unexpected
THE FEATURING
NEW YORK CITY SONOMA RIVIERA NAYARIT DOLOMITES
Gotham Reimagined
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Park Avenue Place overlooks New York’s bustling midtown, a larger-than-life cityscape surrounded by stunning mosaic high-rises and skyscrapers. When Exclusive Resorts invited HW Home to give the apartments a makeover with an elevated touch in thematic design, inspiration was found all around the half-mythical place some say never sleeps. With a mixture of modern and classic architecture embedded in the city streets, our designs truly reflect this ever-changing metropolis. As a result, we created chic and livable spaces that embody HW Home’s take on urban living. Feeling inspired? Exclusive Resorts members can shop all the furniture, art, and accessories curated by HW Home at special partner pricing. With nationwide shipping, you can get access to our boutique selection anywhere in the U.S.
Shop our Park Avenue Place collection and more at
HWHOME.COM/ER
CURATED / Winter 2020
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In Focus
Betting on Bonanza Deer Valley protects a vast tract of open space, calling for elevated exploration. written by erin lentz photograph by dj brooks
standing on the top of gorgeous Empire Pass in Deer Valley, Exclusive Resorts Member DJ Brooks framed this scenic landscape, which, as a Park City resident, he considers his backyard. The Bonanza Flat Conservation Area was recently, and thankfully, preserved after Park City passed a ballot measure raising more than $50 million to purchase and protect cherished wilderness. With nearly 1,350 acres of undeveloped backcountry gracing the upper elevations of the Wasatch Mountains, the area will soon be home to three new trailheads, including Bloods Lake, Bonanza Flat, and Empire Pass. As such, Park City visitors and locals now have further opportunity to experience Utah’s elevated penchant for play. Whether enjoying the nine Club homes at Ironwood or five residences at Montage, Club Members have direct ski-in, ski-out access to all of Deer Valley Resort’s alpine terrain. Both the Ironwood and Montage properties are located less than four miles from Park City’s Main Street, home to the best dining, shopping, and sightseeing the area has to offer, and the headquarters of Robert Redford’s famous Sundance Film Festival.
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Spring + Summer 2019
CURATED / Winter 2020
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Winter 2020
Contents
FEATURES
56 Out of Bounds in New York City For the Exclusive Resorts Member who lives for the city, we have 28 under-the-radar ways to experience a whole new side of the Big Apple (seen left).
66
Hola Mexico! Exclusive Resorts’ 2018 Destination of the Year, Real del Mar claims the title of most favored escape.
74 Five Senses: A Photo Essay The sights, sounds, scents, textures, and flavors of Exclusive Resorts’ Europe 2020 Collection.
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The Human Touch Exclusive Resorts’ tangible and unique differentiator in today’s saturated travel industry? Our people.
ON THE COVER One of artist James Turrell’s celebrated Skyspaces, entitled “Meeting” at MoMa PS1 in Long Island City, Queens, invites viewers to gaze upwards toward an unobstructed view of the sky. photograph by jackie caradonio
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Contents
DEPARTMENTS
Sun Valley, p. 38 Lake Tahoe, p. 41 Napa, p. 15 Sonoma, p. 36
2, 15, 40 Deer Valley
pp.
Vail, p. 41 Aspen, pp. 41, 50
p. 32 Austin
42 Kohala Coast p.
Prague, p. 81 Paris, p. 53 San Sebastian, p. 79 Dubrovnik, p. 80 Lisbon, p. 75 p. 78 Santorini, p. 14 Provence Marrakech, p. 46
53, 56 New York
pp.
p. 43 Sea Island
italy
Amalfi Coast, p. 76 Dolomites, p. 24 Florence p. 76 Lake Como, pp. 20, 77
66 Real del Mar p.
p. 52 Hong Kong
p. 18 Dubai
pp. 43, 88 Peninsula Papagayo
INSIDER 14
Resort Report Auberge Resorts Collection is making waves with new luxury offerings from Greece to Napa.
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Iconoclast Steve Case is sweeping the country—by bus!—in search of America’s next great start-ups.
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Member Vetted Member David Axelrod travels to Dubai and Oman.
SCENE 24
Play A bucket-list ski safari in the Dolomites? Check!
26
Home Top home accoutrements to elevate your space.
28
Tech Talk Extraordinary presents for your special someone.
30
Little Luxe Time tested and modernized, classic children’s gifts to celebrate the kid in all of us.
Remember When Members Joe and Jana Crawford have a new favorite European escape.
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Unplugged Checking into Miraval Austin, where farm-to-spa is the order of the day.
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In Focus
88
6
Contributors
8
Letter from the CEO
Bucket List Members Alan and Karen Swift heed the call of Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica.
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Letter from the Editor
SAVOR 36
Say, Sommelier Members Michael Oravecz and Loretta DiChiro find prime pickings in the Alexander Valley.
38
The Dish Sisters Callie and Maeme Rasberry helm a Ketchum, Idaho bistro.
40
Cheers Mountain-bound this winter? High-spirited ways to keep warm.
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ER Inspired The Club’s regionally inspired recipes will leave family clamoring for your “secret” sauce.
CULTURED 46
Art of Travel Exclusive Resorts’ CoChairman of the Board, Philippe Bourguignon, reveals the magic of Marrakech.
48
Travel Type Take an inspired and unforgettable trip from your nightstand.
50
Take Note Looking for music inspiration while vacationing? John Oates and the Belly Up Aspen have you covered.
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Eye on Design For Peninsula Hotels, the past and present collide with high art and chic style.
CURATED / Winter 2020
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Contents
CONTRIBUTORS
DAVID AXELROD
JACKIE CARADONIO
MEREDITH DIERS
David Axelrod is a sevencontinent explorer, travel author, and photographer based in Seattle. He is the founder of 2STRAWS, a fine art print shop and content studio. David was recently chosen as Behr Paint’s first-ever Color Explorer. He frequently collaborates with hospitality and lifestyle brands as a multimedia adventure storyteller.
Writer and photographer Jackie Caradonio has never been one to count the number of countries she’s visited, but it’s a lot. She’s rappelled down cliffs in the Bugaboo Mountains, tracked gorillas in the Republic of Congo, and run marathons in the savannas of Kenya. Her hand is always the first one up when it comes to a challenge—and she’s written about her exploits in Travel + Leisure, Town & Country, and Robb Report. She lives in Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood with her husband and two fur babies, Phil and Angelica.
