BWI Magazine Travel Issue by BWI Magazine

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DARE TO ASK , WHERE NEXT? INTRODUCING THE FIRST-EVER C ADILLAC XT5.

2 1 8 T U R N P I K E R O A D ( R T. 9 E ) SOUTHBOROUGH, MA 017 72 Phone: 855-236-9025 W W W. LO N G CA D I L L AC .C O M

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LONG CADILLAC

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BWI MAGAZINE CEO: Mariana R. Silva-Buck President: Jon Scooter Aonia

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mariana R. Silva-Buck

PUBLISHING PUBLISHER Mariana R. Silva-Buck

PHOTOGRAPHY

SALES

Kristi Beisecker

sales@bwimagazine.com

Dina Konovalov

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ART & DESIGN Nicole Dean PR Marcela Nixon mnixon@thepuresolution.org

Jon Scooter Aonia ADVISORS: Leigh Heyman Ten Travis Yolanda Ruiz Steve Awrtry Jocelyn Taylor

CONTRIBUTORS Arilda Da Costa Harrison Rose David J. Zuckerman Celinne Da Costa Meehna Goldsmith Kemi Sogunle Helena Martin Karen Burzdak Celebrity Contributor: Chrishena

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Kristi Beisecker

Spring has to be one of my favorite seasons, probably because it leads to summer (can I get an amen?). With spring also comes what I call my spring fever, that burning desire to just get out of the house, shake off the winter blues and just go, where? I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care. Maybe its just me but I get the travel bug bad this time of the year, my desire to just discover new places or even reminisce old ones is what has lead me to where I am today. As BWI Magazine grows I have been able to enjoy the perks of owning a company that requires me to travel, meet new people and enjoy new cultures. I hope you too get the insatiable travel bug and let BWI Magazine guide you to your next adventure!

Cheers, Mariana R. Silva-Buck CEO/ Editor in Chief

editor@bwimagazine.com @marianasbuck

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FROM THE EDITOR

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12 MOTOR

78 EVENTS

Wheels And Deals. Luxury collectables

Qatar Airways Gala

26 BOATS

62 TRAVEL

How to Charter your Own Yacht

Grotta Giustti

72 ARTS & CULTURE

47 FASHION

The Art of Yara Tupinamba

Spring into Fashion

B.W.I.

30 LIFESTYLE

38 JEWELRY

Five Chefs share their favorite dishes

Christie's Magnificent Jewelry

50 BUSINESS

42 WATCHES

VULT

The Belles of Baselworld

68 ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

84 REAL ESTATE

Backyard Oasis

Aaron Kir man Real Estate Empire

B.W.I.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CONTRIBUTORS

KEMI SOGUNLE

CHRISHENA STANLEY

BENJAMIN GREENE

KRISTI BEISECKER

SHARON PRESTON

KAREN BURZDAK

CELINNE DA COSTA

KEVIN U

HELENA MARTIN

Interested in Becoming a Contributor? Drop us a line on www.bwimagazine.com B.W.I.

Or send an email to editor@bwimagazine.com

? Kemi Sogunle is an award-winning author, image consultant, international speaker and certified professional coach. She supports others with regaining their self-confidence/esteem, finding and loving themselves after a broken relationship or divorce, experiencing love again and building healthier relationships that will make their lives become better not bitter. She believes that living truthfully is paramount to longlasting relationships and healthy living. Learn more about Kemi by visiting: www.kemionline.com

CHRISHENA STANLEY After getting her Real Estate Agent’s license, Chrishena moved to Atlanta in 2007 to begin “The Stanley Team” with her mother (who is an 18 year real estate veteran from New York City.) The Stanley Team was affiliated with Coldwell Banker, and in 2008 Chrishena was nominated as the Coldwell Banker’s Rookie of the Year. Leveraging this success, Chrishena transitioned to on-site sales for one of Atlanta’s premier high-rise communities, where she became the number one sales agent.

BENJAMIN GREENE Benjamin has more than seven years experience reporting for the automotive community. His passion for automobiles has had him exploring the minutiae of expensive exotic cars for duPont REGISTRY, U.S. News and World Report, and prognosticating the future of the industry with CarPreviews. Ben writes from the beaches of the Tampa Bay area.

KRISTI BEISECKER Kristi Beisecker is an artist and freelance graphic designer in Massachusetts. In her spare time she creates photograms using electricity and organic materials with analog darkroom processing. She also reads and writes about science, spirituality, travel and lifestyle, composes and performs music and gives spiritual guidance.

SHARON PRESTON Sharon is a writer and editor whose passion is travel, fashion and beauty. She is based in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she lives with her daughter Kelli, 23, and two vintage cats, aged 15 and 19 respectively. Sharon has worked on

many international women’s titles. She helped launch Marie Claire in South Africa, was Features Editor and Travel Editor for Women&Home, and Travel Ed for Essentials.

KAREN BURZDAK Karen Burzdak is CEO and Founder of Hanu Skin Care. Karen is a US Advocate of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and a member of the American Herbalists Guild. She holds certifications in Essential Aromatherapy and Clinical Aromatherapy. Karen has a degree in communications from Fitchburg State College and has done some Masters of Business Administration studies. She believes in supporting conscious cosmetics while educating the community on safe, natural skin care.

CELINNE DA COSTA Celinne Da Costa is blissfully, head-over-heels, crazy in love with the world. Born in the heart of Rome, Italy, to an immigrant Brazilian mother and a German-raised Italian father, she lived in Brazil and New York City before embarking on her Nomad journey. She has traveled to dozens of countries and hundreds of cities. Her writing offers an analysis of local culture, a creative interpretation of the city’s soul, and insights from its people, architecture, history, and landscape.

KEVIN U Kevin is an American food writer focused on the world of gastronomy. From street food to fine dining, he constantly seeks out the most interesting and fascinating dishes and drinks from around the world and seeks to share these experiences with people through his writing.

HELENA MARTIN Helena Martin is a business entrepreneur graduated in business with a specialization in finance. She loves fashion, a heritage that comes from her lovely mother who used to be a seamstress. She grew up around scissors, needles, and colorful fabrics. She is a fashion columnist and writes a bilingual lifestyle blog, called Metropolitan Fashionista. She is also a freelance writer for several newspapers and magazines.

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KEMI SOGUNLE

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WHEELS AND DEALS. LUXURY COLLECTABLES UNDER $30,000

ou donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be stingy to want to save money. That luxury marque is still within reach for a lot less than you may think. Here are our picks for the best luxury rides for less than $75,000:

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CARS

$28,995

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PORSCHE 911 The 911 has been modified by private teams and by the factory itself for racing, rallying, and other forms of automotive competition. It is among the most successful competition cars. In the mid-1970s, naturally aspirated 911 Carrera RSRs won major world championship sports car races such as Targa Florio, Daytona, Sebring, and NĂźrburgring, even against prototypes. The 911-derived 935 turbo also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979.

