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Memories create a journey you can always return to
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Contents
contents
November 2019
On the cover 44 Bahamas Strong Luxury, adventure and escapism in The Bahamas post-Hurricane Dorian 56 Best of the Indian Ocean 10 of the most beautiful hotels in which to chase the winter sun 68 La Vita Ăˆ Bella The regal splendour of Palazzo Versace proves a winning formula 112 Time Traveller Future-proof your watch investments with the pioneers of timekeeping
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Swap the everyday grind for a slice of winter sun escapism in the Indian Ocean and let luxury hotels, like Kihaa Maldives, become your home from home
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contents
JOY AT G LI DI N G AC RO S S T H E O C EA N Feel the Joy of gliding across the endless expanse of the Indian Ocean when you stay on the 85 ft Azimut superyacht MY Vittaveli. Let the experienced crew guide you to secluded powder white beaches and hidden spots around the atolls, going beyond the beaten path and discovering your own private Maldives.
jumeirah.com/jumeirahvittaveli | +960 664 2020
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Contents
contents
November 2019
In the news 27 Europe
Belle-epoque romance in Paris; festive cheer at The Lanesborough London; and a new luxury concierge service in Milan
30 Middle East & Africa Craft your own Zambian adventure; why The St. Regis’ sights are set on Oman; Dubai’s new members-only club makes news
32 Asia & Oceania Raffles’ new under-water kingdom in the Maldives; a royal riverside experience in Bangkok; fish like a local in Langkawi
34 Americas A Charlie Chaplin-inspired retreat in Tinseltown; Six Senses gears up for The Galapagos; Heli-fishing in Patagonia
36 Debut Hot hotels, chic boutiques and exclusive new resorts
38 Diary This month’s edit of sporting, cultural and artistic events
40 Gourmet Culinary news and reviews dished up from around the world
destinations 44 The Bahamas
Becca Hensley travels to The Bahamas in the wake of Hurricane Dorian to find the islands’ soul and spirit in full swing at The Four Seasons Ocean Club
52 Bali The Samaya Bali takes us on an adventure to Seminyak and Ubud for two different retreats, that allow visitors to embrace both the classic and modern side of paradise
57 Indian Ocean For those who like to chase the winter sun, we’ve rounded up 10 of the most beautiful tropical island retreats, from the Seychelles to Mauritius to the Maldives
57 Interview The CEO of Seychelles Tourism discusses the culture, soul and Creole of the archipelago
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hotels 68 La Vita È Bella
The va-va-voom exuberance of Palazzo Versace results in a stay that is both princely and playful
80 Escapes The dreamiest hotels around the world and the best offers to tempt you there
84 Suite Dreams We bed down in the best suites, from Singapore to Chicago
92 Interview The Radisson Group’s Area SVP for Middle East & Africa, Tim Cordon, talks strategy, openings and new markets
94 Arabian journeys Short-haul itineraries for your next Arabian adventure
104 No Adults Allowed The luxury travel intel all the cool kids are talking about
spend it 108 Jewels
Autumnal accessories to see you into the new season
110 Watches Keep an eye on the time with these extraordinary timepieces
112 Near Perfection Will the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S live up to the hype? Kris Karacinski finds outs
144 Out of this World An epic 34-day, round-the-world ski adventure courtesy of Scott Dunn
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News middle east & africa
Craft your own Zambian adventure Zambia continues to steal the luxury safari limelight in 2019 with the relaunch of Puku Ridge in South Luangwa National Park; an eightsuite tented camp with sustainability at its core. Run by Grant & Lynsey Cumings, the husband and wife team behind Chiawa Camp and Old Mondro on the Lower Zambezi, Piku Ridge has been completely rebuilt from the ground up following its acquisition from Sanctuary Retreats last year. Private ‘tents’ (they’re more like elaborate jungle-chic villas) feature rooftop four-poster starbeds, local crafts and artwork and private plunge pools, with spacious elevated outdoor terraces and understated interiors in natural tones that let the incredible views of the wildliferich floodplain do the talking. As well as the usual line-up of African wildlife that can be spotted in the vicinity (think lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and hippo) guests can look out for the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest from a dedicated photography hide,