Meredith Diers is a freelance journalist covering travel, literature, and local news. Her work has been featured in Dallas Style and Design, Aspen Peak, Ultimate Experiences, and The Denton Record Chronicle newspaper. She lives in Aspen, where she hikes, bikes, and skis as often as possible.
p. 18
Bucket-List Trip The Turkestan-Siberian Railway through Uzbekistan. Favorite Travel App I love Happy Cow for finding healthy vegetarian restaurants on the road. Would Most Like To Photograph My grandma’s 100th birthday.
p. 56
Would Most Would Like to Dine With: Serena Williams. She’s a true GOAT. And I want to know what her cheat meal is. Favorite New York City Hangout Manhattan Cricket Club, a secret bar on the upper level of Burke & Wills restaurant on the Upper West Side. You push through the upholstered wall, then walk up the stairs to this moody speakeasy which feels like a step back in time.
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SOCIAL STUDIES As writer and editor, Vawn Himmelsbach, explains: “Tuscany doesn’t require a filter. Even in December, Castello di Casole is breathtaking.”
p. 48
Post your Exclusive Resorts vacation on Instagram and connect with The Club.
Wish List Trip for 2020 A bike (cycling) trip through southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam).
@ExclusiveResorts
Would Most Would Like to Interview Christiane Amanpour. Favorite Travel Book Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey.
CURATED ONLINE Like what you’re reading? Visit our interactive digital platform for additional photo galleries, stories, Member interviews, and videos from destinations around the globe. Curated.ExclusiveResorts.com
EXCLUSIVE RESORTS Exclusive Resorts is the World’s Elite Private Vacation Club, which established a legacy of travel in 2002 and has since upheld the importance of an authentic and superior Club Member experience. ExclusiveResorts.com 844.541.2714
M A G A Z I N E
EDITORIAL editor in chief erin lentz creative director justin parnell
copy editor sarah taylor asquith contributing fashion editor karen larrain
exclusive resorts chief executive officer james henderson vice president, sales rachel regan
manager, corporate marketing haley mccoy
coordinator, corporate marketing payton yoder
contributors David Axelrod, Amiee White Beazley, DJ Brooks, Jackie Caradonio, Meredith Diers, Mark Ellwood, Michael Frank, Karen Larrain, Jen Murphy editorial inquiries Queries must be submitted with self-addressed, stamped envelopes. Publisher is not responsible or liable for return or safekeeping of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photographs, or other materials.
©2020 TAG Media. CURATED Magazine is published two times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication without publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. For copies, customer service, or to exhibit or distribute at a business, please inquire at info@tagmediaaspen.com. tag media
418 E Cooper; Suite 207B; Aspen, CO 81611 exclusive resorts club management
1515 Arapahoe Street; Tower 3, Suite 500; Denver, CO 80202 For Membership information and opportunities, call: United States: 844.541.2714; International: 303.226.4900 advertisement herein for any product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by exclusive resorts, llc or its affiliates.
Club Membership is subject to terms and conditions of Club Membership agreement. Different terms and conditions apply to different purchases. Reservations for specific days, destinations and events subject to availability. Experience Collection vacations, certain services, amenities and other Member benefits may require additional fees, may have limited availability and are subject to additional terms and conditions. Magazine content is for informational purposes only; The Club disclaims any warranty or representation of any kind; stories do not constitute The Club’s endorsement of any cause or program. See ExclusiveResorts.com for more information. Exclusive Resorts and the Exclusive Resorts flower logo are registered trademarks of Exclusive Resorts, LLC. ©2020, Exclusive Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved.
— Journey to the colorful Riviera Nayarit, and discover why ER Members named Real del Mar the 2018 Destination of the Year. page 66 CURATED
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Letter from the CEO
bers have come to expect. We will also focus on creating a stronger Member community, bound by shared experiences, passions, and interests.
H
appy new year! I hope you were able to spend time with family and friends over dinner, a good bottle of wine, or near a warm fire this past holiday season. Travel has exposed me to the unique ways different cultures celebrate the holidays, and I always love learning about local customs and traditions. Yet wherever I go, the shared commonality is an authentic sense of community. I felt this sense of community immediately upon joining Exclusive Resorts, and it is a privilege to be part of such a wonderful organization. The combination of talented professionals, passionate Members, shared curiosity, and an overarching joy of exploration creates an atmosphere unique to Exclusive Resorts and exudes a deep sense of care in all we do as a Club. Since its inception, Exclusive Resorts has been a pioneer in providing one-of-a-kind vacations for its Members. The year 2020 marks the start of a new era in which we will strengthen our position as an industry leader. We will continue to refine and enhance our Portfolio of destinations and add unique, one-of-a-kind experiences our Mem-
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I firmly believe travel broadens the mind and gives us new perspectives, yet often times it’s the small things which make the biggest impact. Some of my most extraordinary experiences have come when I’ve least expected them. When planning my recent trip to the Kohala Coast in Hawaii, I was amazed when my on-site Concierge went out of her way to find a very specific and favorite breakfast item to make me feel at home. Knowing she had taken the time to do something just for me—to personalize the experience and make me feel known—is all it took to elevate a great vacation to an extraordinary one. This is what Exclusive Resorts does—every day, all year-round. As we look onward, I hope 2020 is a year—and decade—of dreams followed. I hope you are able to explore and discover new, inspirational places, whether it be for relaxation, rejuvenation, or new perspectives. Also, I hope you are able to focus on quality time with friends and family, remembering small, personal touches can have a big impact. Safe travels and my very best wishes to you and your family. Travel Well,
JAMES HENDERSON
Chief Executive Officer
Find Your Places in the World Exclusive Resorts residences are exceptional in location, comfort, and quality. As a Club Member, no matter which of the more than 75 Club destinations around the world you choose to visit, you’re certain to feel at home.
IMAGE: EXCLUSIVE RESORTS AT DEER VALLEY, UT
Contact one of our Membership Directors at 844.541.2714 or MembershipDirector@ExclusiveResorts.com to learn more.
Club Membership is subject to terms and conditions of Club Membership Agreement. Different terms and conditions apply to different purchases. Reservations for specific days, destinations and experiences subject to availability. Experience Collection vacations, certain services, amenities and other Member benefits may require additional fees, may have limited availability and are subject to additional terms and conditions. Current Club destinations, residences and experiences subject to change. See ExclusiveResorts.com for more information. Exclusive Resorts and the Exclusive Resorts flower logo are registered trademarks of Exclusive Resorts, LLC. ©2019, Exclusive Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved.
