30 minute read
Travel
We visit the fabulous Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi - the island is so idyllic that we realise...
Heaven Can Wait
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Although the moniker ‘The world’s favourite airline’ has been taken by another carrier, I am convinced that if you conducted an opinion poll, most savvy travellers would choose Qatar Airways. And, so it was with great joy that we learned that our visit to the Maldives would be on the national airline of Qatar. If you’re flying long-haul then their A380 is a joy to behold – even in (God forbid!) – Economy Class! However, we were very fortunate to be invited on Business Class and be pampered in a way - well...that's very easy to get accustomed to. Trust me it’s a very long way to go and whoever came up with the expression, ‘Half the fun is getting there’ must have flown on Qatar Airways!
The Maldives is an idyllic string of coral islands in the Indian Ocean and it is the mecca for peace and tranquillity. Being the lowest country in the world, the Maldives is short of vast topographical landscapes to enjoy hiking and other various heart-rate raising activities. However, this is a place of ultimate luxurious relaxation, somewhere to forget about the stresses of modern city life, and to escape from reality.
In the heart of the South Malé Atoll lies the beautiful Ithaafushi Island, only a 45-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport. Of the chain of 1,200 islands that make up the Maldives, many of the 200 that are inhabited are owned and operated by some of the leading names in world hotels. Ithaafushi Island and its lagoon is home to The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, in our opinion, perhaps the best resort in the nation!
As with all the resorts in the Maldives you are guaranteed coral blue waters, magnificent white sand beaches and glorious sunshine. And an added benefit that the island of Ithaafushi boasts is an abundance of natural flora and fauna.
This is the part where I would normally write… “and after a long flight we finally arrived in the Maldives.” However - Business Class travel is a different level and our journey went by faster than we had hoped. After a short yacht ride we approached the island where numerous staff members were standing on the pier eagerly awaiting our arrival with big smiles and waves - that’s a real Maldivian welcome.
The Waldorf Astoria resort has 119 villas, Beach, Reef and Overwater which span across three private islands. Villa options include, a one, two or three-bedroom villa, each with its own private pool, swing daybeds, dining gazebos and in-water lounges – all with uninterrupted breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
I stayed in the gorgeous overwater villa which has an open plan layout, high ceilings, and has views of the ocean from every room. There is a lounge on an expansive outdoor deck and you can explore the ocean views below through a clear glass floor right in the centre of the room!
Although you feel like a Queen in any of the villas, at the height of exclusivity is the Ithaafushi Private Island. Accessible only by yacht, the 32,000-square-meter sanctuary features a four-bedroom residence, three-bedroom beach villa and a two bedroom overwater villa, giving guests a transcendent sense of space. The private island comes complete with a dedicated chef and personal concierge team, an overwater spa and gym, five swimming pools, an entertainment centre and pristine beaches, providing endless options in which to indulge.
Aside from the luxury and service, one of the main draws of the Waldorf Astoria resort is its incredible epicurean options. From al fresco settings overlooking shimmering pools to unique bars with breathtaking sunset views, there’s a culinary experience for every palate.
Featuring an unparalleled array of choices for its guests with 11 celebrated specialty-dining venues, world-renowned chef Dave Pynt, mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurant Burnt Ends, offers his expertise to the island’s barbecue grill restaurant, The Ledge. The restaurant features his signature, custom-built, four-ton, dual-cavity oven and elevation grills, enabling the use of techniques such as smoking, slow roasting, baking and grilling.
Other dining highlights include Terra, located on the island’s highest point and provides a unique gastronomic dining experience in private dining pods crafted from natural bamboo. Nestled among boulders, The Rock is a rustic wine cellar and dining experience set in a carved-out space, where guests can indulge in wine pairing meals or an elevated dining experience with a menu that pays homage to renowned wine regions around the world. Yasmeen offers guests the chance to savour authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. The immersive journey continues at Glow, which is set in a greenhouse-like structure shaded by lush greenery. It celebrates the concept of interactive garden-to-table dining by serving healthy and holistic cuisine made from fresh ingredients harvested from the on-island garden. Step into the Shanghainese era and enjoy contemporary Chinese cuisine at Li Long where Peking Duck is prepared in the Maldives’ first wood-fired oven. A private dining room also offers an intimate Shanghainese club-like ambience.