as well as genet cats and a veritable bevy of mongooses, civets and honey badgers. The resort promises an entirely carbon neutral travel experience for guests by actively participating in local animal and social charity projects, and offsetting the costs of guests’ domestic flights, and all guides go through extensive training to lead minimal-impact safari walks and drives. Combined with the two existing lodges in Lower Zambezi National Park, Piku Ridge forms a tempting trio of experiences for the ultimate Zambian adventure. Next year will see the reopening of nearby Chichele Presidential Lodge, a private retreat originally built for the country’s political elite on an elevated spot overlooking miles of uninterrupted wilderness within South Luangwa National Park, creating a fourstop itinerary for intrepid travellers. Rates start from US $810 per night, or book a multi-stop safari tour with The Luxury Safari Company www.chiawa.com / www.theluxurysafaricompany.com
Accor brings french charm to sharm the long-awaited opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum next October and a raft of new luxury hotels shining the spotlight on Cairo mean the Egyptian capital is pegged to be one of the Middle East’s hottest travel tickets in 2020. But there’s also good news for those who like to combine their culture with a splash of seaside indulgence, as Accor assumes management of Naama Bay Promenade Resort in Sharm el Sheikh next month and embarks on a top-to-toe makeover. The two-phase overhaul will see a new-look beachfront area including 216 rooms and suites reopen by 2021, followed by the 304 mountain rooms, which will reopen in January 2023. When work on the first phase is complete, the property will emerge, butterfly-like, as Pullman Sharm el Sheikh; until then, you’ll find it as Naama Bay Promenade Resort, managed by Accor. The property, formerly known as Sharm el Sheikh Marriott Resort, will have separate adults’ and kids’ pools, a new spa, nine restaurants bars and lounges, and 520 well-appointed rooms ranging from 35-120 sqm. Brand new watersports and dive centres will allow guests to indulge in aquatic adventures both above and below the waters of the Red Sea, and a selection of luxury boutiques will meet all those holiday retail needs. www.accor.com
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News middle east & africa
Abu Dhabi is set to did welcome a new you high-end shopping HEAR? destination in late 2020 with the opening of Reem Mall, a 2.8-million-square-foot retail, leisure, dining and entertainment centre with 450 stores and 85 restaurants. Family travellers will no doubt be drawn to Snow Abu Dhabi, an indoor snow-play park with 13 rides and attractions chilled to a refreshing minus-2 degrees: perfect for cooling off during the UAE’s hot summer. www.reemmall.ae
See you at the club: Dubai’s members-only meeting place London private members’ space The Arts Club has revealed plans to open a Dubai outpost next year, providing a dedicated place for Dubai’s well-heeled business community to wine and dine. The Arts Club Dubai will occupy four floors of the Foster + Partners-designed ICD Brookfield Place in Dubai International Financial Centre, offering subscription-paying members access to a wealth of features. Dining options include a modern European brasserie, a contemporary Italian restaurant and a lively destination restaurant with live music, as well as a collection of bars, lounges, private dining options and a cigar bar with walk-in humidor and personalised storage, plus a rooftop terrace and events space. Downstairs, a library and meeting rooms will provide versatile workspaces, and dedicated gallery area will offer a blank canvas for art exhibitions. Weekly members’ events will include beverage tastings, debates, talks, live music and other creative performances. The 156-year-old club was established by Charles Dickens in London in 1863, specifically for prospective members interested in the fields of the arts, literature or science. Since then, it has evolved to include a private supper-club, a collection of 16 stylish rooms and suites and, most recently, the Lanserhof private health club and medical gym. Applications for memberships are open now. www.theartsclub.ae
Living the luxury life at Al Mouj
St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is working on its first address in the burgeoning Omani capital, with plans for a 271-room luxury resort and 170 branded residences in Muscat. The new resort will form part of the Al Mouj waterfront development, formerly known as The Wave, which will include luxury private homes, a 360-berth marina, 18-hole championship Greg Normal golf course, beach park and high-end shopping and dining options. Stretched out along pristine coastline within close proximity to Muscat International Airport, St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is due to open in 2022. www.stregis.com
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News debut
Debut November Hot hotels, chic boutiques and exclusive new resorts here’s our pick of the world’s most luxurious new launches
