included is a private guided tour of the Art Trail with the hotel’s curator, Neal Doherty.

During the 90 minute tour, Neal Doherty can tailor the trail to the tastes and interests of the guests and will share the fascinating stories and secrets of Dublin’s quirky artists and their work. https://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-westbury-hotel 36 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY 2019

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t i m e p i e c e s

TIMING IS EVERYTHING | By Debbi K. Kickham

Trying to decide between a Rolls-Royce and a Lamborghini? They are two decidedly different marques, and you need to do your homework. But that’s actually the fun part.

B

uying a watch is the same thing. There are dozens and dozens of watch manufacturers out there, and if you’re trying to decide between a Patek Philippe and a Rolex, you need to get all of the facts, and all the important information that will help you make a prestige purchase. But it can also be a difficult process.

Until now. (Like I said, timing is everything.)

Finally, at last, there is a new a watch website for everyone and especially the next generation of watch lovers who are looking to buy their very first “serious” watch, without any particular knowledge of horology. The Watch Pages -- https://www.thewatchpages.com/ -brings together 160 leading brands, thousands of watches and all the essential information together on one platform. This unique website allows you to search, compare, discover and find your next watch – all in one place.

Decidedly different, this is the first watch website that targets the general public. It has been designed for non-aficionados by watchmaking professionals and includes the most complete watch database to date, and one that is constantly growing.

The concept is to help everyone looking to buy a brand-new watch by offering the possibility for them to search, compare and discover thousands of watches in one place, with prices, while also exploring and learning about the wonderful world of watchmaking.

The site brings together 160 leading watch brands together on one platform -- thousands of watches to discover in an impressive database, along with interesting and entertaining articles that are accessible to everyone. The site targets people who aren’t necessarily collectors or experts, but anyone who is looking to buy a new watch for themselves or a loved one.

The objective is to make the purchasing of a fine watch easy and fun. It should create the same pleasure as buying a new car, an elegant purse, a pair of shoes or a brand-new suit.

How does it work? It is very simple to use.

Users can search by budget, by color, by material or function. All they need to do is enter in their criteria and the website will propose a choice of models. It is a unique online experience without ads or pop-ups – just watches.

Where did the idea come from? The two founders, Sophie Furley and Susanne Samuelsson, have been working in the specialized watch media at the heart of the Swiss watch industry for over 20 years. Recognized for their expertise in the field, people are often asking them “Which watch should I buy?” or “What do you recommend?”, which inspired them to create The Watch Pages.

The watch brand websites are very well done, but each site is a world in its own. Consulting website after website, page after page, takes a considerable amount of time, especially when you don’t know what you are looking for.

People often turn towards Google, where they can stumble across everything from the official sites to second-hand sellers, technical websites, forums, blogs or dodgy dealers.

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t i m e p i e c e s

The Watch Pages has everything – professional high-definition photos, technical information that has been verified and classified, only models that are currently available on the market and prices in CHF, EUR et USD. All this great information gives users the opportunity to make new discoveries thanks to algorithms that will propose different brands and different watches for each search, without being influenced by advertising.

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Whether users are looking for a “serious” watch, or something more “fun,” The Watch Pages is as easy as finding a luxury hotel room, a private jet charter, or a new pair of designer sneakers.

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receive in-depth award-winning coverage delivered to you electronically.

I personally had a blast reading the website. Topics, for example, include: • • • • • •

Watches that will blow your socks off Dive watches you can really scuba with Best gifts for watch lovers (which are not watches) The best watch deals on the planet How to spot a counterfeit The 10 most expensive women’s watches

One of the topics on the site is about “watchspotting” in the movies.” You’ll discover, for example, where top brands have been featured in Hollywood. For example, as one of the leading watch brands in the world, Rolex has found itself on screen so many times it’s hard to keep track. Here are just a few of the highlights: The Color of Money, Network, Marathon Man, Titanic, The Deep, The Usual Suspects, Apocalypse Now and many more. Rolex is also the sponsor of the Academy Awards, which ups the brand’s visibility in Hollywood, according to the website.

Omega has been on James Bond’s wrist for many years, and this brand has also been in many other movies, including Apollo 13, La La Land, Event Horizon, Minority Report, Ronin, Seven Years in Tibet, The Right Stuff, Gotti and is regularly on the wrist of screen legends George Clooney and Nicole Kidman, who are brand ambassadors.

IWC supports film festivals around the world, ones like Tribeca, Beijing, Zurich, London and Dubai, and has been featured in such movies as The Bourne Legacy and TV shows like House of Cards.

As a stalwart of racing, TAG Heuer is often featured in movies re-lated to the sport. One of the most famous is Le Mans with Steve McQueen, who was wearing the TAG Heuer Monaco. TAG has also been in The Bourne Identity, The Living Daylights, Breaking Bad and The Wolf of Wall Street.

What’s on trend this year? A wide variety of watches including those that are small; ultra thin; blue-faced; in shades of green; and vintage.

Best of all, the site offers great tips about things collectors say they wish they had known, before they started acquiring timepieces.

The advice is valid, including such recommendations as 1). Only buy what you really want, and 2). Try before you buy.

UPSCALE ™

JANUARY 2018

NATE BERKUS Every Home Tells a Story

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E x p e r i e n c e T h e Di f f e r e n c e w w w. u p s c a l e l i v i n g m a g . c o m

Out there, somehow, somewhere, the Patek Philippe Calatrava – in my opinion, the world’s most elegant watch – is calling my name.  38 Upscale Living Magazine |

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T R A V E L

Q+A with Four Seasons GM John Conway

An Engaging Look at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort | BY TIM COTRONEO

Engaged. That’s how Four Seasons General Manager John Conway wants guests to feel when staying at his iconic resort perched on one of the Bahamas’ most idyllic beaches.

The Ocean Club and Four Seasons recently incurred a hospitality marriage made in heaven. When the Four Seasons brand embraced The Ocean Club as part of their 114-hotel portfolio, Conway felt his exceptional Caribbean resort destination got even better.

“We’re thrilled to align with a company and name that is synonymous with service, support, and cutting-edge hospitality technology,” Conway said. The long-time Caribbean based General Manager took a break from his duties overseeing The Four Seasons resort operation duties to discuss the past, present, and future.

THE OCEAN CLUB HAS A 57-YEAR HISTORY. IS THERE AN ELEMENT OF THE RESORT THAT SPEAKS TO THE EARLY DAYS ON PARADISE ISLAND? Celebrations. The Ocean Club has long been known as a place to celebrate honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, and every-

thing in between. Generations continue to find us to be a memorable place for enjoying a special occasion while admiring our spectacular ocean views.

FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO VISIT FOR THE FIRST TIME, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE RESORT’S PERSONALITY AND AMBIANCE? The first thing you notice as you walk in our lobby and library is the artwork. Our artwork is curated by Jane Waterous, our Artist in Residence. https://press.fourseasons.com/ oceanclub/hotel-team/jane-waterous.html Guests experience a living, breathing art museum.

Then there is the simple pleasure of walking our amazing property. We’re talking 35 acres of gardens, walkways, special lighting, hammocks, our picturesque beach and signature ocean views. There is a total focus on the incredible water we wake up to each day.