This resort’s playground, Nava, is surrounded by a Lagoon Pool and a Mirror pool stretching along a white sand beach featuring a resident DJ and evening live music. Nava offers fun experience for guests of all generations from recreational activities to watersports.
In spite of this incredible choice of world-class restaurants what took us to the Maldives the debut of the world-renowned contemporary and elegant Japanese concept Zuma. Founded in London in 2002 by creator and co-founder Rainer Becker, and now present across 20 locations worldwide, the globally acclaimed Zuma is inspired by the authentic Japanese dining style – Izakaya. It is an informal place for eating small plates and drinking under one roof. Zuma Maldives is inspired by the beauty of its stunning location, complementing its surroundings with the use of natural materials and local design techniques.
“We are thrilled to be bringing Zuma’s international cuisine to the Maldives on the shores of such a breathtaking and iconic destination,” commented Rainer Becker. “We share Waldorf Astoria’s focus on exceptional attention to detail and look forward to delivering unmatched culinary experiences to resort guests with Zuma’s awardwinning menu.” As you would expect, the launch party of the global Zuma brand attracted the world’s attention with guests flying in from almost every continent to enjoy and celebrate in true Zuma style - until the early hours! 4
After indulging in all of the resorts numerous culinary options - thankfully - the island features the Aqua Wellness Centre. This oasis features a custom-built hydrotherapy pool, ice fountain, steam room and sauna. The 2,906 square-foot outdoor pool is designed in zones, where each station of the pool uses water-based therapies targeting various areas of the body. The zones – which include jet bath, air jets, shower jets, and massage lounger – use varying levels of intensity and water temperature that aim to ease muscle tension, boost the immune system, increase blood circulation, speed up metabolism and improve deep sleep quality. This is amongst the best hydrotherapy pools in the world and in a setting like no other!
Despite the incredible location, the amazing culinary options, and the fabulous spa, what makes the Waldorf Astoria stand-out from other resorts is the people. Very fortunately, I have visited the Maldives on several occasions and the level of service, attention to detail and genuine kindness of both the staff and management was exemplary and made us feel so welcome - I long to return!
www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com
“Travelling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller” Ibn Battuta
OKINAWA, JAPAN
We’re sure that when most people think of Japan this is not the view they imagine. However, Japan’s southern most prefecture comprising 160 subtropical islands boasts a year-round warm climate comparable to Hawaii and Miami. Okinawa is blessed with incredible natural beauty, from lush forests to crystal blue waters and white sands. The area is perfect for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts whilst still appealing to culture seekers with its unique heritage. Gastronomy is also unique and believed to be a key factor in its status as one of the five longevity hotspots worldwide.
www.visitokinawajapan.com
NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA
Launching in early 2023, Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection Hotel in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, a rare conservation area, where tourism must ensure the utmost respect for the natural environment and local communities. The hotel will offer 28 rooms and 24 spacious suites with views of the crater. With sustainability so important in today’s world, the hotel will generate a significant part of its own electricity, solar energy drinking water on-site through various mediums; solar panels, and a bottling plant. www.melia.com
DA NANG, VIETNAM
Sitting on a spectacular 30km stretch of beach which links Da Nang in the north with Hoi An in the south, the Mandarin Oriental Da Nang is ideally located to nearby attractions of the surrounding area, notably Hoi An, My Son and the royal city of Huế, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The hotel’s contemporary design will incorporate many natural Vietnamese elements and local cultural references and offer 69 villas and 18 residences, each set in their own landscaped gardens with private pools.
www.mandarinoriental.com
MOSKITO ISLAND, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Moskito Island, the Caribbean’s newest private island, is very near the top of our bucket list. They have recently launched a brand-new nine-bedroom grand estate, The Village which delivers a one-of-a-kind, luxury-living experience. It joins three ultra-lavish estates that already call Moskito home – The Branson Estate (owned by Sir Richard Branson), The Oasis Estate and The Point Estate. Crafted into the cliffside, The Village estate seamlessly blends cutting-edge architecture with high-tech amenities and delightful surprises waiting to be discovered to create an extravagant escape that you will always cherish.