Letter from the Editor
W
hen i first visited Exclusive Resorts’ Real del Mar residences five years ago, Tropical Storm Polo had whipped Banderas Bay into a meringue of white caps while a hauntingly beautiful sky loomed overhead. Yet the inclement weather fueled an unexpected highlight of our trip. As we scouted Punta Mita’s main street, the moody sky delivered a furious rain storm. Ducking for cover, we ended up in the rustic kitchen of Serendipity Restaurant & Mezcaleria, as the main dining area was soaked. After being served delicious hibiscus-infused mezcalitas, we were introduced to a local musician, Salamon, who serenaded our table. He tuned his guitar, cocked an eyebrow, stroked a curled mustachio, and asked our song preference: “Neil Diah-mond o Mexicana tradicionale?” We opted for “Sweet Caroline,” and, just like that, best-laid plans forgotten, the evening became a dance of unexpected fun: authentic Oaxacan platas, more mezcalitas, and uninhibited group sing-alongs. Our journey was fine-tuned the following day with a visit to the Marietas Islands, where we lucked out again. A rowdy ocean swell kept the usual amount of tourists from entering Hidden Beach. The result? A 15-minute window where our photo editor captured the beautiful image (right) which became the inaugural cover of CURATED Magazine. Real del Mar has remained my favorite Exclusive Resorts destination, and with this issue, we continue to celebrate its authentic sense of adventure and gorgeous residences. As the 2018 Destination of the Year (page 66), Club Members also agree—this Mexican hideaway is special, and demands return trips. Whether it’s Real del Mar or another Exclusive Resorts destination that repeatedly calls to you, my hope is within these pages you’ll find inspiration to experience the unexpected, as it’s more often than not when travel truly transforms. Happy Journeying!
ERIN LENTZ
erin@tagmediaaspen.com
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CURATED / Winter 2020
— Swimming toward the Marieta Islands’ Hidden Beach near Real del Mar, Mexico.
Image courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection
INSIDER
Resort Report • Iconoclast • Member Vetted • Remember When
Santorini Sunset With vistas like this, Auberge Resorts’ Grace Hotel Santorini may just find you extending your vacation by another week. page 14
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Insider
Resort Report
— From left: Dramatic poolside dining with a view at Grace Hotel Santorini; the Deluxe Rooms at Grace Hotel Santorini have a private terrace and heated outdoor plunge pool.
Global Entry
grace hotel santorini
Exclusive Resorts’ partner Auberge Resorts Collection is making waves with new luxury offerings, from Greece to Napa. written by jackie caradonio
when auberge resorts collection’s first establishment, a charming hillside Napa Valley hotel, opened in 1985, no one anticipated that it would become an instant favorite and grow to a collection of ultra-luxury retreats on three continents. Today, the Auberge banner waves on more than 19 properties, which welcome guests with intimate settings and one-of-a-kind experiences. 14
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Last year, Auberge made the announcement it had acquired Grace Hotels, a small collection of spectacular resorts stretching from the Greek Isles to Maine. The sapphire jewel of those properties is the Grace Hotel Santorini, which recently relaunched with updated luxuries, new programs (don’t miss yoga on that sky-high whitewashed rooftop), and what might be the most incredible views of the Caldera and Aegean Sea you’ll ever witness. The highest point of this pinnacle hotel is Grace’s new Villa, a spectacular and spacious retreat fit for a Greek god and featuring a private spa room and hammam, a kitchen helmed by a personal chef, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Images courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection
— From left: The Creek Houses at The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City sit on the banks of Alexander Creek; perched on a hillside overlooking renowned vineyards, Auberge du Soleil features one of the most famous panoramic views in all of Napa Valley.
the lodge at blue sky
auberge du soleil
Auberge has found the perfect slice of High West heaven in the mountains of Utah with its new 3,500-acre resort located roughly 20 miles outside of Park City. But don’t call this Western-inspired getaway a dude ranch—it’s a contemporary retreat where the 46 rooms and suites are adorned with private garden showers, panoramic-view terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows to bring all that unadulterated nature inside. Of course, there’s a whole host of outdoor adventures, from the rough and tumble (championship-caliber clay shooting) to the restful and refined (farm-to-table cuisine from the 1.5-acre garden; detoxifying treatments at the clifftop spa). And for a real taste of cowboy life, a trip to the nearby High West Distillery to sample Utah’s most famous whiskey is a must.
Back in the vine-covered hills of Napa Valley, the flagship resort that started it all has once again raised the benchmark on wine-country luxury with the debut of two new Private Maisons. Each of the freestanding suites—named Cannes and Monaco—is California wine country meets southof-France chic, with two master bedrooms, a trellised terrace featuring an al fresco soaking tub, and a fireplace for those crisp NorCal nights. If you can tear yourself away from the Mayacamas Mountains views (not to mention your fully stocked wine bar), you’ll want to hop into the house Mercedes-Benz for a tour of Napa’s finest: Labels with cult followings like Cakebread Cellars, Opus One, and Joseph Phelps Vineyards are all just a short drive away.
Stay haute hotels
As part of Exclusive Resorts’ Hotel Collection, Members have access to the following Auberge resorts: malliouhana,
Anguilla, British West Indies hotel jerome, Aspen, CO auberge du soleil, Napa Valley, CA hacienda altagracia, Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica nanuku, Pacific Harbor, Fiji the lodge at blue sky,* Park City, UT *Coming soon to The Club’s Portfolio
CURATED / Winter 2020
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Insider
Iconoclast
why did you start rise of the rest? We started it as a way to change the narrative about innovation entrepreneurship—that it’s not limited to just a few places like Silicon Valley. It’s about investing in the places that generally don’t get much venture capital. It’s as much an investment strategy as it is a strategy to create a more inclusive national economy.
the tours sound a little bit like an entrepreneur’s version of american idol. tell us about what happens when you’re on the road.
Rise & Shine Entrepreneur, Club Chairman and Majority Owner Steve Case is sweeping the country—by bus!—in search of America’s next great startups. written by jackie caradonio
— Above: Steve Case rallies enthusiasm and optimism during the Rise of the Rest Road Trip. 16
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steve case has a proven nose for new business. The billionaire—who cofounded AOL in 1983—has followed his instincts to back dozens of successful businesses, including Zipcar, sweetgreen, and Exclusive Resorts. Now, he’s hitting the road on a new quest to discover the next big startups, entrepreneurs, and disrupters with his Rise of the Rest tour. Along with a group of impressive partners, ranging from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to fashion titan Tory Burch, he scours the country for the next great business ideas. CURATED caught up with Case in between tours to talk about the change his big red bus is bringing to cities across America.