This is a place to get lost on purpose.

ARE THERE ONE OR TWO EXPERIENCES THAT REALLY CAPTURE A STAY AT THE OCEAN CLUB? Arrange to go on a boat tour and drop anchor near a secluded beach. My wife and I are boaters. We love to explore the Bahamas waters and simply appreciate all this beautiful island has to offer.

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Here on our property, I recommend experiencing sunset at the DUNE Restaurant.

Enjoying a cocktail while listening to our nightly music as the sun sets over the ocean is unforgettable.

WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST ABOUT YOUR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FOUR SEASONS BRAND? The level of technology, and the best hotel practices that Four Seasons brings is amazing. Four Seasons has delivered a tremendous level of support, while still providing an authentic Bahamian experience. We’re very proud to be a part of the Four Seasons family.

WHAT SETS THE OCEAN CLUB EXPERIENCE APART FROM OTHER CARIBBEAN LUXURY VACATION OPTIONS? The accessibility. The Nassau International Airport is just two hours and 45 minutes from New York and 45 minutes from Miami. On your return flight, you go through U.S. Customs here in Nassau to speed up your re-entry process.

A vacation stay at The Ocean Club is pain free. We invite guests from all over the world to come and experience our turquoise water. https://www.fourseasons.com/oceanclub/

SPRING 2019 www.upscalelivingmag.com

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P R O F I L E

JUSTINA ADORNO A Rising Star

By Heléne Ramackers Photographs courtesy of Alex Stone

S

he stars as Yoli in the Eva Longoria Baston produced series Grand Hotel, airing on ABC. Set to make her a household name, Justina Adorno spoke to Upscale Living magazine about her love for acting, veganism and her two adorable fur-children, Catsby and Penni.

there was a scene at the dining room table with the family, something hilarious always happened. I remember us shooting a serious scene and all of a sudden, the table started shaking and we just all broke character and laughed out loud.

JUSTINA, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.

EVA LONGORIA BASTON PRODUCED THIS SERIES. WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH HER?

I was born in the Bronx and lived there with my family until I was about ten years old. I then moved to Columbia, South Carolina and finished schooling there. As a child, South Carolina was a place for me to safely explore my environment, giving me freedom in ways I couldn’t have had in the Bronx. However, I knew at a very young age that in order for me to grow, I had to leave my small town and get back to my roots. In 2013, I moved back to New York to pursue my career.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO FORAY INTO THE WORLD OF ACTING? At a very young age. Since I can remember, I always dreamt of being either a vet or an actress; anytime there was an opportunity for me to perform I took it. In high school, I auditioned for an acting program, then auditioned for a boarding arts school. I continued to study acting in college and after graduation, I signed with an agency and moved to New York. By 2015/16 I started investing 110% of my efforts in my career.

YOU STAR AS ‘YOLI’, THE BLACK SHEEP DAUGHTER OF THE MENDOZA FAMILY IN THE NEW ABC DRAMA, “GRAND HOTEL”. WHAT WAS THAT EXPERIENCE LIKE FOR YOU? Well, I love the fact that Yoli is the black sheep of the family. Family dynamics are typically nuanced, I’m proud to represent those who don’t necessarily feel as connected to their family in certain aspects.

IT LOOKS LIKE YOU ALSO HAD LOTS OF FUN FILMING “GRAND HOTEL”. CAN YOU SHARE A FEW OUTTAKES? We had so much fun filming! My glam trailer was always the highlight of my day, whether it be chatting or singing with the glam squad and cast.

Karaoke, singalongs, and dance breaks happened frequently. Whenever

My experience working with Eva surpassed my expectations. She is very intelligent and highly experienced. I felt as though I could trust Eva on and off camera. She is such a boss! The woman does it all with such charisma and grace. You can feel the energy just brighten on set when she was around! It didn’t hurt that she always had Santi on set. I am in love with that baby! She made the set feel like home. We all became a family and we owe a lot of that to Eva for setting the tone from when we all first met!

YOU ARE AN OUTSPOKEN AND PASSIONATE VEGAN, FAVORING A PLANT-BASED DIET. HAS THAT ALWAYS BEEN THE CASE, OR DID YOU MAKE A HEADSHIFT TO GIVE UP ANIMAL PRODUCTS? Ha-ha yes, I am! I’m a huge activist and when I can make a difference, I always take on the opportunity. As far as my diet is concerned, I started my vegan journey two years ago. Once I internalized the messaging behind animal rights activism, I felt that I no longer had a choice. I began to follow vegan pages, animal activists and continuously educated myself by watching footage of the conditions that these animals were in.

The truth makes people uncomfortable, but so does growth. By seeing the truth, I was able to grow and fully allow myself to dive headfirst into the lifestyle. That’s really what it is – a lifestyle – and it is one that I am proud of. To give a voice to the voiceless saves lives, and to save a life is to show compassion. This is what the world needs.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DISK TO PREPARE? Lately, my favorite thing to do is to eat fresh seeded fruit. However, I do love making raw cucumber pasta with an avocado pesto sauce topped with olives avocado and cherry tomatoes! Just talking about it makes me want some now.

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FROM NEW YORK TO SOUTH CAROLINA, BACK TO NEW YORK AND FINALLY, LOS ANGELES. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OF THE DIFFERENT PLACES WHERE YOU HAVE LIVED? My favorite moments always revolve around the people I meet in each location.

YOUR FUR-CHILDREN ARE ADORABLE. TELL US ABOUT CATSBY AND PENNI. Ahh omg thank you! I miss them so much! They stayed back in New York this time around and that has been very difficult. Those cats have been a huge part of my journey in life. Catsby was a bodega cat in my neighborhood in the Bronx, and at the time I needed something to love that was low maintenance. So, the boyfriend was out, and I didn’t have the time to walk a dog, nor was I allowed to have a dog in my building.

I saw Catsby the second week of moving back to New York and just fell in love with him. I told myself if he allowed me to pick him up, I would ask the guy at the counter if I could have him. You can add up what happened next. Catsby is my handsome man threefold.

My other cat, Penni, was rescued in my neighborhood as well. I was working on an event and my boyfriend at the time called me and told me there was a wounded kitten at the steps of the church. Her poor back legs weren’t working, and her tail had no movement. In the weeks following, I nursed her back to health and worked on grooming her relationship with Catsby, because he was a very “jelly” boy. She is my sweet little girl, my Penni PoPo. I love them so much and to watch their relationship grow warms my heart. They love each other so much.

They are for sure my children. I’ve had to scold them for being mean to each other and praise them for being the cutest of siblings.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES AND INTERESTS?

YOU ARE IN INCREDIBLE SHAPE. HOW DID YOU MANAGE TO STAY FIT? Wow, I wasn’t expecting that. Thank you? Ha-ha, I’m honestly not in the best shape right now. I gained some weight for the role of Yoli and have been actively building a healthy relationship with food. Right now, I’m at a happy, relaxed place. I don’t make as much time for the gym anymore, which I really miss and should probably start doing so.

I’ve recently wanted to bring back consistent physical activity into my life. It truly makes a difference for my mental state, let alone my physical. So, if there are any personal trainers out there ... reach out! I need someone to kick my butt back into shape! Currently, I bike or go on hikes and occasionally hit the gym. Those are my favorite days.