www.moskitoisland.virgin.com
TOKYO, JAPAN
The uber-luxury Bulgari Hotels have announced plans to open Bulgari Hotel Tokyo in April 2023. The hotel will occupy the top seven floors of an modern skyscraper in the Yaesu 2-Chome North District which is known for its exclusivity and is within walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions. The hotel will offer 98 guest rooms in a variety of configurations, including multiple luxury suites and what promises to be an extraordinary Bulgari Suite.
www.bulgarihotels.com
SYLT, GERMANY
The exclusive town of Sylt, which is often referred to as the ‘Hamptons of Germany’ is the site of Lanserhof’s new resort. Lanserhof is a leading name in innovative health and this is the group’s first resort by the sea. Sylt has long been treasured for its famous healing climate and restorative sea air. The €120 million project spanning over five years combines cutting-edge diagnostics with natural healing methods. Lanserhof Sylt offers 55 rooms and suites beneath Europe’s largest thatched roof.
www.lanserhof.com
“We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel next, to find ourselves” Pico Iyer
CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
This adult only all-inclusive resort is nestled in the heart of Cap Cana, a private enclave in Punta Cana with miles of pristine sand beaches. Sanctuary Cap Cana offers visitors the chance to experience a wide variety of attractions, including the ‘Punta Espada’ golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, a state-ofthe-art marina with more than 150 slips accommodating yachts up to 150-feet, as well as an equestrian centre featuring two world-class polo fields designed by Alejandro Batros.
www.marriott.com
SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
Located on the prestigious Orange Grove Road, The Standard, Singapore is destined to become a magnet to the cognoscenti. One of the few specially-built hotels in this exclusive area, it will feature 143 spacious rooms. The area is Singapore’s premier shopping destination and boasts a myriad of international and local brands across retail, dining and entertainment, and is a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.
www.standardhotels.com
SHIZUOKA, JAPAN
You may not have heard of Shizuoka the coastal town which is home to the iconic Mount Fuji and only an hour from Tokyo by bullet train. It boasts a spectacular natural environment of coastline, mountains and lakes including the beautiful Izu Peninsula, described as ‘Japan’s Riviera’. The region is steeped in history, has a huge choice of traditional Ryokan Inns and Onsen Hot Springs and is also a gourmet paradise. Its natural environment produces some of the country’s best food and drink, from green tea (Japan’s biggest producer) and wasabi, to fresh seafood.
www.exploreshizuoka.jp
THE RED SEA, SAUDI ARABIA
For an experience far-removed from mundane and predictable holiday spots why not visit Saudi Arabia. Here, the Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea will take guests on a journey into seldom-experienced nature, wildlife and culture, setting new standards in sustainability and desert hospitality. Clusters of villas are set atop peaks to offer panoramic views; the undulating roofs and décor will reflect the soft tones and textures of the sandy dunes. The Six Senses Spa, will feature self-shaded water surfaces and deep cold pools with highlights including a holistic anti-ageing centre, a sensory suite, and treatment cabanas. www.sixsenses.com
DUBAI, UAE
Located opposite buzzy JBR beach on exclusive Bluewaters Island, a lifestyle destination brimming with shops and restaurants, Caesars Palace Dubai is the perfect escape. The island is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. The luxury beachfront resort is nestled on 1.7km of pristine sandy shoreline and has a fabulous 500m private beach with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. The resort offers culinary delights from celebrity chef-helmed restaurants, five outdoor temperature-controlled pools and two energetic beach clubs.
www.caesars.com
CORFU, GREECE
Opening in May 2023, Ikos Odisia will offer 395 bedrooms and an iconic location, protected in a secluded bay across from globally-awarded Ikos Dassia. The new resort is elevated for dramatic views and landscaped vistas across the Ionian Sea. Guests can look forward to the all-inclusive Infinite Lifestyle concept, 10 heated outdoor and indoor pools, menus created by Michelin-star chefs, and signature spa experiences by Anne Semonin Paris.