American Idol is more made for TV, but there are some similarities in that we give people a shot at being on the big stage. We have done eight tours in 43 cities so far. The last tour we did about six months ago, we had 540 entrants apply to pitch in five cities. We picked the top eight in each city, and we helped them with their pitches. Then, in each city, we had a panel of judges pick the one that was most promising, and that’s the one we ended up investing in.
why is it important to invest in companies outside of major hubs like silicon valley and new york? Well, if you’re trying to innovate in the farming sector, for instance, it’s hard to imagine that you’d have any insight to problems that farmers are having if you’re sitting in a skyscraper in Manhattan. But it’s also quite critical that we level the playing field so innovation and job creation is happening everywhere—not just in a few places.
what kind of companies have you invested in so far? We have invested in all kinds of companies—traditional software tech companies, agriculture companies, healthcare companies—and it has been incredible to see the kind of innovations happening all across the country. One recent company we funded in Detroit, an e-commerce site called StockX, had three or four employees when we first invested; now it has hundreds of employees. It’s exciting to scale these young startups into major companies employing hundreds, even thousands.
what’s it like traveling on that bus across the country? I have been on every one of our eight tours so far—but we don’t actually sleep in the bus. We’ll check into a hotel and get up early the next morning and get back on the road. It’s a nice bus though. It was deliberately designed to be able to host big groups so we’ll have several dozen people create different meetings throughout the day (akin to a traveling conference room).
what’s been your favorite stop so far? I’ve been constantly surprised in every city we have been to. Each of these cities and tours has opened our eyes to the fact that there are entrepreneurs everywhere. And it’s making it possible for everybody, everywhere, to have a shot at the American dream.
Images courtesy of Revolution
— From top: Chef Jose Andrés demonstrates innovative culinary skills during a Rise of the Rest stop; Immertec won Tampa Bay’s Rise of the Rest Pitch competition.
Get Involved To view a list of stops, get involved, or pitch a business idea, visit: Events.Revolution.com.
CURATED / Winter 2020
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Insider
Member Vetted
Arabia, Unfaded Exclusive Resorts Member David Axelrod travels to Dubai and Oman and discovers surreal landscapes, eclectic culture, and exquisite cuisine. written & photographed by david axelrod
TAKE ME TO DUBAI — From top left: The Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s most iconic and innovative hotels; writer, photographer, and Club Member David Axelrod in the UAE. 18
CURATED / Winter 2020
I wanted to see Dubai for myself. I wanted to gawk at Lamborghini cop cars, ski indoors, and island-hop across artificial archipelagos. If Dubai really was the futuristic fantasyland I’d heard it was, I was determined to peel back its extravagant facade and capture the hidden truth within its desert mirage.
After hopping off a 14-hour nonstop flight from Seattle in a daze, I barely knew where I was until I stepped out onto my hotel balcony. The world’s tallest building, the marvelous Burj Khalifa, sliced infinitely into the night sky, ablaze in shimmering light. Our tour guide described Dubai as a destination “where people can enjoy the whole world in one place.” And judging by the breakfast buffet at the Palace Downtown hotel, that description proved accurate. Sundry spreads of international cuisines surrounded a castle of fruit. It was such a beautiful display, I almost felt guilty digging in. But self-indulgence is nothing to be ashamed of in Dubai, certainly not at The Dubai Mall, which houses every store you’ve ever heard of, and then 100 more. The enormous shopping space is hardly the only superlative on Dubai’s résumé, as the city can claim a World Record for the longest list of World Records: World’s largest aquarium. World’s most expensive cocktail (24-karat gold flakes, diamond glass). World’s biggest burger and pizza. Our guide regaled us with rumors of the Sheikh’s two pet white tigers, plans for Dubai’s upcoming 7-D movie theater, and statistics about coveted complexes of mega mansions. My favorite was “Greece,” a massive development of replica homes built in the Cycladic style…“all completely sold out.” The most baffling stat of all was that none of this existed 30 years ago. Dubai shot up out of thin sand, which is arguably its singular allure. There’s something inspiring about the speed and magnitude of the city’s growth. Nonetheless I found myself wondering: Are these skyscrapers even occupied? That fountain show synced with the lights on Burj Khalifa was certainly impressive, but wait…where did all the water come from?
DUNES + DECADENCE
A dune-bashing excursion to a private, tented desert camp provided the perfect escape. Our driver, Mafud, picked us up at the Palace in a caged Toyota 4-Runner. At the edge of the desert he pulled over to partially deflate the tires. Blasting a playlist of alternating Emerati dance anthems and techno remixes of American pop hits, we charged into an ocean of sand. Mafud grinned as we bounced against the SUV doors and each other, screaming in equal parts joy and terror—whipping, dipping, and nearly flipping over seemingly every dune in Arabia. Pulling into our private camp, protected behind a curtain of dunes, we felt relieved (and a bit queasy). Our chef prepared a feast of kebabs and assorted salads. We ate on cushions under a canvas canopy in profound serenity and felt like displaced nomads—giddy and comfortably lost, sinking into our starry oasis. ALL ABOUT ABU DHABI + OMAN
Our day-trip to Abu Dhabi proved equally surreal. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a geometric marvel designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, was the first museum I’d ever visited with a lifeguard on duty. Its signature dome, designed to mimic the sunlight passing through palm fronds, made the museum itself arguably more impressive than its collection of masterpieces (from da Vinci, Gauguin, and Van Gogh, to name a few). What’s more, Abu Dhabi’s main at-
traction, the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, boasts all the grandeur of the Taj Mahal despite being built just 12 years ago. For a final Arabian excursion, we flew 45 minutes to Muscat (the capital of Oman) to experience the oldest independent Arab state. Muscat rolls like fog over the Al-Hajar Mountains in clusters of white, clashing against the sapphire gulf. Wandering through Mutrah Souk at night, the glitz of Dubai became a distant memory. Oman delighted us with its craggy desert landscapes, soft pastel palette, peaceful aura, and genuinely warm people. While Oman felt completely untapped, the Emirates felt like a rocket counting down to launch. In both countries the contrast of religious tradition and technological advancement made for a strange but fascinating dichotomy. Arabia may have seemed like a mirage, but it’s not fading any time soon.
Experience Learn more about The Club’s Experience Collection at ExclusiveResorts.com/ Experience-Collection.
— From left: The applauded Louvre Abu Dhabi; exploring a sea of sand dunes with private guide, Mafud.
CURATED / Winter 2020
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Insider
Remember When
Names: Joe and Jana Crawford Hometown: Abilene, TX Members Since: 2013 Just Back From: Lake Como What’s next with ER: Kiawah Island, SC; and Kohala Coast, HI
Just Back From … Lake Como After discovering this Italian gem with The Club, Members Joe and Jana Crawford have a new favorite European escape. written by jen murphy
— Above: Members Joe and Jana Crawford explore Lake Como. 20
CURATED / Winter 2020
lake como, with its dramatic scenery set amidst the foothills of the Alps, is a dreamy escape often topping the travel wish lists of Exclusive Resorts Members. After discovering this enchanting locale, Members Joe and Jana Crawford recount their most memorable experiences.
what was the appeal of lake como as a destination?