YOUR NATURAL CURLS ARE BEAUTIFUL; YOU ALSO ROCK THE SLEEK STRAIGHT-HAIR LOOK. WHAT DO YOU PREFER? Right now, I prefer my hair to be natural. My hair can be super curly or wavy/frizzy and I just let it do what it wants these days, but sometimes I do enjoy blowing out my hair. I’m super grateful to have versatility with my hair. I change it based on the vibe I’m feeling.

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I love song writing. It’s seriously something I can do all day every day!

I also love finding new vegan restaurants and making meals. I enjoy watching movies / theater and even rescuing animals when I can. In the Bronx I worked frequently with a non-profit organization called Little Wanderers NYC that rescues cats / kittens that need care or homes.

That is something I can do all day every day. If I can save a life at least once a day I would be the happiest person, which correlates with my vegan lifestyle.

ANY EXCITING PROSPECTS / PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON? I do, but it’s a work in progress. Let’s just say it has to do with my journey into veganism.  https://www.instagram.com/justina.justina/

HIGHLANDS & CASHIERS NORTH CAROLINA

MOVING MOUNTAINS

TRUST • INTEGRITY • STABILITY • LONGEVITY

828.526.1717 meadowsmountainrealty.com 488 Main Street, Highlands | 2334 Cashiers Rd, Highlands 132 Hwy 107 S, Cashiers

WHITESIDE MOUNTAIN

© 2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. ® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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WHAT’S NEW “Bringing you the finest places around the world is what we love to do here at Upscale Living magazine. In keeping with this tradition, we are focusing on introducing you to new kids on the block or accommodation establishments with a relooked lease on life. Grab your travel diary as you want to get to these places as soon as possible!”

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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ANDRONIS ARCADIA SANTORINI, GREECE

Offering unrivaled luxury, earthly Andronis Arcadia is home to 53 design-led pool suites all with magical views towards the Aegean Sea and the island’s unforgettable sunsets. The newest addition to the Andronis Exclusive family of five-star hotels and villas, Andronis Arcadia is situated on the fringes of Oia. The all-suite hotel offers guests the highest standard of comfort with some of the largest views towards the Aegean.

The name Arcadia derives from the Greek word, Αρκάδια the home of Greek God, Pan (“God of the Wild”). His home was a place of pastoralism and Andronis Arcadia has reflected this nature-foreword philosophy by creating a hotel blending into the cliff rather differentiating it from existing white casitas on the island.

Andronis Arcadia’s rustic and earthly-luxe interiors bring

elements of nature indoors, from the succulents and plants to local wood and materials. The Greek forged cement coating technique used throughout has existed for centuries and creates a minimalistic look. Around 85-90% of the furniture is handmade locally and has been constructed inside the hotel. The exterior heavily uses stones, drawing on the colors and textures of the volcano and its lava.

Andronis Arcadia has 53 suites of six categories including the Eden Villa, the largest villa on the island complete with six bedrooms over three floors, plus its own spa, fitness center, and two pools. All suites have sunset and sea views plus a plunge pool, and guests additionally have access to the 450m2 infinity pool surrounded by cabanas. The suite interiors have geometrical-style design alongside square recesses on the walls, and natural fabrics

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throughout including linen to give the ultimate sense of light and space.

With three restaurants and two bars, Andronis Arcadia guests are spoilt for choice.

Signature restaurant Opson spearheaded by Stefanos Kolimadis showcases dishes inspired by the tastes and ingredients of classical Greece through a several course tasting menu, developed in consultation with a classical scholar. Althea Restaurant features dazzling Mediterranean seafood as well as local dishes with ingredients grown in the Andronis gardens. Oishii Sushi Bar uses the freshest ingredients fused with traditional Japanese techniques, serving exceptionally well presented and seasonally changing dishes. https://www.andronisarcadia. com/

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HOTEL CHATEAU

LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE

With its unrivaled luxury and 18th-century splendor, the design-driven, 17-room Château is one of the finest remaining examples of French neoclassical architecture. Located just a short 55-minute train ride from central Paris, the destination-changing Hotel Château in the village of Le Grand-Lucé raises the bar in luxury, bringing sophistication and a cosmopolitan je ne sais quoi to the Loire Valley.

The former country home of the Baron Jacques Pineau de Viennay, the Château has been returned to its 18thcentury splendor after a careful private restoration under the guidance of the French government.

One of the finest remaining examples of French neoclassical architecture to date, serving as a stunning tribute to its noble provenance and rich history, the Château offers elevated French style and elegance throughout.

The 45,000-square-foot

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Hotel Château features 17 rooms and suites, a ballroom, authentic French restaurant Le Lucé, a bar, spa and fitness salon, an outdoor pool and classic French gardens.

The Pilot Hotels design team, spearheaded by Paul and Shannon Wehsener of Paul Allen Design, embraced the opulent chic standard set by Pineau de Viennay in 1764. They reimagined and repurposed the majesty of the interiors, crafting the 17 sumptuous rooms and suites and grand living spaces of the Hotel Château, much as they previously did with Holthus to reimagine and debut her premiere project, the historic Washington School House Hotel in Park City, Utah.

The Château features limestone and French white oak floors throughout and walls, painted in shades of authenticity, adorned with original boiserie. This stunning back-

drop is layered with crystal chandeliers, sconces, fine art and furnishings sourced from several centuries; fine Persian rugs; and custom fabrics by traditional and innovative French design masters alike, from Pierre Frey and Nobilis to Christian Lacroix and JeanPaul Gaultier – all juxtaposed in perfect proportions of scale and symmetry, style and design.

Hotel Château features 17 guestrooms, including two apartments complete with private kitchens and living spaces, all designed in homage to the style, luxury and splendor first favored by Pineau de Viennay and each complemented with an abundance of historic French brand Buly 1803 bath and beauty products. The property comfortably sleeps, 36-42 adults. https://chateaugrandluce. com/

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MACARTHUR PLACE HOTEL & SPA SONOMA, CALIFORNIA, USA

Sonoma’s iconic MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa, a luxury boutique 64-room hotel located in the heart of California’s wine country, officially reopened its doors with a brand new look and feel, just in time for the property’s 150th anniversary. Nearly all aspects of the six-acre parcel property underwent renovations as part of a $20 million overhaul, including guest rooms and suites, reception and a fully reimagined food and beverage program featuring the debut of Layla, The Porch and The Bar at MacArthur.

Spearheaded by SFA Design and RDC Architecture, the redesign of MacArthur Place was conceptualized in partnership with experiential branding firm Love & War. The property’s 64 guest rooms and suites feature customdesigned furniture by SFA Design, largely fabricated by Harbour Outdoor. Other notable accessory partners include woven benches by

JLF, faux concrete dinette, and side tables by Skypad, custom portable lighting by Scott Group and illuminated vanity mirrors by Seura.

Layla — the hotel’s dining centerpiece named for Leilani Burris, great-granddaughter of the property’s original founder David Burris — is a Mediterranean “farm kitchen” featuring a diverse and ingredient-driven menu in an open, communal space. The first dedicated lounge space for MacArthur Place, The Bar at MacArthur operates as a bar-lounge serving a curated selection of cocktails, beers, and an all-day menu. Also a brand-new addition to the property, The Porch serves as the property’s all-day coffee shop and open-air community marketplace, serving a variety of light bites, beverages and a selection of local and house-made products.

