LUX June 2015

LUX A MONTHLY GLIMPSE INTO THE WORLD OF THE GLAMOROUS

Driving Desire We introduce Jaguar’s new XJ, all-aluminium luxury saloon, which is more desirable than ever!

Shaken Not Stirred Bond’s expensive drinking habits are revealed as Professor James Chapman, Bond expert at the University of Leicester, explains the significance of Bond’s return to vodka martinis in the new film Spectre.

A Wine Lovers Guide to Travel We hear from Diana Cherry, Director of Operations for Oxford Private Travel, a luxury tour operator which provides a personalised concierge style service to its international discerning clientele. She talks us through her very own travel guide, mainly aimed at those of us who love a cheeky glass of wine…… or two!

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Contents Welcome to your June edition of LUX, your glimpse into the world of the glamorous!

This month we hear from Diana Cherry, Director of Operations for Oxford Private Travel. She talks us through her very own travel guide, mainly aimed at those of us who love a cheeky glass of wine…… or two!

We explore the collaboration between Maison Krug and Michelin starred chef, Tom Sellers as they launch their gourmet chip shop, Krug & Chips. Krug is transforming the traditional British favourite, the “chippy”, and elevating it to an unforgettable rough luxury culinary experience for consumers to enjoy in Covent Garden.

We have also explored LateRooms.com’s new survey to find out the facts and figures regarding how many UK employees stay away from home for business trips.

It’s time to relax this month as we celebrate the launch of Bulgari Hotel & Residence’s new urban wellness retreat, offering both hotel guests and day spa visitors the opportunity to slow down, detox and de-stress.

We also study the award-winning jeweller Tresor Paris collection of exquisite diamond and crystal pieces. They have gained a reputation for designing timeless jewellery in both classic and contemporary settings.

Finally we welcome a perfection blend of whisky through the new addition to the Chivas Regal range. They have launched an ultra-prestige Scotch whisky that has been crafted with some of the oldest and rarest whiskies available to Chivas Regal, with a proportion of the blend composed of whiskies from distilleries now lost forever.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

See you next month!

Lyndsey Parry, Editor

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retreats taste

4. Paradise Beach 6.A Wine Lovers Guide to Travel 11. Calling All Tea Lovers 12. A Collaboration Between Two Visionaries 14.The Role of a Dining Expert

explore drive art pampering jewels

17. The Hidden Gem of the Canaries 18. The Perks of the Job

20. Driving Desire

22. Million Dollar Monster Truck 25. Paradise Lost

26. Jiin Kim- Inoue

29. Time for a Treat

33. South Sea- The Ultra- Luxury Pearls 34. Contemporary Craftsmanship

style

36. Timeless Pieces

39. Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Face 40. Best Bar None

tipple

42. Find Your Sole Mate

44. Shaken Not Stirred 46. Blended to Perfection

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Retreats LUX - June 2015 3

lux Paradise Beach Nevis, a sophisticated seven-villa resort, has opened on the Caribbean island of Nevis, providing a chic and discreet beachfront retreat for couples, families and groups of friends. The privately owned property offers the only beachfront villas in Nevis.

Situated on the west coast, just north of Pinney’s Beach, Paradise Beach Nevis commands unrivalled views of Mount Nevis, the Caribbean Sea and the neighbouring island of St Kitts. The secluded resort offers a total of seven deluxe two-, three- and four-bedroom thatched villas, each boasting a pebble-lined plunge pool, outdoor marble shower and a private setting within lush gardens. Designed to maximise comfort and privacy, and to take advantage of the breath taking location, the villas cocoon visitors in a tranquil tropical setting.

Each villa features a Balinese-inspired thatched roof; hand cut exposed beams; 30-feet-high vaulted ceilings; and sliding glass poolside walls. All bedrooms across the resort are ensuite and each villa comes complete with well-equipped gourmet kitchen (ideal for guests’ chefs to prepare dinner or offer lessons in creating local specialities); an elegantly appointed lounge area; and a grilling deck for al fresco dining.

The two- and three- bedroom villas offer a generous 2,900-square feet of living space, whilst the four-bedroom villas boast 3,400-square feet.

The Beach Bar offers a chic and quintessentially Caribbean spot to sip cocktails on a chaise longue or in a hammock; facing westwards, this is one of the finest sunset spots on Nevis. Snorkeling, paddle boarding and other water sports can be enjoyed direct from the beachfront and a range of spa treatments are available in the villas by appointment.

Paradise Beach Nevis is within easy reach of a wide range of restaurants including the renowned Sunshine’s Beach Bar & Grill, and Banana’s, a spot hidden high up in the historic Hamilton Estate. The resort is a 15-minute drive from Nevisian capital Charlestown, which retains much of its colonial-era architecture.

Nevis - at just 36-square miles - boasts unspoiled beaches, verdant forests and an authentic charm that is the envy of the Caribbean. Guests can keep as active as they wish: the Paradise Beach concierge can arrange mountain biking for all abilities, private hikes with an expert local guide,

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Paradise Beach

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Retreats - Paradise Beach

kayaking, deep sea fishing, horse riding, scuba diving and golf.

For day trips to neighbouring islands, consider lunch in St Barts, golf in Anguilla, or shopping in chic St Martin - all easily reached by private plane.

There are direct flights from the UK to St Kitts on British Airways or Virgin Atlantic via Antigua. Alternatively, guests can travel to St Maarten with KLM or Air France from Amsterdam or Paris respectively and connect to St Kitts via Winair. On arrival in St Kitts, the Paradise Beach Nevis concierge meets guests to escort them by private car down to Reggae Beach from where a 10-minute water taxi brings them to Nevis. Guests are then driven straight from the jetty to their private villa.

Key Facts Paradise Beach Nevis is the only beachfront villa resort on Nevis and is privately owned. It soft-opened in early 2015 and features seven two-, three- and four-bedroom thatched roof villas and a beach bar, just north of Pinney’s Beach on the island’s west coast. The resort offers butler and concierge service and in-room spa treatments. Guests can book a private chef to cater for them and a range of water sports can be enjoyed from the property’s beachfront.

One of the most unspoilt and relaxing islands in the Caribbean, Nevis is vividly green with blue skies, clean air and long empty beaches. The island teems with wildlife including charming Green Vervet monkeys, playful goats, and a host of tropical birds.

Nevis is a small island in the Caribbean, approximately 36-square miles. It forms part of the inner arc of the Leeward Islands chain of the West Indies. Founded in 1498 by Christopher Columbus, it is located near the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, 350 km east southeast of Puerto Rico. The island is renowned as the location of Admiral Lord Nelson’s 1787 marriage to Fanny Nisbet.

The island of Nevis has a population of around 12,000 and English is the official language. The currency used is US dollar or the East Caribbean Dollar. The island is five hours behind GMT.

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A Wine Lovers Guide To Travel Those who enjoy the finer things in life will appreciate the story behind a great bottle of wine. Visiting some of the greatest wine regions in the world, there is an abundance to learn about the conditions and influences which have been factored into producing such savoured and valued flavours and each story is different and unique to its region. There are plenty of destinations which are considered a wine lover’s paradise and here are our three top choices which are particularly pleasing to the palate.

Provence, South of France Whilst producing some interesting flavours amongst its collection of red and white wine, Provence is best known for its rose wine. As well as the famous Côtes de Provence and Côteaux d’Aix collections, another world renowned wine to note from the region is Whispering Angel from Caves d’Esclans and certainly one to visit and where private tours can be organised by your private travel consultant. The estate’s tasting room is beautifully designed with original artwork from the region, and carefully thought out layout to best showcase the sheer variety of product available.

Where to stay Only a 20 minute drive from the Whispering Angel vineyards is La Bergerie, a spectacular villa located within the exclusive Golf Resort of Terre Blanche, nestled within 1.4 hectares of beautifully sculpted gardens and typifying the tranquillity of Provence. Recently completed in May 2012, the distinctive real estate is perhaps one of the finest villas in Europe, combining superb elegance with excellent five star service including resident chef, hostesses and dedicated concierge who will cater to all your requirements.

Sleeping 12, the six double bedrooms all have luxury en-suite facilities, and includes heated swimming pool, pool house barbecue, outdoor kitchen, terrace, wine cellar and cinema room. Costs start from €33,200/£23,605 a week and guests can enjoy a host of activities nearby including canyoning, paddle surfing, mountain biking, climbing, sailing as well as take advantage of the facilities available within the world class golf resort and spa.

Tuscany, Italy Home to some of the most notable wine regions including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Tuscany is a delightful region to explore and savour some of the finest flavours in Italy. With wine tastings and tours a plenty, the wonderful aspect of touring this region of Italy is that these full bodied wines are beautifully complemented by rich and flavoursome cuisine throughout the region and there are plenty of highly recommended restaurants to visit.