This was the first year we chose a non-beach destination with The Club. I’ve been to Italy several times and love the people and the food. We were looking at Exclusive Resorts’ Lake Como villa online and the mountain and lake views were dreamy enough to compete with the beach. I can honestly say I would list this as one of my favorite places I’ve traveled with The Club because of the food, the scenery, and because there was something for everyone— from shopping to hiking.
jana:
I think everyone in our group agreed this was the best vacation destination they’d been to. You really can’t describe the beauty. We have to show people photos of the grounds of the villa for them to understand just how phenomenal the place was.
joe:
The European Collection Every year The Club releases a new Collection of residences available for summer travel in Europe. Each residence has a dedicated Local Host whose sole responsibility is to help Members plan their ultimate trip and provide local insights. Villa Pendio in Lake Como is part of the Europe 2019 and 2020 Collections. To view the rest of Exclusive Resorts’ Europe 2020 Collection, visit: ExclusiveResorts.com/ Europe-2020.
lake como, italy
• 5 bedrooms All five bedrooms feature en suite bathrooms—ideal for families or couples traveling together—plus a sitting area and modern décor. Enjoy a stocked wine cellar and Turkish hammam, sip apertivos in the sunroom, explore the villa’s beautiful garden, or soak in the private infinity pool overlooking Lake Como.
VILLA PENDIO
who did you travel with?
We have a group of three other couples who we have traveled with every year since we joined The Club. We’ve been to Costa Rica, Real del Mar, Los Cabos, Grand Cayman, and Turks & Caicos together.
joe:
what were some standout features of the villa?
Villa Pendio is in the village of Argegno. We had a pool and the grounds were so well manicured and serene with panoramic views of the water, town, and the San Sisinnio church below.
joe:
jana: Four of the bedrooms are on the second floor and all had balconies with lake views. We brought a private chef and she was able to sleep in the fifth bedroom, located downstairs. The villa had a gourmet kitchen and a wine cellar. It was so nice to come back after a day out and not have to dress for dinner. We could use the steam room, then go down and grab a bottle of wine to enjoy on the patio while the sun set and our chef cooked dinner.
how did your local host make the experience special?
jana: There were fresh-cut flowers in the villa upon our arrival as well as a welcome basket of her favorite local artisanal products, including olives, salts, and cookies. For our first evening, she arranged a wine tasting at a local bistro paired with different appetizers and cheeses. joe: She is a retired Disney employee and one of the best Local Hosts we’ve ever had. One day our float-plane trip was cancelled due to weather and she was quick to come up with alternatives.
what was your most memorable experience?
joe: We took a six-hour tour in one of those sleek wood motorboats. Our driver, Flavio, was great and pointed out George Clooney’s house and the area’s most magnificent villas. We ended up in the famous town of Bellagio for lunch at an outdoor restaurant called La Punta.
I liked how all of the couples could do their own thing by day and regroup at the villa at night. Joe and I prefer hiking to shopping and our Local Host pointed us to an 11-kilometer trail that went through four villages. It took about 3.5 hours, including our lunch and wine stops. I felt really accomplished at the end. jana:
— From left: Local cuisine is enjoyed during a private chef dinner; al fresco fun with friends at The Club’s Lake Como residence. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Images courtesy of Giuseppe Ghedina
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Play • Home • Tech Talk • Little Luxe • Unplugged
The Inside Track An off-piste ski safari in the Dolomites? Why wouldn’t you? page 24
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— Left: Earning turns amidst the grandeur of the Dolomites.
Viva Italia Next stop: a bucket-list ski safari in the Dolomites. written by jen murphy
exclusive resorts’ Senior Vice President of Hospitality, Todd Harris, lives in Vail, Colorado, arguably one of the world’s top ski destinations. He’s carved tracks in Jackson Hole and Big Sky as well as overseas in Japan and New Zealand. But nothing prepared him 24
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for Exclusive Resorts’ seven-day ski tour of Italy’s Dolomite Mountains. “It’s the winter trifecta: terrific food and wine, beautiful UNESCO World Heritage scenery, and incredible skiing,” he says. Popular in Europe and slowly catching on in the U.S., ski touring allows you to travel from accommodation to accommodation by the power of your own two skis, taking in sights and on-piste lunches along the way. And you don’t need to be a double-black diamond skier to participate. “A lot of people have the perception that this is hardcore skiing,” says Harris. “But you can do the
— From top: A coveted alpenglow view; each ski safari day is toasted with local cuisine and regional wines.
Getting There Fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). Transportation from the airport to Cortina d’Ampezzo will take approximately two hours.
Images courtesy of Giuseppe Ghedina
Play & Stay This six-night, seven-day trip is available November through April and includes two nights in a five-star hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo, two nights in charming rifugios, and two nights in a five-star hotel in Alta Badia, plus a five-day Dolomiti Superski pass, ski guide, and luggage and airport transfers. Skiing can be tailored to individual capabilities.
entire trip on groomed runs unless you want to go off-piste.” The European approach to skiing is also very laidback. “Skiing is not the main event,” says Harris. “You’re constantly stopping to take in jaw-dropping views and lunch is a two-hour affair with lots of wine, cheese, and prosciutto.” Agustina Lagos Mármol, founder of trip outfitter Dolomite Mountains, has spent years researching the best ski runs, restaurants, and rifugios in the region. The rifugios are fully catered mountain huts— often family run—complete with wine cellars and gourmet food. Luggage is transferred hut to hut so you’ll have everything you need, including a warm fire and hot cocoa, upon arrival. “Quite frankly, that type of onmountain experience just doesn’t exist in the U.S.,” Harris says. Louis T., an Exclusive Resorts Member since 2006, wasn’t privy to the Dolomites before The Club began offering this experience in 2017. “It changed our entire outlook on where to ski and was one of our best trips ever, and we’ve had 40plus vacations with Exclusive Resorts.” Mike R., an Exclusive Resorts Member since 2012, had placed skiing in the Dolomites at the top of his bucket list ever since hearing about the region’s famous Sellaronda, a ski route that loops around the massif of the Sella mountain range. “To have
a private guide along with Exclusive Resortslevel accommodations put this trip over the top,” he says. “Our guide, Michele, aka Mik, was outstanding. He grew up there, knew people all over the mountain, and we got to meet many of them. They all said the same thing, ‘Mik is the best guide in the whole region...’ Based on the five days we were with him, we would completely agree.” All of the “hard” work on the slopes is bookended with pure pampering. The trip begins with two-nights at Hotel Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in the glitzy ski town of Cortina D’Ampezzo, and ends with a Michelin-star meal and overnight at Hotel Rosa Alpina in charming San Cassiano. “You earn your turns, and you’re definitely rewarded,” says Harris.