www.ikosresorts.com
SIAN KA’AN, MEXICO
Located south of Tulum in the Sian Ka’an biosphere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, newly-opened Casa Chablé offers true barefoot luxury, ultimate seclusion, and immersion in nature on a private islet untouched stretch of Quintana Roo’s Caribbean coast. A scenic 35-minute ride by private boat through lush mangrove forests bring guests to the resort’s private dock where they will find a pristine islet featuring five standalone beachfront bungalows, and a main villa housing five guest suites, each with their own private
terrace. www.chablehotels.com
ZALLAQ, BAHRAIN
Resting majestically on the unexplored, pristine beaches of Bahrain’s West Coast, the Jumeirah Group’s latest property, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa, is a secluded oasis away from the hustle of the city. The new resort offers guests a luxury getaway with incredible ocean views, lush greenery and is home to 196 spacious rooms and suites, as well as an exclusive 11-bedroom Gulf Summer House, located on the beach. Dine at one of eight signature dining concepts, or reinvigorate your mind, body and spirit at Jumeirah’s awardwinning Talise Spa.
www.jumeirah.com
ROME, ITALY
Housed in a 17th-century residence just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, Palazzo Manfredi is located in the very heart of Imperial Rome. This extraordinary period residence, steeped in history, combines hospitality, elegance and impeccable service to give you an experience of Rome like no other. Just outside the door is Ludus Magnus, the gymnasium where gladiators trained before facing their fierce opponents in the arena. This scene is so vivid in our imagination even today – more than two thousand years later – that you can still almost hear them crossing swords and cheering one another on.
www.manfredihotels.com
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” Saint Augustine
Set above a magical private golden-sand beach on the East coast of Zakynthos, are the nine private villas of Porto Zante. With a fabulous waterfront spa, in-room treatments, two restaurants, kids’ club, sea views and a private beach, this is the perfect retreat in which to relax in style. Ranging from one-to-four-bedrooms, each villa is equipped with a heated swimming pool with a beautiful garden, and is stylishly-designed with eye-catching works of art, an outdoor-dining area, kitchenette and a separate living room. www.portozante.com
LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA The iconic Malaysian resort, The Datai Langkawi, which is set within a pristine 10 million-year-old rainforest, overlooks the tranquil Datai Bay - National Geographic’s Top 10 Beaches worldwide. To reinforce their passion for their environment they have published a second impact report for the Datai Pledge which supports sustainability, conservation and community support programs. www.thedatai.com
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will return next year to Melbourne’s Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, from 30 March to 2 April 2023. The event sees the world’s fastest cars, coolest celebrities and latest technology converge on Melbourne for four days of unstoppable action. The motorsport extravaganza will see teams including Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren take to the tracks, in the race for podium position in the ever-thrilling racing competition. Although the 2023 line-up is still shaping up, it is expected that a Melbourne-born driver will be on the grid for the first time ever.
www.visitmelbourne.com
TANGIER, MOROCCO
Originally built in the 1920s as a residence for the King’s advisor, the Fairmont Tazi Palace has been restored and expanded upon. Nestled on the Moroccan Riviera, it offers incomparable views and unparalleled luxury throughout its 133 rooms, suites, and penthouses. Guests can experience lavish accommodation, a wide range of culinary venues, and rejuvenating wellness offerings, all within an idyllic setting that celebrates Morocco’s rich history and culture.
www.fairmont.com
SUMBA, INDONESIA
Opening in January 2023 and located in captivating, off-the-radar Sumba, Cap Karoso is an eco-conscious haven that offers 47 rooms and 20 villas, and will also be available for private buyers. Guests will be greeted with stylish interiors designed by Jakarta-based Bitte Design Studio, inspiring social spaces including Julang restaurant and Explorer’s Beach Club, an open-air cinema, spa, gym, and yoga platform all fostering a sense of community and connection in an ecofriendly environment.
www.capkaroso.com
“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less travelled by, And that has made all the difference” Robert Frost
BALI, INDONESIA
Nestled on Bali’s pristine white sand beach of Nusa Dua, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, encapsulates the best of Bali. Boasting seven lagoon pools, 287 guestrooms, suites and luxury villas, its own temple and award-winning restaurants and bars. The resort’s design imitates its beautiful tropical surroundings and echoes the local traditions of Balinese culture. Step outside of the resort and explore the nearby Nusa Dua beach, the renowned Uluwatu Temple, and the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park.