ONE&ONLY GORILLA’S NEST
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Surrounded by a forest of eucalyptus trees in the foothills of the Virunga volcanoes, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is home to 21 private stilted villas, the ultimate base from which to experience the most thrilling wildlife experience on earth. On the doorstep is Volcanoes National Park, a vast wilderness speckled with five dormant volcanoes that’s home to Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas. As well as trekking into the mountains to visit these majestic animals in their natural rainforest environment, guests can visit a local female-run cooperative coffee farm with the resort’s barista, trek to the tomb of American conservationist and gorilla expert Dian Fossey or track a troop of long-tailed golden monkeys through the forest. Closer to home, visitors can hone their photography skills with a resident pro, practice yoga in the open air or cycle to a nearby community to learn about basket weaving, traditional dance and Rwandan culture and history. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the views from the luxurious jungle-chic lodges, each infused with local character thanks to earthy colours, traditional Rwandan patterns and private outdoor bathtubs from which to soak in the sounds of the forest. www.oneandonlyresorts.com
SIX SENSES KOCATAS MANSIONS
Istanbul, Turkey
Stylishly situated at a northern bend of the Bosphorus in the elegant Sariyer district of Istanbul, Six Senses Kocatas Mansions is the newest pearl on the legendary waterway. The 45 spacious guestrooms and suites are spread across two restored Ottoman-era mansions originally built by Minister of Justice and water magnate Necmettin Molla Kocatas in the 19th-century. Today, sophisticated interiors capture the spirit of this bygone era combined with the pared-back, unfussy style of the Six Senses collection. Original architectural features and antique Ottoman tea sets that lend a flavour of the past are balanced by contemporary art and muted modern furnishings that anchor this hotel firmly in the present. But it’s the Bosphorus views framed by sash windows that steal the show, affording guests a glimpse of the Asian side of the city just across the water. Below, a private boat moored at the hotel jetty is ready to transport guests to the myriad attractions of historic Istanbul. www.sixsenses.com
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News debut
COUR DES VOSGES
Paris, France
Perhaps the most charming square in a city that’s known for its gorgeous outdoor spaces, Place des Vosges is the heart of Le Marais; the Parisian neighbourhood brimming with designer boutiques, independent galleries and dozens of cafes and restaurants. Overlooking the northwest corner of the square and its colonnaded walkways, Cour des Vosges is the latest addition to the EVOK Hotels portfolio. Twelve rooms and suites created by Parisian design firm Lecoadic-Scotto blend original 17th-Century architectural elements such as exposed roof beams and hand-painted ceilings with 1970s-influenced furnishings, creating a collection of unique spaces that look out over the rooftops of the 4th Arrondissement. Formerly the Hôtel de Montbrun, Cour des Vosges has a ground floor tea-room whose terrace spills out onto the covered arcades, overlooking the manicured gardens of Square Louis XIII in its centre. www.evokhotels.com
address fountain view
Downtown Dubai, UAE
Location is everything in Dubai, and it doesn’t get much better than the Address Fountain Views in Downtown, an opulent new hideaway for discerning urban explorers. As the seventh property from Address Hotels + Resorts, the 193-room hotel has big shoes to fill, but promises to please guests thanks to spectacular views of Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa, and a collection of elegantly appointed guestrooms starting from a spacious 50 sqm. Water plays a leading role in the experience here, with three swimming pools including adults-only and kids’ infinity pools and a 98-metre family-friendly pool. Kids are well looked after at Qix club, where junior jetsetters can enjoy craft sessions and educational games, and the hotel’s location five minutes from Dubai Mall and its range of kids’ activities means families are spoiled for choice when it comes to wholesome entertainment. Adults may wish to wind down at The Spa at Address Fountain Views and its soothing hammam after a long day of shopping, or book in to one of the hotel’s six dining venues for a culinary treat. www.addresshotels.com
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N e w s d i a ry
Diary november
This month, sustainability gets a focus courtesy of Dubai’s Downtown Design, the iconic Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival is music to our ears, and the UAE capital revs up for its annual F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Under starter’s orders...