You can get a 2009 model for under $30,000

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It is one of the oldest sports coupĂŠ nameplates still in production, and 820,000 had been sold by the car's 50th anniversary in 2013.[6] "Around 150,000 911 cars from the model years 1964 to 1989 are still on the road today.

$26,995

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LOTUS ELISE

The Elise was named after Elisa, the granddaughter of Romano Artioli who was chairman of Lotus and Bugatti at the time of the car's launch. You can get a 2005 model for $26,995

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The Lotus Elise is a two-seat, rear-wheel drive, mid-engined roadster conceived in early 1994 and released in September 1996 by the British manufacturer Lotus Cars. The car has a handfinished fibreglass body shell atop its bonded extruded aluminium chassis that provides a rigid platform for the suspension, while keeping weight and production costs to a minimum. The roadster is capable of speeds up to 240 km/h (150 mph).

$29,996

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The Maserati Quattroporte was initially offered in only one configuration, equipped with the DuoSelect transmission. The base Quattroporte DuoSelect was recognizable by its chromed grille with horizontal slats; adaptive Skyhook suspension and 330 mm brake disks with four piston callipers all-around were standard. Maserati put emphasis on personalization, offering customers a choice of fifteen exterior paint colours, Poltrona Frau leather upholstery in ten hues, contrasting seat piping and stitching and three types of wood inserts. At the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2005 Maserati introduced the Executive GT and Sport GT trim levels you can get a 2005 for $29,996

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MASERATI QUATTROPORTE

$30,000

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2015 MERCEDES-BENZ SL 55

The SL designation was first applied to the 300 SL, often referred to as the "Gullwing" due to its gullwing or upward-opening doors. The term SL refers to the marketing variations of the vehicle, including the numerous engine configurations spanning six design generations. you can get a 2006 for $30,000

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The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a grand touring roadster manufactured by Mercedes since 1954. The designation SL derives from the German Sportlich-Leicht, The original idea was suggested by American importer Max Hoffman, who perceived a market for a toned-down Gran Prix car tailored to affluent performance enthusiasts in the booming post-war American market, which remains the primary market for the vehicles.

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e r . n a h c c t u o a y w V n a T A azine you c A mag

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HOW TO CHARTER YOUR OWN YACHT

BOATS

Beneteau Gran Turismo 49 Fly

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Express Cruiser with a unique concept, the Gran Turismo 49 Fly combines the precision and pleasure of powerful sports driving, similar to that of a sports car, and sharing unique moments with friends and family in a luxurious and terribly glamorous atmosphere! Its "sea view terrace" is not reserved for the driver. Accessed by an elegant spiral staircase, the flybridge is now a real sea saloon with a long seat surrounding a large table. The driving station is made up of the control panel and two bucket seats.

harting a yacht sounds like something reserved only for the likes of Warren Buffet. The truth is, chartering a boat often costs the same as or less than a traditional big-ship cruise or beach-resort stay. With a little sailing know-how--or the assistance of a trusty captain-for-hire--anyone can rent a boat and cruise to secluded dive spots, rollicking bars, and hidden coves, specially, if you go bare. Typical all-inclusive rates for a week on a fully crewed sailing yacht run from US$1,800-2,500 per person (for a standard-sized group of four to six people), plus incidentals and 10-15 percent gratuity

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Firstly, think about the type of yacht that would best suit the size and character of your charter party. Also, bear in mind

that most yachts only charter in specific areas.

around $200 a night.

Because you don’t need a license or special certification to hire a yacht, you can rent a 50-foot yacht for a week and enjoy the company of your friends in the open sea. After a Q&A and onboard briefing, the charter agency will decide if you can handle the boat alone. Most boats have barbecue grills if you don’t feel like getting fancy in the kitchen, besides, fresh fish shouldn’t be hard to come by, what a better way to find all the glorious fish shacks than island hoping on your own private yacht?

In case you’re wondering if there is a ‘best place’ to charter a yacht alone for the first time, the best spot for a beginner to get his sea legs is in the British Virgin Islands, where the winds are consistent, the waters are deep and sheltered, and there's plenty to do ashore. With dozens of islands concentrated in a relatively small area, most sailors can spend their days swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the bars, shops, and beaches of yet another small port.

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However, if the agency (or you) decided you can't charter the boat alone you can include a chef and a skipper for

SPRING FEAST Five chefs share their favorite spring dish by BWI Staff

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LIFESTYLE

Chef Danny Elmaleh, Cleo South Beach

Cucumber Yogurt Dip Recipe Ingredients: 2lbs of greek yogurt, drained 10.5 oz of cucumber, grated 1/2 cup of lemon juice 1.5 oz of garlic, grated 1 tbsp of kosher salt Garnish per portion: 2 oz of pickled cucumber w/dill 1/4 oz of chopped dill Pinch of caraway Pinch of oregano 1/4 of pink peppercorns Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil PREPARATION:

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In a Hobart mixer, whisk everything together using the wire whip attachment. Total time: 10 minutes

Dina Deleasa, DishItGirl.com

Mini Banana Orange Bundt Cakes Ingredients: 2 bananas over ripe (the outside peel will be brown) 6 tbsp butter melted 1 cup sugar 1 egg beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed, i used cara cara oranges 1 tbsp orange zest 1/2 tsp salt just a pinch! 1 1/2 cup flour 1 tsp baking soda cooking spray servings: 12 mini cakes

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. prepare a pan that has the mini bundt shapes. if you don't have that this recipe will work with a cupcake pan. the shape just won't be as cute! i used coconut oil spray to grease the pan, if you have regular cooking spray that should work too! peel the bananas and mash them in a mixing bowl until smooth. i used a fork or the back of a spoon will work fine. Add the melted butter to the bananas, and stir. add in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest. mix to incorporate. then add in the baking soda and salt. then stir in the sugar and beaten egg. then add the flour and stir as you add in a little at a time. in each cupcake or mini bundt section add a scoop of the batter filling the section up about halfway not much more. it is about 2 tablespoons worth. bake for about 25 minutes. you will see the batter start to rise and the cupcakes/bundts will turn golden brown. insert a toothpick and see if it comes out clean. that is also an indication they are done. Remove from the oven and let cool.