www.marriott.com
JEJU, KOREA
Award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley was responsible for the tranquil decor of the 198 guest rooms which all have spectacular ocean views at the soon to open JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa. Situated on a cliff off the southern coast of exotic Jeju island the hotel offers harmony, culture and nature. Luxury amenities at the resort include: indoor and outdoor pools, hot springs with a Korean-style sauna ‘Jjimjlbang’, a unique selection of F&B concepts, a kids club, and further recreational facilities.
www.marriott.com
Azzy Asghar extols the virtues of his favourite Parisienne hotel... Le Meurice
To paraphrase a quite well-known quote, “If England is my wife, then Paris is most definitely my mistress”. She is forever in my thoughts and I long for her. I love her elegance and her charm, her sophistication and her allure, her je ne sais quoi. I wish she was mine. Every chance I get to escape and visit I sneak away, even if it’s fleeting. The most romantic and beautiful city in the world is always there to welcome me with open arms and satisfy all my desires. Je t’aime, mon amour!
Endless cafes and brasseries to enjoy a baguette and glass of wine, the world’s finest museums, architectural masterpieces on every street, the finest restaurants in the world to savour, fashion boutiques to lust after, monuments that leave you in awe, incomparable art galleries that inspire, mature parks to get lost in – Paris has it all! Not to mention the majesty of its sights including The Louvre, Notre Dame, Sacre-Coeur, and the Eiffel Tower – whatever the reason you love Paris – there is always something new to discover and make you fall in love all over again. And so I did!
Thomas Jefferson
Paris is there to be explored and no matter how many times you’ve visited previously you’ll discover a hidden gem of a café, bistro, park, or gallery that will stay with you forever and become your very own special place.
And on a recent visit, I discovered my favourite city-centre hotel in the world. It is the magnificent Le Meurice. Now that may sound a bit predictable a choice but, as Shakespeare once said, “Let me count the ways”.
There is no hotel with a better view. As I sip champagne from my balcony I am in awe of the majestic Tuileries Garden which is literally my front garden and the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in the distance is nothing short of magical.
My suite is incredibly opulent. Designers Lally & Berger have created the feeling of your own beautiful private residence in the heart of Paris. Tall windows welcome in the city’s natural light, rich fabrics and original artworks accent the generous space. The bed is huge and oh so comfortable - I could stay forever!
The service at Le Meurice is tres magnifique, and their attention to detail is beyond impeccable. From the doorman to the GM everyone is welcoming and genuinely charming.
The piece de resistance, of course, is their culinary offering. Alain Ducasse protégé Amaury Bouhours serves amongst the best cuisine in the world and with Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse there may be no better epicurean address in Paris. The magnificent dining room was inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Château de Versailles and given a touch of Philippe Starck magic. And then, of course, there’s Cedric Grolet...
Azzy Asghar discovers
the pizzazz of the PLAZA ATHÉNÉE
Every single time I tell someone that my favourite Parisienne hotel is Le Meurice - they always chime in with ‘What about the Plaza Athénée?’ So highly-regraded is this luxury hotel that some compare or believe it to be better than one of the world’s leading hotels which I regard as Le Meurice.
The Plaza Athénée is located on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, the tree-lined boulevard famous for French couture - the perfect address for a very fashionable hotel. The hotel is instantly recognisable by the 1,900 red geraniums adorning the hotel façade - they were apparently inspired by a love story - the passionate declaration, like the hotel itself, is a welcome unlike any other.
The grand hotel has unrivalled views of two iconic Paris landmarks, the Eiffel Tower at one end, and the Champs-Elysées at the other. Respecting its location in the heart of the fashion world, the hotel prides itself on being unique. Like a bespoke suit it tailors itself to cater to the exacting needs of each guest on a very individual basis. This begins with the service you receive the moment your car pulls up to the red carpet at the entrance of the hotel.
The rooms, as you’d imagine, are beautifully appointed with plush linens creating luxury and warmth. The hotel’s mission is to create a wonderful place to stay, relax and feel absolutely at home - I only wish my home was this stunning!