Nov 16-
Dec 1
november
21-24
shanghai international art fair
Shanghai, China
Taking place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, the Shanghai International Art Fair brings together world-renowned art institutions, iconic museums and art galleries and top art collectors. A four-day fair that features only 30 exhibitors, the competition is fierce, so you know you’re in the company of the very best. With estimated visitor numbers of 80,000, including 15,000 professional buyers, this is for serious art enthusiasts only. www.theshanghaiartfair.com
MOnte-carlo jazz festival
Monte-Carlo, Monaco
You’ll find jazz music in all its wonderful diversity at MonteCarlo’s world-renowned Jazz Festival. Celebrating all musical genres, this is essential viewing for all music lovers. Under the patronage of H.S.H Prince Albert II of Monaco, the 2019 line-up features performances from the likes of The New Power Generation ‘Celebrating Prince’, Ibrahim Maalouf, the legendary Herbie Hancock and Brooklyn Funk Essentials. Where to bed down when in town? Hôtel Hermitage is a firm favourite, known for its elegance and belle-epoque charm. www.montecarlosbm.com
november
20-24
november
2
dubai watch week
Dubai, UAE Illinois Route 66 Regent Street Motorshow
London, UK
A showcase of 125 years of motoring, including veteran, vintage, classic and modern-day cars, the Illinois Route 66 Regent Street Motorshow literally transforms one of London’s busiest thoroughfares into a playground for petrolheads. Taking visitors on a chronological drive through the decades, the show features motors from the early 20th century, to the Swinging Sixties, to the supercars of today. Showcasing and celebrating brands from Bugatti and Harley-Davidson to Austin Healey and Ford Capri, the show promises to sate all car enthusiasts. Oh, and as there’s a TrackStars kids zone, too, even children can enjoy a supercharged day out. www.regentstreetmotorshow.com
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Focusing on the theme of innovation and technology, the third edition of Dubai Watch Week champions the future of watchmaking. Alongside the exhibition, visitors can immerse themselves in the Auction Room, where Christie’s showcases rare timepieces and talks with historians and collectors, alongside the much-loved children’s workshop; the Creative Hub, which promotes dialogue and conversation surrounding horology; masterclasses with some of the industry’s most respected artisans; and the Horology Forum, an intellectual space comprised of free-flowing conversation between watch curators, pioneers and brands and professionals. And, in a Middle East debut, Rolex will be taking part in its first ever watch event in this region, while Chopard will have a private space dedicated to the launch of its new Alpine Eagle. www.dubaiwatchweek.com
N e w s d i a ry
november
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Christie’s handbags & Accessories AUCTION
november
6-16
London, UK
Always one worth attending, Christie’s Handbags & Accessories Auction boasts some beautiful collector’s items from the likes of Hermès, Chanel, Dior, Fendi and Louis Vuitton. Amongst the highlights are a Himalaya Birkin 30 and 25, Fendi Baguettes – designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi – and Dior’s 2003 and 2018 Saddle Bags. www.christies.com
f1 abu dhabi
Abu Dhabi, uae
Coinciding with UAE National Day celebrations, this year the annual race weekend will take place over five days, rather than four, giving petrol heads and F1 fanatics even more reason to head to Yas Marina Circuit. Over the five days, visitors to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2019 can expect on-track and off-track entertainment, including the 21st and final round of the FIA Formula One World Championship, Super Thursday, the ever-popular Public Pitlane Walk, the F1’s only twilight race, and music highlights from Marshmello, Travis Scott, The Killers and Lana Del Rey, each performing at Yasalam After-Race Concerts, from Thursday through to Sunday. As one of the key highlights in the UAE sporting calendar, this is a high-octane event not to be missed. www.abudhabi-grand-prix.com
Downtown design
Dubai, UAE
nov 29 -Dec 1
future design for sustainable future
Dubai, UAE
With sustainable living such a hot topic at present, and in collaboration with Dubai Design Week, Fann A Porter gallery’s Future Design for Sustainable Future exhibition addresses the importance of climate change, and features a new generation of contemporary design based on refurbished and upcycled vintage and antique furniture. www.theworkshopdubai.com
november
12-15
The region’s leading design trade show is back for its seventh edition, featuring representation from 30 countries over 100 new brands. Reflecting the diversity of the contemporary design scene, our highlights are Preciosa’s interactive light installation, Carousel of Light, Pedrali’s colourful designs, and a bespoke rug by Hands inspired by children’s artwork for the Year of Tolerance. www.downtowndesign.com