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PREPARATION:

Chef Paul Denamiel, Le Rivage

Tuna steak with seasonal grilled vegetables and lemon aioli 4- 5 ounce tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick 2 cups cherry tomatoes- halved 2 small zucchini- cut lengthwise and quartered 1 small eggplant- cut into thick slices 4-5 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons herbs de provence 1 clove of garlic, minced **Easy lemon aioli 3/4 cup mayo 2 garlic cloves minced 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon juice salt and pepper to taste stir ingredients together until fully blended PREPARATION:

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Coat grill pan with olive oil and heat over medium high heat. lightly coat vegetables with olive oil and salt Grill vegetables until lightly charred Remove vegetables from grill and cut into bit size pieces Place vegetables, herbs de provence and garlic in a bowl and toss to coat Brush tuna steaks with olive oil, season with salt and pepper Grill to desired doneness- 4 minutes each side for medium rare

Serve tuna on bed of vegetables and lightly drizzle with the easy lemon aioli Serve extra aioli on the side

Roozbeh Farahanipour, Delphi Greek

New Zeland rack of lamb, with seasonal vegetables and basmati rice topped with saffron 22 garlic cloves 2 teaspoons chopped thyme 1 teaspoon chopped rosemary 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 medium tomatoes, halved 1 (1-pound) frenched rack of lamb (4 to 8 chops, depending on size), cut in half 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced (1/3 cup) 2 medium boiling potatoes, peeled and sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick 2 tablespoons water

Mince and mash garlic to a paste with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Stir together with herbs and 1 tablespoon oil. Put tomatoes cut sides up in an oiled small baking dish and drizzle with a third of garlic mixture. Roast until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Brown lamb on all sides, 4 to 6 minutes total. Transfer lamb to a cutting board and discard oil from skillet. Heat remaining tablespoon oil in skillet over medium heat and cook shallots and potatoes, stirring occasionally, until edges are browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in water and half of remaining garlic mixture and remove from heat. Rub remaining garlic mixture on fat side of lamb racks. Arrange lamb over potatoes and roast in oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted into center of meat (do not touch bone) registers 130Â°F for medium-rare, 20 to 25 minutes.

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PREPARATION:

Chef Dimitri Harvalis

Zucchini Fritters - served with fresh marinara, tzatziki sauce or spicy mayo Ingredients: 4 cups shredded zucchini 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1/3 cup sliced scallions (green and white parts) Vegetable oil Sour cream, for serving (optional)

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PREPARATION: Place the shredded zucchini in a colander set over a bowl and sprinkle the zucchini lightly with salt. Allow the zucchini to stand for 10 minutes. Using your hands, squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. Transfer the zucchini to a large bowl. Add the flour, eggs, sliced scallions, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper to the bowl, stirring until the mixture is combined. Line a plate with paper towels. Liberally coat the bottom of a large sautĂŠ pan with vegetable oil and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop 3-tablespoon mounds of the zucchini mixture into the pan, pressing them lightly into rounds and spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Cook the zucchini fritters for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip them once and cook an additional 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked throughout. Transfer the zucchini fritters to the paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle them with salt. Repeat the scooping and cooking process with the remaining zucchini mixture. Serve the zucchini fritters topped with sour cream (optional) and sliced scallions.

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LIFESTYLE

ADVERTISING

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CHRISTIE'S MAGNIFICENT JEWELRY

Â© Christie's images LTD. 2016

LIFESTYLE

n celebration of Christie’s 250th anniversary, the company held its spring auction, allowing gem connoisseurs the opportunity to own the very best Burmese ruby offered for sale in the United States in over two-and-a-half decades.’ The auction named Magnificent Jewels & the Jubilee Ruby was held on April 20 2016 in New York City at the Rockefeller Plaza.

EMERALD AND DIAMOND NECKLACE, BY CARTIER

As expected, the auction drew the attention of collectors worldwide with its main piece being the rare Jubilee Ruby ring by Verdura. The piece sets the record for the most expensive colored gemstone sold at auction in the United States. The piece is the most important Burmese ruby to appear at auction in the United States in over 25 years. The 15.99 ct. Burmese ruby and diamond ring by Verdura was estimated to sell for between $12 million and $15 million and fetched a price of $14,165,000. Christie’s disclosed that it was sold to a private European buyer. Besides the Burmese ruby, the auction also included over 250 lots for sale featuring rare diamonds ad colored stones as well as exceptional jewels from Buccellati, Cartier, David Webb, Graff, Harry Winston, Van Cleef & Arpels and more.

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15.99 CARAT BURMESE RUBY AND DIAMOND RING BY VERDURA (Left)

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“After selling the Jubilee Ruby, the most expensive colored gemstone sold at auction in the United States, we look forward to May 18 in Geneva where we will offer the 14.62 ct. Oppenheimer Blue diamond, the largest fancy vivid blue diamond ever offered at auction, and jewels from the collection of Princess Gabriela zu Leiningen,” said Rahul Kadakia, international head of Christie’s jewelry, in a statement. The Oppenheimer Blue is the latest in a line of historic blue diamonds that have been auctioned at Christie’s. These include the Tereshchenko in 1984, the Wittelsbach Blue in 2008, the Begum Blue in 1995, and a blue-diamond ring owned by Marie-Antoinette, which was auctioned in 1983.

Named after its previous owner, diamond connoisseur Sir Philip Oppenheimer, the Oppenheimer Blue, which, at 14.62 carats, is the largest Vivid Blue ever to come to auction, is set to star in Christie's Magnificent Jewels auction on 18 May in Geneva. The exceptional diamond is classified as a Vivid Blue, emphasized by its classical emerald cut. The Oppenheimer Blue is described as one of the rarest gems in the world. The April auction brought in a whopping $57,029,250, we can only predict similar success in the Geneva auction with the gem of all gems as its lead.

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ÂŠ Christie's images LTD. 2016

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THE BELLES OF

THE BASEL WATCH BALL By Meehna Goldsmith

ike the peacock, haute horlogerie (for the last 20-30 years) blessed the men with the showiest and most spectacular creations. Certainly, women’s pieces seduced with luscious curves and/or succulent jewels, but they were mere shells containing all the mechanical excitement of a peahen with their quartz movements. While the peahen, sadly, won’t ever be a stunning bird, the brands have transformed the idea of a woman’s watch. They aren’t just hit parades of gemmed sparklers or sexy shapes (not bad in and of itself), but are now full-fledged pieces of horology juiced by mechanical energy. In the last 5 years or so watch companies have focused on women’s mechanical (real) watches in order to pry open another revenue stream. No matter their motives, the results made specifically for the fairer sex can once again stand proudly side by side with their male counterparts. During Basel 2016, many women’s watches came from the simple and restrained to the complicated and sophisticated— swinging time with a mechanical motor. Here are some highlights. While starting as a millinery company and moving into clothing and accessories for which it’s known, Chanel then dove in to the horlogerie waters. Their iconic J12, launched in 2000, was the first to use high-tech ceramic, debuting in black and later followed by white. For the 15-year anniversary of the collection, Chanel released the J12 Collector Mirror. With numerals printed underneath the sapphire crystal, they reflect in the chapter ring below for a playful dance of time. In a 38mm case, the watch holds a simple 42-hour power reserve movement and is limited to a run of 1,200.