Italy is the best place in Europe for tour guides who are meticulously trained and knowledgeable in their specific subject areas whether it be the history, the wine or the food from the region. Your private travel consultant can ensure you receive the best experience by recommending and organising a private tour with these excellent English speaking guides. It’s highly recommended that the best time to visit is during the wine harvest in the Autumn (September/October), where the colours of the turning leaves are doused in mellow golden sunlight, and guests are invited to help in the vineyards, or perhaps also enjoy truffle or wild boar hunting during the season.

Where to stay In this region there’s only really one recommendation. Set in the same region as the Val d’Orcia vineyards, Castiglion Del Bosco is the ideal base from which to enjoy all of Tuscany’s charm and unlike any other country estate in Italy - is a destination within itself. This centuries old working wine estate is home to 23 rooms and suites housed in the building of the Borgo, the main farmhouse which boasts an extensively stocked wine cellar even showcasing the vintages of Castiglion del Bosco’s own vineyards.

In addition for those looking for exclusive privacy, nine rustic farmhouses have been converted into luxury three-five bedroom villas, each with their own private swimming pool and ‘coffee-table luxe’ interior design with wood and stone interiors, antiques and bespoke furniture and open fireplaces.

Vineyard tours and tastings are guided by expert staff who are available with advanced booking. As well as formidable wine there are two restaurants you can visit on the estate with their authentic Tuscan and Italian inspired menu or be inspired and book yourselves into their world renowned La Canonica Cookery School.

Housed in the old priest’s house in the heart of the Borgo, enjoy a hands on experience starting from selecting the raw ingredients from the kitchen garden and developing new culinary skills within this small class.

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We hear from Diana Cherry, Direct Travel, a luxury tour operator whic style service to its international d her very own travel guide, mainly glass of wine…… or two!

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Retreats - A Wine Lovers Guide to Travel

tor of Operations for Oxford Private ch provides a personalised concierge discerning clientele. She talks us through aimed at those of us who love a cheeky

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Taste 8 LUX - June 2015

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Taste - Calling All Tea Lovers

Calling All Tea Lovers Welcome to the enchanting world of JADU TEA JADU TEA (jah-doo) www.jadutea.co.uk is an independent Global Luxury Tea Brand based in the UK and dedicated to introduce their unique brand to the exciting world of luxury gifts.

JADU´s premium tea is exclusively sourced and created by the best UK tea blenders and manually packed and placed into its sophisticated navy blue gift box. JADU TEA is now available for purchase via its online store delivering worldwide and will launch in selected department stores in London by Christmas 2015.

JADU TEA celebrates the ancient art of tea drinking and its enchanting and spellbinding world. Sanskrit for “magic”, JADU is exactly what this brand is all about: charm, enchantment, heritage, alchemy and the captivating taste of a particular style of brewing which is sure to impress tea connoisseurs and entice a few new enthusiasts too.

characteristics. The MADEMOISELLE GREY for example is a take on the classic Earl Grey tea using the refreshing Sri Lankan Uva black tea as a base and finished with bright citrus note and aromatic bergamot. Other blends offered by JADU TEA are: Calming Camomile, Woodland Fruit, Darjeeling First Flush, Spa Afternoon (Oolong), White Mango Lime, Rooibos Crème Brûlée and Mint Melange.

How to drink it: Tea lovers are encouraged to drink the JADU TEA respecting 4 main rules in order to experience its full spectrum of flavours.

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Always use filtered water.

Respect the correct water temperature for each tea type/blend.

Respect the specific required time to brew each different type of tea.

Remove the leaves from the water after optimum brewing time to avoid overbrewing.

Fact Sheet Blended and hand packed in the UK. Tea leaves are sourced from India, China and Sri Lanka, herbs and fruits sourced from around the world The JADU tea logo was created by UK graphic designer Lisa Simoes and the symbol represents a tea cup holder and a tea leaf.

The packaging and branding were created by Yulia and Team JADU. The sumptuous Royal Navy Blue Suede Box, embossed in gold was carefully selected in each detail from its colours (blue meaning loyalty, peace and wisdom/gold meaning luxury, quality and prestige) to the methods of cutting, curling and gluing. The packaging and branding embodies JADU’s vision of heritage and celebrates the art of tea drinking.

JADU´s selection of exquisite blends ranges from the traditional English Breakfast to the elegant Mademoiselle Grey and the healthy China Green, priced at £16 for 12 tea envelopes or £19 for 100gr whole leaf tea.

Each tea, flavour or fruit is handled with great care in order to cherish and retain its individual character and fragrance; handpacked into its luxury suede box.

“Our aim is to offer high quality, luxury gift teas that bring a sense of indulgence and satisfaction to every single one of our customers” says the founder, Yulia Zhizhaeva.

Discover more about this magical world of JADU TEA and its inspired method of creation – from the sourcing of its quality tea blends to the meticulous design and packaging created by Yulia.

JADU TEA blends Even the most traditional blends are infused with a unique identity and therefore, renamed accordingly to highlight its

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lux This July, Maison Krug is launching a gourmet chip shop, Krug & Chips, in collaboration with Michelin starred chef Tom Sellers. Following the fantastic success of Krug Kreperie and Krug Krustacean, Krug is transforming the traditional British favourite, the “chippy”, and elevating it to an unforgettable rough luxury culinary experience for consumers to enjoy in Covent Garden.

A temporary Krug “chippy” in the heart of London…

Krug & Chips will open in the East Piazza, Covent Garden from July 8th to July 12th in British chip-shop themed dining pods.

Guests will be offered one of Tom’s chipinspired dishes with the perfect complement of Krug Grande Cuvée, enhancing Krug’s longstanding relationship with artisanal excellence and fine dining.

Krug has always lived up to its reputation as an outstanding Champagne house, the first one and still unique in creating only Prestige Champagne every year since its foundation in 1843.

The story of the House of Krug illustrates the amazing adventure of its founder, Joseph Krug, a visionary non-conformist with an uncompromising philosophy.

Having understood that the true essence of Champagne is pleasure itself, his dream was to offer the very best Champagne every single year, regardless of annual variations in climate. Paying close attention to the vineyard’s character, respecting the individuality of each plot and its wine, as well as building an extensive library of reserve wines from many different years allowed Joseph Krug to fulfill his dream. With a very original approach to Champagne making, he decided to go beyond the notion of vintage to create the fullest expression of Champagne every year. Thus, he founded a House in which all Champagnes are of the same level of distinction, each illustrating a particular expression of Nature.

Since 1843, six generations of the Krug family have perpetuated this dream, enriching the founder’s vision and savoir-faire.

Tom Sellers, born in Nottinghamshire in 1987, left school at the age of 16 and took his first job in a pub kitchen where he fell in love with cooking. Before opening his own restaurant business, Tom worked with notable chefs including Tom Aikens in London, Thomas Keller at three Michelinstarred Per Se in New York and René

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Redzepi at two Michelin-starred Noma in Copenhagen. Aged 26, Tom opened Restaurant Story in Bermondsey in 2013, and within five months the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star. Restaurant Story received a 7/10 rating in the Waitrose Good Food Guide 2015 and ranked in their Top 50 Restaurants list, and was also awarded four rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide 2015.

It also received a #26 rating in The National Restaurant Awards 204 Top 100 List, and also won their ‘Fastest Climber Award’.

In 2014, Tom opened The Lickfold Inn, a gastropub in West Sussex. Tom is currently working on his first cookbook.

Covent Garden is one of the most distinct and vibrant estates in London; unequalled in its mix of shops, restaurants, architecture, entertainment and culture.

The neighbourhood’s new take on luxury mixes premium retailers with one-off craft stalls, street theatre with the Royal Opera House and world-class brands with emerging designers creating a vibrant retail and leisure district.

Tom Sellers, founder of the successful and innovative Restaurant Story, has collaborated with Krug - both extraordinary visionaries who seek craftsmanship and adventure while providing unparalleled quality. Every year Krug chooses a raw and unexpected ingredient to explore and 2015 is the year of the potato, which Tom Sellers creatively brings to life through the offerings of ‘Fish in Chips’, a potato ravioli with fish in tartar sauce, Monkfish cheek curry with matchstick fries and Lobster claw wrapped in potato spaghetti with tartar sauce.

Tom’s approach to food, ‘Narrative Gastronomy’, focuses on telling a story through the dishes he serves, similar to Krug’s dedication to reveal its rich heritage and the unique story of each bottle through the Krug ID, a six-digit code printed on the back label of every bottle of Krug Champagne. Thanks to the Krug App, you can now scan the Krug ID and get direct access to each bottle’s story!

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Taste - A Collaboration Between Two Visionaries

A Collaboration BetweenTwo Visionaries

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The Role of a Dining Expert Making Michelin-starred memories and imparting insider info.

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lux If you’re stumped when it comes to securing that sought-after table at a high-end restaurant or keen to impress your peers with the latest developments in the industry, there’s someone who can help.

Melvyna Mumunie – a dining expert at Ten Lifestyle Concierge – shares London’s best kept secrets, the most extraordinary requests she has handled and her forecasts for the capital’s dining scene.

Can you give us some helpful tips about dining out in London?

