LUX October

LUX CapeCod

October 2015

Sun or Snow: What to Wear Whatever the Weather

A MONTHLY GLIMPSE INTO THE WORLD OF THE GLAMOROUS

We show you the hottest fashions for wherever you chose to spend your Christmas holiday.

The Perfect Fall Retreat

The best hotels for catching some sun this Autumn

Diamonds are Forever We delve into the world of rare James Bond books, and we speak to Salim Hasbani of Tresor Paris about the latest trends in diamond jewellery.

Get Caddied Away

Golfing breaks at Gleneagles

PLUS: Ninety Years of Bang & Olufsen / You too Can Be Star Baker / Ski in Style

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Call Us: +34 951 12 70 76 Email Us: info@lurentis.com

Sports and Super Car Rental Rent the Lamborghini Huracán across Europe From €1,600 per day!

Available in Italy, Germany, Austria, France and Spain

SUV and Prestige Car Rental Rent the Rolls Royce Phantom across Europe From €2,400 per day!

Available in Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany

Tel: +34 951 12 70 76

Email: info@lurentis.com

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Blog: lurentis.com/blog

We rent cars from the following marques. See lurentis.com for full list of marques and models.

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Lurentis DWC-LLC. Number 2521 Address: DWC Business Center • Dubai Aviation City - Logistics City • Dubai • U.A.E. • P.O. Box 390667

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Contents Welcome to the October issue of LUX Magazine.

With the trailer for the new James Bond film, Spectre, almost impossible to avoid, we take a look at how you can own a piece of Bond history in the form of rare copies of Ian Fleming’s classic works. We also take a look at the Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition, a car fit for a super spy.

Also in our Drive section, Ron Fiamma from AIG talks us through how to ensure your collection of classic cars stays protected.

In this month’s travel section, the spotlight is on Cape Cod as we take a look at three sumptuous hotels that present the perfect winter getaway. And just to make sure you’re ready for your end of year break, we talk you through the best fashions to pack whether you’re seeking sun or snow.

Following the Great British Bake Off finale we show you how to be named ‘Star Baker’ every time, with a selection of high-end gadgets and luxurious preserves to ensure your culinary efforts are always stunning and delicious.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

See you next month!

Hannah Stevenson, Editor

Contents

retreats

5. You’re Sure to Fall in Love with Old Cape Cod… 6. The Ruddy Turnstone Inn 8. The Captain David Kelley House 10. The Regatta Inn 12. Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel: The Hotel that Changed Ibiza 14. Sailing the High Class Seas 16. Canyon Reach Heads to Turkey

taste

20. Add a Dash of Decadence to Your Baking 22. You Gotta Blend in Me!

explore

26. Get Caddied Away 28. Explore the Realm of the Polar Bear 30. Enjoying the Finest in Luxury Ski 32. Mega Yachts Move to Mallorca

drive

36. Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition 38. Protecting Your Passion and Your Investment

art jewels style

42. Read Another Day

46. A Cut Above the Rest

49. What to Wear on Your Winter Break, Whatever the Destination 50. Canyon Ranch Heads to Turkey

tipple tech

54. Disaronno Riserva

58. The Route to the Future of Sound LUX - October 2015 3

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You’re Sure to Fall in Love with Old Cape Cod…

You’re Sure to Fall in Love with Old Cape Cod… Positioned neatly to the Southeast of Boston, MA the Cape Cod peninsula curves outwards 65 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, reaching northwards enclosing the Cape Cod Bay. The Cape territory is divided into fifteen main towns with many villages dotted between.

Unlike many destination in the States, holidaying in the Cape hasn’t changed much since it first became popular, its quaint and charming character has been fiercely protected by its inhabitants, and much to the region’s advantage it’s all about simple pleasures: farm-house style accommodation, beautiful scenery, outdoor activities and incredible local food. This magical recipe continues to attract tourists from all over the world, particularly during the summer months.

Some of our favourite things to do: • Soak up the famous hospitality by staying in independently owned inns & B&Bs • Walk the mile long beaches • Drive or cycle one of the Cape’s many scenic routes • Join an organised tour to navigate the protected dunes

Get exhilaratingly close to nature on one of the region’s well known whale watch excursions Visit the famous Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard Eat as much local, fresh seafood as possible!

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The Ruddy Turnstone Inn 6 LUX - October 2015

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Retreats - The Ruddy Turnstone Inn

Our first stop in the Cape was Brewster, Barnstable County. Brewster is a quaint Cape Cod town that is bordered by extensive tidal sand flats to the north, along the beautiful shores of Cape Cod Bay and the town, which is home to just over 10,000 people is also home to the Roland C. Nickerson State Forest Park, the largest state forest on Cape Cod. The Ruddy Turnstone Inn became our home from home for three nights and set just back off the famous Route 6A in Brewster, it simply personifies Cape Cod accommodation! Tucked far enough away from the main road, it is so close to all the Cape has to offer but blissfully far away from the stresses of everyday life.

Originally opened as a B&B in 1991 The Ruddy Turnstone enjoyed many years of returning custom as guests came back yearly to experience the property’s calming effects and the stunning local scenery. Following a period of closure, Brent & Abigail the current owners, reopened the Ruddy Turnstone in 2008 as an Inn and today, have managed to recreate that crucial charm that keeps their guests coming back for more.

The house, in classic Cape Style was built in 1798.

It is beautifully situated with seemingly never ending views of the expansive salt marshes and the ocean as you look over Cape Cod Bay. On the clearest of days you can even see the Provincetown monument which is situated on the tip of The Cape.

Brent & Abigail are charming yet demure hosts.

They aim to provide their guests with all that they need for uninterrupted quality time, and that they have certainly achieved. The grounds and the Inn itself are kept immaculately and they have converted the property in a style that allows their guests the privacy and tranquillity to relax and unwind, even if all of the rooms are occupied.

We stayed in the Bay Room, the Inn’s mid-sized room set slightly apart from the other two rooms. It comes with its own private deck, kitchenette and a picture perfect window offering beautiful views of the marsh and bay beyond. The room was furnished to a very high standard and every detail has been considered – along with all the usual items you’d expect there are also beach towels, chairs, umbrellas and even a cooler, which was well used on our trips to the many local beaches!

Brent was very helpful when it came to familiarising ourselves with the local area and its attractions.

Within a short drive of the Ruddy Turnstone you can find an array of local eateries, art galleries, antique shops, museums, the Brewster Store (where you can buy just about anything) and of course Brewster’s nine stunning beaches.

The Rooms: The Suite $200.00 per night $1200.00 Weekly The Cottage Room $175.00 per Night $1050.00 Weekly The Bay Room $200.00 per Night $1200.00 Weekly Details: The Ruddy Turnstone is a seasonal Inn - opening May 1st to October 31st.

Two night minimum stay.

All rooms have private entrances and private bathrooms with shower.

Check-in is between 3:00 & 5:00pm. Check-out is 11:00am Address: 463 Main St Brewster, MA 02631 turnstoneinn@aol.com 508-246-4907

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The Captain David Kelley House “Kick off your shoes and bury your toes in the warm Atlantic sand… be our guest at the Captain David Kelley House, a grand old Sea Captain’s home built in 1835 on historic Main Street in the heart of this quaint Cape Cod seaside village. Come, stay awhile … relax in the sunny manicured yard and gardens or take a leisurely stroll...”

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Retreats - The Captain David Kelley House

Next on our tour we arrived in Centerville, a village located on the south side of the town of Barnstable, MA.

Ready for us with the warmest of welcomes were Tom & Rick, our wonderful hosts at The Captain David Kelley House. I’m sure that anyone who has stayed here would agree, it is these two that make the Captain David Kelley House so special!

After leaving their non-hospitality-related careers behind them, Rick and Tom opened Captain David Kelley House in January 2009. Both natural hosts, their warmth and infectious sense of humours radiates the house.

The Rooms: The Captain Kelley Room Exceptionally romantic and spacious with a beautiful hand-carved king size ‘four poster’ bed, decorative fireplace and loveseat.

located on the second floor with separate entrance.

A very peaceful hideaway furnished with a brand new Ethan Allen white Cannonball queen bed, oriental carpets, and comfortable reading chair.

Amenities include private bath with large shower and height adjustable showerhead.

Floor to ceiling windows, beautiful hardwood floors, federal period furniture and oriental carpets. Private bath with vanity and shower with height adjustable shower head.

In-Season Rate: $199/night, double occupancy with a two night stay.

Built in 1835 in Greek revival style by Sea Captain David Kelley, the house has been lovingly restored to its original classic character. Whilst mod-cons are everywhere (all of the inn’s major systems have been upgraded), they are not obvious and the crown mouldings, historic wallpapers, oriental carpets, nautical art and lovely antiques create what is very much a 19th century Cape Cod Sea Captain’s Home.

In-Season Rate: $229/night, double occupancy.

The Phebe Room With its own private staircase off the den, it is truly an enchanting hideaway.

With six bedrooms, today the house acts as a romantic bed and breakfast and it is perfectly located for exploring all that the Cape has to offer.

During our stay we resided in the Alexander Suite, on the second floor of the house. There were two bedrooms, each with beautiful hardwood floors and luxurious queen-sized beds. The furnishings were in keeping with the whole house and with a private bath the room was furnished to impeccable standards. Every detail had been considered, there were bathrobes, a thoughtful nightly turndown service complete with chocolates, top quality Gilchrist & Soames toiletries and air conditioning.

Cheerful private bath with pedestal sink and shower.

Perfect for getting away from it all. The sitting area has a cosy leather reading chair and ottoman, and the comfortable wicker queen bed will insure you a perfect night’s sleep.

Additional private entrance with sitting area for enjoying your morning coffee or evening glass of wine overlooking the yard.

In-Season Rate: $189/night, double occupancy with a two night stay. One night stays when available, are subject to a $30 surcharge.

In-Season Rate: $199/night, double occupancy with a two night stay

Address: 539 Main Street, Centerville, MA 02632 508-775-4707 info@cdkhouse.com

Breakfast in the Captain David Kelly House is something else! Tom & Rick begin each day with what can only be described as a delicious multicourse, theatre of a breakfast!

Patience now features a brand-new king four-poster bed and mattress, a twin daybed, new wallpaper, Oriental rug and antique marble-top dresser.

Seated on the screened porch overlooking the lawn and gardens, in what was the best breakfast of our trip (maybe even of our lives!) we were forced to decide the winning Scone in “Scone Wars”…

Cranberry-Orange-Nut or Gingered-Lemon Curd Scones by Rick, the Scone Ranger Vs Morning Glory or Summer Berry Scones by Tom, the Scone King As for what you are treated to for the main entrée, that varies according to the day but favourites include sautéed vegetable and cheese omelettes, maple-cinnamon French toast, quiches, frittatas, Belgian Waffles, apple pancakes…the list goes on, one thing is for certain though, you’ll be very well fed and very well entertained!

Whilst we were in Centreville, Tom & Rick made sure that we were well acquainted with the local area, they also recommended one of the best restaurants we visited during our trip (Tumi Ceviche, an Italian/ Peruvian restaurant in Hyannis). We had such a great stay here, we were touched by our hosts’ efforts to welcome us – particularly with the Union Jack and the St Andrew’s Cross flying proudly!

The Captain Baker Room First floor, sunny room with high ceilings, built-in bookcases, crown mouldings and hardwood floors.

Luxurious queen size hand-carved mahogany bed, oriental carpets and lamps, beautiful artwork and antique furnishings.