(Left) Chanel J12 Collector Mirror

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Slim d’Hermès Mille Fleurs du Mexique (Top)

Speaking of fashion, Hermes also got bitten by the horlogerie bug. This year the Slim d’Hermès Mille Fleurs du Mexique, in a limited edition of 6, draws inspiration from French Graphic Designer Laettitia Bianchi’s pattern for a Hermès silk scarf. Paying homage to her home country, she created a design steeped in Mexican folklore that highlights magical feathers, flowers, leaves and birds— an artistic expression of the fragility of time. The motif is painted by hand on a mother-of-pearl dial and inside beats a lovely thin Vaucher calibre with a micro-rotor. Louis Vuitton (see a theme here?) reveals a dazzler with the Tambour Monogram Sun Tourbillon. Quite the popular (what some call) complication, the tourbillon visually flourishes by becoming the shape of the bottom petal of LV’s signature Monogram flower while the bridges meet to form the iconic star. The guilloche mother-of-pearl flower petals sit lushly in a carpet of diamonds. The highcomplications manufacture La Fabrique du Temps, now owned by LV since last year, constructed the self-winding LV 80 movement, which poses through the see through case.

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Perhaps best known for its El Primero sports collection, Zenith also presents a lovely dress watch in its Elite pillar— and this year the ladies get a special version. The Elite Lady Moonphase, inspired by the Elite 6150, produced in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Manufacture, gets a new feminine face. Available in five case and dial iterations, including diamonds, all the watches feature a moonphase at 6 o’clock soaring across a mother-of-pearl dial. Inside the 36mm casing beats the automatic Elite 692 movement. Yet another house of fashion, Dior, has been surprising with their offerings, particularly with the Grand Soir, which presents artistic views on the dial for the eyes to savor, including in previous years origami, and frills and ruffles reminiscent of gowns. As a follow up Dior goes in a different direction with a psychedelic visual experience. The KaleiDIORscope (really?) introduces dials that use embroideries to create patterns—that are then reflected through a kaleidoscope to create a geometric symmetry. Composed of pieces of mother-of-pearl, gold, opal, lapis lazuli, chrysoprase and sculpted stones, the dials are further enhanced with diamonds, sapphires and tsavorites lining the bezel in trilliant and baguette cuts. In keeping with haute horlogerie, Dior chose to power the KaleiDIORscope with a Zenith Elite calibre visible through the caseback. It’s hard to believe that Blancpain’s Ladybird is having a 60th anniversary. Boasting the smallest round movement on the market at the time, the Ladybird was a technical marvel. As a teaser Blancpain released in February a Valentine’s Day model, saving for Basel a dial decorated with a rich foliage motif with a bezel framed with 32 diamonds—appropriately limited to 60 pieces. Blancpain

KaleiDIORscope

never produces quartz watches and the Ladybird is no exception, housing an automatic movement using the ever more popular silicon balance spring to reduce friction. If you’re more of a tailored sort of woman, then a Jacob & Co. watch is not for you. However, for audacious women, Jacob & Co. will always provide the ticket. Splashy, presumptuous and, in a way, hard to resist a stare, the Rainbow Tourbillon follows through on the naming theme with a dial bursting with primary colors. Set against this guilloché background are three different time zones rounded off by what’s referred to as a multi-row tourbillon at 6 o’clock. Offered in four precious case metals, the watch, because it’s Jacob & Co, is encrusted with large sparklers on the bezel and lugs. Graff is another jewelry company that has been in the watch game for some time now too. Last year they unveiled their first mechanical watch collection for women. Combining their expertise in gemology with horology, this year Graff pulled back the curtain on the Graff Floral tourbillon, the first women’s tourbillon in their collection. It was a

Jacob & Co. Rainbow Tourbillon

Graff Floral tourbillon

As seen at Basel 2016, the variety of haute horlogerie catering to women continues full-steam ahead, unleashing the brands’ creativity for the fairer sex. Previously, the companies whined that they couldn’t and shouldn’t put resources into creating complicated timepieces for women because they wouldn’t respond with a purchase. Thankfully, they are moving off this staunch stance to see that if they respect women’s intellect and aesthetic by putting time and resources into haute horlogerie watches for them, they will return the favor with their delighted interest.

Zenith The Elite Lady Moonphase

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joint venture between its jewelry atelier in London and watches division in Geneva. Complementing the floralshaped tourbillon located between 5 and 6 o’clock are 3 rotating sapphire flowers situated around the dial that rotate individually to the beat of the movement. Even the leaves are in the shape of petals in keeping with the theme.

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SPRING INTO

FASHION By Kemi Sogunle

You can make daring statements by colorizing your accessories and still keeping your look toned down. This is one way to add vibrancy to your summer look.

Alexander McQueen Knuckle Box Brooch Crystal Clutch Bag, Black $4,295.00 (Neiman Marcus)

Oscar de la renta Crystal Lace Cuff Bracelet $490.00 (Neiman Marcus)

Valentino Angelicouture Suede Stilettos $1045 (Stylebop) Zuhair Murad Floral-Embroidered Party Dress, Shocking Pink $5,450.00 (Neiman Marcus)

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ACCESSORIZE IT

2 3

AN EVENING WITH COLORS

Summer is the time to bring the spark out of you. A hue of colors in the summer, makes you feel audacious, graceful and fab. Choose colors that suit your skin tone. Judith Leiber Couture Soap Dish Confetti Crystal Clutch Bag, Champagne Rhinestone $3,695.00 (Neiman Marcus)

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Oscar de la renta Embroidered ColorBlock Silk Faille Column Gown $10,990 (Oscar de la renta website) Manolo Blahnik - Hangisi Floral-Print 105mm Pump, Multicolor - $985.00 (Neiman Marcus) Roberto Coin 18k Rose & White Gold Pave Diamond Crossover Earrings $22,400.00 (Neiman Marcus)

KEEP IT SIMPLE You can choose to keep it simple for a wedding or cocktail party by choosing complimentary colors and making a bold statement with the accessories.