Through its local and national partnerships, MacArthur Place brings together brands

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in the wellness, beauty, experiential, retail and food and beverage sectors to create a re-imagined experience for its guests. Currently, the property’s national partnerships include Grown Alchemist, MacArthur Place’s in-room toiletries partner; Lola James Harper, the creator of the property’s custom candle scent, “The MacArthur Place;” Blix Electric Bikes, and Petite Amie Skincare, providing guests with complimentary sheet masks at turndown.

Locally, the property has partnered with female-owned tea steeper Uppercase Tea, which offers a holistic tea program that can be experienced throughout the property; Petaluma-based coffee purveyor ACRE Coffee, The Porch’s coffee provider; and Bohemian Highway Travel Co. https://macarthurplace.com/

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The Beauty of

HALONG BAY | By PAMELA AND GARY BAKER

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Our ship glides through water the color of jade, a deep creamy stone green, sailing past Cat Ba Island, home to one of Vietnam’s largest national parks. Occasional ripples cut the smooth glass surface, shimmering as though a million tiny sardines are fleeing a hungry predator.

Hundreds of limestone karst formations look like giant green coated gumdrops dropped into the sea, creating a dramatic watery landscape.

Whittled away over centuries by wind and water, they’re breathtaking. Most are monolithic mounds with sheered rock walls shooting straight up. Hardy determined trees sprout from their sides and birds roost on or among them.

We’re in Halong Bay, Vietnam, one of the world’s most beautiful places. An iconic image of Vietnam, this place has serious mystique.

With a thousand bays and inlets, our ship chooses a lesser used route sailing through the Thoi Quyt area, past the Coc Ngoi islet and then through the Gia Luan area, part of the Cat Ba National Park.

This popular destination in the Quang Ninh Province, 165 kilometers northeast of Hanoi, is known as the Land of Dragons. According to Vietnam legend, the Heavenly God sent a mother dragon and her offspring to the region to fight off invaders. The flock of dragons spat many pearls into the sea, forming thousands of rocky islands to block the enemy. The attacking ships smashed against the rocks, destroy-ing their fleet. The name “Ha Long” means Descending Dragon. The name “Bai Tu Long” means Young Dragons Attending to Their Mother. And the place where the dragons splashed water with their tails is called “Back Long Vi” or The Tail of the White Dragon.

The islands have been here so long, water has eroded them three feet or more around their bases. At low tide you can easily see just how significantly nature has carved them away. The famous and most photographed - Finger Island - looks like it would topple over in a storm. Occasionally we sail past small beaches and caves.

Cruise ships from Halong Bay range from budget boats filled with backpackers to sleek, multistoried modern yachts. We’re on Orchid Cruise ship #1. For three days and two nights we’ll explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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There are 18 luxury cabins on this gorgeous cruise ship. Each room features floor-toceiling and end-to-end windows, including the bathroom. Even the bathtub looks out over the water. A comfortable balcony provides a serene spot to sit and watch this magical scene float by.

sweet potatoes. Villagers raise chickens and pigs.

Proud locals run small snack shops where tour guides take groups for a drink, a break, and an introduction to local life. Here, we learn about the Cat Ba Langurs, an endangered monkey species found only on this island.

We start our cruise heading to Da Chong islet, passing a lighthouse built by the French over 100 years ago. Our first meal is an international buffet lunch served in a spacious dining room.

It’s hard to sit still as we pass the islets of Con Vit, and the beauty of Halong Bay unfolds. It’s almost impossible to resist the charm of Halong Bay’s majestic natural landscape. The union of sky, mountains, and ocean here provide miraculous panoramas.

Locals demonstrate food preparation and local wine-making including snake, flower, and banana wine. A few brave souls sampled the snake wine.

After lunch, we head to Cat Ba Island to explore the 2000-year-old Trung Trang cave.

Cat Ba is named for the “old woman” who trained Kung Fu warriors on this island. Full of glistening stalactites that have been dripping for millions of years, the cave winds 300 meters deep through the mountains of Cat Ba National Park. Some openings in the cave are so low, visitors have to stoop to pass through, but exploring it is fascinating!

After we return to the ship, the captain sails us to nearby Tra Bau. This deserted beach offers us the perfect opportunity to swim in Lan Ha Bay’s cool emerald waters.

In the evening we relax on deck with a glass of wine before dining on a gourmet meal of hot and sour soup, mango salad with beef, grilled prawns and sautéed snapper. Adjourning to the top deck, we watch the sun set over the Gulf of Tonkin, then join the other passengers in night squid fishing.

With the ship anchored in a peaceful bay, sleep comes easily tonight in our comfortable bed.

We have to rise early for tai chi on the upper deck.

Refreshed, we dine on a sumptuous buffet breakfast with fresh fruit, an abundant charcuterie board, omelets or eggs prepared to order, muffins, Danish rolls, croissants, a salad bar, and a generous offering of hot Vietnamese stir fries and rice. Guests can even indulge in a delicious bowl of Pho, the traditional broth of vegetables and noodles.

Today we’re heading to the other side of Cat Ba Island to visit Viet Hai village. Bicycles are ready for those who want to get some exercise, but electric cars are also available.

Although Vietnam is a developing country, the Viet Hai village demonstrates how a community can work together to feed itself. Their community garden is abundant with cauliflower, strawberries, pumpkin, green beans and

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Next, the captain sets sail for another peaceful, uncrowded cove. Once the boat is anchored, we witness more of the Vietnamese entrepreneurial spirit. A woman in a row boat comes up to the side of our boat peddling wares. “You want wine, you want wine?” she calls out. She’s selling Vietnamese wine, a sweet and fruity beverage. She also sells nuts, cookies, caramel corn, and other snacks.

Water is a way of life here. Floating villages crop up in sheltered inlets, along island coasts.

Banded together with the most tenuous of materials, we wonder how these outcroppings fare in a terrible storm.

Before dinner, we head up to the deck for a Vietnamese cooking lesson. A refreshing cocktail whets our appetite for another gourmet meal. Tonight’s menu features pumpkin soup, mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette, grilled spareribs with stir fried vegetables and a revitalizing dessert of ripe pineapple, watermelon and dragon fruit (so fitting!).

On our final morning we awake early to enjoy a few last hours of the magical scenery. Guests are invited to kayak before breakfast in this serene setting. Kayaks depart in groups of three or four, disappearing around small islands and reappearing again just in time to pull up anchor.

We finish our morning with a hearty breakfast, then up on deck, participate in a tea ceremony attended by many of the gracious staff. We start our slow sail past Cat Ba Island, back to civilization, filled with memories of beautiful, peaceful Halong Bay. Ethereal Halong Bay is considered by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. For us, it is a place apart. The backdrop of the bay’s magnificent scenery as well as the dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations, rising from the water like a dragon’s back, provide you with the perfect setting for a memorable sojourn.  http://www.orchidcruises.com/

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G O L F

CORALES GOLF COURSE AT PUNTA CANA RESORT & CLUB Bigger is Better in Punta Cana | BY TIM COTRONEO

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G O L F

Imagine what Golf Architect Tom Fazio could design with 350 acres of prime Dominican oceanfront property. When experiencing Corales Golf Course in dreamy Punta Cana, the question is answered before you place your first tee in the grass.