The Patience Room This second-floor room is spacious, bright and romantic having been recently completely remodelled.

Located at the back of the bed and breakfast, it is a sunny, quiet, secluded bungalow with spectacular nature views.

The details: Minimum stay requirements (May 1-Columbus Day).

For stays of two nights or more, a 50% deposit will guarantee your reservation.

Sunny private bath with tub/shower.

Check-in between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00 pm.

Checkout is before 11:00 am.

In-Season Rate: $229/night, double occupancy with a two night stay. $50 for additional person per night.

A hot multi-course breakfast is served daily at 8:00, 8:30 and 9:00am.

The Alexander Suite Two-bedroom suite on the second floor with a private bath right outside the door.

Nightly turn down service is available (and recommended!)

Both bedrooms have hardwood floors, antique furnishings and oriental carpets.

Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access throughout the House.

Alex I is Warm and intimate and has a brand new Ethan Allen queen sleigh bed.

Alex II is sunny and bright, with an antique white queen bed.

The private bath features a pedestal sink & tub/ shower combination.

In-Season Rate: $229/night, double occupancy with a two night stay. $50 for each additional person per night.

The Rachel Room Cheerful, bright and private, the Rachel Room is

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The Regatta Inn

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Retreats - The Regatta Inn

To round off our trip, Nantucket and the Regatta Inn! Nantucket is a tiny but famous island off Cape Cod. With dune-packed beaches and traditional architecture, it is a must see on any trip to the Cape.

We left the car on the mainland and hired bikes when we arrived in Nantucket, which I would highly recommend, particularly if staying in the Regatta Inn, which is ideally located just a five-minute walk away from Main Street.

Room 2 Queen Room is located on the first floor of the Inn, in the south-eastern corner overlooking Lily Street.

This room is located at the back of the building and also includes a twin sofa bed. (Max occupancy 3)

The Regatta Inn sits unobtrusively on Centre Street in what was formerly an old federal-style building. It has been completely renovated to an exceptional standard, offering eight bedrooms and the perfect ambiance, combining luxury, elegance & romance. It was the Inn’s owners Paul and Lauri Benk and local decorator, Nina Liddle that had the vision to lovingly transform the property into this Nantucket gem.

Room 3 Queen Room is located on the second floor of the Inn, windows face northeast, overlooking our patio.

(Max occupancy 2)

Our host was innkeeper Lyn, who showed us a wonderful welcome and introduced us kindly to the Regatta Inn, our delightful home from home.

Room 5 King room is located on the second floor of the Inn, in the northern (front) corner overlooking Centre Street and our patio. This room is the largest, featuring the largest bathroom, with a large soaking tub in addition to the shower. (Max occupancy 2)

Our room at the Regatta Inn was luxurious to say the least! We had a large en-suite spa bath with a huge rainfall shower, the type you could stay in for hours.

The bathroom was stocked full of Malin + Goetz spa products, which didn’t disappoint! The fixtures and fittings were chosen with impeccable taste and in true Cape Cod style. Our King-Sized bed had a sumptuous pillow-topped mattress and was covered with the fluffiest duvets and linen. We had our own in-room refrigerator and, notably the walls had been soundproofed – despite there being other guests staying at the Inn, we didn’t hear a thing.

Lyn makes sure that all of her guests have everything they could possible need to enjoy the Nantucket surroundings, which was really useful seeing as we had travelled light and left most of our luggage on the mainland with our car! We had our own beach chairs, umbrellas and beach towels to use at our disposal, what’s more the whole Inn has free wireless internet.

The homemade breakfast was one of the best we experienced on our trip, we woke up to a beautiful, freshly made buffet-style breakfast – the special bacon and egg scones were my particular favourite!

The Regatta Inn has all of the amenities you could possibly need and the location is perfect, just a short walk to the shops, galleries and restaurants.

Lyn’s hospitality and service was truly exceptional, she helped us to find the wonderful Ventuno Restaurant, which we thoroughly enjoyed. We will certainly return!

Room 4 King Room is located on the second floor of the Inn, in the quiet south-eastern corner overlooking our garden and features a high ceiling. (Max occupancy 2)

Room 6 King Room located on the second floor of the Inn, on the north-eastern (front) corner overlooking Centre and Lily Streets. (Max occupancy 2) Room 7 Queen Room with a full sofa sleeper is located on the second floor of the Inn, in the south-eastern corner overlooking Lily Street. This room is located at the back of the building. (Max occupancy 3) Room 8 Room 8 is located on the second floor of the Inn, in the south-eastern corner overlooking Lily Street.

This room is located at the back of the building.

(Max occupancy 2) Address: Regatta Inn 78 Centre Street Nantucket, MA 02554 InnKeeper@TheRegattaInn.com www.TheRegattaInn.com 508-901-5740

The Rooms Room 1 King room is located on the first floor of the Inn, on the north-eastern (front) corner overlooking Centre and Lily Streets. (Max occupancy 2)

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Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel: The Hotel that Changed Ibiza A little over a decade ago, Ibiza’s reputation was in tatters due to TV programme “Ibiza Uncovered”, documenting the sordid side of the clubbing and promoting scene in the late nineties and early noughties. Fast-forward to the present day and Ibiza has shaken off its once damaged reputation, outgrown the image of adolescent round-the-clock revellers, and come of age.

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Retreats - Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel: The Hotel that Changed Ibiza

Today Ibiza is home to some of the most upmarket hotels, restaurants and music venues in the world and is increasingly the destination of choice for an affluent set, including Hollywood A-listers. It’s a place where Michelin star restaurants sit beside five star hotels, boutique agrotourismos and designer shops housing the latest in fashion, while the famous white beaches and turquoise waters are lined with super-yachts.

testing the limits of gastronomical ingenuity with a brand now immersive tech experience called Sublimotion. The brain child of double Michelin star and three Repsol star Spanish chef Paco Roncero, Sublimotion sets about combining technology, pyrotechnics, theatre, visual arts and food, in a multi-platform experience which hosts just twelve diners in one evening seating and really has to be seen to be understood.

But how did this transformation come about?

When Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel first opened in 2011 in Ibiza’s Playa d’en Bossa, the Ibiza party scene was at its zenith, with parties running all night and well into the next morning. The authorities were increasingly concerned about the effects of these all night parties and a range of new laws were enforced.

Responding to a raft of new laws, Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel launched the first hotel-come-musicvenue, designed to attract a new type of customer seeking the best in electronic music, combined with stylish accommodation. Forever changing the face of the Ibiza party scene, the daytime party concept that starts in the early afternoon and finishes at midnight was an instant success. Soon, the island became known for its extravagant day-time parties, which were later adopted by other venues.

Offering contemporary and stylish accommodation, as well as hosting some of the world’s biggest EDM names, Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel attracted a more sophisticated crowd who were willing to spend more on comfort. This new style of hotel-venue proved so popular that after just a year, the hotel owner, Palladium Hotel Group, transformed the next door property into a second hotel; The Ushuaïa Tower, offering the same standard of contemporary décor and a large number of luxury suites; the most famous of which is the aptly named “I’m On Top Of The World” suite. Located on the 8th floor, this suite is the largest in Ibiza at 166 square metres, and has hosted a whole host of celebrities and DJs. Today, Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel is made up of two parts: The Ushuaïa Club - the original Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel and home to the main stage, pool and party area - and The Ushuaïa Tower.

This summer the Ushuaïa Tower was the location of choice for George Clooney as he launched his new Casamigos Tequila brand. The star-studded private event which took place at The Tower’s top floor UP Ibiza Sky Society Lounge was hosted by George and Amal Clooney and attended by their celebrity friends including Cindy Crawford, Rande Gerber, Mario Testino and James Blunt.

The developments at Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel attracted a new kind of customer to Playa d’en Bossa and paved the way for a string of new upmarket developments. Places such as LOVE, owned by world-famous chef Ferran Adrià, the five star Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza (located to the right of The Ushuaïa Tower) and this year, the new five star Grand Palladium White Island Resort and Spa have all since opened.

Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel is perhaps most famous for its extravagant electronic music parties. It has become the global reference point for electronic music and performance, with super-star DJs a common sight on the seventeen metre stage at The Ushuaïa Club. Armin Van Buuren, David Guetta and Avicii have all taken multiple turns on the decks in 2015.

In a bid to stay at the forefront of the electronic music scene, Ushuaïa Club has nurtured many up-and-coming talents through its ANTS residency, which offers a platform for talented emerging artists.

Also known as The Colony, the radical collaboration and experimentation that this programme has promoted ensures that The Ushuaïa Club is always ahead of the curve. Starting as an experimental project, ANTS is now one of the most popular weekly events of the Ushuaïa calendar.

Following a year of parties like no other, this year’s October season closing party was legendary. The Ushuaïa Club welcomed party-goers via an entrance adorned with vintage televisions and a giant hologram of two spectacular eyes which opened and closed in response to the human movement below.

Under the strap line #closeyoureyes, the stage was transformed into a human eye with carefully choreographed LED projections. One of Ushuaïa’s most acclaimed acts, DJ pairing Los Suruba, opened the event and were followed by two of the world’s most in-demand producers Uner & Agoria before Swiss producer Andrea Oliva built up the crowds for the headline act of the night: Apollonia.

Despite the transformation of Playa d’en Bossa, the island has manged to retain its natural beauty and still has its fair share of secret coves, beautiful countryside, national parks, forests and more than fifty beaches. The ease at which the man-made world and nature co-exists in Ibiza is perhaps why it has remained one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.

One of the few places in Europe where one can get lost in nature one moment, eat a luxury meal at a modern hotel the next, before being entertained by one of the world’s most famous artists. Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel will no doubt continue to lead the way, so luxury travellers can expect the unexpected from Ibiza, with many more innovations to come in 2016.

Catering to its clientele’s refined tastes and thirst for the extravagant, Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza set about

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Sailing the High Class Seas

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Retreats - Sailing the High Class Seas

Award winning luxury cruise company Royal Caribbean International have announced the introduction of their Royal Suite Class experience. We speak to Mark Tamis, SVP Hotel Operations, on how this is changing the luxury cruise industry.

Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 46-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike.

Onboard, guests are catered to with the cruise line’s world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service by every staff and crew member.

Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 12 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.

The firm has recently launched the new Royal Suite Class, designed for the most discerning adventurers. The new class of suite is designed to provide customers with an experience like no other, featuring a wide range of benefits and amenities that they would expect from a worldclass luxury getaway. Exciting features of the Royal Suite Class include a Royal Genie, certified by the British Butler Institute to meet guests’ every need; complimentary specialty dining alongside the ultimate beverage package and preferred seating at select on board venues.

Mark Tamis described to us what the new suite class would mean for both the firm and the industry.

First of all Mark, tell us a little about your role and responsibilities at Royal Caribbean.

As the Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations I am responsible for all hotel operations across all the ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. This includes a wide range of areas including entertainment, food and beverage, guest services and hotel operations.

One of the most important aspects of my role is to ensure that all of our guests have the best possible experience on board our ships. This includes creating unique and adventurous experiences, especially for our more discerning guests. With our new Royal Suite Class we have raised the bar on the entire vacation experience.

I come from a background in hospitality, as I started out working with Four Seasons then moved to work with Ian Schrager and his variety of hotel businesses before moved to work with Carnival Cruise Lines before moving to Royal Caribbean. My career goal has always been to work with the best of the best in the industry and Royal Caribbean has a history of innovation and really breaking through in the vacation category, which is why I am immensely proud to work for the firm.

What makes the Royal Suite Class unique?