Boucheron Pensee 18K White Gold Diamond Stud Earrings - $11,050 (Neiman Marcus)

Alexander McQueen Classic Skull Silk Floral Clutch Bag, Blue $4,195.00 (Neiman Marcus)

Gianvito Rossi Suede Sandals 750 (Net a Porter)

Oscar de la Renta Embellished silk mini dress $9,490 (Net a Porter)

WEEKEND TREAT Salvatore Ferragamo Limited Edition Parigi Ostrich Gancini Driver, Brown $1,900.00 Salvatore Ferragamo F-80 Chronograph Watch with Bracelet $2,650.00 Stephano Ricci Aquila Five-Pocket Denim Jeans $1,095.00 Bruno Cucinelli Solid Long-Sleeve Linen Shirt, White $495.00 Salvatore Ferragamo Gancini Buckle Belt, Brown $460.00

RED CARPET

Tom Ford, Solid Velvet Navy Blue Bow Tie $250 (Neiman Marcus)

Ermenegildo Zegna Trofeo Yarn-Dye Trousers, Navy $695.00 (Neiman Marcus)

Ermenegildo Zegna Cannes Suede Bit-Strap Loafer, Navy $795.00

TOM FORD Classic-Collar Evening Dress Shirt, White $825.00 (Neiman Marcus)

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Burberry Peak-Lapel Silk Evening Jacket, Navy $1,995.00 (Neiman Marcus)

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THE NEW AGE OF DIAMONDS

THE EARTHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST OFFERING

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VULT diamonds are investment grade and GIA certified, the global standard for grading diamonds. Each VULT is warrantied for the provenance and title of the diamonds inside.

iamonds, traditionally symbols of love and beauty, are now a tangible, liquid store of value that complement other stores, such as gold, real estate, commodities and paper investments.

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When you buy a diamond ring, or a jewelry, it has a sentimental value that can't be replaced (or priced). Ideally you will never sell or get rid of your diamond jewelry, after all, diamonds are forever, right? However, if you do decide to go a different route, get ready to be taken for a ride. If you want to sell your grandmother's diamond ring, the valuation price will vary depending who you talk to because there is absolutely not transperency on the trade value of diamonds and, unless you know the diamond industry, you will be at a loss.

"The price that you may or may not receive for the diamond will actually depend on who you see, you will lose about 30% of the price in the transaction . The diamond industry loves it that way because you are not supposed to sell your diamond, diamonds are foreverâ&#x20AC;Ś..until now." Justine Bone, Executive Director, CTO of VULT VULT is a beautifully disruptive innovation that is transforming the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most concentrated form of wealth, diamonds. For the first time ever, technology has turned diamonds into a genuine asset, capturing and securing their true value as an investment.

A TRUE TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION VULT is breakthrough technology that gives you the confidence your investment is secure. No bigger than the palm of your hand, VULT is a state-of-the-art smart device with six layers of security. VULT is constructed from a metal-free ceramic case and a single-crystal sapphire cover. An invisible GIA certificate number is laser-engraved on every diamond, the innermost layer of security; the visible laser-engraved serial number is found on the outermost layer. In between are four more layers of the most advanced technologies for identification and communication, including a patent-pending core, encrypted optical signatures and wireless multifactor authentication.

BWI talked to Justine Bone about VULT and how its going to change the industry. This makes so much sense to me, you can get a card (a VULT) and you can use that as trade right? Clients can buy and trade their VULT, we have a platform people can register and trade their vult that way. What has been the feedback on VULT? People are getting Vult for gifting but mostly as a portfolio diversification. Also, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portable and secured. Its like anything else, like someone carrying cash or buying gold. The diamonds are secured on the vult and every diamond has the same value, so there is a transparency factor that is not usual in the diamond industry until now, the price you pay for a vult holds its value and it may increase in value overtime depending on the diamond market. The diamonds are permanently locked inside the VULT, this is not about loose diamonds, its about the permanent, tangible value of diamonds as a trade option.

How does the trade of VULT work? It’s a bare instrument so it does need to be protected, obviously. People can store VULT in their own storage or they can use our partner services, we have a partnership with companies that provides global logistics and secure storage for VULT and other precious items. When it comes to portability, just like someone chooses to carry cash, you may choose to carry VULT, after all diamonds are the most concentrated form of wealth. VULT is the size of a credit card and is very easy to carry, also its not regulated like a currency so you can transfer documents to other people as you travel. Is it possible to add diamonds to your VULT, lets say, of different value? That would make your VULT unique and we are doing the opposite of that, we want every VULT to be the same as the next VULT, so every diamond are permanently enclosed inside the VULT and the VULT is a temper proof device, you cant replace the diamond. This is not about loose diamonds, so your black vult is the same as the next black VULT and maybe you have three black VULT and now you have three times whatever the value from the last trade is. Its not a storage space that you can add value (diamonds) to it, it’s a collection of permanent housed diamonds that is worth a certain value and they are all worth the same as every other VULT in the market. How has been the reception in the market space? We only recent started launching our new campaign and people are excited about it since nothing like VULT has been available in the market before, we are doing a series of world launches now, will be launching in Miami, Dubai, China. We are just bringing it to market now.

We are not playing in the same space as the diamond jewelry, that will stay the same even though we are disrupting the market. The jewelry industry is based on the emotion, what a diamond means to someone and because they are loose diamonds each individual diamond has a different value. VULT comes in as an alternative to other types of investments and make diamonds now a part of that game.

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It’s a very exciting product to bring to market, its all about technology and transparency, and a lot of the computer technology that I am very well versed such as optical recognition technology. This is what the VULT system use to authenticate it.

BRAZI UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN A PARADISIACAL SETTING IN SOUTH BRAZIL

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By BWI staff

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IL VIP

ocated on a private peninsula in Governador Celso Ramos, 31 miles from Florianopolis, Ponta dos Ganchos Resort is surrounded by a fishing village and is immersed in the lush nature. It is the most exclusive beach resort in Brazil and is a short distance from Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Buenos Aires, Argentina. The green mountains seem to join in the clear waters of the sea of Costa Esmeralda, north of Santa Catarina. Three small islands and a white sandy bay make the scene even more charming. Opened in December 2001, the Ponta dos Ganchos was built to be a high quality hotel and offer guests an unparalleled experience. The privileged location, integration with nature, the work done with love and dedication by the entire team allowed the resort to join the prestigious seal of The Leading Hotels of the World. UNIQUE AND SUSTAINABLE RESORT

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One of the main features of Ponta dos Ganchos

©Ponta dos Ganchos

Resort is privacy. In an area of almost 20 acres there are only 25 bungalows, divided into six categories, ranging between 860 to 3200 square feet. All the bungalows overlook the sea.