Within seconds of stepping inside the clubhouse, you spy giant white letters outside just beyond the expansive deck. From this profound vantage point, even the most near-sighted golfer becomes aware that he or she is on the verge of something special.

Fifty yards beyond the clubhouse, the word “Corales” is spelled out in four-foot high pearl white letters. Framing the letters is an image that yanks the cell phone from your pocket like a ripcord.

CORALES, CARIBBEAN, COWBOY Just past the letters is a live, high-def view featuring an all-natural convergence of emerald green Paspalum fairway, treacherous rocky coastline, and miles of crashing ocean that seems to go on forever.

Your cell phone camera fires off a hat trick of click, click, clicks.

Catch your breath because you’ve yet to play Corales’ Par 4, 433-yard first hole. This is where the fun starts and the views pop out of nowhere. If you’re lucky enough to tap Eddie or Santiago as a caddie, you’ll learn insider tips on the nuances of undulating greens, which palm trees to avoid at all cost from the tee, and when to whirl around at an exhilarating ocean view that was missed while fixating on the scene straight ahead.

The golf course you’re about to play is big. We’re talking three times the size big. Most world-class golf layouts check in at around 175 acres with 90 acres of grass. To put Corales gigantic 350 acres in perspective, realize that the Par 5, 623-yard, 12th hole is 17 wall-to-wall acres all by itself. You can almost visualize Fazio on horseback and waving a cowboy hat while surveying the raw property of Corales. Giddyup partner, we’re just getting started.

COCONUTS, WHALES, AND RIP ROARING Just in case you forgot that you’re smack dab in the heart of the Caribbean, a Corales staffer named Jose is waiting with a surprise on the Par 5, 545-yard 4th hole tee box. Jose asks if you’d like him to cut open a fresh coconut so you can drink the juice. If there is any hesitation about taking advantage of this authentic island moment, Eddie and Santiago remind that coconut juice is full of electrolytes and is known as nature’s sports drink.

Depending on the time of year, the Corales ocean holes may also provide a glimpse of jumbo seaside entertainment. During this year’s Corales Puntacana Resort and Club Championship which was won by Graeme McDowell, television viewers of this PGA event were treated to the sight of a humpback whale breaching on the back nine.

About the time you’re fully engaged into the Corales visuals and Caribbean ambiance, that’s when this Fazio design turns up the front nine to back nine momentum. The 7th, 8th, and 9th are a trio of husky fairways followed by putting greens that are bearhugged by a rip-roaring ocean. The ninth is a grip it and rip it 204-yard Par 3 with the Caribbean Sea hanging on to the green’s backside like a novice skydiver who won’t let go.

WISH YOU WERE HERE The back nine generates an encore crescendo with a trio of finishing holes boasting the sinister handle of The Devil’s Elbow. The Par 4, 501-yard 18th hole tests your will with a dramatic forced carry over the cliff-lined Bay of Corales. This is more than a dogleg right, it’s an “I dare you” leap over a gaping left to right cove. Prepare for a second shot that demands steely nerves on to yet another green that’s engulfed by the ocean.

This one-of-a-kind finisher provides a golf exclamation point to an already exhilarating round. To truly appreciate what has taken place over the past four hours, glance back and reflect on what you’ve just completed. With ocean waves crashing around you, it’s time to let go, reach your arms to the sky, and do your best Leonardo DiCaprio “I’m King of the World” rendition.

After shaking hands with your playing companions, it’s hard not to check out the letters spelling Corales one more time as your group marches back to the clubhouse. You feel the cell phone in your pocket again stir into lift-off mode. You smile and acknowledge that there’s no harm in sharing Corales with the folks back home. With the click of a button you convey to friends, “Corales. Wish you were here.”

A GOLF MOMENT OF BLISS Whether you’re a social media maven or someone who prefers experiencing a special golf moment in silent bliss, there’s no denying that Fazio’s 7,600yard work of art by the ocean has stolen your heart.

Somewhere there’s a golf architect turned cowboy riding off in the distance. Adios partner.  https://www.puntacana.com/golf/corales-golfcourse

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KAPAMA KARULA KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Hoedspruit, South Africa

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By Heléne Ramackers Photographs courtesy of Kapama Karula and Heléne Ramackers

The largest private game reserve owned and run by one family, Kapama Private Game Reserve in South Africa’s Limpopo Province is a force to be reckoned with. The flagship luxury lodge in the Kapama four-property portfolio, Kapama Karula is sophisticatedly fabulous.

M

y daughter and I are each savoring our scrumptious lunch seated next to the pool, consisting of the most deliciously succulent homemade burgers, made up of lamb patty, cheddar cheese, crispy onion rings and a side order of French fries. For dessert, I choose the Karula Pavlova – meringues, Chantilly ice cream & berries, while my daughter sticks to her all-time preferred dessert – vanilla ice cream.

Today, we are joined by my husband, who, after a comfortable flight on Airlink’s Embraer E-190 from Cape Town International Airport to Hoedspruit Airport, will be enjoying this wonderful family getaway with us. He is collected in Kapama’s open game viewer at Hoedspruit Airport by our ranger and head guide at Kapama Karula, Morné Ferreira, after which he sits down for lunch and proceeds to order the exact same meal my daughter and I just had.

We are shown to the expansive Family Villa, perfectly proportioned for our family of three. With only two of these villas, sized at 1,830 sq ft, this is luxury at its finest. The open-plan living area houses a large lounge, the main bedroom, a bathroom with freestanding tub, double vanities, a huge walkin shower, outside shower, and a powder room.

The outside area is equally inviting, with a heated swimming pool and loungers in which to enjoy the abundant sunshine.

Our daughter is over the moon to learn that she has her own en-suite bedroom, equipped with a flat-screen TV, a variety of movies and a Wii game console. Her favorite feature? The Fatsak in front of the television, where she is under the misconception that she will be spending a lot of her spare time here.

Before our afternoon game drive, we are treated to a delectable selection of treats for High Tea – think homemade cake, fudge, savory choices & anything

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you would like to drink. Morné meets us at the game viewer, with tracker Nicholas Sithole at the ready to see what he can find out in the bush.

A huge female elephant is feeding on the greenery, while her tiny baby is trying to mimic her. Bearing witness to this is always both wondrous and humorous, as most elephant calves don’t quite know how to use their trunks yet. Imagine being that size and having an appendage dangling from your face, containing over 40,000 muscles!

The sun has started setting and as we stop for sundowners, the silhouette of a vulture perched in the treetops catches our attention. Usually, where there are vultures, there is bound to be a kill of some sorts. Morné explains there is likely to be a kill when the vultures are either circling the area or a few are roosting in the upper branches of the trees.