Few Londoners know that many upscale establishments offer a bring-your-own bottle service on certain evenings. On Mondays, there’s no corkage at the bar at Corrigan’s Mayfair and you can even drop off your selected vintage earlier in the day to ensure it is perfectly chilled by dinner. The Hawksmoor group also do a BYOB service on Monday evenings, for £5 corkage. Steak is the order of the day here, so a full-bodied red from Argentina like Catena Alta Malbec always goes down well.

Despite the continued hype around Chiltern Firehouse, it seems to have escaped many people that you can turn up and wait for a table on the cobbled courtyard for champagne and oysters. Similarly, reserving one of the 15 tables at Dabbous can be tricky, but you can enjoy the same stripped back, industrial-inspired interior and substantial Modern European snacks at the spacious basement bar. Courtesy of pioneering mixologist Oskar Kinberg, the cocktails are top notch and the Old Fashioned – with birch sap, Four Roses single barrel bourbon and a dash of smokiness from Ardbeg Corryvreckan single malt whisky – is the finest I’ve found in the city.

I regularly eat at the restaurants that our members request and love to tell them about my favourite dishes before they visit. Right now, the Lasooni wild tiger prawns at Gymkhana get my vote, while the original pig’s trotters that inspired a generation of chefs are the musttry at Koffman’s. Any crab dish at Galvin La Chapelle is also a winner for me.

What are the most extraordinary requests you have handled on behalf of your members and were you able to pull it off?

The most extraordinary request we’ve had the privilege of fulfilling for our members was booking out the whole of El Bulli on its very last night of service in 2011. Fans from all over the world were vying to get in, but only our members were able to attend the exclusive farewell dinner with Ferran Adrià and his team at the three-Michelin-starred Catalonian institution.

Our regular London diners tend to be on the ball and they ask us to secure tables at new openings, book tables at their favourite Michelin-starred venues or arrange something extra special for an occasion. The best part is when members feedback what they really liked and often express surprise at the kind of perks we can organise – be it the best window table, a kitchen tour from the chef, a bespoke menu or a complimentary glass of champagne.

My favourite requests are when members have less of a firm idea of where they want to dine and are happy for us to make suggestions based on what they have enjoyed in the past. If people are visiting London for the first time, it’s great to be able to tell them about our top chefs and who’s doing something a bit different.

Through this rapport, it’s rewarding when members come to trust us to book up their time as we see fit – often they will call in with a list of dates and I’ll get down to filling this blank canvas. One member I work with closely asks for a monthly dinner based around a rolling theme which really lets me get creative. For ‘horticulture’, I was confident in recommending Fera where the Michelin-starred cuisine is led by Simon Rogan’s passion for foraging and farming.

Are there any current trends you’ve noticed taking off recently?

Something that really stands out is the willingness of diners – particularly our members – to travel abroad for a single meal at a destination restaurant. We saw this recently in response to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards when the phones were ringing off the hook with requests to dine at the worldwide winners.

We were able to offer our members pre-booked tables at the top three – El Celler de Can Roca, Osteria Francescana and Noma. With his Modena restaurant coming in at number two, it’s no surprise that tables at Italian chef Massimo Bottura’s upcoming pop-up at Sotheby’s also got snapped up immediately.

There’s no doubt that the old-school fine dining favourites are still very much on the map –

Taste - The Role of a Dining Expert

the excitement around the reopening of The Ivy confirms this – but I feel that the attitude towards exclusivity is beginning to change and exceptional cuisine is no longer reserved for the elite.

If you look at recent Michelin-starred successes like Dabbous or any of Jason Atherton’s Russell Sage-designed dining rooms, gone are the white tablecloths and overdone décor; a rustic look and relaxed atmosphere is prevailing instead. Likewise, other desirable eateries like Dishoom are scrapping the reservations process, meaning that the highly rated cuisine is accessible to anyone who is willing to wait their turn.

Building on this, what are your forecasts for the future of London dining?

A trend that I expect to go from strength to strength is the resurgence of the wine bar. A splendid example is Social Wine & Tapas, where every waiter is a trained sommelier. Incidentally, it also embodies the stripped-back aesthetic and open-to-everyone philosophy where you can’t book a table.

Mission Wine Bar + Kitchen in Bethnal Green made a name for itself this spring by hosting the closing party for the second ever London Wine Week. By the same team behind Hackney hangout Sager + Wilde, this larger venue under the railway arches focuses on great wine from boutique Californian vineyards and the dishes from James de Jong have a distinct West Coast vibe.

There’s also been a shift towards organic and boutique wines, often grown in the UK. Nyetimber sparkling wine from West Sussex and Hampshire is a label to look out for, as is the family-run Camel Valley vineyards in Cornwall.

To learn about the wine-making process in the capital, check out the London Cru Urban Winery at a former gin distillery in Earl’s Court.

Continuing on from the summer, which saw Inaki Aizpitarte’s much-anticipated opening of Le Chabanais and multi-Michelin-starred chef Eric Frechon’s stint at the Lanesborough hotel restaurant, I’m hoping French cuisine will continue to thrive in London. On the other hand, young British chefs like Lee Westcott look set to keep championing the nation’s culinary roots – albeit with a contemporary spin. The yeasted cauliflower is one of the standout dishes at the Typing Room which showcases this knack for reinventing home-grown produce with some culinary wizardry.

As well as brand new gastronomic ventures, I’m excited to see existing establishments expand in the coming year. On my list of openings to visit this autumn are Jamie Oliver’s Barbecoa in Piccadilly and the second Bocca di Lupo serving regional Italian specialities in Seven Dials.

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Explore 14 LUX - June 2015

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Explore - The Hidden Gem of the Canaries

The Hidden Gem of the Canaries With year round sunshine, luscious landscapes, scenic views, extraordinary wildlife and mouth-watering gastronomy, La Gomera is the perfect destination for a dreamy summer getaway.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the botanical wonders the island holds, including the Garajonay National Park (named after the legend of two lovers) which boasts one of the oldest and best-preserved forests in Europethe Laurisilva, with rare flora and fauna. The Garajonay is often surrounded by a sea of clouds covering the wet and bearded trees which provide a magical and enchanted atmosphere. Visitors can explore the park and its wide range of facilities, trekking through marked trails whilst enjoying the beauty of nature. The island is ideal for hiking, with 17 protected areas, warm temperatures throughout the year and sensational views over the mountains and coasts. Simply put, it doesn’t take much to experience La Gomera’s ambience and tranquility. During the month of June, the island’s ‘Paradise Trail’ commences and visitors can take part in a strenuous yet exciting hiking experience, while enjoying traditional cuisine tastings, music and sporting activities.

After a long day’s hike a refreshing, rejuvenating swim is always welcome. Playa de Santiago, located in the south of the island, is home to isolated bays and tranquil beaches on the rugged coast. Visitors can take a trip to ‘Splash Gomera’ and enjoy diving, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding activities whilst exploring the underwater marine life, http://www. splashgomera.es. Kayaks can also be rented from the quaint port of Valle Gran Rey, within the harbour town of Vuelta, www.gomeraactiva. com. Explore the pristine beach of ‘Playa de Ingles’ and take a dip in the ocean under the melting sunset for the ultimate relaxation experience.

For lovers of the ocean, the island’s heartwarming whale and dolphin watching is a must see. It has been recorded that twenty one

species of dolphins have been spotted in the costal waters, six of which are regular visitors and swim alongside the touring boats for hours on end. The whales are more timid, however the herd is estimated to consist of three hundred mammals and they can often be spotted by their spout, which produces an impressive fountain of water. Visitors can take a tour out at sea to witness the incredible creatures in their natural habitat, which is of course a wonderful and educational activity for family and friends to enjoy. The diversity of the island’s wildlife is outstanding, home to rare species of birds, insects (particularly butterflies) and exotic reptiles, including the re-introductory breed of the Giant Lizard. This remarkable creature’s sub-fossil remains were discovered in 1985, with further research showing that only six individuals were left roaming the island. At this time, the population has rapidly increased and the breed is now present.

The locals are very proud of their historical heritage and unforgettable events, including the arrival of the great Italian explorer, navigator and colonizer Christopher Columbus. The famous voyager departed on his journey to the ‘New World’ from the island’s capital of San Sebastian in 1942. La Gomera is known by inhabitants as the ‘Isla Columbiana’ as it is said that Columbus fell in love with the beautiful ruler at the time, Beatriz de Bobadillia, which delayed his departure into the unknown. The Canarios are well-known for their talent and desire to ‘fiesta’, the island is home to many festivals throughout the summer season, including the ‘Lustrales’ parties in Vallehermoso where local villagers and tourists alike can join in the celebrations.

For those who wish to indulge in the history, culture and authenticity of the island, the joyous festivals are a highly recommendable experience.