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There’s a Reason They Call it
paradise island As the Bahamas bounces back from Hurricane Dorian, Becca Hensley heads to Paradise Island and finds a soulful sanctuary that feels like home words: Becca Hensley
d e s t i n at i o n s b a l i
D i s c o v e r yo u r o w n pa r a d i s e w i t h T h e
samaya bali They call it the island of the gods, so you should really make sure you stay somewhere divine. With two luxurious properties that showcase the best of the island, The Samaya Bali allows you to experience both the classic and modern side of paradise
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d e s t i n at i o n s b a l i
A paradise of your own – The Samaya Seminyak Guests can enjoy first-class service and the warmth of authentic Balinese hospitality at The Samaya Seminyak. The beachfront location is just steps away from Bali’s famous lifestyle district and travellers can enjoy luxurious comfort in a wide range of different villa categories, either located on the beach or across the road in the Royal Courtyard. Each of the pool villas features its own full-size private lap pool and stylish interiors, all just steps away from Seminyak’s coveted Petitenget Beach. The resort is a seriously luxurious beachfront escape, with traditional Balinese hospitality and plenty of modern comforts. Located in the beachside complex at the main resort, the 220sqm one-bedroom pool villas are incredibly spacious, with a full-sized swimming pool and outdoor area surrounded by tropical gardens. The beautiful beachside setting allows you to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, as well as some of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. For dining and refreshments, Breeze is a beachside restaurant overlooking Petitenget Beach. The awardwinning venue offers exotic international and local dishes for breakfast, lunch and romantic sunset dinners. The beachfront setting, great sunset views and the sound of the waves make this one of Bali’s most romantic places to dine. Or simply escape to the relaxed setting of The Spa at The Samaya and treat yourself to pampering head-to-toe treatments. With four couples’ treatment rooms, The Spa at The Samaya offers the Indian Ocean as the backdrop for your journey to rediscover inner peace. Take a refreshing bath in the Jacuzzi while gazing at the sunset over the horizon, or relax while enjoying the soothing symphony of the sea in the two beachfront spa suites.
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d e s t i n at i o n s i n d i a n o c e a n
north island The Seychelles Described as the ‘Galapagos of the Indian Ocean’, the Seychelles is one of the most picturesque places on earth, with its 115 islands scattered over 1,300,000sqm of azure blue waters. In tandem, North Island is one of the world’s leading private island hideaways, offering a sustainble, fertile, natural paradise to guests determined to immerse themselves in something different. With its Noah’s Ark conservation and island rehabilitation programme promising to help protect its surroundings, guests can revel in the beauty of both setting and experience. Whether you’re in search of rest or play, recuperation of exhiliration, indulgence or wellness... North Island is the perfect destination that beautifully fuses of all of life’s little luxuries. Available to hire in its entirety, North Island can also be your own private playground for anyone who seeks absolute seclusion and serenity. www.north-island.com
the best of the
indian Ocean Where to stay in one of the world’s most beautiful and captivating destinations? From private islands to floating villas, we edit 10 of the most luxurious retreats
the residence Mauritius Belle Mare, Mauritius Beyond its beautiful symphony between modernity and tradition, the allure of The Residence Mauritius lies in its all-embracing family-centric vibe, allowing the dreams and desires of children to take centre stage. With the resort’s Family Concierge waiting in the wings, kids will be given tailor-made itineraries that make every day a different adventure. Bespoke experiences include yoga classes, child-friendly cultural excursions and mini-massages, replete with a personal butler who’ll help with everything from booking trips to unpacking suitcases to running a bath. Here, nothing is ever too much trouble. www.cenizaro.com
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d e s t i n at i o n s i n d i a n o c e a n
JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI South Atoll, Maldives Plumped pretty in the South Malé Atoll and just a speedy 20-minute boat ride from Malé, the island paradise of Jumeirah Vittaveli awaits, where extraordinary levels of accommodation raise the bar. Having carefully considered all the nuanced needs of its clientele. With nine different room categories, an over-water, two-storied Private Ocean Retreat is the best place to bed down for families with an adventurous spirit. Recently refurbished, each 420sqm villa now boasts a 23-metre water slide that stretches from the balcony upstairs into the blue lagoon below, and is a serious USP for the trained eye of gung-ho kids. With an infinity pool, hammocks and your private over-water beach, water babies only need apply. For further elevated luxury, and for those travelling en masse, the resort’s ultra-secluded Royal Residence truly steals show. The five-bedroom retreat is laid out over 3,500sqm and features a main ‘Sanctuary’ for its host, two guest villas and a two-storey guest house. The retreat also claims bragging rights with a private beach, two swimming pools, spa pavilion, gym, overwater bar, dedicated restaurant and fully-stocked professional kitchen for on-demand fine dining. The Sanctuary’s mod-cons include a state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen sound system, Life Fitness gym equipment and a private spa by Talise. The resort’s game-changer accommodation option, however, is its all-new MY Vittaveli – an 85-foot Aizmut super-yacht and the first of its kind in the Maldives. The ‘floating villa’, as it’s fondly referred to, means you can live out your Robinson Crusoe fantasy whisked away on an over-night adventure. Sleeping eight guests across two master cabins and two twin cabins (all with en-suites), or 20 guests for leisurely day-time cruises, your days will be filled with snorkelling, Maldivian handline fishing, BBQs on deserted islands, and starlit sandbank dinners. Be it on land, over-water or at sea, at Jumeirah Vittaveli beauty, elegance and adventure combine to create the perfect island hideaway. www.jumeirah.com
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h o t e l s pa l a zz o v e r s a c e
a roman
holiday
The Italian splendour of Palazzo Versace Dubai masterfully marries traditional with new, where old-world designs are made modern, and the fashion brand’s visceral spirit breathes life into a hotel that feels as princely as it does playful, says Emily Baxter-Priest
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hotels escapes
the art of wellbeing Cademario, Switzerland Dedicated to wellbeing, Kurhaus Cademario Hotel & Spa is an idyllic location for those wishing to better their health whilst in beautiful surroundings. Situated on Lake Lugano in Switzerland, this retreat is tonic for mind, body and soul. To take advantage of all it has to offer, the hotel’s Autumn Escape will keep you in perfect harmony. Book it and check in for two nights in one of its stunning rooms replete with sweeping views, the Autumn Escape package also affords you a three-course dinner, a relaxing antioxidant autumn massage, buffet breakfast, a daily activity programme and access to DOT Spa’s sauna and both indoor and outdoor pools. Heaven sent. www.kurhauscademario.com
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Escapes november
From the banks of the Zambezi to beyond-thecity escapes in Amsterdam and VIP-fuelled adventures in London, this month is shaping up nicely for travellers with time on their hands.
hotels escapes
an urban escape Conservatorium Hotel, Amsterdam Whilst Amsterdam is renowned for its easy appeal to those looking for an urban escape, Conservatorium Hotel is widening the wanderlust by whisking guests away from the city centre, to visit less touristy but equally interesting areas, such as the Beemster Polder, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the National Park De Hoge Veluwe, where the Kröller-Müller Museum houses the second-largest Van Gogh collection in the world, or to picturesque fishing or windmill villages that give you a true slice of countryside living. The hotel itself is an architectural masterpiece, so you’ll enjoy a two-night stay in an uber-contemporary deluxe guestroom for two, with complimentary breakfast and an ‘Escape the City’ day-trip itinerary. Available until April next year, this really is a unique way to explore Amsterdam’s culture the insider’s way. www.conservatoriumhotel.com
Out-of-africa odyssey The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara, Zambia Nestled on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River, The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara is true explorer luxury where graceful safari style sits just steps away from one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Victoria Falls. This month, the hotel’s Wellness Retreat, running from November 14-17, allows guests to savour Mother