Back at the lodge, we decide to have dinner instead of going back to our room to freshen up. Served in the main restaurant with a great ambience, I pick a gorgeous Philippe Starck ghost chair to sit on. The menu is plentiful in choice – for starters, there is caramelized onion soup; crumbed cheese, cranberry, cloud & micros; beef fillet steak tartare with smoked bone marrow, picked quail egg & parmesan. For the main course, choose from Hoisan chicken supreme, basmati, coconut & lemongrass veloute & swiss chard; smoked tomato risotto, basil, Grana Padano for vegetarian option; sole with lemon risotto, brussels, courgette & saffron; braised lamb shank with polenta, charred onions & port jus. Dessert is milk tart with berry compote, Chantilly, vanilla ice cream; deconstructed black forest swiss roll, hazelnut praline, cranberry sorbet & soil or South African cheese board.

After our delicious dinner, we take a leisurely stroll back to our villa, where a cleansing shower awaits with the complimentary Charlotte Rhys Cape Town products. We all retire for the night under the soft white bedding, ensured of a good night’s sleep. Our daughter is so exhausted from the busy day that she completely forgets about her eagerness to indulge in some DVD watching before going to bed; she’s out for the count.

As dawn breaks on another beautiful day in the bush, we see the most precious sight of a waterbuck with her young, basking in the early morning sunlight. On the banks of the dam, impalas are enjoying the water source and further afield, we see a pair of red-billed hornbills warming up their feathers in the sun’s rays.

Morné stops for coffee and freshly baked goodies and on our way back to the lodge, we spot lions lazing about.

Morné drops us off at the entrance to the Karula Spa & Wellness Centre, where we are warmly welcomed

by Lalene van Zyl, assistant spa manager and spa therapists Boiketlo Kgomoeswana and Kulani Mdluli.

This is the perfect place to come for a treatment or to immerse yourself in the spa pool. If you favor to keep fit during your stay, there is a state-of-the-art fitness center, or you can simply ‘sweat it out’ in the steam room.

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

We spend the day at leisure in our opulent surroundings, taking in the sights and sounds of the bush around us. After the most enjoyable meals during our relaxation time – we feast on breakfast, lunch and High tea, we depart for our late afternoon game drive. The usual suspects are out and about, but the sighting that gets us all excited is when Nick finds leopard tracks in the sand, and we eventually find the leopard after nightfall, on the prowl and marking his territory.

Someone once remarked that leopard urine smells like popcorn, and it’s true!

A surprise awaits us back at the lodge – it’s boma dinner night. The chefs have gone all out to prepare the tastiest selection of salads, meat

and desserts. I think I might have overindulged as all I want to do is go back to our villa, where I can lay down on the comfy bed. The walk back alleviates my discomfort and after a restful night, we are eager to find what other animals we might encounter in the 322,000-acre expanse of Kapama Private Game Reserve.  ***Thank you to Nicole Walker from Kapama for arranging our stay and to the Kapama Karula team for their hospitality. Views expressed are the author’s own.

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

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

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

Discover more: www.flyairlink.com Book Direct: https://www.flyairlink.com/ destinations/flights-to-hoedspruit

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

786.760.9133

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VOLCANOES SAFARIS

Paving The Way For primate Conservation | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLACK BEAN PRODUCTIONS, JAMES SUTER, VOLCANOES SAFARIS, SINAMETELLA AND ROBIN FRANCOIS

With a history extending more than twenty years, Volcanoes Safaris has paved the way for ensuring the preservation of primates in their limited natural habitat. We spoke exclusively to Founder & CEO, Praveen Moman about being instrumental in allowing visitors to come face to face with gorillas, chimpanzees and the rare golden monkey, as well as the challenges facing these great apes today.

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PRAVEEN, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. I grew up in the wilds of Uganda, where my family was part of the pioneering Asian community that was central to opening up East Africa. We then moved to the UK as our family became refugees with the Amin expulsion.

This was followed by a career as a political and policy adviser in the European Union and the British Government.

WHEN AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START VOLCANOES SAFARIS? I founded Volcanoes Safaris in 1997, which was at the forefront of reviving gorilla tourism in Uganda and Rwanda. My vision was to design and build four unique lodges near the great ape parks – Virunga, Mount Gahinga, Bwindi and Kyambura, while being sensitive to local culture and aesthetics, the post-conflict context and the need to use resources responsibly. I’m proud to employ local people who have been trained and empowered to run and manage the lodges. Twenty years later, we are still guided by this vision although the basic camps have evolved into the leading lodges of the region.

I ASSUME TREKKING TO THE GORILLAS IS ON EVERYONE’S BUCKET LIST. WHY SHOULD PEOPLE DO THIS AND WHAT RISKS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH THE EXPERIENCE?

Seeing is believing. When you see a gorilla, you see something of yourself. The emotions and connection are inevitably strong. It is magical because you share something of your past together. Gorilla trekking is a raw experience for travelers, who haven’t seen apes outside of captivity. Gorilla permits give you one hour with a group of habituated gorillas, allowing you to intrude in their unique world in a sensitive and controlled way.

In 1960, there was said to be around 300 gorillas in the Virungas. That number has grown to 600, but it still remains a precarious number, as this small habitat for a few families of gorillas are surrounded by cultivated land and dense villages. Overall, between Bwindi and the Virungas there are now just over 1,000 mountain gorillas which are a real success story.

People need to see to believe the need to support the gorillas from the dangers of encroaching villages, poaching and diseases.

GIVE US YOUR BEST SALES PITCH – WHAT MAKES VOLCANOES SAFARIS UNIQUE AS OPPOSED TO OTHER COMPANIES OPERATING IN THE SAME REGION? As the pioneers in great ape tourism with twenty years of operations across Rwanda and Uganda, Volcanoes Safaris is positioned to provide guests a luxury safari experience, in the most authentic and sustainable way to see the famous Virunga Mountain Gorillas. Our safaris provide a special insight into the world of the

mountain gorilla, while our properties give you world-class hospitality and connect you to the conservation of gorillas and to the communities who live around the gorilla parks.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT FROM A GORILLA EXPERIENCE? As part of the reservation process, we help navigate your gorilla trek planning, which includes securing your permits and coordinating the level of physical ability from easy to hard, as some gorilla families require longer treks to reach.

The day of your trek, you will receive an early wake-up call and breakfast, before being transferred to Park Headquarters to meet your group, which is no bigger than eight people.

Your guide and rangers will take you through the lush mountains in search of your designated family. Porters are available for a nominal fee to help carry your bags or assist you during your hike. Taking a porter allows you to focus walk and gets them an income. And the porter is good at giving you a hand up the hill if needed! Once you reach your gorilla family, you are allowed one hour to observe them, and of course, take photos. Each gorilla family has their own personality and are incredible to witness.

I HAVE HEARD IT’S QUITE A COSTLY EXCURSION; WHAT MAKES IT WORTH THE $1,500 FOR A PERMIT IN RWANDA

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FOR 1 HOUR, AND $600 IN UGANDA FOR THE SAME AMOUNT OF TIME? WHAT OTHER COSTS ARE THERE IN ADDITION TO THE PERMIT? In Rwanda, the focus is on high-end tourism. In Uganda, they want to attract a wider spread of travelers. The number of guests is less than 100 per day and that is essential to control access to the gorillas so that they do get overstressed and exposed to human diseases. A proportion of the funds generated by the permits go directly back into the park to protect the gorillas and provide ongoing research to support the population growth. The gorilla experience in the parks in Bwindi in Uganda or the Virungas in Rwanda or Mgahinga is different because of the forests, but equally enriching.