Of course, the French do fine dining better than most and Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée is a culinary experience like no other. The Michelin-starred chef takes you on an immersive journey back to the ancient heart of French gastronomy with recipes dating back 250 years given a modern twist. He presents a playful ode to heritage cuisine, one that crosses trends and centuries while remaining deeply modern - all served in a beautiful room on elegant bone china.
For a more relaxed dining option, although it is equally beautiful and stunning Imbert’s Le Relais Plaza is an Art Deco restaurant which puts his twist on a classic French Brasserie.
Following the indulgence of culinary options on offer you may want to relax and pamper yourself. I think most people would agree that there are a few things that the French do better than most other nations - fine cuisine, haute couture, and beauty. And for beauty (treatments) there is nowhere in Paris quite like the Dior Spa at the Plaza Athénée. Visit, explore, and indulge.
Oh, and yes, the Plaza Athénée definitely could lay claim to be the best hotel in Paris, perhaps I have two favourites!
Majestic Montenegro
Christina Raptis visits the port transforming a nation
Sitting on the promenade enjoying a cocktail whilst watching the sunset, it’s hard not to notice the incredible fleet of superyachts moored in the marina. With intriguing names that include: Black Pearl and Maltese Falcon… we curiously Google to find out who their respective – and obviously very wealthy – owners are. Sheiks, billionaires, and international men of mystery…are but a few who are visiting Porto Montenegro. And thus our new obsession with Googling superyachts begins and will occupy a lot of our time over the next few days.
Despite the vast number of these superyachts heading to Montenegro – and we really do mean super – the port can accommodate the largest of them all. As the world’s first Platinumstatus marina, Porto Montenegro has achieved the TYHA Platinum Marina Award and is the first marina to be awarded the 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accreditation. The port offers state-of-the-art facilities and the perfect cruising destination for the season, with flexible berthing packages and the added benefit of tax-free fuel!
The marina has a capacity of 460 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 250m, with further plans under development to expand its offering in phases to up to 850 berths, of which 315 will be specifically for superyachts. This, with the adjacent Adriatic 42 superyacht repair facility cements Porto Montenegro’s position as the largest full-service marina in the Mediterranean.
The incredible port only adds to the attractions of the area and indeed, the country as a whole. With 295km of beautiful coastline, 117 diverse beaches, and over 280 days of sunshine per year, Montenegro is renowned for its unspoiled beauty, boasting 5 national parks, and 4 World Heritage sites, including the Bay of Kotor, the largest freshwater lake in Europe and pristine mountains for skiing.
Porto Montenegro has transformed the coastal area making Montenegro one of the fastest-growing economies in the Balkans and the second-fastest-growing travel and tourism economy in the world.
Located on the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor in a picturesque marina village, boasting five-star hotels and premium residences, and a burgeoning fashion and dining scene, Porto Montenegro is becoming the go-to Mediterranean destination.
To accommodate the guests arriving on superyachts the Port has also evolved into a trendy destination for luxury shopping and foodies. A variety of restaurants including Forza Porto bring authentic Boka delicacies with a modern and sophisticated twist, whilst its sister restaurants Marea on the village Town Quay and Panorama at the PMYC Pool, combine traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a blend of Northern Montenegrin-inspired culinary specialties. For more casual dining, head to Navale, the local familyrun waterfront café located on Porto’s prestigious promenade. For live music and entertainment, the recently-opened Buddha-Bar Beach brings a unique lifestyle and dining concept and features a 64-metre infinity pool, restaurant, and bar all within the marina's Yacht Club. In the heart of the village is the beautiful 5-star Regent Porto Montenegro hotel which boasts truly-luxurious rooms, suites, and residences, 5 in-house restaurants, and panoramic views across the glistening bay.
The port is also the perfect base for setting sail to the best beach clubs in the country. These include the Ribarsko Selo, a beach restaurant destination where fishermen bring in fresh catches of the day, to the world-famous Nikki Beach, which is a recent stylish addition to the Bay of Tivat. For culture vultures, there is the medieval, fortified town of Kotor with its limestone cliffs and winding streets, or the Roman Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Rocks, set on an islet off the coast of Perast.
Upon completion of the regeneration plan, Porto Montenegro will feature 5 interconnected neighbourhoods, including the existing neighbourhood South Village, which offers classic and elegant waterfront living, dining, and shopping, over 400 private apartments, Regent Hotel & Venezia Residences Porto Montenegro with its new, 129 managed Regent Pool Club Residences across its AQUA and BAIA buildings, as well as 50 apartments in its newest Elena Residences building, all overlooking the marina.