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Abode & Beyond Top home accoutrements to elevate your space.
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curated by karen larrain
Just what to gift your discerning better half or favorite socialite? Opt for one of these stylish head-turners, and you’re sure to impress.
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1. Pologeorgis Coyote Throw $6,000 • pologeorgis.com 2. Creel and Gow Ceramic Water Buffalo Tureen $850 • creelandgow.com 3. Dolce Gabbana x SMEG Mixer $1,500 • neimanmarcus.com 4. Hunt Slonem Bunny Portrait Plates $29 - $36 • bergdorfgoodman.com 5. Bacarrat Octogone Vase $990 • us.baccarat.com 6. Asprey Tiger Head Decanter $4,100 • asprey.com 7. Alexandra Von Furstenberg Radiant Coffee Table $12,500 • avfhome.com — Left: Park Avenue Place; New York City, NY 26
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Images courtesy of Pologeorgis, Creel and Gow, Smeg, Hunt Slonem, Bacarrat, Asprey, and Alexandra Von Furstenberg
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T R AV E L I N S T Y L E . As an Exclusive Resort Member, you are eligible to receive the benefits of an Avis Chairman’s Club membership. This invitation-only membership grants you access to exclusive privileges such as guaranteed availability, complimentary upgrades to the best car available, complimentary car delivery, personal valet return and more.* For more information or to enroll, visit avis.com/exclusiveresorts or contact your Exclusive Resorts Ambassador.
Terms and benefits of the program are subject to change at any time without prior notification. Upgrade to best car is based on best available car at the time of rental when you reserve an intermediate car or higher. Free upgrade to the best car available does not apply to Select Series (X car group) or on long-term rentals (i.e., mini-lease); you have the option to rent the upgraded vehicle, if available, at the applicable rate in effect at the time of the rental. Car deliveries in excess of 25 miles are subject to an additional fee. Only spouses or significant others are permitted to pick up the vehicle in the member’s name; additional driver fees apply. Family members, co-workers, and other persons are not authorized representatives of the member and are not permitted to pick up the vehicle and access member benefits. Š2019 Avis Rent A Car System, LLC
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Tech Talk
3 acura nsx This isn’t your typical supercar. Why? Because it’s a hybrid. It even has a quiet mode that mutes exhaust, and, unlike owning another exotic ride, won’t wake your neighbors when you roll out on Sunday morning. Yet it’s not just quiet, of course—it’s shockingly quick, with AWD, massive cornering grip, and eyeballpinning acceleration (0-60 mph in three seconds flat). What’s so smart, however, is that even the suspension can be made pliant and comfortable. A few other supercars can match it on the track—though even the Acura is less prone to punish newbie racers—but none is as dailydriver easy. Bonus: It even gets reasonable fuel economy at 21 city, 22 highway. — $157,500 • acura.com
Out of the Box Elevate your game with one of these extraordinary innovations. written by michael frank
if you know someone who has everything (or has very specific taste), they can be tough to gift. Our rule of thumb? Spare no expense and think like they do. And don’t forget, surprises are always nice. Diamonds out of the blue, an exclusive trip around the world, or the latest tech trend make most everyone smile. Here’s our list of extraspecial gifts for anyone extraordinary in your life.
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3 hasselblad 500c camera Hasselblad’s 500C is easily one of the most iconic cameras of all time. And because of the astounding build quality and excellent optics ranges of Carl Zeiss lenses, fashion shooters still use these 60-yearold bodies. Now, Hasselblad just updated the entire system—for the digital age. With the CFV II back snapped to the 907X body, you can shoot in that same classic style, staring down at a viewfinder, but produce stunning 50-megapixel images. And what’s ultra-cool is being able to use lenses dating back to 1957, effectively allowing the creativity of film with the instant gratification of digital. Bonus: Hasselblad’s CFV II digital back features one of the most intuitive touchscreen menus we’ve ever tested. If you can snap shots with an iPhone, you can rock this Hasselblad. — Price Available Upon Request • hasselblad.com
Image courtesy of Acura, Hasselblad, San Lorenzo Yacts, and Allied Cycleworks
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5 sanlorenzo sd96 While the rooms of many yachts can feel cave-like or militarily sterile, the 90 meter SD96 was born from the inside out, quite literally. The iconic shipbuilder turned to famed interior designer Patricia Urquiola, who insisted on using warmly hued tones (think earth, rather than sea) and creating an airier, friendly, and more inviting vibe than is typical of the genre. Urquiola also cleverly deployed moving walls and hidden utility (such as tables that fold away) to maximize the mutability of spaces—so a bedroom can expand to become a meeting room; the main dining room can morph into a party space. Even the flooring is designed with coziness in mind, with teak and blond woods creating continuity between the outdoor decks and the interior rooms. It all feels like a gorgeous home—one that just happens to float. — Price Available Upon Request • sanlorenzoyacht.com
Born from the passionate dreams of cycling veterans at Orbea, Guru, and Specialized, Allied is the ultra-rare label nobody will believe—making superb carbon fiber frames in the U.S., when almost all carbon fiber bikes are laid up in Asia. And the real fun is in the small details. For one, the aesthetic is superb; the gravel-focused Allroad has the fluid lines of a classic road bike, but don’t worry, you don’t have to crouch like a racer. Allied creates a more upright position you need for tackling technical fire roads with a longer head tube. Admittedly the Allroad isn’t designed to be as dirt-specific as some gravel bikes; instead it’s meant to be a road bike, with that kind of sports car-like handling, that can also be used off-road, with room for up to 38 cm knobby tires. Yes, it’s stiff, fast, and quite light, too. And Allied, unlike mass brands, will work one-onone with you to tailor specs exactly how you want them. That kind of customer service, like the U.S.-made frame, also sets Allied apart. — $5,799 • alliedcycleworks.com
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Spoiler Alert! Time tested and modernized, these classic children’s toys celebrate the kid in all of us. curated by karen larrain
Whether it’s a milestone gift or just because, these youthful extravagances inspire imagination, play, and plenty of reason to say ‘adios, screen time.’ 30
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1. Emily & Ashley 14k Gold and Diamond Angel Wings Pendant $1,190 • emilyandashley.com 2. Pologeorgis Kids Rex Rabbit Double Pompom Hat in Dusty Blue $140 • pologeorgis.com 3. Marie-Chantal Luxury Angel Wing Gift Set $1,400 • mariechantal.com 4. Assouline Barbie: 60 Years of Inspiration $175 • assouline.com 5. Taschen The Stan Lee Story $200 • taschen.com 6. Hammacher Schlemmer The FAO Schwarz Ride On Train $199.95 • hammacher.com 7. Hammacher Schlemmer Complete Classic Board Game Compendium $99.95 • hammacher.com — Above: Ho’olei at Grand Wailea; Maui, HI
Images courtesy of Emily & Ashley, Pologeorgis, Mari-Chantal, Hammacher Schlemmer, Taschen, and Assouline
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DISCOVER OCEANFRONT LUXURY ON KAUA‘I
Timbers Kaua‘i offers effortless whole and fractional home ownership, scaled to meet your ideal vision of an island escape. Arrive to find your kitchen stocked and your favorite wine chilled. Let your personal concierge curate a Hawaii lifestyle suited to your desires, whether that means tee times at the Jack Nicklaus Signature course, private lessons with a local surfer or cocktails and conversation on your oceanfront lanai. Introducing your Kauai home, Timbers-style.