Other costs would be the nominal fee for a porter to assist you with your bags during your trek, as well as tips for the trackers and rangers. Your Volcanoes Guide stays with you for the whole day and takes you back to the lodge.

APART FROM HABITAT LOSS AND POACHING, WHAT OTHER THREATS DO THE GORILLAS FACE? The habitat is tiny, which is a major issue. The presence of high densities of human populations around the forest is another issue as the gorilla-human conflict increases as well as disease transfer. It is essential to control tourism to ensure gorilla health is safeguarded.

THE KYAMBURA GORGE ECO-TOURISM PROJECT SOUNDS VERY EXCITING. The Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism Project has undertaken a series of activities since 2009 to safeguard the Kyambura Gorge ecosystem.

Today, Volcanoes Safaris (VS) and Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT) are the single largest stakeholders in the Gorge ecosystem after the Ugandan Wildlife Authority. Without the intervention of VS and VSPT, the survival of the gorge and the small community of chimps who would live there would be under severe threat.

Through these activities and the strategic assembling of four adjoining sites next to the Gorge over the last ten years, the VSPT helps to link Kyambura Gorge Lodge to the local community and promotes sustainable eco-tourism and conservation in one of the most important areas for avian, primate and wildlife biodiversity in Africa.

Initiatives include purchasing a 3km long buffer along the northern part of the Gorge and providing guests to partake in a three-hour guided walk that offers scenic views over the Gorge, the Park and Kyambura reserve, and the chance to experience the local homesteads.

With the help of the community and of guests, approximately 3,000 indigenous trees have been planted in the Kyambura Buffer area. The project is the first of its kind in the area and is an example of the pioneering work conducted by the VSPT. 62 Upscale Living Magazine | JULY 2019

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PLEASE TELL US MORE ABOUT THE DIFFERENT VOLCANOES SAFARIS LODGES. Volcanoes Safaris is the only African safari company to have built its own exclusive luxury safari lodges near a selection of the gorilla and chimpanzee parks of Uganda and Rwanda. All of our luxury lodges in Africa are carefully built to echo local techniques and design, to fit in with the local area while providing the luxury accommodation that Volcanoes are renowned for.

The unbelievable views, high standards of service and a wide variety of activities available from each safari lodge make Volcanoes Lodges all you could wish for on your African primate safari adventure.

Virunga Lodge: the Luxury Gorilla Experience in Rwanda. The magnifi-cent Virunga Lodge is the premier luxury gorilla lodge of Rwanda and one of Africa’s finest and most renowned lodges. The lodge is perched high on a ridge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the Musanze valley to the west and Lake Bulera and Ruhondo to the east. It offers the finest views in Africa, uniquely decorated rooms in the Rwan-dese style, fantastic food, and exceptional and personalized service by our carefully trained staff. It is the first accommodation choice for the luxury traveler tracking the endangered mountain gorilla.

Mount Gahinga: the Batwa Culture and Hiking Lodge in Uganda.

Nestled at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes, Mount Gahinga Lodge is a stunning luxury adventure lodge hidden in the southern corner of Uganda. Its rustic charm is inspired by traditional design and building techniques. Gahinga Lodge is the perfect base to go gorilla tracking, track the rare golden monkey, climb a volcano, walk through local villages and most of all to share the culture of the Batwa, the oldest inhabit-ants of the Central African rain forest.

Bwindi: the Jungle Gorilla Lodge in Uganda. Overlooking the prime-val Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge is the finest luxury lodge at Bwindi. With dramatic intense views of the forest canopy across a serene stream, it is one of Africa’s unique properties. The gorillas frequently come to relax in the verdant bush around the lodge! The lodge is perfectly located for a Uganda jungle gorilla tracking experience.

The luxury forest lodge in Bwindi, fully renovated in 2018, now features a redesigned guest lounge and dining area that bring the feel of the forest into the stylish interiors.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge: the Contemporary Chimpanzee and Wildlife Lodge in Uganda. This eclectic contemporary safari lodge, fully upgraded during 2018 with entirely remodeled public areas and gardens, has been converted from an old coffee store to create a breathtakingly beauti-ful space. The lodge is located on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park with sweeping views of the rolling savanna, the distant mountains of the moon, and the sunken Kyambura Gorge. The lodge is the ideal location for tracking the lost chimps in the sunken forest of Kyambura Gorge nearby and seeing the amazing game in one of Africa’s most beautiful and varied parks, centered around the waterway of the Kazinga Channel where animals come to bathe. The park has six hundred amaz-ing bird species, the highest in an African park.

VOLCANOES SAFARIS IS RENOWNED FOR THEIR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND ECO-TOURISM. The Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT), established in 2009, is a non-profit organization that connects Volcanoes’ Rwanda and Uganda luxury lodges to the neighboring communities and conservation activities. The VSPT receives funding through Volcanoes Safaris, which contributes $100 from safari bookings, as well as private donations by our guests and others.

great apes, restore natural habitats and work with communities and institutions to reduce human-wildlife conflict. As part of their stay at Volcanoes Lodges, guests get an opportunity to visit VSPT projects and to share the lives of the local communities.

Bwindi Bar, near Bwindi Lodge, a bar which gives training in hospitality to local disadvantaged youths, won the 2016 PURE Community Engagement Award!

Volcanoes Safaris is thrilled to announce that the launch of the Gahinga Batwa Village, a permanent village for one of the oldest surviving indigenous people in the Central African Forest, the Mount Gahinga Batwa Community, took place in May 2018 in Gahinga, Uganda.

The Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism Project was launched in February 2019. VS and VSPT have been working to safeguard the gorge ecosystem for over ten years, and today are the largest single stakeholders in the gorge ecosystem after the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

EXCITING PROJECTS FOR YOU AND VOLCANOES SAFARIS? We’re excited to bring Volcanoes Safaris into a new era of elevated amenities and services on the property, as we have invested in refurbishments across all the properties, which include new deluxe bandas at Gahinga, Kyambura and Bwindi debuting in June 2019.  www.volcanoessafaris.com

The VSPT aims to create long-term, self-sustaining projects that enrich the livelihoods of local communities, promote the conservation of the 63 Upscale Living Magazine |

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CAPE VIEW CLIFTON KLOOF ROAD, CLIFTON

Cape Town, South Africa

By Heléne Ramackers Photographs courtesy of Rare Earth Retreats

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Situated in one of Cape Town’s most sought-after neighborhoods, Cape View, Clifton is seemingly suspended between the dramatic backdrop of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles, and fronted by the coveted golden sand of Clifton’s world-famous 1st,2nd,3rd and 4th beaches.

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An invitation arrives for an overnight stay at Cape View Clifton for us as a family. It’s always a nice change from the suburbs to experience the lifestyle of people populating this coveted corner of the Atlantic Seaboard, where properties sell at a premium.

We arrive after lunch on a Saturday afternoon at the multi-level exclusive boutique beach house. Forming part of the Rare Earth Property portfolio, we are assured of the ultimate in luxury. As we enter the property at street level, walking through to the reception area, we are all awestruck by the breathtaking views of ocean meets blue sky.