All of our accommodations aim to offer customers a unique and exciting experience, but the Royal Class Suite aims to go one step further and provide our more adventurous guests with the ultimate in seafaring luxury.

Along with our range of other well-appointed accommodations, Royal Suite Class offers a range of exclusive amenities based on three tiered service levels. Premium features include a Royal Genie, certified by the British Butler Institute to meet guests every need; free VOOM, the fastest internet at sea; complimentary specialty dining; an ultimate beverage package; inclusive gratuities; preferred seating at select on board venues, and upgraded room amenities.

How will the Royal Class Suites provide a more personal experience for the guest?

All of us at Royal Caribbean believe that luxury is defined by personal experiences and on board a Royal Caribbean ship it is embodied by the crew and unmatched tailored service – from a personalised welcome gift to a guest’s favourite cocktail before dinner, guests will feel as if all their personal preferences have been met.

Royal Suite Class guests also will have exclusive access to the California-chic Coastal Kitchen restaurant reserved for Suite guests only. On Royal Caribbean’s private beach paradise Labadee, Haiti, suite guests enjoy access to the exclusive Barefoot Beach and have the ability to reserve private cabanas on the island. Additionally, Star and Sky Class guests enjoy a private Suite Sun Deck and reserved VIP seating in entertainment productions like fully licensed Broadway musicals and Oasisclass’ AquaTheatre high-diving spectaculars.

In addition to this, guests in the Royal Suite Class will enjoy the ultimate ‘home away from home’ with upgraded amenities, such as Hermès, Ferragamo and L’OCCITANE bath products and luxury pillow top mattresses. Star Class guests will be able to relax in their suites with exclusive Duxiana DUX mattresses and Frette linens.

What does the future have in store for Royal Caribbean?

There are a number of projects coming up for us which will offer our customers increased comfort and luxury during their journey with us. We are very excited for everything we have in the pipe line. Our newest ship, Anthem of the Seas, will be arriving into her homeport of NY in November 2016. In addition, next year we will be launching our Royal Suite Class across our Quantum and Oasis class as well as introducing two new ships, Ovation of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas.

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Canyon Ranch Heads to Turkey

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Retreats - Canyon Ranch Heads to Turkey

As a founding voice in the world of holistic wellness, Canyon Ranch® has the wisdom and expertise of spending nearly 40 years helping its guests achieve well-being. Now, the life-enhancement brand that’s built a devoted global following is going global itself.

Whether you intend to get on track with a fitness routine, lose a few pounds, get a handle on stress, deal with a health issue or just have a great time, you can do it at a Canyon Ranch property. All surrounded by the beauty of nature and the kindness of their expert staff, guests are able to feel the full power of healthy living.

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty that characterizes the spectacular Aegean coast of Turkey, the new Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort at Kaplankaya brings the celebrated integrative wellness philosophies of Canyon Ranch to new shores. Following in the footsteps of their world-renowned immersion resorts in Tucson and Lenox (both US), Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort at Kaplankaya will beautifully complement and reflect its surroundings. The Bodrum region is rich in history, culture and boasts a centuries-old tradition of healing and spiritual rejuvenation, which makes it a perfect location for their first international endeavor.

The wellness resort and real estate offerings were meticulously designed by the world-renowned Barcelona-based architectural firm OAB (Office of Architecture in Barcelona) and principal architect Carlos Ferrater, the team behind the award-winning Barcelona Botanical Gardens and other landmark projects.

Honouring and embracing the natural beauty, tradition and landscape of the region, the dazzling plan includes a complex of brilliant guest quarters respectfully integrated into the topography. Geometric shapes, sustainable materials, and superb finishes will harmonize into a blissfully luxurious environment that also stimulates feelings of well-being and pure pleasure. The unique and environmentally conscious buildings will integrate seamlessly with the landscape.

Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort at Kaplankaya will have a total of 141 rooms –75 hotel rooms and suites as well as 66 exquisite enclave rooms and suites, all of which will have views of the Aegean Sea. Guests will have exclusive access to the 107,500 square foot, approximately 10,000 square meters, Canyon Ranch Spa, Fitness and Wellness Centre. The oasis will feature 40 treatment rooms where guests will be able to enjoy rejuvenating treatments combining traditional and Eastern medicine practices for the complete integrative wellness experience Canyon Ranch is known for.

The resort will also include two restaurants, one in the hotel and another more casual option located adjacent to a pool and beach, which will offer a wide array of healthy and flavourful gourmet Mediterranean dishes showcasing the best local ingredients.

In July 2016, Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort at Kaplankaya will open its door to help guests achieve their health goals what ever they may be. The property will integrate the signature wellness and lifestyle programming that has earned Canyon Ranch a famously loyal clientele worldwide. Hence, why we took the opportunity to let you know a bit more about their concept and philosophy.

The concept will reflect the Canyon Ranch spirit: Hike all day with an expert guide or delve into your inner world with a life management expert. Work out hard or let go completely with the fantastic spa services available – every choice is a healthy one when staying at Canyon Ranch! A Canyon Ranch stay can be anything a guest wants it to be – pleasurably relaxing, intensely active or focused and intentional. There is a selection of powerful and engaging programs available to guarantee something for everyone. Would you benefit from a structured week at their exclusive Life Enhancement Center®? Interested in effective weight loss and lifelong healthy weight management? Have a specific health concern? Maybe you’d like to train for a marathon – or you’re just beginning an exercise plan and could use some extra support. Perhaps you’re looking to enhance your performance at work.

Or do you want to be cared for and even pampered in a beautiful, comfortable, safe environment? Do you need to de-stress, unwind and rest? Whatever your health-related interest or passion, you are likely to find it there. Do you want to try new things and grow, experience and learn? Do you want to push your limits – physically, mentally and spiritually? Whether you are keen to restore, explore or transform – Canyon Ranch is offering an individually designed programme that meets their guests’ needs.

Great importance is placed on selection and qualifications of the staff, which comes from a wide variety of backgrounds to offer the maximum holistic health experience possible. All staff are thoroughly trained and covers an array of specialist fields and disciplines: physicians, nurses and health care practitioners with specialties ranging from women’s health, personalized integrative medicine and sleep medicine to weight loss, brain health and integrative approaches to pain management, healing energy practitioners with expertise in acupuncture, Acutonics,® Chinese medicine, Reiki and many other modalities. Spiritual wellness staff who are educated and deeply knowledgeable about world spiritual traditions and practices. Licensed therapist/coaches with advanced degrees and a wide range of specialties and experience. Nutritionists with extensive nutrition counseling experience. Fitness specialists, including exercise physiologists with advanced degrees and specialized education, and certified fitness instructors with a vast array of sports-specific training: from creative dance to weight training, and from tennis to Pilates. Outdoor Sports guides, massage and bodywork therapists with a refined and sensitive touch, who bring years of experience and caring to their practice.

Aestheticians and salon specialists who’ll help you look as good as Canyon Ranch makes you feel. Creative arts instructors who can help you explore your creative side with a range of intriguing projects and activities.

One thing is sure – when Canyon Ranch Kaplankaya is opening its doors in summer 2016 it will bring an established health concept to European shores that will boost every guest’s wellbeing, one way or another!

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Add a Dash of Decadence to Your Baking with The Bay Tree’s Jams and Curds

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Taste - Add a Dash of Decadence to Your Baking

Baking is an art. The creator takes a number of elements and transforms them into something new, something greater. Just as an artist is lost without their paints and pastels, a baker is nothing without their ingredients. The secret to successful baking is in the details...

Emma Macdonald, founder of The Bay Tree, is certainly an authority when it comes to creating clever recipes with carefully selected ingredients. With her chef’s training, Emma started The Bay Tree from her mother’s kitchen table in 1994. Emma’s goal was to create full flavoured chutneys and preserves, using quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Today, The Bay Tree is an award winning business, with a wide range of jams, relishes, chutneys and cooking sauces. When it comes to luxury cakes and desserts, The Bay Tree is a baker’s best friend...

A classic ingredient, that we all love to include in our baking, is jam. This sticky delight first became a luxury product during the French revolution. Around this time, the middle classes began to indulge in such pleasures as gastronomy. Chefs started to experiment with recipes to entice their new clientele... Preserves, which had previously been a basic necessity, were transformed into high-end products. The popularity of the classic Victoria Sponge cake came a few decades later. This traditional treat has been heralded Queen Victoria’s favourite variety of cake – but how can you make your cakes fit for a queen?

For over 20 years, The Bay Tree has been developing its sumptuous collection of indulgent jams and curds – the sensational solutions for adding a royal touch to your baking. These premium preserves are carefully made using quality fruit to achieve a beautiful soft set – a deliciously spreadable consistency.

Curds are also a popular choice for bakers looking for a fruity fix… Lemon curd dates back to the early 19th century when it was often referred to as ‘lemon cheese’. Over the years, this splendid spread has developed, and is no longer anything like a cheese curd – it is now made primarily from beaten egg yolks, sugar, a fruit juice and zest. These ingredients are gently cooked together until thick and then allowed to cool. This forms the soft, smooth, and intensely flavoured curds that we all know and love!

Fruit curds are typically made using citrus fruit, but can actually be made from any fruit that can be juiced! A popular favourite amongst The Bay Tree’s sweet selection is their award-winning Passion Fruit Curd. Made with all butter, it has an exceptional fruity flavour. This distinctive curd will transform a simple Victoria Sponge cake, or shortbread biscuit into a great-tasting delicacy!

The Bay Tree’s curds have a remarkably smooth finish and consistently deliver a superior depth of flavour –the perfect tools for creating mouthwateringly indulgent baked goods… The Bay Tree’s Passion Fruit Curd and Raspberry Curd are both great for making cream based cakes and tart fillings.

Add a dash of decadence to a chocolate or lemon roulade by whisking a jar of curd in with a pint of cream. Use this to lay on the roulade and voila! A luxurious dessert right at your fingertips!

In addition to running her business, Emma has also written two recipes books: ‘Home Deli Recipes’

and ‘Preserving’. A wonderful recipe in ‘Home Deli Recipes’ is the Vanilla & White Chocolate Drizzle Cakes with Raspberry & Apple Jam. You can make these delicious cakes using one of The Bay Tree’s top quality jams, or, if you are feeling really creative, Emma has also provided a recipe for making a simple raspberry and apple jam yourself!

the jam and top with a good spoonful of the cream.

Sandwich the filling with the other half of sponge.

Drizzle the white chocolate icing over each one and top with a raspberry. Leave until the icing has firmed up before serving.

Vanilla & White Chocolate Drizzle Cakes with Raspberry & Apple Jam

This jam takes next to no time to make, which means the raspberries retain their fresh, fruity flavour and vibrant colour. The addition of the pectin-rich apple helps the jam to set.

These individual cakes are a take on the classic Victoria sponge and are topped with a white chocolate icing. Use a silicone muffin tray or a metal muffin tin.

Makes 12 Preparation time: 30 minutes, plus cooling Cooking time: 20 minutes Ingredients 200g/7oz unsalted butter, softened 200g/7oz/scant 1 cup caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 4 eggs 200g/7oz/scant 12∕3 cups plain flour, sifted 1 heaped tsp baking powder Filling: 200ml/7fl oz/scant 1 cup double cream 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 60g/2.oz Simple Raspberry & Apple Jam (see recipe below) Topping: 4 tbsp double cream 40g/1.oz white chocolate, grated fresh raspberries 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4. If using a metal muffin tin rather than a silicone muffin tray, line it with paper cases. Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Add the vanilla, then add the eggs, one at a time, beating in each before adding the next. Fold in the flour and baking powder.