Timbers Kaua‘i – Ocean Club & Residences timberskauai.com/curated 808.600. 3412
TIMBERS COLLECTION l Aspen l Bachelor Gulch l Cabo San Lucas l Jupiter l Kaua‘i l Kiawah Island l Maui l Napa l Scottsdale l Snowmass l Sonoma l Southern California l Steamboat l Tuscany l U.S. Virgin Islands l Vail This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to purchase made in any jurisdiction nor made to residents of any jurisdiction, including New York, where registration is required. Tower Kauai Lagoons LLC uses the Timbers Resort,® Timbers Collection® and certain other Timbers brand names under a limited non-transferable license in connection with the sales and marketing of the Hokuala Kauai™ – A Timbers Resort® (the “Project”). If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the Project will no longer be identified with nor have any right to use the Timbers® marks and names. All renderings depicted in this advertisement are illustrative only and may be changed at any time. All rights reserved.
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Unplugged
— Left: Miraval Austin utilizes plants and herbs from its nearby Cypress Creek Farm for such treatments as the Petal Pecan Facial and Wild Harvest Herb Ritual and Massage.
plant power
Soil to Spa At Miraval Austin, Cypress Creek Farm inspires farm-fresh treatments and cuisine. written by erin lentz
“taste this!” says morgan urich. I’m standing at Cypress Creek Farm and after Urich, the Farm Facilitator, pulls a bright green okra straight from the vine, I understand her enthusiasm for this fertile stretch of farmland, as it’s the tastiest okra I’ve ever had. With farm tours, chicken-keeping classes, bee-keeping programs, and mushroom education, Cypress Creek Farm informs Miraval Austin’s unique programming. Over the next few days, my skin, senses, and muscles are treated to a barrage of farm-derived ingredients: honey, pecans, peaches, and more. In fact, Miraval’s signature Petal Pecan Facial is so decadent that when the all-organic, plant-based Laurel Skin products are applied to my face, they smell so yummy they make me hungry. Located on the 30,000-acre Balcones Canyonland Preserve and opened just last year, Miraval Austin and its farm-to-spa concept is primed to deliver unique pampering in addition to spiritual sessions and plenty of yoga and fitness. “The aspects of the preserve were a perfect metaphor for the nurturing and discovery we want our guests to experience,” says Director of Spa and Wellbeing David Preslar. “Guests can visit the farm and participate in the harvest process to create a connection with the abundance of healing that nature can provide with plants.” Here’s what’s not to miss on your next spa getaway. 32
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All of the heavy-hitting, anti-aging ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and hyaluronic acid are found in plants,” says Laurel Shaffer, founder of Laurel Skin and pioneer of “slow beauty.” Akin to the slow food movement, which aims to preserve biodiversity, her vision is anchored in the power of plants. A skin-specific herbalist and former sommelier, Shaffer’s all-organic, seed-to-bottle line of products is inspired by both land and location. “It’s easy for me to see any plant as medicinal and then shine a light on it in a way that makes it effective,” she says. “At Miraval Austin, we’re using their honey—a beautiful ingredient.” That honey anchors the aforementioned Petal Pecan Facial, exclusively designed for Miraval Austin and based on ingredients grown on the nearby farm. After a cleansing and exfoliation, the facial employs Laurel Skin’s specially-designed Petal Pecan Mask, which smells as good as it feels. The 80-minute treatment also features a warm facial tea compress, facial tapping with local honey to stimulate lymph and circulatory movement, and a traditional poultice facial massage with home-grown herbs harvested from Cypress Creek Farm to nourish and increase connective tissue health. Lastly, an application of hydrating aloe and customized organic plant serums and balms leave my skin with a dewy glow.
— From left: Farm-fresh and seasonal ingredients inspire Miraval Austin’s daily menus; balance and serenity anchor various wellness programs.
Only in Austin Top 5 Not-to-Miss Experiences:
Images courtesy of Miraval Austin
1. Meet Executive Chef Ben Baker for the “Just Cook For Me” dining class, designed for the adventurous foodie.
star power
mind power
Emily Klintworth, award-winning writer and astrologer, leads a fun educational session titled “Astrology of Love, Relationships, and The Self.” Prior to arriving at Miraval, guests provide their time, place, and date of birth, and Klintworth, author of Claiming Your Power Through Astrology and Your Cosmic Compass, teaches the interconnected nature of the 12 signs of the zodiac. Attendees will learn about both the relationships they attract, and those that are quickly diffused. What’s more, she explains each attendee’s chart, helping to leverage life lessons we have been cosmically positioned to learn.
Each Miraval property emphasizes the power of being present, and Miraval Austin’s Floating Meditation has fast become a guest favorite. Held in a gorgeous yoga barn overlooking the property, the class focuses on the calming benefits of expert-led meditation while suspended above the floor in womb-like purple silk hammocks. As you rock to the soothing and stimulating sounds of crystal bowls, the mind settles and the spirit is lifted. Floating weightlessly in the air, this is a short, 45-minute experience with maximum impact.
2. Walk Miraval’s signature labyrinth. Set your intention and then stack a stone cairn to ground it. 3. Kickstart the day with a dawn nature walk or morning paddle boarding session on Lake Travis. 4. Discover the Miraval Equine Experience, in which you’ll learn how to further live in the moment as you work with specially selected horses. 5. Get your adrenaline pumping and stretch your comfort zone with hatchet throwing or the Hill Country Challenge Course.
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A Masterfully Crafted Flight
Experience
Enhance Your Exclusive Resorts Vacation With Luxury Cabin Airfare Your Exclusive Resorts membership includes access to VIP luxury air booking services with Regal Wings. Fly international First or Business Class on every major airline with bespoke insider rates. You deserve a white glove boutique experience, and Regal Wings is here to give it to you.