Nature’s splendour even more, with a three-night stay, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, sunrise and sunset yoga sessions, daily walks to Victoria Falls, a treatment at Anantara Spa in the newly-launched riverside gazebos, a healthy cuisine masterclass with Parkinson – Cape Town’s well-known plant-based chef and health coach – and a beautiful dinner with food and wine pairing. Utterly unique and supremely restorative, few places rival this kind of wellness experience. www.anantara.com
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hotels arabian journeys
drive of your life
Where: waldorf astoria, palm jumeirah what: Waldorf astoria driving experience
Live life in the fast lane at Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah this month and enjoy the drive of your life. Book the Waldorf Astoria Driving Experience (until November 9), and enjoy two nights in the Waldorf Astoria Suite, Pearl Club Access, two 60-minute Neom treatments at the spa and, most importantly, revel in an Aston Martin driving experience for one to Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. Once there, you’ll have lunch, beach and pool access and return transportation back to Palm Jumeirah, where an in-room sunset cocktail experience will wait. www.hilton.com
arabian Journeys From driving experiences to spa indulgences to city-meets-beach retreats, November has some beautiful staycations up its sleeve
and... relax
Where: Emirates Palace, abu dhabi what: indulgent spa-cation One of the most iconic edifices on Abu Dhabi’s skyline, Emirates Palace is as grand as it is magical, where tradition, luxury and opulence combine. A stay here will immerse you in the history and culture of the emirate, whilst also indulging you in award-winning hospitality. One of the most idyllic ways to while away your days here, is in Emirates Palace Spa, a quintessential destination for rest and relaxation. The hotel’s Indulgent Spa-Cation offer allows guests to avail 20 per cent off best rates when booking a suite, complemented by a spa credit of AED600 for each night spent, to help you unwind and rebalance. The offer also includes complimentary access to Palace Lounge and BMW limo-transfers from Abu Dhabi Intnerational Airport. www.kempinski.com
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hotels arabian journeys
desert bound
Where: rotana centro sharjah what: unique desert experience One of the best ways to experience the culture of Sharjah is to bed down at Rotana Centro for two nights and book in for its incredible evening desert experience at the Mleiha, where you’ll be transported out of the city for an incredible cultural excursion. Here you can escape to a sunset lounge in the middle of the desert, trek up the iconic Fossile Rock mountain, experience jaw-dropping off-road dune driving, indulge in a beautiful al fresco BBQ dinner, and round off the evening stargazing with an astrologer. Surely one of the most unique ways to embrace the emirate... www.rotana.com
a regal retreat
Where: royal savoy sharm el sheikh, egypt what: A royal getaway
If you’re looking to swing into the festive season with a flurry of regal fanfare, let Royal Savoy Sharm El Sheikh show you the way. Book A Royal Getaway at the beautiful Red Sea hotel during its Winter Wonderland season (November 14 to January 7) and enjoy 15 per cent discount when you book three nights or 20 per cent discount if you book four nights or more direct through the hotel’s website. You’ll also be indulged with a beautiful partial sea or pool-view room, private check-in, daily sweets, fresh fruits and juices by the pool, lounge access and private airport transfers. Revel at leisure. www.savoygroup-sharm.com
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s p e n d i t j e w e l l e ry
Dreams autumn
As autumn approaches, let the most beautiful pieces the natural world has to offer infuse your jewellery box Compiled by: Emily Baxter-Priest
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Ringing in change This beautiful timepiece from de Grisogono pushes the boundaries when it comes to design and originality. The ruby-encrusted ‘Baby Grappoli S04’ embraces the change of season, with its deep, autumnal tones. Much more than simply a watch, it’s a piece of jewellery that stuns in its own right.
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1. Rose Bagatelle ring, Dior 2. Volte Face ring, Korloff 3. Alveole ring, Chaumet 4. Blé d’Été necklace, Boucheron 5. Lucky Animals Hummingbird clip, Van Cleef & Arpels 6. Envol necklace, Chaumet 7. Cinemagia brooch, Bvlgari 8. Las Palmas earrings, Jacob & Co. 9. Camelia brooch, Chanel 10. Swallow bracelet, Swarovski 11. Le Marche des Merveilles earrings, Gucci 12. Memento Mori ring, Bibi van der Velden at Gemfields
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s p e n d i t wat c h e s
Fall time to
Free-fall your way into autumn, and move with the times, as seasonal hues infuse your wrist attire Ω from burnt orange to rich reds and rustic browns.