If fun- fuelled, sporting activities are key, La Gomera’s ‘Tecina Golf, International Tournament’ commences this year from the 13th-19th July, with highlights including the return of Pro Golfer Frank Olsen, challenger of Spain. The adrenaline fuelled event will see golfers from all over Europe compete in one of the toughest, most competitive circuits, in hope of securing a place in the European Tour. The course is considered one of the best in Europe as it offers 18 holes overlooking breathtaking coastal views and visitors are welcome to take part in a leisurely game during their stay.

Foodie fanatics will be overwhelmed by the island’s diverse range of delicious, local cuisine, including ‘Almogrote’ an authentic, rich sauce made from cheese, herbs and olive oil, ‘Cazuela’ a herb-heavy fish stew and rabbit ‘rancho’ , for those wishing to experience unusual, hearty flavours. Fantastic restaurants include ‘La Forastera’ in the capital which specialises in mouth-watering Canarian cuisine and ‘Parador de La Gomera’ serving Spanish dishes in a finedining environment.

In a nutshell, the island boasts year round sunshine and warm weather, luscious landscapes protected by breath-taking National Parks, impressive hiking trails with scenic views, spectacular mountainous ranges, delicious local wine and gastronomy as well as extraordinary wildlife species and experiences, to mention a few. Whether you are looking for a relaxing, rejuvenating break surrounded by natural paradise, a weekend away to trial a variety of sports, hikes and walking activities or some family bonding time, exploring the sea-life, local restaurants and culture, an unforgettable experience awaits for all in La Gomera.

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The Perks of theJob 30% Of Uk Employees Stay Away From Home 20 Nights Per Year. We explored LateRooms.com’s new survey to find out further facts and figure on the matter.

Through this they commissioned OnePoll to survey 2,000 businessmen and women in May 2015.

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Four out of every 10 business travellers add extra days onto trips so they can enjoy personal travel without incurring the extra cost, new research has revealed.

trip will stay away from home for 8.8 nights per year, according to our research.

Indeed, 30% of British business travellers stay away even longer – between 10-20 nights per year.

Almost half (46%) of British businessmen and women also admit they try and choose a higher-rated or more expensive hotel when they travel for work than they would on personal trips they pay for themselves, according to the nationwide study by leading hotel bookers LateRooms.com.

Tax rules mean companies claim VAT back on the cost of employees staying in hotels on work trips – something personal travel doesn’t have the advantage of. This means that, for some, the standard of hotel they stay in on a business trip can be much higher than the ones they would choose for personal travel.

One in 10 staff say they couldn’t possibly afford the same class of hotel on personal excursions that their employer funds routinely for work trips, according to the LateRooms.com poll of 2,000 businessmen and women*.

Given that they are staying in a higher standard hotel already, it seems many businessmen and women understandably take advantage and tack some personal travel time onto their work trip – sometimes even inviting their partner to stay and enjoy the extra luxury alongside them.”

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And 22% admit they happily take advantage because someone else is paying. A further 13% say they always choose more expensive hotels while away on work because they have a generous budget.

LateRooms.com is the UK’s leading online accommodation site, offering fantastic deals in over 55,000 properties worldwide, and ranges from bed and breakfasts to five star luxury hotels.

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Some 30% of those in relationships with British businessmen and women ‘hate’ when their partner goes on a work trip, the research reveals.

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Therefore, according to the study, many businessmen and women take their partners on work trips with them.

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Some 6.5% of business travellers admit they always take their partner away on their work trips and 27% regularly take their partner with them whenever their schedules mean they are able.

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LateRooms.com business spokesman, Greg Mannix, said: “The average British businessman or woman travelling on a work 16 LUX - June 2015

It was awarded gold for Best Hotel Booking Company in the British Travel Awards in both 2012 and 2013, taking bronze in the category as well as the Feefo Excellence in Customer Service Award in 2014.

With more than 55,000 global properties available on our iOS and Android app and on our simple and easy to use website, customers can book now and pay later, and receive instant booking confirmation.

LateRooms.com also offers more than 1.4 million trusted guest reviews, written by customers who have booked through LateRooms.com and actually stayed at the hotel.

LateRooms.com is part of TLRG, based in the UK, which operates three brands LateRooms. com, AsiaRooms.com and MalaPronta. com. TLRG is also part of TUI Group, one of the world´s leading leisure travel companies headquartered in the UK and listed on the London Stock Exchange. TUI Travel PLC operates in over 180 countries, serving more than 30 million customers, and employs over 55,000 people.

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Drive

Drive

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Drive - Driving Desire

Driving Desire

The XJ, Jaguar’s all-aluminium luxury saloon, is more desirable than ever.

The new 2016 model XJ has now been revealed. There have been subtle changes made to the exterior design, accentuated by full LED headlights, add to the XJ’s already distinctive looks. Materials such as semianiline leather and inlay veneers enhance an interior already considered the most luxurious in the segment, culminating in the new Autobiography model.

Matching this traditional craftsmanship is state-of-the-art technology, including a new infotainment system. InControl Touch Pro offers features such as door-to-door navigation, Wi-Fi and 1,300W Meridian Digital Reference audio.

The driving experience is better than ever, thanks to a V6 diesel engine which offers more power and torque and less fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and an electric power-assisted steering system that enhances Jaguar’s reputation for unrivalled agility and responsiveness.

“More dynamic and distinctive than ever, we’ve engineered our flagship saloon to deliver even greater levels of luxury and performance.Featuring our new world-class infotainment system, interior materials and finishes which create an even more bespoke feel, and with our higher output, lower emissions diesel engine, the XJ rewards drivers and passengers like no other luxury car.”

Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar XJ

At A Glance • The XJ reaffirms its status as the most dynamic, distinctive luxury saloon.

• New InControl Touch Pro infotainment system offers door-to-door navigation, seamless iOS and Android connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot and 26-speaker, 1,300W Meridian Digital Reference audio system.

• Reconfigurable 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster now offers full-screen navigation display.

• Uprated 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivers 300PS/700Nm and reduces CO2 emissions by more than six per cent.

• Electric power-assisted steering offers even greater feel and responsiveness and reduces fuel consumption.

• All-Surface Progress Control enables smooth, effortless drive-away on lowfriction surfaces such as snow and ice - all the driver has to do is steer.

• Exterior design refresh complete with full LED headlights and unique double ‘J-Blade signature’ daytime running lights.

• Black Pack options for subtly enhanced exterior styling.

• Suite of advanced driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control with queue-assist, reverse traffic detection, closing vehicle sensing, 360° surround camera system and semiautomated bay- and parallel parking.

• New R-Sport and top-of-the-range Autobiography models join the line-up alongside XJ Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio and XJR.

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Million Dollar Monster Truck

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Drive - Million Dollar Monster Truck

Big Toyz Racing Motors, the premier custom fabricator of the world’s longest monster truck and luxury 4x4 vehicles, have announced that the Sin City Hustler the world’s first and only million dollar monster truck is now being made available to the public. This one-of-one Ford Excursion monster truck features top of the line parts and was hand-built from the ground up by BTR’s racing team.

“We spared no expense when it came to building the Sin City Hustler,” said Brad Campbell, Owner of Big Toyz Racing Motors.

“From its custom 521 cubic inch big block motor and hand built chassis, to its killer design with hundreds of one-off billet parts and show quality paint, this one-of-a-kind monster truck is nothing short of spectacular.”

An engineering feat, the million dollar monster truck was built by hand; it measures approximately 12 feet tall, 32 feet in length and weighs in at 15,000 pounds. This 4-wheel drive behemoth has a custom parts list a mile long and features a Ford big block motor capable of pushing out over 700 horsepower.

In addition to the Excursion’s massive performance numbers, this tricked out truck features a fully custom built race spec DOM tube chassis and custom suspension that makes it virtually unbreakable and up for the challenge on any terrain.

“The Sin City Hustler is a great example of our team’s craftsmanship and dedication to perfection,” said Jennifer Campbell, Co-owner of Big Toyz Racing Motors. Since we first unveiled this mammoth monster truck, people have been asking us how they could purchase one. While we are sad to see it leave, it’s time to give someone else the opportunity to enjoy it. Whether you choose to take it to the dunes, impress your friends, market your company, or use it as a lucrative business, this truck will make a statement wherever you go.”

v

Only the highest quality materials were used on the truck’s build. Each piece was measured and re-measured, to ensure exactness and overall reliability. What started out as a mechanical build, became art and eventually turned into a one of a kind vehicle.

In addition to all of its custom parts, the Sin City Hustler offers a reliable and virtually maintenance free platform. In most cases, the engine can be swapped within hours, the transmission can be pulled within 30 minutes and additional parts such as transfer case gears can be replaced in a matter of minutes.

What this means, is this custom truck was built to be extremely reliable with little to no maintenance and an easy, simple solution whenever a problem occurs.

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Art 22 LUX - June 2015

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Art - Paradise Lost

Paradise Lost Simone Krok presents her latest exhibition, Paradise Lost at Waterloo’s Gallery 223.

Simone Krok is an artist who, for the past decade, has been crafting visually striking and thoughtprovoking works that explore deep questions relating to the human condition and the nature of creation.