Simple Raspberry & Apple Jam

Makes 2 x 200g/7oz jars Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Ingredients 350g/12oz/2 cups raspberries 1 tsp lemon juice 1 apple, about 150g/5.oz total weight, peeled, cored and grated 225g/8oz/1 cup caster sugar Put the raspberries and lemon juice in a non-reactive pan over a low heat and simmer until the juices begin to flow. Add the apple and sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rapid, rolling boil for 15 minutes or until setting point is reached. Test for a set, either with a sugar thermometer (it should read 110oC/225oF), or put a teaspoonful of the jam onto a cold saucer and leave it to cool for a few minutes. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, then it is ready. If not, continue to boil for another 2 minutes or so and retest.

If you prefer a smoother jam, press three-quarters of the mixture through a sterilized sieve to remove the seeds. Spoon the jam into sterilized jars, cover with lids and leave to cool. Store in a dark, cool place for up to 6 months. Keep in the fridge once opened.

Images and recipies from Home Deli Recipes

by Emma MacDonald © Nourish Books 2013, commissioned photography by Toby Scott.

2 Spoon the mixture into the muffin tray or into the paper cases in the muffin tin. Bake for 18–20 minutes until risen and light golden. Remove from the oven, put the tin on a wire rack and leave to cool for 5 minutes, then turn out the cakes and leave to cool completely.

3 Meanwhile, make the topping. Put the cream in a small saucepan and heat to boiling point. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the white chocolate until melted. Leave to cool until thick enough to drizzle over the cakes.

4 To make the filling, whisk the cream with the vanilla until it forms soft peaks.

5 To finish the cakes, slice each one in half crossways and spread one half with 1 teaspoon of

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You Gotta Blend in Best known for its iconic food processor, Magimix now produces a range of top quality blenders, juicers, ice-cream makers, toasters, coffee machines, steamers and slicers – kitchen essentials that, as well as being functional, add a touch of class and style to any kitchen.

All Magimix products carry strong domestic use guarantees and are further supported with dedicated after sales service.

With Magimix, the possibilities are endless.

The Magimix Patissier is available in bold and stylish colours including Vanille, Framboise, Red, Black and Satin.

These RRP at £500 for the colours and £520 for the satin model.

For more information about the full range of Magimix products visit www.magimix.com

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lux Over the last few weeks, the nation has been gripped by one television programme, no prizes for guessing what – it’s set in a big white tent in the heart of the British countryside and it’s all about baking. Yes, it’s the Great British Bake Off! Soaring in popularity, with over 14.5 million people tuning in for the final of this year’s baking extravaganza, there’s no doubt that the show has encouraged and inspired viewers across the country to don their aprons and pick up their piping bags. And the proof is in the pudding, with a rise in sales of baking ingredients and an increase in kitchen equipment being snapped up by fans eager to have a go!

Mixing a cake by hand is hard work, so whether you are an avid baker or an experimental cook, perhaps it is time to treat yourself to a shiny new kitchen toy?

But with so many different brands and timesaving kitchen appliances to choose from, it’s hard to know which to pick to help you create those show stoppers and signature bakes. Magimix, best known for its iconic food processor, might just have the answer with its new Patissier Multifunction.

A truly multifunctional kitchen machine, specifically designed for baking, the Patissier is quick, quiet and efficient. From light and fluffy cakes to impressive Pavlovas and tasty breads, you will be able to whip up a host of delicious treats in a matter of minutes.

A unique Dynamic Kneading System means that you can knead two full-size, store bought loaves of bread in under a minute, impressing friends and family with the smell of your own freshly baked bread at home!

What’s more, inspired by Magimix’s commitment to making life simpler for the serious cook, the Patissier Multifunction easily transforms into a fully equipped food processor, making everyday food preparation quick and with less washing up! The interchangeable new mixer and traditional food processor bowls makes this a highly versatile piece of equipment.

A variety of high quality Sabatier stainless steel accessories enable you to slice, grate and chop a whole host of other ingredients and the additional BlenderMix attachment is perfect for blending warming soups and making healthy smoothies in an instant, producing professional results.

And for the style conscious, as well as being functional, the Patissier will look fantastic and fashionable on any kitchen worktop, whether you choose Vanille, Framboise, Red, Black or Satin.

So, if you are feeling ready to experiment and create delicious dishes to your heart’s content, here are two recipes produced for Magimix by Cathryn Dresser, a contestant in the 2012 series of The Great British Bake Off, for you to try at home.

Butternut Squash and Hazelnut Brownies (gluten free) Makes: 12 Prep time: 45 minutes Bake time: 30-35 minutes (plus 30 minutes for the squash) Equipment: Magimix Patissier bowl and dough blade, food processor mini bowl and blade Ingredients: 150g peeled and chopped butternut squash 1tsp vegetable oil 250g unsalted butter 200g plain chocolate 150g cocoa powder 360g golden caster sugar 1tsp gluten free baking powder 4 free range eggs Pinch of salt 100g blanched hazelnuts

Retreats - You Gotta Blend in

3. Melt the butter and chocolate in a heat proof bowl over a pan of simmering water.

4. Puree the squash in the food processor mini bowl and then add to the Patissier bowl. Beat in the butter and chocolate mixture for 1 minute with the cap on, then add the cocoa, salt, sugar and baking powder and beat for a further 30 seconds. Finally add the eggs and beat for a further minute.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin, smooth the top, scatter with the nuts and bake for 30–35 minutes until just set in the centre. Cool and serve Cat Dresser’s Lemon, Lime and Raspberry Pavlova Serves 10-12 Prep time: 30 minutes Bake time: 1½ hours Magimix Patissier bowl with the egg whisk attachment Ingredients: 6 egg whites 300g caster sugar 1tbsp custard powder 1tsp lemon juice 300ml double cream 150g mascarpone 50g icing sugar, plus 2tbsp Zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime 3tbsp lemon curd 200g raspberries Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 150°C. 2. Whisk egg whites in Patissier bowl with the cap off for 3-5mins until stiff. Mix the custard powder and caster sugar in a separate bowl and add this a spoonful at a time through the Patissier bowl lid, whilst the machine is whisking, until the sugar is incorporated. Next, add the lemon juice and whisk for a further 30 seconds, until you have a smooth glossy meringue mix.

3. Place a 25cm circle of baking parchment onto a flat baking tray and spoon the meringue mixture into the centre, spreading the mixture to fill the circle, leaving some peaks. Place the meringue in the oven, immediately turning the heat down to 120°C and bake for 1½ -2hours until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and leave to cool.

4. Toss the raspberries and icing sugar in a bowl, squeeze over the juice of a lime and put to one side. In the Patissier bowl, whisk cream, mascarpone, sugar and zests for 1 minute until thick and smooth. Tip the cream into a bowl and ripple the lemon curd through with a spoon.

5. Place the meringue onto a serving plate or stand and then spread the cream mixture over the top.

Finish with a scattering of raspberries and serve.

Recipes developed by Cathryn Dresser for Magimix UK

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C. 2. Oil a small roasting dish, add the peeled and chopped butternut squash and bake for 30 minutes until tender.

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Get Caddied Away Golfing at the world famous Gleneagles Hotel is an unashamed pleasure.

Nestled on the 850 acre property are three sprawling golf courses, including the PGA Centenary course that played host to the Ryder Cup in September of last year.

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lux Golf is and always has been very much at the heart of Gleneagles, it has been played on the King’s Course since 1919, some five years before the grand dame hotel opened its doors. It is this longevity that has driven Gleneagles to develop some of the best courses and coaching in the world. From the professionals at the very top of the game, to keen amateurs and those just starting out, generations of golfers have experienced the game at Gleneagles, with many more to come. Whether it is the stunning vistas the courses provide, the thrills and challenges along the way or treading the same turf as some of the legends of the game, there are so many reasons to play golf at Gleneagles Beyond the greens and fairways lie the most spectacular views of the rustic Scottish landscape.

A winning blend of natural beauty and golfing adventure, the three championship golf courses at Gleneagles are regarded among the very best golf courses in the world. The inspiration of two of the greatest names in the game, five times Open winner James Braid and the Golden Bear himself Jack Nicklaus, the courses offer tantalising challenges for all levels of player.

Nicklaus’s creation, The PGA Centenary Course was the Host Venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, where the cream of European and American golf battled it out on Scottish soil for the first time in more than 40 years seeing a stunning victory for Europe.

Even for a champion and acclaimed golf architect like Nicklaus, The PGA Centenary Course was a challenge. It had to be a great golf course and, set as it is in the heart of Scotland, the country that gave the world golf, Nicklaus described the course as “The finest parcel of land in the world I have ever been given to work with”.

The neighbouring Kings Course is a masterpiece of golf course design, which has tested the aristocracy of golf, both professional and amateur. It is certainly one of the most beautiful and exhilarating places to play golf in the world, with the springy moorland turf underfoot, the sweeping views from the tees all around, the rock-faced mountains to the north, the green hills to the south, and the peaks of the Trossachs and Ben Vorlich on the western horizon.

The natural beauty of the Queen’s Course inspires the world’s most experienced players. The Queen’s Course, in its long history, has played host to some of the world’s golfing greats.

The beautiful settings and the challenge of the golf course have attracted such top golfers as Johnny Miller, Greg Norman, Seve Ballesteros, Tom Watson, and Lee Trevino, as well as great names from the entertainment and sports worlds including Sean Connery, Burt Lancaster, Bing Crosby, Jackie Stewart, and astronaut Alan Shepard (the only man to hit a golf shot on the moon).

Explore - Get Caddyed Away

Gary Silcock, Gleneagles’ Director of Golf, commented: “This is the perfect way for a couple or two golfing friends to hone their skills and experience some fantastic golf in one of Europe’s leading resorts. Our team of experienced PGA Professionals will be on hand to give some practical hands-on advice, and can even work in tandem with our ESPA Life personal trainers and physiotherapist to build on your general fitness and work on problem areas. The idea is to give casual golfers access to the kind of support that Tour players might enjoy, while still leaving time to relax and enjoy the luxury amenities Gleneagles has to offer.”

The PGA Golf Academy at Gleneagles is home to extensive practice facilities, including a double-ended driving range, outdoor short game area, covered long game area, and practice putting green, as well as an indoor swing studio. In the swing studio golfers can take advantage of TrackMan precision ball flight analysis technology to improve their technique and allow for custom fitting of golf clubs.

The standard Pro Precision package can be supplemented with a range of add-on experiences, including NLP psychology sessions, physical screening/training and TrackMan gapping sessions.

Guests availing of the golf courses can also enjoy the stunning art deco hotel, which is famed for its Scottish hospitality and has welcomed a host of world travellers over a 90 year history. There are 232 rooms in the hotel, including 26 sumptuous luxury suites.

Each room is individual in design and layout, with the amenities and thoughtful touches expected of a five red star resort. Guests can choose a traditional or modern approach to interior design.

When the Gleneagles Hotel opened in 1924 it was described as ‘a Riviera in the Highlands’ and ‘the eighth wonder of the world’. Today, this luxury hotel remains dedicated to excellence, just as it was in its earliest days when “the avowed intention of the management was to create happiness”.

The hotel was built by the former Caledonian Railway Company, with its own railway station just minutes away Outdoors, Gleneagles makes the most of its 850 acres. Aside from the golf courses, Gleneagles is home to a host of leisure pursuits include shooting, fishing, falconry, off-road driving and horse riding, as well as swimming in The Club’s two indoor pools.