With pleasantly warm weather, our daughter decides to try out the crystal-clear pool while my husband and I take in the vistas from the teak pool deck, shaded under large umbrellas.

Before heading out to dinner, we stay a while longer to enjoy the magnificent sunset from the pool deck. For dinner, we decide to dine out at a nearby restaurant, and with the location of Cape View Clifton, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to adjacent activities and attractions.

Our accommodation for the night is suite number 5, an elegantly furnished sea-facing 3-bedroom suite with an outside patio, separate lounge, dining and kitchen area. Floral pillows adorn the white-covered beds, drawing the eye to the soft neutral hues that complement the surrounding garden with palm trees.

After dinner, we return to our lovely suite where a relaxing shower with the Moyo Cape May Synergy is enjoyed before retiring to bed under the silky white linen. The waves crashing in the distance lulls me to sleep and the next morning, mist rolling in over the ocean makes for a theatrical change to the previous day. It quickly burns away, ensuring a crisp clear morning when breakfast is served in the upstairs dining area.

Shielded from the elements and Cape Town’s notorious south-easterly wind in the summer months, Cape View Clifton is relatively windfree. The dining area is strikingly clad in beach house white, with marine accents and comfortable couches in which to laze the day away.

A wide selection for breakfast is beautifully displayed, ranging from cereals, pastries, yoghurt, granola, charcuterie and fruit, to freshly squeezed juices and our favorite – a choice of hot breakfast. My husband and I order our cooked breakfast – wholewheat bread with

scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage, while our daughter tucks into her Sunday morning staple food – croissants!

Lingering on the pool deck, we cannot get enough of the sight and smell of the ocean and Lion’s Head looking like it’s within touching distance. My husband thinks he spots a whale frolicking in the waves, but he’s not sure whether it’s a giant protruding boulder.

On closer inspection - I confirm, after seeing a spout from its blowhole, that three whales are having a wonderful time in the bay. Back home, as I look through my photographs, I see that one even blew a heart!

Whether you’re staying in Cape Town for business or pleasure, Cape View Clifton is the perfect base to stay while exploring the city, or just enjoying the stunning surroundings that this beautiful boutique beach house has to offer. https://www.rareearth.co.za/cape-view-clifton *** Views expressed are the author’s own. Thank you to Gillian Gernetzky from Nicky Arthur PR for arranging our stay and for Cape View Clifton for hosting us.

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| By Jarone Ashkenazi

JAY Z’s D’USSE XO 10-year old cognac

Inspired to create a new blend to represent the Cognac region in southwestern France all while pushing the boundaries of the timehonored spirit, Jay-Z and Château de Cognac, Bacardi’s Cognac arm, began the process of appealing to a diverse demographic. Thanks to the spirit’s revival in popular culture being used in high-class mixed drinks, it has ditched its storied past and is attracting drinkers of the future.

A

s partial owner of D’USSÉ, the mega-mogul heads its global strategy sprouted from his personal affinity for Cognac. What started in 2011 turned into the creation of D’USSÉ XO, a 10-Year-Old Cognac (priced in the $200 plus range), a smooth Cognac that can be enjoyed neat to honor tradition as well as an ingredient for making great cocktails.

Jay-Z met Michel Casavecchia, D’USSÉ’s Maître de Chai (Cellar Master) in 2011 to test samples and these taste tests led to fruitful discussions about the history of the spirit and the development of the nose and palate of the D’USSÉ XO. The rich amber color is first seen before smelling the golden raisin and ripe apples on first smell.

Upon first sip, the ripe fruits of blackberry and apricot are first tasted which are then layered with walnut and dark chocolate giving a balanced finish.

Due to its geographic location near the River Charente, D’USSÉ Cognacs are currently available in VSOP - Very Special Old Pale - and XO Extra Old – expressions with XO being the highest on the official age scale. This means that the Cognac ages at least 10 years at the 200-year-old Château de Cognac.

The striking dark black bottle features a doublebarred cross, Le Croix de Lorraine (The Cross of Lorraine), on the front a symbol harkening back to World War II as the symbol of the Free French Forces. Representing the theme of courage, honor, and perseverance, the bottle invites a whole new younger demographic to experience the fine spirit.  66 Upscale Living Magazine |

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JACK DANIEL’S NO. 27 GOLD TENNESSEE WHISKEY After its initial launched as a travel retailer exclusive item and select markets in Asia, Jack Daniel’s officially introduces Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey to the United States.

A double-barreled and doublemellowed expression of its classic Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, the premium bottle brings a fusion between warm maple and toasted oak to create a rich and refined finish suited for today’s whiskey aficionados.

This product launch emphasizes Jack Daniel’s continuous commitment of making high quality whiskeys fully available to a wider consumer, now available across the United States for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

For more information, visit www.jackdaniels.com

DID YOU KNOW? ...

MALENE ROSÉ Enjoy a glass of Malene Rosé, a versatile wine that can be enjoyed year-round and on special occasions. The brand’s flagship wine, the 2017 Malene Cuvée is a Provencal style wine from Santa Barbara with an exuberant California character. Reminiscent of the fine Roses of Provence, this wine is mouth-filling, crisp, dry and complex, making it well-suited to be enjoyed with a savory French Onion Soup Pizza.

Champagne Bollinger is the preferred champagne of famed secret agent James Bond, and a favorite amongst the Royal Family

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CHAMPAGNE BOLLINGER ROSÉ NV Bollinger Rosé is made in limited quantities so if you get your hands on one of these, you are already ahead of the game. Demonstrating unique blend and red-winemaking skills, it begins as Special Cuvée before allowing Pinot Noir to take center stage. The results is an exceptional rosé that’s more fruit driven than savory. With notes of red apple, cherry, and wild strawberry, it’s a real stunner.

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Spanish Colonial Revival 887 Flintridge Ave in La Canada Flintridge

This absolutely exquisite Spanish Colonial Revival estate located in the heart of Flintridge is listed at $6,195,000 by Rochelle Maize, Executive Director of the luxury estate division at Nourmand & Associates. The 9,300 square foot, 6-bedroom, 7-bath, historic and elegant villa combines Italian and Spanish themes to exemplify the romantic architecture of California in the 20’s. Originally designed by AIA architect Henry Carlton Newton, it was one of the earliest homes constructed in the area, and was featured as the 1989 Pasadena Showcase House.

Approximately 10 minutes from downtown Pasadena and nestle at the base of the Angeles National Forest, this home is situated on nearly two acres of park-like, flat land originally owned by former Senator Frank Putnam Flint, and is located near some of the most popular eateries and shops in LA County.

Recently updated, this elegant estate has maintained its original charm, featuring: - Hidden prohibition-era walls - Two separate basements and a three-car garage - An updated grand master suite, with two walk-in closets, spacious shouwer stall and soaking tub - A modernized kitchen with original Batchelder tiles - A grand living room with its unique and imposing 12-foot fireplace - High ceilings throughout are highlited by multiple floor to ceiling windows and French doors - Limitless patio area for gracious indoor-outdoor entertaining year round; - An elegant, flower-lined pool and picturesque landscaping

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