Duo watch, with interlinked rings Ω one with 133 clear cyrstals in micro pavé, the other in polished metal www.swarovski.com
Philosophique watch with 18-carat pink gold case and frosted gold finishing www.audemarspiguet.com
Tambour Horizon ‘LV Neon’ watch with sandblasted steel case and pink gold numbering www.louisvuitton.com
Récital 27 ‘Mexico’ Limited Edition watch, with three time zones, a moon phase and sevenday power reserve www.bovet.com
Limited Edition El Primero A384 Revival watch in rose gold with stainless steel case www.zenith.com
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s p e n d i t wat c h e s
DS5 watch, with 18ct pink gold case and 18ct black PVD gold www.dolcegabbana.com
Limited edition L.U.C XPS Spirit of Nature watch, with 18ct rose gold case www.chopard.com G-Timeless Automatic watch, with 18ct gold case and black onyx stone dial www.gucci.com
Luminor Due watch, with 42mm case in polished steel www.panerai.com
Montre Tourbillon Soleil de Feu watch, in rose gold with sapphires www.chaumet.com
Portofino Automatic Moon Phase watch, with 40mm case in stainless steel www.iwc.com
Reine de Naples 8918 watch, with 18ct white gold case, and motherof-pearl dial www.breguet.com
Visionnaire Chronograph watch, with white gold, and titanium case www.faberge.com
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perfection near
After reviewing cars for nearly three years, this month Kris Karacinski finally gets behind the wheel of the iconic Porsche 911 Carrera. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S to be exact. Does it live up to its legendary name? photography: Eliot Sleep
spend it motoring
spend it out of this world
when the sky’s the limit If you’re a ski bunny with adrenalin-junkie tendencies, Scott Dunn’s 34-day, round-the-world ski tour will satisfy even the most ambitious of adventurers. world-renowned tailor-made tour operator Scott Dunn has created a once-in-a-lifetime ski itinerary for intrepid travellers that will take you on a round-the-world ski tour across five countries and three continents, over 34 days. The trip showcases some of the world’s best ski destinations, from the pristine glaciers of British Columbia to the legendary powder fields of Niseko, Japan, for an on-piste, off-piste, heli-skiing adventure. Starting in the Alps and ending in Iceland, you’ll begin your ski-tour in the village of Zermatt – arguably the most iconic ski resort in Europe – before being whisked back to Zurich for an overnight flight to Sapporo via Tokyo and a transfer to Niseko – powder capital of the world – for your stay in the Japanese mountains. From here, you can relax in Onsen’s geothermally heated baths, before venturing on your next leg to Vancouver, and the Canadian Rockies, where you’ll transfer up to Whistler on the Sea to Sky
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Highway, with its breathtaking views of the Rockies’ glacial lakes and mountains. Next up, is the wilderness of British Columbia, close to the border of Alaska, for an epic heli-ski experience. This four-day trip includes 17,5000 vertical metres of skiing, and a cosy stay in a lodge. From here to Aspen, Colorado, and onto Iceland, one of the most dramatic ski destinations in the world. Here you’ll stay at Deplar Farm, a luxurious retreat in the depths of northern Iceland’s Troll peninsular, where you’ll encounter heliskidescents of 915 vertical feet. This 34-day trip to Zermatt, Niseko, Tokyo, Whistler, Vancouver, British Columbia Heli-Ski, Aspen and Iceland, costs $159,000, including first-class flights from the UK, stays at Aman Tokyo, The Little Nell, Four Seasons Whistler and Deplar Farm, private transfers, internal flights and full-board basis during heli-skiiing accommodations. Surely, as iconic as ski trips come? www.scottdunn.com
Making
spend it out of this world
Moments n Time
Experience paradise on earth at Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives. A luxurious one-island-one-resort destination featuring a collection of 120 idyllic beach-front pool villas, breathtaking overwater villas and spacious two-bedroom villas. Just a mere 20 minutes’ speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, barefoot luxury and the stunning beauty of Maldives awaits you.
+960 6651111 | rsvn.gpkd@parkhotelgroup.com www.parkhotelgroup.com/maldives @grandparkkodhipparu dotwnews.com November 2018 129
MASTER CHRONOMETER CERTIFIED
DIVER 300M
Behind the elegance of every Master Chronometer timepiece is the highest level of testing: 8 tests over 10 days, to ensure superior precision and anti-magnetic resistance.
More information available at OMEGA Middle East, Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE. Tel: +971 4 3300455