For those who prefer to cocoon themselves away, The Spa at Gleneagles by ESPA, is a sparkling experience of treatments and healing waters, as well as ESPA Life, an innovative residential programme encompassing complementary and alternative medicine practices, lifestyle treatments and personal training.

The Pro-Precision package is available from £235 per person.

For amateurs, the newly launched Pro Precision package is a great way to experience this haven of golf. Available all year round at the five star resort, the package includes a round of golf on one of Gleneagles’ three championship golf courses, an hour of tuition at The PGA National Golf Academy, and overnight accommodation at the hotel.

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Explore the Realm of the Polar Bear Polar bears are one of the world’s most elusive creatures; living miles from civilisation in a state of solitude that many Londoners would be envious of. So what could be more exciting than an encounter with these enigmatic yet ferocious polar bears in their most natural element? Getting the chance to see these stunning creatures in their natural habitat is a luxury unattainable to most – but wilderness travel company Aqua-Firma can make this possible.

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lux Situated 600 miles from the North Pole, Spitsbergen is an idyllic location for exploring the vast polar archipelago’s stunning mountains and glaciers. Yet this beautiful fjord-cut coastline holds a far more exciting enticement: its wildlife. Home to some of the most elusive creatures, this place offers a glimpse into the lives of not only polar bears, but whales, walruses, seals, arctic foxes – and the millions of migratory birds which visit the area each summer.

Aqua-Firma has now unveiled its new ‘Ultimate Spitsbergen’ portfolio to add to its existing range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The Aqua-Firma team has in-depth experience of polar travel – so travellers who pick up the phone in search of a perfect polar experience will be advised by an expert who leads polar expeditions; is a qualified marine scientist; has scuba dived both North and South poles; or may have kayaked with walruses!

Guests can choose to cruise in comfort through the breathtaking wilderness of Spitsbergen onboard sturdy ice strengthened vessels carrying between 54 and just over 100 passengers. These offer spacious comfortable cabins, fine wining and dining and on some departures the more adventurous can opt to kayak, snowshoe or join the onboard professional photo workshops.

Smaller and more intimate are the classic tallship voyages, providing a personal experience with fewer people; and, when winds are favourable, a perhaps closer connection with the Arctic elements: blue skies, still waters, stunning mountains, ice caps and glaciers.

The objective onboard either vessel is to have the opportunity to explore on land, cruise the coast in zodiacs and learn from wildlife and marine life polar experts during guided hikes and evening lecture programmes. Spitsbergen is home to around 3,000 polar bears, a creature top of everyone’s wildlife list. In over a decade of exploring Aqua-Firma has concluded that one of the very best opportunities to see them is onboard the early Summer Polar Bear Special Voyage for eight days during June.

Encounters have been wonderful year on year for several key reasons: the ship has the highest ice strengthened rating in the Arctic and able to both push through as well as sit in ice (polar bears often

Explore - Explore the Realm of the Polar Bear

walk up to hull and observe you!). The departure is scheduled before the seasonal melt with the aim of targeting the fast ice at known polar bear hunting grounds. Onboard you enjoy the expertise of a Polar bear specialist and photographer, who with decades of knowledge on bear distribution and behaviour, is the secret weapon in seeking out wonderful sightings of mother polar bears and their playful cubs, as well as the more gruesome scenes of hungry bears actively hunting seals on the ice.

Another more intrepid highlight of the new portfolio includes Aqua-Firma’s unique Norway to Bear Island Arctic Sailing Voyage. This hands-on sailing adventure gives just 11 participants the chance to play their part in an expedition across the Arctic Ocean onboard a beautiful 22m steel ocean yacht.

The voyage begins in Northern Norway where the team will search for marine life amongst some of Europe’s most beautiful and wild islands and fjords.

The yacht will then head across the Arctic Ocean to the incredibly remote Bear Island before reaching South Spitsbergen. This voyage will run in the Arctic Spring when sea ice fringed southern Spitsbergen offers opportunities for polar bear sightings, as well as the chance to see whales and huge waves of migratory birds.

Aqua-Firma marine scientist, Charlotte Caffrey, will be on board to provide an insight into the wildlife spotted throughout the voyage. Charlotte has been lucky enough to travel to some of the most spectacular destinations in the world but her true passions are exploring Antarctica and the Arctic.

“Voyages to Spitsbergen offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences in amongst some of the most dramatic Arctic coastal wilderness. It is a special moment when you come close to a polar bear in its natural environment, or when a pod of ghostly white beluga whales break the water’s surface beside you, sea ice to one side, glaciers descending from Rocky Mountains on the other.”

The variety of Arctic voyages and adventures (from 7-18 days) means there is something for everyone, whether seeking insights in style and comfort or if you are keen to take the helm for yourself!

Just some of the portfolio highlights include: Special Polar Bear Voyages, (110 pax) run in June and early July 2016 from £2,190 per person.

Norway to Bear Island (12 pax) runs 31 May – 13 June 2016, from £1,925 per person.

South Spitsbergen Sailing Voyages, (20 pax) run in May/June 2016, from £1,690 per person.

North Spitsbergen Adventure Sailing Voyages, (32 pax) run 16-28 June and 1-13 July 2016, available from £2,690 per person.

Further voyage options can be found at www. aqua-firma.com, with each voyage offering unique and wonderful experiences that are not to be seen anywhere else; this is not one to miss.

To speak to one of Aqua-Firma’s expert team who can help you tailor your trip of a lifetime, please call 0844 412 0848 or visit the website http://www.aquafirma.co.uk/

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Enjoying the Finest in Luxury Ski

Every year there is unveiling of new super chalets to greet the new ski season, however with standards consistently being raised, the definition of a luxury ski holiday is no longer focussed on simply the price tag, but instead the finer details which have been considered to provide the ‘wow’ factor.

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Explore - Enjoying the Finest in Luxury Ski

Specialising in luxury ski holidays for over 17 years, The Oxford Ski Company personally inspect and hand pick its portfolio of over 400 luxury chalets and hotels to expertly match the ideal property to their client’s specific requirements. Having seen a deluge of excellent accommodation available, the company has showcased what they believe to be the ‘best of the best’ and created The Luxury Chalet Collection - the season’s elite top twenty chalets which truly surpass the mark of excellence and provide that extra special touch to make your holiday more memorable. From the clever and thoughtful layout of the design, the first class services available, the exceptional cuisine to the facilities included within the property, these deluxe chalets are focussed on catering towards the discerning and specific needs of the luxury traveller.

Relax in the lavish settings of the cinema room or retreat to the master bedroom which has its own fireplace and lounge area. The property sleeps 10 people and also includes the services of a chef, resort manager, host and driver. Rates range from EUR 16,200 - EUR 28,000 a week.

“There are so many aspects to consider when booking a ski holiday, particularly with large groups, that sometimes the task in hand can be a little overwhelming” says Personal Travel Consultant Harriet Tetlow. “Through our knowledge and experience of the best properties and superior service standards, we eliminate the hassle so clients know they’re getting excellent value and advice, and enjoy their holiday from the moment they speak to us knowing every detail is being catered for”.

Its six bedrooms suites sleep 12 people all provide a calming and serene ambience with its muted colours and luxurious fabrics. The marble bathrooms each have their own colour scheme which adds to the sophisticate décor. The children can enjoy their own playroom whilst the adults can retreat to the spa facility which includes indoor/outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna private gym, two massage rooms and hair salon.

Some of the finest accommodation available this season includes: DESIGN - Baita 1697, Milky Way, Italy – This lovingly restored 17th century Piedmontese farmhouse is located in a peaceful, tranquil hamlet close to Sestriere. Featuring ski-in access it is a three minute walk to the cable car which takes you to the heart of the 400km pisted slopes of the Milky Way, six resorts offering beautiful scenery and diverse terrain for all to enjoy.

This stunning and authentic chalet sleeps 10 and is fully furnished to such a luxurious standard with its celebrated professionally designed interior. Elegant touches such as custom made Egyptian cotton bed sheets, top of the range luxury fittings ensure that supreme comfort can be enjoyed alongside the elegance of original artwork and antiques.

The mountain-view roof terrace comes complete with an eight person wooden hot tub and the spacious communal living space includes a media room where you can enjoy an international film and music library, complete with relaxing wood burning open-fire.

Rates range from EUR 16,600 - EUR 26,400 a week EXCEPTIONAL VALUE - Blossom Hill, Courchevel Le Praz, France – A delightful surprise in the heart of Le Praz this chalet provides the same impressive design and service standards renowned in the exclusive Courchevel 1850 region, still accessible in minutes via the gondola, yet is excellent value for money in a popular destination.

Large and majestic with a contemporary look, its expansive interior provides a loft-like feel to its huge living areas. Its floating industrial staircase greets you upon entry and is coupled with luxury touches to provide a warm welcome to guests with its central fireplace and dining room. The hidden wine cellar comes complete with its own Savoyard kitchen and the indoor/outdoor infinity pool allows guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air without leaving the water.

LARGE GROUPS AND ENTERTAINING - Chalet Owens, Courchevel (1850), France – Recently renovated late December 2014 to meets the ever evolving luxury standards of the market this chalet is one of the top chalets in the area if not the world.

Moments from the Bellecote piste, provides an unforgettable experience with its grandeur and style and exemplary service levels from its chalet manager, chef, butler, housekeeper and chauffeur on request.

Owned and designed by the same owner as Le Mangeoire – one of the top hot spots to visit in Courchevel 1850 – the party continues in the chalet as it has a vast 250 sq m party room which is perfect for entertaining large groups, complete with bar, lounging areas, cinema room and extensive wine cellar. Rates range from EUR 90,000 – EUR 200,000 a week.

SPA EXPERIENCE - Sirocco, Verbier, Switzerland – Perched high on the mountainside offering incredible views of Verbier, the exceptional service levels of this chalet is finished with immaculate style and elegance guaranteed to impress you at every turn.

Spanning over four floors, this luxury property sleeps eight people and is designed to provide the utmost comfort with its living and entertainment areas.

Its utterly fabulous spa and entertainment zone is spread across the entire ground floor and making it one of the most luxurious in-chalet spa experience in the Alps.

The open plan living and dining area enjoys floor to ceiling French windows which open out onto the large wrap around terrace, the perfect spot to relax in the fur covered chairs and savour the delights from the chalet’s wine cave, or head to the cosy cinema where you can relax for the evening. Rates range from CHF 42,500 to CHF 110,000 a week.

Additional concierge services are provided at no extra cost by the team. From booking ski guides and instructors, organising ski passes, organising activities or entertainment to booking reservations at a favourite local restaurant, everything is handled to ensure a seamless booking experience.

For more information please visit www.luxurychaletcollection.com or speak to your Private Travel Consultant Harriet Tetlow on 01993 899 429

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Mega Yachts Move to Mallorca

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Explore - Mega Yachts Move to Mallorca

It’s now two years since Spain ditched its infamous 12% matriculation tax and one since non-EU-flagged charter yachts were given permission to operate in Balearic waters. The result has been an influx of the world’s largest and most glamorous superyachts to these beautiful Spanish islands.

Main Island Mallorca has always led the way thanks to its proliferation of chichi marinas capable of hosting the largest vessels, from capital Palma with its class-leading shipyards through to nearby Puerto Portals and Starck-designed Port Adriano.

Now the fishing community of Port Andratx in the far southwest is preparing itself to join the superyacht spotlight.