Named after John Milton’s seventeenth century epic poem, the exhibition is set to feature a number of Krok’s intricate and elaborate sculptures as well as two multimedia pieces. The exhibition like much of Krok’s past work is inspired by ancient religious traditions. Paradise Lost will focus on the dichotomy between human innocence and human violence.

Themes that Krok addresses include creation, the fall of man, the loss of human innocence and the precarious nature of human free will.

In keeping with these themes, much of the aesthetic vocabulary of the sculptures exhibited in Paradise Lost is evocative of the imagery and symbolism associated with ancient Old Testament traditions. In particular, the pieces in the exhibition are specifically influenced by Kabbalah, an ancient form of mysticism originating in Judaism.

Simone Krok has said of the exhibition: “I want to use this exhibition to explore many of the questions that stem from the idea of the ‘Fall of Man’ and what these mean in the 21st Century. In particular, one of my aims is to ask how we, the human race, lose the innocence we were born with as children and why it is that we so frequently use our freedom of choice to enter into the destructive path of greed, power, violence and manmade suffering that is all too common in our modern world.”

Profile Simone Krok is an artist who, for the past decade, has been crafting visually striking and thoughtprovoking works that explore deep questions relating to the human condition and the nature of creation.

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1968, Simone has possessed a lifelong passion for the arts and creativity. She was awarded her BA degree in Classical Civilisation from Wits University in South Africa and later studied animation and digital media at Camera Obscura in Tel Aviv. She went on to achieve her diploma in Jewellery Engineering Technology from Box Hill Institute where she began creating extensive sculptures, for which she was awarded the institute’s design and acquisition awards for the year 2008. In 2010, Simone also attained a Master of Fine Arts degree at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia.

which bench one sat on in the park, or through which entrance one could walk at the post office.

Likewise, Simone travelled to Eastern Europe to visit sites of concentration camps. The horrors of the gas chambers and the smells of the past filled her with the desire to understand the reasons why people would develop the urge to murder and oppress their fellow human beings and she explores these questions in her art.

Simone Krok’s work has taken her across the world.

In 1999, she was commissioned by HBO and Pelon Films to produce two series of stone engravings.

In the same year she also opened an art studio in Florentin, Tel Aviv. In 2009, her work was displayed at RMIT University, as part of their annual Gold and Silversmithing Postgraduate and Alumni Award Exhibition. More recently, Simone exhibited her work at Scope’s Sculpture Exhibition, a charity exhibition held for the disabled charity Scope, at London’s OXO Tower Wharf. Ever striving to improve, Simone is currently under the mentorship of leading international sculptor, Jill Berelowitz.

Having grown up Jewish in Apartheid-era South Africa, much of Simone’s work is influenced by the horrors of both the Holocaust and the Apartheid. Growing up in South Africa, she witnessed injustices that did not resonate with an innocent child’s truth. It made no sense to her that the colour of a person’s skin could determine

The exhibition is set to feature many of Krok’s most exciting and thought-provoking work yet, including Crouching Creatures, a series of three bronze sculptures based around the theme of creation, which explores the biblical fall of man, and the resultant potential for both good and evil born from freedom of choice. Another of the exhibition’s centrepieces is Ein Sof Ring/The Light of Infinity, a 125cm high bronze ring etched upon which are the 10 aspects of Sepirot, the Kabbalic concept for the ten aspects of creation.

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lux Finchatton is a luxury company that creates bespoke interior designs for property, jets and yachts worldwide. With a portfolio of 60 global developments and over 75 private commissions, Finchatton properties range from The Connaught Penthouse Apartments in Mayfair, to luxury homes in the Bahamas and St Tropez.

Finchatton creates intricate, bespoke interiors that reflect, in every respect, its quest for the exceptional and which complement the luxury lifestyles of its clients. As Design Director of Finchatton, Jiin Kim-Inoue personally oversees all aspects of the design of each Finchatton property, from the initial concept right down to the last aesthetic detail.

The Finchatton design team travel across the world to source the best materials and Design Director Jiin Kim-Inoue’s attention to detail is second to none, extensive research is carried out to create bespoke designs for each client. Jiin is an incredibly interesting character; her expertise of the business and passion of luxurious materials and design is fascinating.

Jiin Kim-Inoue began her career after graduating with a first class honours degree in Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, working in Canada and Japan as a pharmacist before pursuing her true passion in Interior Design. Jiin went on to gain a Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction in Architectural Interior Design at the Inchbald School of Design in London and interned at Klein Dytham Architecture in Tokyo.

Jiin has now worked at Finchatton for over eight years, creating interiors spanning the spectrum from private historical houses to multi-unit new build developments, aviation and superyachts. Jiin’s style is best described as international and versatile, based on her passion for spatial planning and the belief that a good layout forms the ‘backbone’ of a home – without it, the property “won’t work”.

Jiin was first inspired to become a designer through an appreciation of the eloquence and timeless style of Japanese garden designs, a characteristic which is often reflected in her work. Nowadays, Jiin draws inspiration from all aspects of her life. In one instance, the cut and brilliance of a Cartier ring inspired Jiin’s design of a diamond-shaped mirror wall. Other pieces have been inspired by Jiin’s own jewellery; an earring inspired the design of a bespoke Art Deco style chandelier and a ring inspired the design of two unique doorknobs made of pink onyx set in gold.

Jiin and her team of designers travel the world to source the most premium and unique materials for Finchatton designs. A house in Los Angeles featured white gold tiles and hand-carved Brazilian crystal. Jiin also likes to use salmon skin in her designs and one of Jiin’s favourite materials is sustainably-sourced stingray skin; the beautifully intricate skin is incorporated into various furniture pieces. Jiin devoted time to learn the art of traditional furniture making at Central St Martins.

Jiin and the team invest time and effort to ensure each design responds exactly to a client’s brief and in the pursuit of exceptional design. In one property, Jiin worked with a team of artists to create a 10-metre tree of life design into a suede-covered wall, which involved intricate carving and cutting over a period of five months.

Jiin takes the time to get to know her clients and their needs; each design is incredibly personal. In one instance, Jiin designed a property with a glass elevator, surrounded by a green wall of plants to give the effect of being outside, because her client suffered from claustrophobia.

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Art - Jim Kim-Inoue

Jiin Kim-Inoue

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Pampering - Time for a Treat

Time For A Treat Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London, has launched a new urban wellness retreat offering both hotel guests and day spa visitors the opportunity to slow down, detox and de-stress.

Arranged over two levels of the Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London and measuring an impressive 2000m², the Bulgari Spa is one of the largest and most exclusive urban retreats in the city centre. Complete with 11 individual treatment rooms, private spa suite for two, 25m swimming pool lined with shimmering green and gold mosaic tiles and gold leaf tiled vitality pool; the spa inspires complete relaxation and escapism from the busy world of Knightsbridge.

As well as boasting state of the art facilities, the spa offers hotel guests unique and effective treatments designed exclusively for Bulgari.

Today part of the LVMH Group, Bulgari was founded in Rome in 1884 as a single jewellery shop and progressively imposed itself with its magnificent jewellery creations, emblems of the Italian excellence. The international success made the Company evolve into the current dimension of a global and

diversified player in the luxury market, with a store network in the most exclusive shopping areas worldwide and a portfolio of product and services ranging from jewels and watches to accessories, perfumes and hotels.

At the start of the programme guests will meet with an instructor from Workshop – the premier destination for health and fitness in London - and undergo the gym’s exclusive Framework assessment. This will provide clients with a goal-orientated, personal guidebook that will lay out specific targets to achieve optimal health and a more refined body.

From there, a tailored programme is created incorporating: • Daily personal training sessions with Workshop’s team of Performance, Yoga, Swimming, Boxing and Pilates specialists

• Morning fitness, yoga or meditation classes held in the Spa’s Relaxation Room • A healthy eating plan based on individual needs. This will include Workshop approved dishes from Rivea, the award winning restaurant under the guidance of Alain Ducasse.

• The spa’s signature treatments will also be utilized, including calming treatments like the Jax Coco Body Experience and the Thai Escape Full Body Signature Treatment.

For those opting to stay in-house for the duration of the retreat, the Workshop team will curate a mini bar filled with daily juices and healthy snacks, while the spa team will put together a Bulgari wash bag filled with some of the most exclusive beauty products from around the world.

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lux David Peters is our award winning Eastern medicine specialist and treats exclusively from the Bulgari Spa. His work with the stars of film, TV and fashion means he understands the importance of looking your best. He has a first class honours Acupuncture degree, scientifically researching facial Acupuncture and its effect on skin. That was combined with expert tutelage from some of the best practitioners in the UK, US &. China. His facial treatments combine acupuncture, facial cupping, invigorating Tui Na massage and the finest organic essential oils to combat the signs of skin ageing and stress and leave y6ou looking and feeling radiant.