©Ponta dos Ganchos

The Anhatomirim Bungalow, 860 square feet, has bedroom, sunken living room, two balconies, bathroom, fireplace and air conditioning. But the thicket bungalow, 1000 square

TRAVEL roofs. From the balcony you can enjoy a sunset unforgettable sunsets. In 2008, five new bungalows were built. The Emerald Villa, 2475 square feet, has a double bathroom with spa bath with chromo therapy, massage room, sauna overlooking the sea and outdoor area with deck and heated pool. The Special Esmeralda bungalow of 3200 square feet and single unit has a larger spa bath, fitness room downstairs and lap pool of approximately 30 feet. These newer bungalows were built in a sustainable way, with cross ventilation, solar panels, green roof and reforested wood. Care for the environment is part of the essence of Ponta dos Ganchos, which in addition to sewage treatment, captures rainwater for use in gardening and recycles 100% of waste. Organic waste undergoes a process of composting and then used as fertilizer in the garden hotel. Reforestation is done in 8% of the resort grounds, which were planted 10,000 seedlings of native trees. In addition, 90% of the resorts employees are locals. "We buy fish from local fisherman to help in community development," says Virginia Peluffo, Director of Sales & Marketing. ÂŠPonta dos Ganchos

Concern for the environment does not stop there. Guests can get around the hotel with electric cars, like those used on golf courses. All oil used in the kitchen is donated to a company in the region, the lamps are LED (more economical) and the office is only used recycled paper.

At 1200 square feet, the village bungalow offers double bathrooms, Jacuzzi inside the room - fully glassed - garden and a private pool. The Special of the village, at 1937 square feet has room and integrated room, double bathroom, a sauna and a closed internal Jacuzzi with glass doors and

ÂŠPonta dos Ganchos

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feet, has a large Jacuzzi in its exclusive balcony and a sauna.

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In addition to a paradisiacal setting, the whole charm of the bungalows and environmental care, the Ponta dos Ganchos Resort has yet another unique attraction for guests seeking privacy and warmth: an island just across the small beach hotel. During the day, you can enjoy the island to rest, read or enjoy the scenery in the lounge under the gazebo. At night the island can be the setting for special moments together. The couple can book it for a unique and romantic dinner in a space decorated with futons and candles. "It is our flagship. Many couples come for their honeymoon and we have a very special program for them, with a special dinner on the island. It's unforgettable, "says Virginia. To offer every comfort level to guests, the resort has a multidisciplinary team and a complete infrastructure. There are 120 employees to serve 54 guests occupying 25 bungalows (in high season). The housekeeping is done three to four times a day and the staff is always on hand to make guests feel at home.

The service is fully customized, including the menu. Prepared by chef José Nero, guest's request can be changed in case of some kind of food restriction, diet or even if you just want to try something different. GASTRONOMY Gastronomy is another strong point of Ponta dos Ganchos. Despite the influence of the French, Italian and Spanish kitchens, we create our menus always focusing on Brazilian cuisine. Always exploring the rich ingredients found in Brazil. They highly value the Brazilian products. “We have a streamlined menu, but quite varied.” Says chef José. Regional dishes, with fish, seafood and shrimp, started to be included more predominantly in the hotel's menu, due to the interest of their own guests. So at lunch, the dishes are simple but have a beautiful presentation and elegant touches –only served a La Carte. However, at night, the options are more refined.

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MAJOR SERVICES

The Resort is located at Ponta dos Ganchos Resort Rua EupĂdeo Alves do Nascimento, 104, Ganchos de Fora Governador Celso Ramos (SC), Brasil

For more information visit their website

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www.pontadosganchos.com.br

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ÂŠPonta dos Ganchos

GROTTA GIUSTI How to experience Tuscany's eighth wonder of the world for under $200 a day! BWImagazine.com May | June 2016 | 62

by Kristi Beisecker

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ast May I went to Italy for an artist-in-residency; specifically, La Macina di san Cresci in Greve in Chianti. I wanted to maximized my time there and utilize what was in my surroundings. I had done plenty of research before my time in Tuscany and came across Grotta Giusti. What I loved about this place was that it was a bit off the beaten path, yet fueled by culture and Italian vibes. Grotta Giusti is located in Monsumano Terme, just east of Pisa in the province of Pistioa, in the heart of Tuscany. On their website they describe the Terme as the “Eighth Wonder” of the world. With its’ majestic stalagmites and masterfully sculpted cave walls, it’s really no wonder that it is called the eighth wonder! Getting to Grotta Giusti was a voyage in of itself. I had originally planned on just spending the afternoon at the Terme, but then realized a night at the spa wasn’t that much more and felt for the distance I was traveling, I thought a night was better. Greve in Chianti, was an hour by bus from Florence and it was about an hour from Florence train station to Monsumano Terme. This specific terme was the largest thermal cave in Europe and stretches two hundred meters below the resort.

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During my stay I feasted on exceptional, gourmet Tuscan food, relaxed in the massage room and enjoyed a dip in the guest-

only thermal pool. It was a nice treat to myself after working long hours for the past several months and a reward for achieving a goal of mine that was both financial and personal. If you are looking for something that is a bit off the beaten path in Italy during your next trip, be sure to check out Grotta Giusti. I do highly recommend the experience, as it is unique to the country of Italy and you would not find anything else like it anywhere else! A full Toscana experience at Grotta Giusti is 141Euro per person and the package includes; Buffet breakfast with BIO products, Dinner à la carte at "La Veranda" restaurant (beverages not included), Use of the exclusive Grotta Giusti kit for the whole length of your stay, including bathrobe, towel and slippers and Free internet access and free use of the business center. The spa treatments include; 1 Steam bath in the unique natural Grotto with shower (50') per day per person, access to the outdoor Thermal therapeutic pool with hydromassage (during opening days), access to the new thermal pool "Bioaquam" with hydromassage circuit (except wednesday afternoon), and finally access to the fitness centre Morning healthy hike with trainer (excluding Sundays). Staying a night at this majestic place is the best option as you get the full experience.

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ÂŠWillie Holdman

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BACKYARD Having a pool sounds great, but is it worth it?

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OASIS

Outdoors BWImagazine.com May | June 2016 | 70

Innovation

ool buyers are becoming more and more savvy all around, from technology and design to creating a new backyard environment. The biggest trends we’re seeing in 2016 are:

Fire – Combining fire and water is one of designers’

favorite elements, and now it’s becoming a homeowner favorite, too. Fire pits around the pool are commonplace. However, fire bowls inside the pool are quickly gaining popularity among homeowners.

DESIGN

decrease, homeowners are increasingly looking to enhance their backyard experience. What used to be a request for a pool has now turned into a total backyard environment with the inclusion of outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens and entertainment pavilions. Even the pools are morphing to include in-pool lounging areas with in-water umbrellas and tanning ledges.