Lorenzo Vila, Director of easyboats, a family-run yacht charter and brokerage business that has operated out of Port Andratx for over 25 years, has this to say, “This summer season has been quite the beauty parade for megayachts. We’ve spotted Australian billionaire, and the current ‘Mr’ Mariah Carey, James Packer’s 87.5 metre Arctic P, New Yorker David Geffen’s 128 metre Rising Sun, 90 metre Lürssen Phoenix 2 and brand new 89 metre OceAnco Infinity – to name just a handful. The authorities have really put the ‘welcome mat’ out for the superyacht community, in particular with regard to charter, and the marinas are responding accordingly by upgrading their facilities.”

Port Andratx’s reaction has been to add seven superyacht berths ranging between 26 and 30 metres alongside an additional 34 car parking spaces. The expansion forms part of a project approved by the Balearic Government Port Authority back in December 2014, and aims to meet the evergrowing demand from HNWI who choose this classy southwest Mallorca resort for boating and second (or third, or fourth...) homes.

Lorenzo continues, “We were born and raised in Port Andratx. My brother, and co-Director, Xisco, and I, come from a family of seafarers and have yachting and the sea running through our veins. Our grandfather, my namesake Lorenzo Vila, was well known in Port Andratx as a talented fisherman as well as being a skilled yacht captain at a time when Mediterranean smuggling was commonplace. When we were young, we were often out sailing with him and it stirred our passion to establish easyboats in 1989. With help from our mother, we bought three boats and for quite some time were the only motoryacht charter company in Mallorca. To say we’ve seen a lot of changes, in the industry and in the Port itself, is far from an understatement.”

Indeed, in the late 1980s Port Andratx was a humble fishing village and, while the fishing industry is still thriving, with trawlers unloading and trading their loads on a daily basis to the local fish restaurants which line the marina front, it’s now taken on a new image as a millionaires’ and billionaires’ playground.

High-end restaurants aside, the hillsides are cloaked in seven- or eight-figure price tag villas and Forbes rich listers and royalty flock to the pavement cafés to watch the world go by under endless blue skies.

At a budget of almost two million euros, Port Andratx’s seven-berth superyacht expansion project will cater to newcomers to the Port, as well as existing berth owners who want to upgrade in anticipation of buying a larger yacht. The extended quay will also have the added value of reducing the swell coming into the natural harbour for all other marina users. The icing on the cake is a muelle de espera – waiting quay – which will accommodate visiting yachts up to a mammoth 80 metres in length. This will certainly place Port Andratx on superyacht charter itineraries for 2016.

This nautical news ties in nicely with a current purple patch for Port Andratx’s property market with specialist property valuation consultancy Tinsa placing the municipality in third place in its top ten property hotspots in Spain. Beaten only by Sitges (€2,694 per square metre) and Mallorcan neighbour Calvia (€2,520 per square metre), Andratx’s property values were said to average €2,422 per square metre. However these values are rather conservative compared to the reality of prime Port Andratx.

Lorenzo finishes, “In 2014 a waterside property sold for 27,000 euros per square metre and, while that may be slightly unusual, between 12,000 and 14,000 euros per square metre is around the norm for the best Port Andratx addresses. As with the yachting industry, you have to take into account that these wealthy individuals invariably come from rather-moredreary Northern Europe and are prepared to push their budgets to the limit when it comes to enjoying the Balearic lifestyle and climate.”

Official figures from Spain’s College of Registrars corroborate this ‘international flavour’ stating that 33.5%, more than a third, of all house buyers in the Balearics in the first half of 2015 were ‘foreign’. This figure has undoubtedly been boosted by Spain’s Golden Visa law, first introduced in September 2013, which offers residency to those investing more than half a million euros into property. This scheme has attracted buyers principally from China, Russia, the Middle East and the United States. The Chinese are especially making their presence felt having purchased Palma’s Valparaiso Palace & Spa Hotel in 2014 and eyeing Mallorca as their luxury destination in Spain.

On land or on sea, it seems that Port Andratx has become Mallorca’s ‘one to watch’ for seasons to come.

For further information on yacht charter, sales, management, maintenance and refit, contact easyboats on info@easyboats.com, telephone 00 34 607 608 870 or visit www.easyboats.com. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/easyboats Twitter: @ easyboats LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/ company/easyboats. We are also on Google+.

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Drive

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Aston Martin Bond DB9 GT Edition For more than half a century Aston Martin has been the sports car of choice for the world’s most famous spy, James Bond.

Now, the luxury British brand is celebrating the release of Spectre with the launch of the strictly limited DB9 GT Bond Edition.

Limited to 150 examples worldwide, the highly desirable model is based on the recently launched DB9 GT. Designed to offer the best of what DB9 can be, the DB9 GT delivers world-class grand touring and hand-built excellence.

Building on these exceptional foundations, the new Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition adds even greater levels of exclusivity by virtue of its limited edition build run along with a host of carefully considered trim, equipment and accessory additions that celebrate the brand’s more than 50-year association with the famous film franchise.

Subtle styling additions The DB9 GT Bond Edition is distinguished by a subtle yet elegant selection of styling additions inside and out.

The 6.0-litre V12-engined grand tourer features unique Spectre Silver paint; sterling silver Aston Martin badges front and rear; and discreet ‘007 Bond Edition’ exterior badging.

These features build on the elegant styling of the DB9 GT which includes unique ten-spoke gloss black diamond turned 20-inch alloy wheels; bright aluminium bonnet vents, side strakes and grille; carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser, and grey brake calipers.

Inside, the DB9 GT Bond Edition continues its subtle homage to James Bond with unique numbered sill plaques featuring the familiar 007 logo; gun barrel embroidery on the 2+2’s rear seat divider and a special Bond Edition start-up screen on the new model’s AMi II touch-sensitive Aston Martin infotainment system.

These embellishments add to the car’s already luxurious interior environment which includes unique fluted leather; an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and a satin carbon fibre centre console surround.

Powerful appeal The DB9 GT Bond Edition’s 6.0-litre V12 engine is capable of generating 547 PS at 6750 rpm, and 620 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm.

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The all-alloy, quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve 5,935 cc front mid-mounted V12 is mated to the proven rear mid-mounted Touchtronic II six-speed transmission with electronic shift-by-wire control system. It carries the luxury sports car from rest to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 183 mph.

The all-round independent double wishbone suspension continues to deliver secure handling while the three-stage Adaptive Damping System (ADS) offers distinct Normal, Sport and Track modes for the broadest possible breadth of dynamic characteristics.

Elegant Accessories Besides its unique interior and exterior features, the DB9 GT Bond Edition offers a suite of elegant Bond-themed accessories to complement the model’s creation.

Presented in a finely-crafted 21” Globe-Trotter trolley case finished with an embossed leather luggage tag, the collector’s car also includes an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m James Bond Limited Edition watch complete with a unique Aston Martin strap.

Welcoming the debut of the DB9 GT Bond Edition, Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “Aston Martin and James Bond are intrinsically linked in the minds of many of our enthusiasts and, indeed, owners, worldwide.

“In the run-up to the launch of the new film, Spectre, which sees Bond behind the wheel of the DB10, we are very happy to be able to celebrate the partnership with this superb limited edition DB9 GT collector’s item.”

Dr Palmer added: “I’m sure the 150 owners worldwide who succeed in acquiring one of these exceptional sports cars will, like the rest of us, delight in seeing Spectre when it is released later this year.”

The new DB9 GT Bond Edition is available to order in markets around the world from today, priced at £165,000.

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Drive - Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition

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Protecting Your Passion and Your Investment

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Drive - Protecting Your Passion and Your Investment

Demand for classic cars has boomed in recent years but new and seasoned owners alike need to make sure their investment is adequately protected, writes Ron Fiamma, Vice President and Global Head of Private Collections for the Private Client Group division of AIG. Collections are created through passion. An enthusiast who has assembled a collection of classic Ferraris, or rare Bugattis has done so with love, care and dedication. Some collectors are committed to a single marque while others may search for a particular elusive automobile with an unmatched provenance or racing history.

Although these collections are led by the heart, the head can be mollified by the fact such pieces are growing in value at unprecedented levels.

Classic cars continue to be one of the most valuable class of collectibles, with prices reaching historic highs at auction in the last five years. In one example, in 2014, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – of which only 39 were ever built – was sold for £23mn. A portfolio of desirable vintage automobiles could have returned as much as 450% in the ten year period to the end of 2014. The S&P 500, by comparison, returned approximately 92% in the same ten year span.

While passion drives the collection, these investments are being viewed more and more as a viable alternative asset class. In either case, they require a sophisticated protection plan, both from an aesthetic and financial perspective.

Being prepared for the worst Whether collectors own Old Masters, a cellar of vintage Bordeaux or a stable of pre-war Bugattis, they should have the comfort of knowing that everything possible has been done to protect them. Private collections policies cover rare and often irreplaceable items, but that’s just part of the story.

Coverage can be coupled with vulnerability assessments, risk management services and loss prevention advice, and specialist knowledge is critical. Independent experts – often belonging to an insurance company’s network of specialists – can provide comprehensive advice on a range of issues.

This should start with performing a risk assessment to identify factors that could threaten your vehicles and recommending steps you can take to safeguard against them. Guidance should cover the proper design and maintenance of your storage facility – for example is the garage facility properly constructed to withstand tremors or storm surges and has an emergency evacuation plan been put in place? It should also include references to how state-of-the-art technology can be used to detect potential hazards such as water or gas leaks, and counsel on the best methods to move your collection from one location to another.

The intricacies of covering car collections in transit are just as important as the pre-loss planning. Many owners travel extensively to classic rallies or Concours exhibitions, so it is also vital that the policy offers worldwide coverage both for physical damage and liability. Ensuring that condition reports are completed before shipment and after arrival can pinpoint when damage might have occurred.

With respect to protecting the financial value of the vehicle, owners should seek features such as newly acquired coverage and agreed value coverage which also offers upside protection for increasing prices as well as diminution in value coverage for partial losses.

The best possible response Physical damage to the vehicle is perhaps a classic car owner’s biggest fear. In the event of damage or loss of the vehicle, a financial pay-out is not always the main concern for car collectors – they want their prized possessions to be restored or replaced in kind: not always an easy task.

One U.S. based AIG client owned a rare 1930s era Alfa Romeo that had just undergone an extensive 18-month restoration in New Zealand, home to one of the top Alfa shops in the world. Back in the US, preparing his home for the onslaught of Superstorm Sandy, the client assumed the car was safe on a four foot high riser in his garage. Unfortunately, the power of the storm caused the garage and the car to be completely submerged in salt water.

Despite the aftermath of the storm, our head of auto physical damage was in the client’s garage within 24 hours to discuss the options available to him. When the client explained he would not feel comfortable having anyone else work on the car except the expert in New Zealand, we agreed. Within one day, the car was on a plane headed back. A second restoration was completed, and the client now has his 80-yearold beauty back home ready to participate in the Concours d’Elegance show circuit.

Going the extra mile In another example, a collision nearly wrote off an owner’s Ferrari Enzo — one of only 400 that were ever made. The extensive damage required lengthy and complicated repairs. We offered to reimburse the policyholder for the full value of the vehicle but, due to its rarity, he preferred that efforts were made to have it repaired it. The design intricacies made it nearly impossible to find a qualified technician and replacement parts nearby. We determined that the only technicians equipped to complete the repairs were the original builders — at the Ferrari manufacturer in Italy.

We shipped the car and the damaged parts to the factory and paid for the policyholder to visit Italy twice to inspect the progress. Once all repairs were completed, the vehicle was shipped back to his residence — good as new.