Marie Reynolds is a celebrated skincare expert in the UK. Her approach to client consultation and skin analysis is unique and has led to Marie building a reputation as a Progressive Skincare and Noetic expert who deals not only with the visual and physical causes of skin problems, but also the mental thought patterns that have a direct effect on how our skin and body acts and behaves. It is through her in depth study of Noetic Science that makes Marie Reynolds stand out from the crowd. Having worked in the professional Beauty and Holistic industry for over 25 years, both as a therapist and behind the scenes working with skincare brands and creating her own brands has given Marie the edge when it comes to creating new treatment techniques and training which are delivered via MARSTE Academy of which she is a co-founder. Marie has studied in Beauty Therapy, Homeopathy, Genetics, Counselling, Aromatherapy, Oriental Diagnosis and Teaching. She has lectured worldwide in Skin Care Treatments, Nutrition and Advanced Consulting. It is her experience in Progressive Skin Therapy and Advanced Holistic wellbeing that has garnered much attention from Beauty Editors and Celebrities around the UK and beyond.

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Pampering - Time for a Treat

Andrew Wallas aka The Modern Day Wizard works with individuals and business organisations to identify blocks which inhibit the natural flow of opportunity and prosperity. What makes Andrew powerful is the combination of a searing intellect with deep intuition. His consummate skill in identifying dysfunctional patterns results from his ability to effortlessly straddle two worlds, exhibiting a profound understanding of one’s inner and outer life.

He has been successful in an outer world sense – creating significant wealth in business – and for the last twenty years has honed his skills as a Modern Day Wizard, training in bodywork, psychotherapy, psychology, spirituality, psychodrama, gestalt, constellation and breath work. The Wizard’s inspirational and life-changing work embodies the notion that joy is readily available now. Where his essence and personality meet, he shows us through his own open-heartedness and implicit understanding of our universal struggles, how to lead a graceful and loving life. He’s an inspirational character with a fearless individuality who underlines the folly of constructing a false self and shows us how to best be and accept our true authentic self.

The Modern Day Wizard creates openings and the possibility of change akin to the casting of spells – it is literally creating alchemy.

Susannah completed her undergraduate and clinical training at The University of Westminster.

She uses her First Class Honours Degree and Diplomas to practice functional osteopathy to treat back, neck pain and sport’s injuries.

10 years’ experience in the complementary healthcare industry, teaching and prescribing applied nutritional therapy, has seen Susannah launch “The Body Youth Code” – Naturopathic nutrition for ageing well. You will receive your tailored Naturopathic Portfolio at your follow-up Naturopathy appointment with Susannah for your weight loss; dermatological care; hair health; chronic fatigue or tiredness.

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Jewels 30 LUX - June 2015

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Jewels - South Sea, the Ultra-Luxury Pearls

South Sea – The Ultra-Luxury Pearls South Sea pearls: the rarest and most precious of all cultured pearls. Commonly referred to as “The Rolls-Royce” of pearls due to their prominent stature, sheer lustre and mesmerising hues.

As their name suggests, South Sea pearls originate beneath the saltwater South Seas located between the Northern coasts of Australia and the Southern coasts of China. Founded primarily in Indonesia, Myanmar, Australia and the Philippines. These extraordinary pearls are created by large pearl producing oysters known as Pinctada Maxima, which are distinctive due to their exceptionally grand shells.

The sheer magnitude of the Pinctada Maxima oyster facilitates an environment in which the pearl can develop and reach its full sizeable potential. Thus, the stature of a South Sea pearl can range anywhere between 9mm-20mm. However, most average at an impressive size of 13mm in contrast to their cultured counterparts whom average at a modest 7mm.

An unexpected fusion between a nucleus and a pearl producing oyster is the initial step of a pearl’s precious birth as this natural reaction provokes the pearl’s production process, obliging the oyster to protect itself by secreting a defensive layer of nacre around the intruding nucleus.

In comparison to various cultured pearls, the South Sea pearl requires a more extensive formation process due to its opulence in size, stature and ability to be impregnated by a much larger nucleus. The nucleus is mainly composed of a mother-of-pearl bead that has been cut, polished and rounded.

overtones in pink, blue or green. The colours of South Sea pearls are completely natural.

South Sea pearls are regarded as ‘Power Pearls’ due to their opulence, prominence in size and brilliance in lustre and can be seen adorning the necks, ears and hands of actresses, politicians and aristocrats in varying age-groups worldwide. Public figure: Oprah Winfrey and Politician: Christine Lagarde, are women known not only for their success but for their admiration in regards to the appeal and statement of South Sea pearls.

South Sea pearls possess distinct characteristics that are exclusive to their culture of gem and are a worthy investment for any woman who, like the pearls themselves, wants to express distinction. Nature takes time to nurture and craft excellence, exquisiteness and elegance to create these awe-inspiring pearls that are quite simply outstanding.

The formation of a South Sea pearl is a delicate and lengthy process of chance, in which the pearl’s survival is ultimately determined in regards to the compatibility between the oyster and nucleus. A nucleus is delicately implanted in the oyster for an initial gestation period of 3-4 months; if compatible the oyster is cautiously returned to the South Sea to cultivate for a further 2-3 years. During this period the lustrous nacre is gradually developed around the nucleus to form a pearl. The nacre of a South Sea pearl is unusually thick, measuring at a tremendous 2-6 mm creating an exceptional luxurious luminosity in contrast to the Akoya pearl nacre which consistently measures between 0.35-0.7mm.

Specialist divers are then appointed to descend up to an astonishing 80 metres beneath the South Seas in order to retrieve the expectant oysters. These exquisite pearls are then skilfully extracted from each individual oyster, exposing an array of gemstones unique in size, shape and colour. The pearls also encompass an extensive colour spectrum, ranging from white; silver; cream, yellow and deep gold with enchanting

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lux Struthers London and the Morgan Motor Company are proud to present their new Aero 8 watch at the Kensington based Morgan dealership, London Morgan. The new watch signals an extension to the collaboration between the two companies and is the second Morgan limited edition piece to be crafted by the British watchmakers. The Struthers for Morgan II has been created as a homage to the new Morgan Aero 8 and is exclusively available in 18ct white gold and limited to eight pieces worldwide.

The perfect combination of stunning watches and the finest automobiles was only enhanced by the beautiful evening sunshine that engulfed the Astwood Mews base of London Morgan. With the full Morgan model range on display, visitors were also treated to a private viewing of the new Aero 8, the car that the new watch draws inspiration from.

Drinks were kindly provided by The Balvenie and their Ambassador James Buntin who worked tirelessly all night to ensure guests remained refreshed with the finest Scottish Whisky.

Just like every Morgan car, each watch is hand-built to order using a combination of state of the art technology and traditional craftsmanship methods. Similar to the existing Officer’s and Field Trench for Morgan models, the new SfMII will house a recomissioned vintage Omega base calibre, with customisations now including wandering seconds and a greater of choice for customised hand-finishing.

The solid 18ct white gold case features hand-engraved Morgan wings and limited edition serial numbers discreetly located within an outer hinged back, which swings open to reveal the movement hidden beneath a sapphire crystal inner case back.

The dials are hand-turned from 18ct white gold by the Struthers in-house.

“What an enjoyable evening of whisky, watches and cars. It was great to be involved in some fascinating discussions with customers, designers, media and makers that are all united by a shared passion for fine English craftsmanship. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the new Aero 8 watch, a watch designed to reflect the form and philosophies shared with the new car. The whole evening was under a perfect backdrop, thank you to London Morgan for their hospitality.”

Jon Wells, Morgan Head of Design.

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Crafted Collabora Contemporary Craftsmanship

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Jewels - Contemporary Craftsmanship

ation

Inspired by the design of the new Morgan Aero 8, the launch of the Aero 8 watch highlights the popular demand for traditional craft used for a contemporary purpose and has marked a special moment in the revival of British craftsmanship.

Notably, all three brands are masters of traditional British craft in their own field….

• Struthers London, by applying abilities acquired from years spent as vintage and antique watch restorers with their training in jewellery and design, re-commissions high-grade antique and vintage watch movements recycled from the past.

• Morgan Motor Company is the last car manufacturer to hand-build their cars using a wooden ash frame carriage • The Balvenie Whiskey Company still grow their own barley and keep faith with a traditional malting floor, the last of its kind in the Scottish Highlands.

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Timeless Pieces Defined by luxury and elegance, awardwinning jeweller Tresor Paris offers a vast collection of exquisite diamond and crystal pieces. They have gained a reputation for designing timeless jewellery in both classic and contemporary settings. Boasting expertise from decades working in the jewellery business, Tresor Paris ensures that fine quality is at the heart of every piece in every collection with materials including shimmering diamonds, colourful precious stones, 18 carat gold plated sterling silver & stainless steel, pretty pearls and of course the iconic glittering Tresor Paris crystals.

Every handcrafted item is laboured over with great care, from delicate bracelets to chunky bangles, from crystal adorned earrings to statement necklaces; every item in the crystal collection from Tresor Paris is truly special.