Technology – It’s easy to want a pool but visualizing

how the backyard will look with it is a little more difficult. Structure Studios has a program that allows homeowners to see a 3D model of their backyard with the pool in place. With this program, homeowners are able to see what their future backyard will look like outside or even through a window inside the house. This is a great tool for all homeowners but especially for those struggling to envision their future backyard. Also, with smartphones being able to do just about everything, Jandy has introduced an app that allows homeowners to control every aspect of their pool. Homeowners can control things such as the heater or color of the lights directly from a smartphone or tablet. Pool

service companies can even check the pool’s status without a home visit. Jandy’s app takes advantage of advancements in technology to ease pool maintenance for the homeowner. All of these features will add value to a home’s ROI, since people are constantly seeking new ways to enjoy family-time at home. But, the real ROI isn’t on the home’s value, but rather the homeowners’ quality of life. Swimming pools offer a place to gather with family and friends and increase the overall health of the homeowner. Safety is of the utmost importance for swimming pool owners. Fencing is a requirement, but today’s fences are a far cry from the old chain-link models. Aluminum and wrought iron offer safety without compromising the view, while wood and vinyl offer beauty and privacy. Though they cannot be substitutes for a fence, but there are pool covers, such as those by Anchor, that offer added safety through the winter months. All info by Anthony & Sylvan Pools

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The Backyard Experience – As pool sizes continue to

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THE MASTERFUL art OF Yara Tupinamba BWImagazine.com May | June 2016 | 74

By Arilda da Costa

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ART

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ara Tupinambรก, the first lady of art in Minas Gerais, is the granddaughter of European and great-granddaughter of an Indian native from the tribe of Tupynambรกs. At 17 she became master Guignard pupil in Belo Horizonte, and then was a student of Goeldi, the great printmaker in Rio de Janeiro. She continued her apprenticeship with Faiga Ostrower and others. Her first phase is characterized by the drawing, but it was the collage that immediately made her known. To achieve it, she made nature figurative. Also linked to culture, she finds inspiration in the observation of everyday life and the unconscious dust to understand herself and the world around. Conscious of her baroque roots, she obsessively studied the mineiros of the colonial time and by doing so she achieved the expressionist power that marks his work. Much of Yara's work are artistic documents that pulsate history / social issues. From her ambidextrous hands were born pieces of work, which include the strength of "Minas" (Minas Gerais) and the poetry of the "General".

Her poetic figuration, sometimes dramatic, between the real and the dream, between the historical and individual, transferring to the canvas and other materials, acculturated objects; houses, lamps, oratories, vases, teapots, trunks, churches, colonial houses, Baroque angels, saints, young women in the windows, the mountains, the valleys, the fog, birds, vegetation. Alongside the hundreds of paintings, there are architectural murals, in Brazil and abroad; only in Belo Horizonte there are around a hundred, mostly in public spaces. Yara, the artist, comes in the second stage of the Brazilian art. The first is, characterized by the Baroque, and the second is by trying to modernize. Artists were inserted in a political time and so sought the identity and ideologies of the people and the ecological discourse. Among his generation companions Wilde Lacerda, ร lvaro Apocalypse, Jarbas Juarez, Chanina and others. Yara also stood out as an art teacher at the Guignard and EBA of the Federal University of MG, where he was also director (the best collage teacher at the time). The recognition of her work was achieved through

Inhotim 8 - Acrilic on canvas - 1,20 x 1,00

Florest of twisted trees - 1,00 x 0,80m

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Vale do Rio Doce forest - Acrilic on canvas - 1,20 x 1,00

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honors, medals and awards in many art salons. Yara created the Institute Tupynambรก to meet promotion goals for arts and crafts through social and professional training courses. Yara currently lives in BH in a delightful house Vila Paris. She was marriage to Pierre Santos and had one child. Despite her age, a little over 80 years old, she doesn't limit herself. Self proclaimed a person in progress, she made history and walks in history; Her gigantic and beautiful work is the result of a victorious workers' consciousness, which itself contains a virtual aesthetic filled with human values.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM 689 Southbridge St Auburn, MA 01501 508-407-8778 Mon. - Fri. 9 - 5:30 pm

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InďŹ nite Granite 310 Sturbridge Road Brimfield, MA 01010 774-200-8157 infinite-granite.com

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QATAR AIRWAYS BOSTON GALA

Ambassador of The State of Qatar to the United States, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Jaham Al Kuwari (left) with Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Massport Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Thomas Glynn and special guest at the airline's Boston Gala

EVENTS

atar Airways celebrated its highly anticipated nonstop service between Boston and Doha in style. The airline hosted a gala dinner to commemorate its historic partnership with the city of Boston.

The event, showcasing the airline's world-renowned hospitality was, hosted at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. In attendance were many of the city’s dignitaries and business leaders. Guests experienced a red car pet rose-wall welcome, and the Emcee for the evening was television red car pet host and fashion designer Giuliana Rancic, followed by stunning musical perfor mances by Nikka Costa and Strings and En Vogue. Thousands of fresh red roses graced the impeccable tables at the gala, which opened with professional dancers, live orchestra and a video of the new Airbus, followed with perfor mances by singer Nikka Costa and the group En Vogue, the latter which brought the elegant crowd to dance the night away. * All Photos © Qatar Airways and © Dina Konovalov

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker

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Giuliana Rancic

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Nikka Costa & Strings

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ÂŠ Dina Konovalov

Ulrik Christensen, Khurram Jamil and guest

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REAL ESTATE

aron Kirman, President of Aaroe Estates at John Aaroe Group, is one of the leading real estate agents in the USA and has repeatedly been named Top Agent in Los Angeles. With over 3 Billion in sales, Kirman represents the finest estates across the globe and was ranked #13 in the USA by the Wall Street Journal. He has an extensive client base featuring those who seek the luxury lifestyle including heads of industry, celebrities, royalty, major lending institutions and foreign investors. As a prominent figure in the luxury real estate market, Kirman has received international acclaim from the Architectural and Estate communities and represents some of the most exclusive residences across the globe including: Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis House, Richard Neutra's Kaufmann Residence, Frank Gehry's Schnabel House, Lions Gate by Paul Williams and the only Oscar Niemeyer in North America. Aaronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast knowledge and expertise in selling exclusive properties has helped him to procure some of the

highest prices in Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills and Malibu. Kirman attributes his success to his vast marketing and advertising strategies, partners, market knowledge, exclusive contact base and true love of luxury sales. He is sought by many developers to sell multi-unit projects including a private island in the Pacific, Turks and Caicos, and the W Hotels. Many developers, architects and designers contact him prior to construction and completion of their projects to take advantage of his long track record of success to insure the design, architecture and plan would appeal to the right high end buyers. Kirman is often featured in various media outlets including CNBC, The New York Times, CNN. The Los Angeles Times, Variety, the London Times, E! Entertainment and CBS. Media sources often call for information and quotes as he is a go to source for current real estate insight. The oh so handsome real estate mogul talks to our Editor -inChief about life, love, business and how to invest in Real Estate.