After all, regardless of the number of cars you own and where you choose to locate them, you want to protect your investment, as well as your passion. Car enthusiasts build collections for a variety of reasons: to enjoy the aesthetic qualities of the cars, to diversify an investment portfolio or simply to satisfy a lust for a particular car first seen as a teenager. Preferences can range from Bentleys, Morgans and Jaguars to hot rods, concept cars and exotics. Whatever their choice, real collectors know that proper protection is always in good taste.

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Art LUX - October 2015 41

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Read Another Day

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Art - Read Another Day

The new James Bond Film has spawned a number of products, from jackets to phones, but for genuine connoisseurs looking to get their Ian Fleming fix the best way would be with an original copy of the texts.

Below: Peter’s son Pom Harrington

Ian Fleming’s James Bond titles are some of the most popular spy thrillers ever written. They are also beautifully designed books that look great as a set, and are a fun and accessible starting point for those interested in collecting modern literature.

Bond being the great British institution that he is, it will come as little surprise to learn that a great many people spend their time hunting out first editions and signed copies.

Unlike some authors with complex publishing histories, Ian Fleming is comparatively straightforward to collect and his first editions are easy to identify. A total of 14 James Bond books were written, all of which were published by Jonathan Cape in London between 1953 and 1966.

Determining whether or not a book is a first edition is simply a case of following two simple rules. Firstly, the novel will always say Jonathan Cape on the title page; secondly, it should state “First published…” with the correct year (and no others) on the back of the title page.

But simply finding a first edition won’t necessarily be enough for the Bond collector: numerous criteria will affect how desirable each individual copy is and how much it will be worth.

Peter Harrington are the UK’s largest rare book seller and one of the leading rare book sellers in the world. They were established in 1969 and specialise in selling and buying the finest quality original first editions, signed, rare and antiquarian books, fine bindings and library sets. In the 1970’s Peter Harrington started a successful map and print business and in 2000 they established The Chelsea Bindery which employs some of the finest binders in the world who make fine bindings, preservation boxes and restore books.

Peter Harrington have two shops in London and books can also be purchased online at their fascinating website www.peterharrington.co.uk They have an enormous stock of fine books dating from the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries in a broad range of subjects including children’s, modern and classical literature, science, natural history, economics, politics, philosophy, history, photography, art, sports, travel and exploration.

Their four-storey double-fronted shop at 100 Fulham Road, Chelsea, has more than 20,000 volumes and 6,000 prints and old maps whilst their recently opened NEW shop in Dover Street, Mayfair, has over 7,000 books arranged over two floors. The shops are open daily from Monday to Saturday and visitors who want to buy or sell books or just browse are warmly welcomed.

Jackets Chiefly, to be truly collectible a first edition Bond novel needs to be in its original dust jacket. For 13 of the 14 books there is a particularly easy way to tell a first edition jacket: it must not bear any selfreferential quotations from critics. For instance, dust jackets for Casino Royale that include a quote from the Sunday Times’ review of that novel are all second or later impressions.

There is only one Bond novel that has a specific point related to the jacket: second impression jackets for Live and Let Die have a line on the front flap that credits the jacket designer. First impressions do not have this line, which is referred to as the “jacket design slug”. A first edition, first impression copy will be the preferred choice for a Bond collector by far.

Going further Collecting a complete run of first editions in their dust jackets is not a particularly easy task in itself, but those who manage to obtain the basic set and would like to add to the collection can seek out two additional books, considered to be significant rarities.

When The Man with the Golden Gun was first published, a very small number of copies were decorated with a golden gun. For some reason – assumed to be either the expense or the practicality of applying the design – this idea was quickly abandoned. Copies in this state are now rare – should you come across a first edition of the book, it is always worth checking underneath the jacket.

Additionally, there is also a signed limited edition of

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, which is the only signed limited edition of a Bond novel produced during Fleming’s lifetime.

An affordable pursuit?

In addition to their simplicity, James Bond novels are also popular because of their relative affordability, as the disparity between prices at different levels of condition is much greater than in many other modern books. Perfect copies, especially of earlier titles, can run into the tens of thousands of pounds, but it is certainly possible to find those still in nice condition ranging from only a few hundred to a few thousand pounds, depending on the book. Condition is a primary consideration when valuing Bond novels, and even a flaw as minor as a price-clipped dust jacket can noticeably affect the value, which is good for collectors on a budget.

Scarcity also plays a role – Fleming’s last book, Octopussy, is common enough that fine copies are valued at as little as £175 pounds.

Fleming’s Bond titles have also been consistently strong sellers, steadily increasing in value over the last fifty years, particularly when associated with a blockbuster film. Until 2006, Casino Royale was the only one of Flemings’ novels without an accompanying film, and the story’s popularity was considerably revived upon the release of the excellent cinema adaptation starring Daniel Craig. (The film’s title sequence was directly inspired by the dust jacket of the first edition.)

After Fleming’s death in 1964 other authors were hired to continue the Bond franchise, most notably Kingsley Amis, who published Colonel Sun in 1968 under the pen name Robert Markham. While the completist might well keep an eye out for copies of this and additional titles, it is understandably the original 14 books that continue to hold the most appeal to readers, film fans, and book collectors alike. If you’re considering collecting first editions of the adventures of James Bond and are unsure how to begin, the first port of call should be a rare bookseller, preferably a member of the Antiquarian Book Association. Now is certainly the time to start, as the impending release of the new Bond film Spectre is sure to affect the popularity – and therefore the prices you will pay – of Bond novels in the near future.

Peter Harrington has helped to complete collections for customers across the globe, and can be found in both Mayfair and Chelsea. Full details can be found at www.peterharrington.co.uk, or alternatively their experienced booksellers can be reached on 020 7591 0220.

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Jewels LUX - October 2015 45

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A Cut Above the Rest We speak to Salim Hasbani, Director of Tresor Paris, about the latest trends in precious jewellery.

7ct natural green emerald ÂŁ69,979

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18ct White Gold Necklace ÂŁ40,000

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Jewels - A Cut Above the Rest

Anyone who wants to own a truly unique and spectacular piece of jewellery will have heard of Tresor Paris, the luxury jewellery experts who specialise in fine diamond jewellery.

to make themselves stand out in the spotlight.

Hasbani described how his firm endeavoured to ensure that their products were different by using only the finest diamonds.

Defined by luxury and elegance, the award-winning jeweller offers a vast collection of exquisite diamond and crystal pieces. It has 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, platinum, sterling silver, pretty pearls and of course the iconic glittering Tresor Paris crystals.

“There are different colour gradings for diamonds, running down the alphabet from D through to E, F, G and below, with D being the best grading. In the range of diamond colourings, anything from H and above is defined as a white diamond.

Tresor Paris is also at the forefront of jewellery fashion, having collaborated with designers including PPQ, Corrie Nielsen and Fyodor Golan to design bespoke pieces for their LFW “London Fashion week” shows. In addition to this they also create bespoke show-stopping pieces such as a stunning 1920’s inspired Gloriole shoulder piece which has also featured on the catwalks.

The firm’s Director, Hasbani defined some upcoming trends in top-end precious jewellery.

“The summer months are a little slower in the fine jewellery market, as with many luxury goods, but as we move into the autumn and winter seasons one trend I believe we will be seeing a lot more of is customers increasingly going for bigger items, both in terms of size and price. In the diamond jewellery market pieces can go up to several million pounds, at the moment we are seeing a greater demand for these kind of pieces, much bigger than before.

“In terms of actual appearance, the classic round brilliant cut is still a best seller, however we have, unusually, had a lot of enquiries about the less common cushion cut diamonds, which I expect to see more often in the run up to Christmas.”

In terms of clients, Hasbani was keen to emphasise that whilst these products are unique and exclusive, the market was wide ranging, with many different customers keen to own a piece of sumptuous, individual jewellery.

“The market for fine precious jewellery is very varied.

One of the most common reasons clients purchase products like ours is because they have become engaged or got married, as there is a big market for precious diamond engagement or eternity rings, which many clients like to be precious and unique to show their love for their partner.

“For the most part other fine jewellery products are sold to private clients across the globe, who have already invested in other high end products such as properties, artworks and cars and now find themselves drawn to exquisite, unique jewellery.

“These clients want the best. They want something unusual, something different, something unique, and this is what we are able to provide for them, which is why they come to us for their jewellery.”

“Colour grading affects the price, as does size, with bigger stones commanding a higher price per carat.

The higher the colour, the rarer the piece is also. It may not seem like much, but when we are making a piece you can really see the difference, as lower graded stones have hints of yellow or brown, whereas higher stones are completely colourless or white.

“The jewellery that we make usually uses H graded stones and above, going all the way up to D, which is often used to make our biggest, most unique pieces. In order to give ourselves and our clients piece of mind we often use diamonds which have been certified by one of the biggest laboratories in the world, called the GIA, the Gemmological Institute of America, to ensure their authenticity.

“A step up from white diamonds is unusual colours such as fancy vivid yellow, pink or blue diamonds, which are very rare but make gorgeous pieces.

“As for the settings for our jewellery, we try to make the most unique pieces, with our team of designers always aspiring to make original and visually stunning pieces of art. They create unusual pieces with not just diamonds but many other stones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires to create something that is truly unique and beautiful. We have built up a reputation for these innovative, handcrafted pieces over the last four decades, which is why our customers return to us time and time again.”

As a final aside, Salim mused on the reason customers spent such large sums of money on jewellery.

“It makes you feel good, it makes you feel happy.

People always like a bit of sparkle, that is how it has always been. Not forgetting diamonds are forever”

18ct White Gold, Blue Topaz Necklace £49,500

Another big aspect of Salim’s business is celebrity clients, who are also looking for original pieces

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Style

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Style - What to Wear on Your Winter Break, Whatever the Destination

What to Wear on Your Winter Break, Whatever the Destination We showcase a number of beautiful designs for both warm and cold weather to cater for your winter holiday wardrobe wherever you are going.

Even in the winter you need style and comfort, especially if you’re off to the ski slopes or a winter paradise in Lapland. Here is a selection of sumptuous cashmere from leading Scottish mills created by The Travelwrap Company. Their beautiful luxury wraps and scarves are perfect keeping cosy in the snow this winter. The collection includes the Classic Travelwrap in Light Silver and the Herringbone Travelwrap in Teal.

If you are headed for winter sun this Christmas, then these stunning pieces from Salt Resort Wear are ideal. The online clothing boutique sources unique, exciting brands from all around the world to delivery luxury resort wear, 365 days a year.

Featuring brands like Yosuzi, Tooshie, Bluma Project, Zimmermann, Marysia and Mara Hoffmann, this is the go-to destination for any holiday wardrobe edit.

Salt Store, which opened in Belgravia earlier this year, sources interesting ready-to-wear brands, with many designers and pieces as exclusives. The collection includes the Calypso Nona Dress and Gas Bijoux Stephania Plume Earrings in Turquoise.

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Getting Framed It’s the first thing people notice about you and they reveal so much about your personality and your aspirations.

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lux Opposite: (top to bottom, Left) Tom Ford Snowdon ‘James Bond Spectre’ from ocoglasses.co.uk Dita Senator Two - OCO’s Dita Svelte - OCO’s Oliver Goldsmith Manhattan - OCO’s Starck matte-black - (top right) OCO’s Thom Browne TB200

Style - Getting Framed

Your choice of which glasses to wear defines you, according to the luxury online prescription eyewear retailer OCO.

last independent eyewear makers in the world. Each frame is handmade in Japan by master craftsmen and using the technical precision of CAD drawings.