With a wide range of jewellery to choose from, Tresor Paris crafts collections that are versatile and easy to wear. Tresor Paris has collaborated with designers including PPQ, Corrie Nielsen and Fyodor Golan to design bespoke pieces for their LFW “London Fashion week” shows and also creates bespoke show-stopping pieces such as 1920’s inspired a Gloriole shoulder piece which has also featured on the catwalks Multi-award winning jeweller, Tresor Paris has launched their new diamond store in the heart of Hatton Garden to showcase the beautiful range.

The Tresor Paris store offers a vast collection of exquisite diamond pieces for those wanting to purchase pieces for a loved one or a special present for themselves. Customers can choose from classic engagement rings, stunning set diamond pieces in a mid-range price bracket and spectacular one-off large diamonds commanding sky-high prices from thousands to millions.

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As potential customers look through the windows they’re greeted by the 7 collection; a group of incredible and impressive one-off large diamonds and stones housed in the 7 pods in the front window, corresponding to their flagship address – 7 Greville Street.

Each of these has been meticulously laboured into superb creations. This is a collection like no other. It defines excellence.

Once inside the 240 collection and 12 range glitters pleasingly from behind their glass cabinets. The sweetheart collection of engagement rings start at reasonable prices for young couples with stunning solitaires with a single diamond and trilogy rings with three equal size diamonds going up to a couple of thousand pounds.

The 12 selection of classic jewellery is slightly more luxurious, made up of pieces which are worn to special occasions in the thousand pound price bracket. Pieces include a yellow gold tennis bracelet with the diamonds embedded along the chain for definitive elegance. Perfectly paired with the matching yellow gold, diamond stud earrings.

Director Salim Hasbani comments, “We’re delighted to have opened our first store in a location that has been so special to us for many years. As diamonds are the basis of the Hasbani family heritage we’re very excited to draw upon these decades of knowledge and share our expertise with visitors to Hatton Garden. Despite recent troubles that have occurred in the area we’re determined to look ahead to the future and this store marks a new beginning for us as well as our neighbouring shops. We hope that people around the world enjoy wearing these pieces as much as we have taken delight in creating this special collection of jewellery.”

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Jewels - Timeless Pieces

Tresor Paris Club 7 Necklace and chain Hand crafted in 18ct White Gold with a natural Blue Topaz weighing over 225 Carats this mega stone is set with eight claws on crown shaped mount on filigree gallery with a matching large saddle to hold the chain. The mount and saddle are encrusted with 3.00 Carat natural Round Brilliant Cut diamonds.

Price: A little under £50,000.00

A Tresor Paris Club 7 unique Natural Fancy Vivid Yellow ring, this is a Cut-Cornered Rectangular Stepped stone weighing just under 2.25 Carat with an independent GIA Certificate exquisitely set in 18ct gold mount surrounded by a high colour natural white round brilliant cut diamonds and flaked by the same.

Price: A little under £160,000.00

Emerald Set A one off set of hand crafted Tresor Paris Emerald and Diamond Necklace and Earrings with over 17 Carats of high colour natural white diamond and over 127 Carat Cabochon deep green Emeralds Price: Just under £400,000.00

Captivating over 7ct within this natural green emerald ring, set in 18ct white gold surrounded by more than 0.8ct round brilliant cut diamonds.

Price: Just under £70,000

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Style 36 LUX - June 2015

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Jewels - Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Face

Finding The Perfect Fit For Your Face Finding sunglasses that are the perfect fit for your face shape can be a challenge.

This season, help is at hand from luxury eyewear brand Silhouette.

If you struggle to find the perfect sunglasses to suit your face shape then look no further. Premium eyewear brand, Silhouette are here to help by suggesting the right sunglasses for you depending on your face shape. Whether you have an oval, oblong, heart, triangle, round or square face, Silhouette will find a frame for you!

Both men and women can enjoy a range of sunglasses from Silhouette, all frames include UV protection above any required standards. Silhouette’s light weight frames will ensure no pressure marks are left once removed and feel invisable on the face. Silhouette’s collection of SUN 2015 eyewear builds on the brand’s reputation for innovative design, attention to detail and minimalist eyewear.

Silhouette’s design experts have all the tips and tricks for finding the right sunglasses to suit your face!

Oval or Oblong If you have an oval shaped face, try to stay away from very small round frames, as they make the face appear longer. Almost any other shape of frame will compliment this face shape.

Heart or Triangle For a Heart shaped or Triangle shaped face, frames that will suit you best are round or oval glasses. These will balance out a narrower chin.

Round For a Round shaped face, angular styles will suit you best.An opposite frame shape to even out the face.

Square Round or oval shaped frames will suit a square shaped face best. These will help to soften the jaw line creating balance.

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Best Bar None

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Once associated with the 70s, home bars are now making a big comeback. Halstock have recently been commissioned to create bars in some of London’s most exclusive homes and have come up with some key tips on how to create the perfect bar – whether you want something grand, fun, discreet or flamboyant.

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lux Halstock creates unique pieces of furniture which combine the highest levels of luxury, utility and comfort. Its team of 50 includes designers, cabinet makers, veneerers, finishers and fitters, who are all experts in their field and passionate about craftsmanship.

Having listened intently to a client’s brief, the creative process begins. However intricate a design may be, Halstock provides a choice on everything from the exact colour of the materials being used right down to the joints and hinges.

A trip to Halstock, in beautiful countryside near the border of Dorset and Somerset, quickly reveals that impeccable craftsmanship is matched by meticulous planning, total transparency and a level of communication which leaves nothing to chance.

Every piece of built-in furniture is minutely checked against 3D graphics to ensure that it will fit like a glove, however uneven the walls or floors may be.

Halstock works with leading architects, interior designers and project managers. To offer the greatest possible expertise on everything from wine cellars to gun rooms, it has developed alliances with a range of companies, including Berry Bros. & Rudd and Holland & Holland.

A culture of excellence is driven by pride and passion. Craftsmanship is at the heart of everything that Halstock does.

• Design A bar is a great way to express yourself. It can be designed to fit almost invisibly into a room or it can make a real statement.

Halstock can create a bar using wood which will discreetly match existing panelling, or they can even create a bar which reflects a particular hobby, a favourite era or a theme, such as the Wild West! Its craftsmen can create anything from a design with tailor-made space for dozens of sporting trophies or a bar featuring an enormous TV or built-in aquarium. They are also happy to use just about any material you can think of, from carbon fibre to mother-of-pearl.

• Practicalities While you may want a bar made from wood, to avoid long-term damage it makes sense to have any surfaces which are likely to get wet repeatedly made from some other material.

Halstock can create bars with stainless steel, glass, aluminium or mirrored tops set into wood, so it is possible to have the best of both worlds.

• Tools You only need six basic tools, which include, a good cocktail shaker, a mixing glass or smallish jug, a long-handled stirring spoon with a bit of weight to it, a strainer to get rid of seeds and pulp, a ‘jigger’ with a oneounce measure on one side and a two-ounce measure the other and, finally, a paring knife for cutting strips of peel, for example. A good corkscrew and bottle opener and cloths to clean up any spills are also essential.

Style - Best Bar None

white wine, Champagne and a good range of mixers.

• Cocktails The world’s favourite cocktails include a Cosmopolitan, a Margarita, a Mojito, a Caipirinha, a Mai Tai, a Negroni, a Martini and a Mint Julep. Harry Craddock, the legendary bartender claimed that his Leap Year Martini led to more proposals than any other cocktail. Here is the recipe: 2 shots of London dry gin, ½ shot each of Grand Marnier, Martini Rosso and ¼ shot of freshly squeezed lemon juice shaken with ice, finely strained into a chilled Martini glass and served with a twist of lemon zest.

• Enjoyment Using as well as creating a bar should be enjoyable. Halstock will come up with ideas on everything from the overall design right down to tiny details, such as incorporating a motto into marquetry or faithfully replicating the moulded edge of a client’s favourite bar.

To get the best out of a bar it pays to perfect a few ‘signature drinks’ – Diffordsguide Cocktails and Harry Craddock’s Savoy Cocktail Book (from 1930) are two of the best books to get you started. You also need to make sure you have got enough help. Making cocktails can be pretty demanding – and even if you have pre-prepared some in advance you should still work on the principle of one bartender for every 25-30 guests.

Key Facts

How to create the perfect bar for your home • Planning and space The size of a bar should be determined by the number of guests you regularly entertain, not the available space. For everyday entertaining a large cupboard or cocktail cabinet can be converted into a practical bar but if you regularly throw parties for 20 people or more and need room for two people to be making drinks, you will need a bar which is around 2m in length. Think about wiring, lighting, ventilation and plumbing early on.

• Wet or dry?

You can incorporate a ‘dry’ bar (without a sink) just about anywhere, but having a ‘wet’ bar, with a built-in sink (and preferably an ice maker), makes life much easier. It helps to keep a bar clean and a dishwasher means that no one has to ferry glasses backwards and forwards to the kitchen. The sink does not to be huge and should ideally be seamlessly incorporated into a stainless steel work surface, both of which can be kept largely out of sight.