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AARON KIRMAN REAL ESTATE EMPIRE

How did you start in Real Estate business? I started when I really young, when I was about 18. It has always been a passion of mine, ever since I was a little kid. Now, everyone wants to be an agent, with so many of us on TV. People see the glitz and glamour, so many beautiful houses and the money, but when I started it wasn’t as hip as it is now. Real Estate has always been something I wanted to do. I always loved houses, architecture and design since I was about 8 years old. Where did that come from? Is anyone in your family in the Real Estate business? No, in fact I used to drive my parents crazy because they had no intention of moving whatsoever and I would make them stop at open houses with me. Where did you grow up? Tell more about what your childhood looked like

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I grew up in very much middle class family right here in the Valley (California). I definitely didn’t enjoy the luxury lifestyle I have now and the wows of financial success as I do now, but I certainly had an amazing childhood with the best parents. I grew up with a learning disability and I also knew I was gay from a very young age, so I was a little bit of an outsider. I was also socially awkward and didn’t have the confidence I have now. My family has always been very supportive and my parents did everything they could to get me to where I am today. My mom took some time off to help me learn how to read. Apparently it took a really long time for me to learn how to speak and she was able to help me. I really credit her for it. My mom and I traveled a lot growing up, even though we weren’t wealthy. She was on a quest to learn Spanish so we would always go to Mexico City, El Salvador, Guatemala and traveled the world. I think that opened my eyes to how the world is, the mix of rich and poor but ultimately I saw people in general were happy. Understanding that sometimes the little things in life are what makes someone happy was a very valuable lesson for me. Do you think having your learning disabilities helped drive you to be so successful? Did you feel you had to prove yourself ? Yeah, you know…the saying is true, what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. I truly believe that. Ultimately, everything someone goes through contributes to who they become. I don’t know if it was a factor, but I know Real Estate was what I was good at and I was blessed to find out at a very young age. That also helped me to become

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successful because I knew what I wanted to do. I was consistent and I stayed focused at it. So, was it your ability to sell or to connect with people that made you good at Real Estate? Like anything in life it takes practice. More than practice this business takes confidence. Now I think what makes me good at what I do is the fact that I can connect with people, so I'm able to figure out who someone is and be comfortable. I go to meetings and lunches all the time with different people and what ends up happening is a deeper human connection. I just went to lunch with someone yesterday whom I didn’t know and we talked about everything, just about life and where his daughter may go to school, investments, music, just everything but real estate. In the end we closed a sale on a $40 million property. Im a very well rounded person, I read a lot, I travel a lot and I have a lot of hobbies so when I meet someone I can see what they are all about. It takes time and it takes practice to build your own authentic self. Besides extremely successful, you are very handsome. How is your love life fitting into business life? Well, to be honest my love life is….I’m single (laughs). I ended my last relationship a little over a year ago. I’m single again and mostly having fun right now but open to finding the one. I trust the universe will give that to me when the time is right.

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Part of your portfolio is the only Oscar Niemeyer USA building, perhaps the last of the real modernist architects. How does this factor affect the pricing and significance of a property? The story with that was someone bought that property to tear it down and the city of Santa Monica gave them a real hard time. So they contacted me and said they wanted to be respectful of the property and asked for my help. I found a buyer who restored the place. Honestly, a piece of property like that is priceless and a true piece of art. It’s a real trophy and it can never be replicated again, much like a painting. I consider that property to be like a Picasso. It's very difficult to put a value on that but it would a very premium price for sure, if it were to go on the market today.

We are seeing more and more price negotiations and savvy luxury buyers in the Real Estate space, how has this affected the market? We are definitely seeing a softening in the luxury market right now. Our first quarter was a little bit slow but it's picking up now, so looks like there is some life coming back. We need to be more conscious of our pricing. We need to be right on track with our prices. If we are too high it will not sell, it has to be right. If the price is right, then it moves fast. Everyone works hard for their money and wants to get the best deals they can and so do sellers. This is the challenge of my job, to make it work for both buyers and sellers, and to make sure everyone is comfortable. What is the best advice you can give someone looking to buy investment properties? Really do your homework. Really know what you are buying and getting yourself into. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just talk to one person, talk to two or three and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just talk to brokers. Talk to the store owners, talk to the neighbors, get a good feel for the area. Also, understand that Real Estate is a good long term investment, but make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting a great deal. What are some of the trends you are seeing now in the luxury real estate market? Like anything else, Real Estate is cyclical. Price negotiation is more prominent now and we are also seeing a larger inventory, so people are more confident to negotiate more.

Asia is the fastest growing luxury market. There is so much money being invested in Asia right now and the population is so large that we are just starting to scratch the surface. If you go to China, you see luxury brands on every corner. A lot of what I have to do is focus my energy in targeting wealth. East Asia has a lot of money and developments happening now in Hong Kong, Singapore. All those places are big money markets. Even Brazil despite all its political turbulence, still has a huge potential, specially now with the currency being so low. We will see a huge market drive for Real Estate because it will be cheaper. My job is to follow the path of wealth and this takes me all over the world.

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You are now expending internationally, why Asia and why now?

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The San Remo, California house for sale by Aaron Kirman

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CHAD SPODICK

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Douglas Elliman Real Estate – The Michael Graves Team Built On Integrity – Driven By Innovation – Defined By Superior Results Direct: 212.362.9600 Office: 212.350.8500 Mobile: 917.703.2727 Fax: 212.813.5184

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chad.spodick@elliman.com 485 Madison Avenue, New York, Ny, 10022

WALKER TOWER 212 West 18th Street, 18A Chelsea, New York Price: $29,992,000

42 Mooreland Road Greenwich, Connecticut

535 Park Avenue, 6B/7AB Upper East Side, New York

Price: $21,500,000

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Merano Residences Albert Embankment, SE1, London , United Kingdom

26 West 38th Street, 5FL Fashion Center, New York

Pearce House, Battersea Power Station, Nine Elms, SW8, London, United Kingdom

Price: $3,492,259

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Price: $2,198,830

The Plaza Residences, 1 Central Park South, 1427 Central Park South, New York

310 West 52nd Street, 3J Clinton, New York

Trump Soho Hotel Condominium 246 Spring Street, 2904 SoHo, New York

Price: $1,850,000

Price: $995,000

Price: $825,000

BWImagazine.com January | February 2016 | 95

REAL ESTATE

BWImagazine.com January | February 2016 | 96

BWImagazine.com January | February 2016 | 97