OCO’s qualified optometrist and dispensing optician Jennie Harris says: “People can spend thousands of pounds on a sharp designer suit, a fabulous hat or a top of the range watch, but it’s the right pair of glasses which can give a person instant gravitas.”

Jennie says: “DITA frames are all handmade, super luxe quality and can take more than eight months to manufacture. In a world of mass production and fast turnaround times, there’s something special about meticulous craftsmanship. It’s no wonder that they are starting to get a cult-like following amongst the world’s most influential tastemakers and stylists.

And these days, there’s a huge choice of luxurious frames – and designer brands – available.

“People care about fashion,” says Jennie, “and they are inspired by 20th century style icons such as film stars Marilyn Monroe, James Dean and Audrey Hepburn as well as the likes of Grace Kelly and Michael Caine.

“In the iconic 1960s film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, film and fashion icon Audrey Hepburn famously wore Oliver Goldsmith’s Manhattan frames which framed her elfin face and have never gone out of vogue since.

“They are such a classic style, beautifully made and suit a wide variety of face shapes, so it’s no wonder they remain a popular choice.”

Oliver Goldsmith now produces one of the most historic sunglass collections and the OG ICONS are exact replicas of some of the hundreds of original OG frames the family hold in their private collection.

Today’s classic films are also setting eye-wear trends.

You might not have his chiselled jaw line, his defined abs or his beach ready body. But now you can get the James Bond look by donning a pair of the sunglasses he wears in the new Spectre movie.

Bond star Daniel Craig has been spotted several times on set wearing the stylish Tom Ford Snowdon TF237 frames.

OCO’s Jennie said: “Tom Ford is a fiercely modern brand and its consumers buy into the label’s confidence to express the best version of themselves.

“Snowdon is the frame of the moment and they look great on Bond, the world’s best-dressed spy.

“They’re a small-medium sized frame with a very classic shape that suits most faces - men and women. The Snowdon is also perfect for prescription sunglasses.”

It’s the third time Bond has worn Tom Ford sunglasses – he also wore them in Skyfall and The Quantum of Solace.

But it’s not just the movies which influence eyewear fashion – the journey of each frame is important too.

Seductive American eye-wear brand DITA is all about handmade frames, made using the highest quality materials including titanium, 18k gold, white gold and the finest acetates.

Established in Los Angeles in 1995, the company’s co-founders are the driving force behind one of the

“We particularly admire the DITA Senator Two, which is a fabulous men’s handcrafted frame with a real contemporary look, and the Svelte, which is a feminine, acetate frame with a subtle and flattering cat’s eye shape.”

Menswear designer Thom Browne is also known for his workmanship and attention to detail.

His metallic TB-200 ladies sunglasses come with leather side shields and nose pieces for a unique and attention-grabbing look, while his TB-006 unisex frames are perfect if you need prescription lenses in your sunglasses.

“The quality and attention to detail in this brand is simply stunning,” says Jen, “and when you look closely you can see how much time and effort has gone into the manufacturing of each piece.”

French designer Philippe Starck is another designer making a noise in the luxury eyewear market with his ‘Biozero’ collection featuring extremely lightweight frames with patented spring hinges. All Starch eye frames are handmade in Italy and the quality is evident as soon as you take them out of their case.

Changing your glasses according to your mood, your choice of outfit or workplace is having a real moment.

Jennie says: “The British are becoming much more ambitious with their eyewear. Just as they wouldn’t dream of being seen in the same outfit, they don’t want be boring with their glasses.

“People are splashing out on a range of glasses to suit their mood. Playing sport? You need the right eyewear. Going out for dinner? You want frames to match your outfit. Got an important work meeting?

Make sure your eyewear is as confident and professional as you need to appear.

“On the Continent, it’s not unusual for people to buy three or four pairs of glasses at a time which they swap depending on their mood. That trend is taking off here too as glasses become much more of a fashion accessory.”

About OCO OCO is a new online prescription eyewear retailer which sells high end glasses and sunglasses.

Among the OCO team are qualified optometrists and over 30 years of experience in the industry. The company prides itself on its fast, transparent, online prescription eyewear service and free next working day delivery (DPD). www.ocoglasses.co.uk

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2014 Copperstone Capital.

All rights reserved.

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Copperstone Capital is an investment management firm founded in 2009 with offices in Moscow, Russia and London, United Kingdom.

We manage wealth for high net worth individuals and institutions through various hedge fund strategies.

16 Sadovnicheskaya Street, Moscow, 115035, Russia T +7 495 988 0010 F +7 495 951 1410 www.copperstonecapital.com

HEDGEfund awards2015 Best Russian Fund (Since Inception)

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Disaronno Riserva

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Tipple - Disaronno Riserva

A new luxury limited edition liqueur, which combines the signature notes of DISARONNO with a bespoke blend of Scottish malt whiskey.

For whiskey connoisseurs seeking a new and innovative product, DISARONNO RISERVA could be the ideal gift.

DISARONNO, the world’s favourite Italian liqueur, presents a very exclusive addition to its portfolio, DISARONNO RISERVA; a unique blend of Scottish whiskey and DISARONNO - aged in Marsala barrels from the Cantine Florio in Marsala, Sicily.

Produced by Augusto Reina, CEO of ILLVA Saronno, DISARONNO RISERVA is the result of an innovative and exciting idea created from a very unique combination; blended scotch whisky made from a select mix of different malts, and the aromatic notes of DISARONNO; almond, toasted hazelnut and burnt honey.

The journey began in Speyside in the Scottish Highlands, known for producing Scotland’s lightest, sweetest single malts, where Mr Reina hand selected the perfect blend of whiskeys to compliment the exquisite flavours of DISARONNO. On route back to Italy, the liqueur passes through Saronno, where the historical headquarters of ILLVA Saronno lie and DISARONNO is produced. The final destination is the Cantine Florio winery; Sicily’s oldest and most beautiful winery, where the RISERVA is then aged in old wooden Marsala casks dating back to 1938.

The result is an initially sweet touch of spice softened by light hints of vanilla-almond, with luscious fruity overtones and a finish that is peppery, recalling dried fruit with a touch of intriguing Madeira. It is perfect served neat, or on the rocks.

The DISARONNO RISERVA packaging takes inspiration from the iconic DISARONNO bottle, but with a cleaner and more refined outline, and comes packaged in a beautiful sleek black wooden case.

Only 10,000 bottles will be produced worldwide, and will be available from a selection of handpicked luxury retailers across the globe at an RRP of £250 making this definitely one for the connoisseurs.

Augusto Reina, CEO of ILLVA commented on the new product.

“I am honoured to present DISARONNO RISERVA. It’s a product that is deeply rooted in the company’s ethos; research and innovation have always been the guiding principles in managing the family business, and it is these exact values that have made this new product truly unique. To make the product distinctive I decided to focus on how, and where it was created; being aged in the oak barrels Cantine Florio brings it all back to the long standing history of the company.

It has all come full circle.”

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Tech LUX - October 2015 57

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The Route to the Future of Sound Steve Devonshire, Training Manager at Bang & Olufsen 58 LUX - October 2015

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Tech - The Route to the Future of Sound

Since the early days of the 1920s, Bang & Olufsen has grown from its roots in Struer, Denmark, to a network of over 550 stores across more than 100 countries in locations including New Delhi, Munich and Bangkok. To celebrate the 90th anniversary this year, we have launched a range of products in a new rose golden nuance, a book named The Art of Impossible and the state-of-the-art BeoLab 90 loudspeaker.

From radios to loudspeaker innovation: During the roaring twenties, Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen started their journey into technology when it was still an almost magical phenomenon.

Bang & Olufsen began producing radios in the attic of Olufsen’s family manor in 1925. The first commercially viable product to bear the Bang & Olufsen name was the Eliminator – a component inside the radio that made batteries unnecessary, allowing you to connect your radio directly to the mains. It was this level of innovation from the start that has helped us continue to deliver state-of-the-art products.

Fast forward to 2015 and we have the BeoLab 90, set to take sound quality to new levels. BeoLab 90 is a celebration of our innovative heritage and timeless design philosophy in the year of our 90th anniversary.

The innovative speaker delivers uncompromising audio for sound enthusiasts. With world-class design and acoustics, this aims to be the most powerful digital loudspeaker ever designed for use in the home and will inspire the future of sound. The 360 degree design is based on a complex aluminium cabinet totalling more than 65kg, measuring the acoustic effects of its surroundings to direct stunning sound to users’ favourite listening positions. Designed by Frackenpohl and Poulheim, the 135kg powerhouse leaves a significant footprint on your music experience. Its pentagonal shape combined with the rhombus shape of its black fabric covers gives the BeoLab 90 a unique and impressive appearance.

The highly sophisticated loudspeaker contains a multitude of unique technologies. It is fitted with our new Active Room Compensation technology, which makes up for the impact of your room, your furniture, the placement of the loudspeakers and the location of the listening position. By this, it is able to stage the sound so superbly you can hear precisely where the individual band members or the actors in your favourite movie are placed. The speaker also offers unique Beam Width Control and Beam Direction Control, which enables you to change the width of the sound beam to suit different listening situations as well as the option of moving the sound beam in five different directions. You can easily change the listening experience from a dedicated sweet spot to a party all-over the room setting, just by the touch of a button. When family and friends are gathered for a film experience, the wide sound setting will provide a great cinematic experience. To facilitate operation in relation to BeoLab 90 and all the options it offers, we have also developed a dedicated app for convenient use of BeoLab 90 in situations where you wish to set it up, change the listening position, or the beam width. The app gives you the option of creating and

selecting different listening presets, optimised for different listening situations and positions. The future of technology and sound in the home is all about placing the customer at the centre and optimising their experience.

With 90 years such a significant milestone for us, we also launched The Love Affair Collection earlier this year to capture the mood and style of an age characterised by elegance, enticement and energy.

It was a time when jazz music blossomed, and where the young – especially the young women – set themselves free. This was when Art Deco peaked, with its representation of luxury, glamour, exuberance, and faith in social and technological progress. Led by rebellious and passionate spirits, the roaring twenties saw a renewed attraction to genuine beauty, music and dance that set the stage for a love affair that could last forever.

The Love Affair Collection sees eight of our current products rejuvenated with a new palette option in keeping with the surge in interest towards beautiful materials – especially rose gold, which is experiencing a renaissance in the jewellery industry.

One of the most emotive aspects is its underlying meaning. While white gold represents friendship and yellow gold means fidelity, rose gold represents love and is therefore the ultimate inspiration for this collection. Bang & Olufsen is capturing the hearts of customers who have enjoyed a love affair with the company over the years.

To further celebrate our 90th anniversary, we have produced a new book, The Art of Impossible – The Bang & Olufsen Design Story. This publication gives an exclusive behind-the-scenes insight into the concept, design and manufacturing of many of our iconic products.

Looking forward to 100 years of Bang & Olufsen: At Bang & Olufsen, we have a strong ambition to live up to our founders’ vision: enterprising creativity - a never failing will to create only the best. These guiding principles were first conceived by our founders in the 1920s and still lie deep in the soul of every Bang & Olufsen employee today. We challenge the way technology and design integrates. It is not one or the other. With home automation existing at the heart of our technology for years, we are continuing to push the boundaries, with the recent launch of BeoLink Multiroom being a clear example of this. With 90 years under our belt, we will continue to innovate to surprise and thrill customers.

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