• Glasses Unless you always serve particular drinks, it makes sense to collect a whole array of glasses from short glasses to coupes and a variety of tumblers. Don’t worry if they don’t match, it will draw attention to the fact that every drink is unique, but do make sure you have enough of each type.

• Drinks A couple of vodkas, gins, whiskies, a bourbon and some vermouth as well as a light and a dark rum, should be more than enough for most bars, but you may want to add a bottle of Cointreau or Grand Marnier and some Triple Sec or (if blue cocktails appeal) Curacao. If guests may ask for cocktails, have a few ready prepared fruit purees (and some fresh lemons, limes and oranges as well as some strawberries, raspberries and fresh mint) in the fridge, along with a good range of mixers. Unless regularly serving beer to more than 40 or 50 people at a time, when it makes sense to have it on tap, individual bottles are easiest. Halstock can easily install and conceal built-in fridges for

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Halstock creates bespoke kitchens, wine cellars, gun rooms, libraries and other interiors for people who demand the highest standards.

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Founded in 1994, Halstock takes its name from the village where it is based near the border of Dorset and Somerset.

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Managing Director, Richard Miller, bought a majority stake in Halstock in 2005. The company has grown significantly since then and it now employs a team of 50.

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Halstock’s passion for craftsmanship is matched by its skill at project management and communication.

Every stage of a project is meticulously planned and costed with total transparency – helping to ensure that projects are delivered on time and on budget.

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Find YourSole Mate Ava Heels £375

Asha £375

Ada Blue £420

Chelsea Paris is an exciting contradiction; a young luxury footwear label launched in 2011. The brand strikes an elegant balance of feminine modernity and tradition. Heritage and quality are trademarks of the Chelsea Paris brand; the collections are designed by founder Theresa Ebagua in the London studio and expertly handcrafted using traditional methods in Italy. The Chelsea Paris story is inspired

by African culture and the Deco era of the 1920s.

The result is beautiful shoes that tread an effortless line between on trend desirability and timeless style.

are Theresa’s long-standing loves and fascinations; the Art Deco movement, the sights, colours and artefacts of her native Africa, and historical French fashion.

Founded by Theresa Ebagua, Chelsea Paris is named in honour of her two daughters. Driven by her love affair with timeless design and craftsmanship, Theresa trained in Italy; first at Ars Sutoria in Milan and later on as an apprentice with artisan shoemakers in the region. Woven into her designs

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Theresa designs for free spirited women, women with a sense of individuality and identity, who love travel, culture and fearlessly live life with style.

Aria £420

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Tipple

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ShakenNot Bond’s expensive drinking habits are revealed as Professor James Chapman, Bond expert at the University of Leicester, explains the significance of Bond’s return to vodka martinis in the new film Spectre.

News that James Bond will be back on the premium vodka in the new film Spectre, due to hit cinemas in November 2015, will be welcomed by fans according to a University of Leicester academic and in-house Bond expert.

Belvedere, a luxury Polish vodka brand, has signed a lucrative partnership deal to appear in the upcoming 24th Bond film and Professor James Chapman from the University’s Department of the History of Art and Film and author of ‘Licence to Thrill: A Cultural History of the James Bond Films’ explains why brand is so important when it comes to Bond.

Professor Chapman said: “James Bond has always been associated with high-end consumer goods, especially when it comes to food and drink. Ian Fleming’s books are replete with references to brand names.

These served two purposes. In the social context of post-war Britain - the first Bond novel Casino Royale was published in 1953 - the prominence of brand-name products was a sign of the shift from wartime austerity to post-war affluence. And Bond’s expensive tastes reflected a fantasy world in which access to consumer products went hand in hand with his sexual prowess.”

It’s no secret that Bond’s drinking habits have always been a central aspect of the James Bond lifestyle. Chapman explains: “Fleming’s Bond famously invented the ‘Vesper’ martini in Casino Royale, and, while his preferred drink was bourbon, the vodka martini was there for special occasions such as his dinner at M’s club Blades (Moonraker) and his sumptuous dinner with American millionaire Mr Du Pont (Goldfinger). And of course a world-class super villain such as Dr No would not dream of serving anything else.

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“Fleming’s Bond expresses a preference for Russian or Polish vodka (Dr No). He developed a taste for vodka while attached to the British Embassy in Moscow. However some of the vodka he tasted during those years was “bath tub liquor”. He borrowed a trick from the Russians of sprinkling pepper on the surface to draw off the fusel oil. M is amused when Bond does this with the club’s finest Wolfschmidt from Riga. Of course this was a time when vodka was an expensive import to Britain and not widely consumed.”

The vodka martini became Bond’s drink of choice in the James Bond movies – beginning with Dr No in 1962 when Sean Connery’s Bond is first seen drinking a “medium dry vodka martini” with a slice of lemon peel.

Chapman adds: “One-time Bond George Lazenby asked his bride-to-be Diana Rigg to “keep my martini cool” in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Roger Moore’s Bond tended to allow other characters to order the martinis for him - and by this stage of his career every barman and beautiful spy in the world knew that he liked it “shaken not stirred”. Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan also partook of Bond’s signature drink, and in the film of Casino Royale (2006), Daniel Craig even ordered a ‘Vesper’ according to Fleming’s recipe.

“In Skyfall (2012), the fiftieth-anniversary Bond movie, 007 was controversially seen drinking Heineken in preference to his usual martini. But this was a temporary aberration as Bond had been accidentally shot while on a mission and at the time was presumed dead. The news that Bond will once again be drinking premium vodka in the forthcoming film Spectre will be welcomed by all Bond fans as a return to the true 007.”

Spectre is due to be released on 6 November 2015 – in the meantime here are some drink-related Bond facts for your responsible consumption: •

In the first James Bond novel Casino Royale (1953), Bond designs his own martini comprising three measures of Gordon’s gin, one of vodka and half a measure of Kine Lillet (vermouth) shaken until it’s ice cold and served with a slice of lemon peel. He names it a ‘Vesper’ after his love interest Vesper Lynd. Bond never drinks the Vesper again in all the books.

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Elsewhere in the books Bond drinks vodka martinis and expresses a preference for Russian or Polish vodka.

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Bond has a preference for pink champagne (especially Taittinger) to drink with scrambled eggs.

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In the novel of Live and Let Die, Bond drinks a Red Stripe beer, but when adding up his alcohol consumption for the day decides that “the Red Stripe didn’t count”.

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In Thunderball, Bond’s medical dossier reveals that his average daily alchohol consumption is “in the region of half a bottle of spirits of between sixty and seventy proof”.

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Bond’s most excessive consumption is probably in the first two chapters of Goldfinger where in the course of one evening he drinks four double bourbons, two vodka martinis as an aperitif, and a pint of pink champagne (served in a silver tankard) with his dinner of stone crabs.

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Tipple - Shaken Not Stirred

Stirred •

In the films Bond’s tastes also extend to raki (From Russia With Love), Mintjulep (Goldfinger), sake (You Only Live Twice) and a Mohito (Die Another Day). His favourite champagne in the films is Bollinger. The least said about a Thai wine called Phu Yuck (The Man With the Golden Gun) the better.

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Roger Moore’s James Bond never ordered a martini in any of his seven films - other characters would order Bond’s signature drink for him.

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Bond unmasks SPECTRE (SPecial Executive for Counter-intelligence, Terrorism, Revenge and Extortion) assassin Red Grant (Robert Shaw) in From Russia With Love when the villain orders red Chianti to accompany Dover sole.

Professor James Chapman, Bond expert at the University of Leicester.

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Blended To Perfection Chivas Regal heralds a new chapter for luxury whisky.

The new addition to the Chivas Regal range is an ultra-prestige Scotch whisky that has been crafted with some of the oldest and rarest whiskies available to Chivas Regal, with a proportion of the blend composed of whiskies from distilleries now lost forever. Chivas Regal The Icon is the embodiment of craftsmanship and tradition married with the unparalleled expertise of Chivas Regal’s Master Blender Colin Scott.

With exceptional character and an incredibly long and luscious finish, rich notes of honey, vanilla and dark chocolate are balanced by subtle hazelnut influences from the cask, delivering a long and luxurious finish in the smooth Chivas house style.

Befitting of the luxury liquid within, each bottle of Chivas Regal The Icon is presented in a hand-blown crystal decanter created by expert craftsmen at Dartington Crystal. The glass is delicately etched and finished with precision crafted metalwork and presented in sublime green glassware in homage to the original green Chivas Regal bottle that captured the world’s attention in 1909. Adorned with a signature luckenbooth stopper, a traditional Celtic symbol of love, the distinctive bottle is certain to be adored by whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Chivas Regal The Icon was launched exclusively in Dubai duty free in May, with the global launch in September 2015.

At 40% ABV and 70cl bottles the RRP for domestic market is $3675 (USD) and Travel Retail is $3500 (USD).

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