The next phase of development includes Boka Place, a new urban quarter that will feature 96 hotel rooms, 144 SIRO residences, and 69 private residences. SIRO Boka Place will be a five-star health and wellness lifestyle concept with a rooftop bar and pool, and several restaurants and bars. Synchro will deliver a luxury hotel and spa set within a beach setting. North Village will transform the existing sports centre of the former naval dockyard and is planned as a tenniscentric village for sporting breaks. Meanwhile, Park Gardens will be a resort-style oasis with homes set amongst a dense jungle landscape and a winding network of swimmable waterways.
This was my first visit to Montenegro, and I really enjoyed the culture and meeting the friendly people of this small nation. I can't wait to return to see the above developments transform the area into an even more exciting hotspot, as I truly believe the destination offers something for everyone to discover – shopping, epicurean delights, and natural beauty – or even discovering who owns the best superyacht – thanks Google.
www.portomontenegro.com
MAKING WAVES
The Limited Edition Riva Anniversaro
The Riva Anniversario is an incredible combination of details and inspiration drawn from both the legendary Aquariva and Aquarama. The new boat pays tribute to the brand’s history of these two iconic boats which this year celebrate their 60th and 20th anniversaries respectively.
Riva Anniversario is a unique 33-foot open powerboat with magnetic appeal, paying tribute to the history and legend of the yard that has been making exciting contributions to yachting, design and luxury living for 180 years. Like all true objects of desire, the Riva Anniversario is produced in limited number with only 18 units and they have already become collector’s items.
The sleekly elegant lines of the Anniversario are designed as always by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, founders of Officina Italiana Design, working in partnership with the Strategic Product Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The exterior styling is inspired by the Aquariva’s classic silhouette, featuring clean lines, balanced volumes and a series of stylistic details that tap into the Aquarama’s refined style.
Riva Anniversario exerts its power of seduction even before you go aboard, with a stern platform concealed and sheltered by the streamlined design of the hull sides. The boat’s profile is also enhanced by the aquamarine waterline, which leads into the white anti-fouling and pays tribute to the Aquarama, as does the name of the model written in same lettering style as the famous wooden boats of the 1960s.
The entire aft section on board is occupied by the engine compartment hidden below the classic sunpad, which is upholstered with innovative outdoor leather in alternating aquamarine and white colours. The same leather is used to upholster both the cockpit and the below-deck area. This special type of leather is perfectly waterproof, withstands marine conditions and can be used at sea, ensuring an unrivalled sensation of softness and well-being.
Designed for functionality and comfort, the cockpit has a new design featuring a large U-shaped sofa and a central table seating up to eight people. But that’s not all: the table has an up-down mechanism so that the space can easily be transformed into one big sunbathing area which can be sheltered by the distinctive bimini top.
The foredeck is clad entirely in polished mahogany planking. Continuing the tradition of hand craftsmanship, all the wooden parts of Anniversario are protected by the Sarnico-based yard’s famous 24 coats of varnish. Two deck portholes inspired by the Aquarama, one on either side, bring natural light down below deck.
Below deck, the ambiance features leather upholstery with an aquamarine and white colour scheme that matches the ceiling. Riva Anniversario is fitted with an electronically controlled two-speed gearbox that unleashes all the power of the two Yanmar 8 LV engines, each rated 370hp. This engine configuration delivers a top speed of 40.5 knots and provides a range of 155 miles at the cruising speed of 36 knots.
The launch of Riva Anniversario also represents an opportunity for Ferretti Group to leave a mark by contributing to a noble cause. Of the 18 unique units of Riva Anniversario being made, one will be immediately donated to the charity initiative 7 Fund for UNICEF, created by UNICEF and David Beckham to support children around the world with better healthcare, education, and protection. Ferretti Group has decided to donate a limitededition Riva Anniversario to the cause, which will be auctioned off and the entire proceeds donated to help protect children in El Salvador. The silent auction - www.ferrettigroupforunicef.com - is currently open and concludes in Miami in February 2023.