Find out more: www.regalwings.com/er
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RedeďŹ ning First Class Travel
SM
Image courtesy of Mila Family Vineyards
SAVOR
Say, Sommelier • The Dish • Cheers • ER Inspired
Fall Bounty Club Members Michael Oravecz and Loretta DiChiro celebrate a happy harvest at their Mila Family Vineyards. page 36
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Say, Sommelier
A Tale of Terroir Exclusive Resorts Members and Mila Family Vineyards owners Michael Oravecz and Loretta DiChiro find prime pickings in the Alexander Valley. written by mark ellwood
— Above: Loretta DiChiro and Michael Oravecz at Mila Family Vineyards, which produces four stellar red wines and an Alexander Valley rosé. 36
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when ohio-based real estate developer Michael Oravecz bought some land just outside Healdsburg in Sonoma with his wife and business partner Loretta DiChiro, he didn’t hurry to market with his first Mila Family Vineyards wine. In fact, it took 16 years for them to release their commercial vintages, which have just become available: a quartet of reds, heavy
on Grenache and classic Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as an Alexander Valley rosé. Oravecz is proud of the painstaking approach they took to the winemaking. “You can go out there and buy grapes from someone else’s vineyard, hire a winemaker, and make wine relatively quickly,” he says, “but we wanted to control what and where we planted—the entire farming process.” He approached the vineyard exactly as he would have tackled a development project. “It’s part of our mindset,” he says. “When you buy a property, as a developer, you do a lot of due diligence.” The great vineyards of Europe, Oravecz points out, are hundreds of years old, so finessing a site in California that aimed to alter them in any way required patience. “It won’t happen overnight if you want to do it right. We don’t want to replant or refigure things, so we did upfront homework to get it right the first time.”
Images courtesy of Mila Family Vineyards
One overarching inspiration is DiChiro’s Italian family heritage, which included many farmers who tended their land in traditional methods, without chemicals. The couple knew that biodynamic winegrowing would be a much pricier approach, mostly since hand-weeding and hoeing replaces a truck trundling across the property and spraying weed-killer. Overall, the premium on operating costs hits roughly 25 percent. Yet to achieve the goal of working the land the old-fashioned way, they didn’t shun modern science at the outset. Rather, they embraced it. The couple tapped Dr. Susan Hubbard of the Berkeley Lab to survey every inch of land before even considering planting a single vine (an apt approach, from a man who named his real estate firm Terra). Hubbard used an arsenal of hightech methods—electromagnetic data and ground-penetrating radar, among others—to produce 15 different classifications for the soil, which are categorized on the basis of physical and chemical properties in their horizons, or layers. It was an almost forensic analysis of conditions, and
on the basis of that work, the couple pivoted between a half dozen or so rootstocks (from which new, above-ground growth can be produced), varying whichever would thrive best in the micro-conditions. It proved a canny combination of old world ethos and new world know-how. The duo is now beginning to travel expressly to sell their wine, and utilizes their Exclusive Resorts Membership and Portfolio access as their base when in cities like San Francisco or New York. Having visited most of the Grenache-growing hotbeds around the world, Oravecz is hoping to take a holiday to the last two he’s yet to sample in situ—vineyards in Australia and Sardinia, which tussles with Spain for producing Grenache. The developer-turned-winemaker might have finally launched his passion project for wide distribution, but he still wants to pick up tips from various global sites. “A major part of wine is the experience and the story,” he says. “I always say there’s over 100 decisions that go into making any wine. And you’re always learning.” —milafamilyvineyards.com
Getting There
Stay
Located nine miles northeast of Healdsburg (about a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco), and nestled between the Russian River and Gird Creek, Mila Family Vineyard’s 54-acre wine farm is surrounded by forest and neighboring vineyards.
sonoma, california
Planning Your Visit Interested in a private wine tasting at Mila Family Vineyards? Call 330.730.5985 for an appointment, or visit MilaFamilyVineyards.com.
• 1-4 bedrooms Travel to Sonoma with Exclusive Resorts in two spectacular ways: Visit one of The Club’s standalone residences or enjoy the gated community of Mayacama through The Club’s partnership with Elite Alliance. Home to more than 425 wineries, miles of rugged Pacific coastline, towering redwood forests, and plenty of farm-totable restaurants, this is an oeonophile’s dream vacation spot.
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— From left: Source to sip at Mila Family Vineyards; Mila’s Rosé of Grenache is a standout among boutique wineries. CURATED / Winter 2020
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The Dish
Twin Tips Sisters Callie and Maeme Rasberry helm a Ketchum bistro with a dedicated local following. written by amiee white beazley
— Below: Twin sisters and chefowners of Rasberry’s Bistro, Callie and Maeme Rasberry.
there is really no good time to call Callie and Maeme Rasberry, proprietors and namesakes of Rasberry’s Bistro and Catering in Ketchum, Idaho. It’s the middle of July, and the twin sisters are inundated by Sun Valley and Ketchum’s summer crowds angling for a table at their downtown bistro. A massive cookie order is being picked up, there are weddings to cater, and homeowners’ fridges to be stocked. It seems everyone is after a taste of the sisters’ soulful cooking.
With deep family connections in the Wood River Valley, this dynamic duo took over an existing business in the basement of Ketchum’s 411 Building in 2005. At first, their intentions were to only provide catering services. The sisters, however, were quickly flooded with requests from family, friends, and customers for a mid-day bite at what they called “our little speakeasy” because of its downstairs, out-ofthe-way location. “When we took over (the former) business, we weren’t really a restaurant,” says Callie Rasberry, the older of the twins by three minutes. “But we were constantly saying to our new clients and friends, ‘Come over, we have leftovers.’ They would stop in to have lunch and we’d make them soup or a sandwich. Finally, we started adding tables and hung a menu on a blackboard. Eventually we made a real menu and started getting a regular flow of customers.” Dedicated Rasberry’s customers and visiting guests seek out this eclectic hidden gem for big salads bursting with color, scratch-made-everything like pot pies, desserts, and Mexican-American comfort food— posole, tacos, and enchiladas—reflective of their farming upbringing in El Paso, Texas. The menu changes daily, dependent upon fresh, organic ingredients. What’s more, the sisters find culinary stimulation everywhere, whether traveling across the globe or visiting a local farmer down the road. Each ingredient, says Callie, brings inspiration.
Stay sun valley, idaho
• 3-6 bedrooms America’s oldest ski resort is full of character and free of crowds. Excellent grooming and the best snowmaking system in the country make Bald Mountain’s 3,400 vertical feet a dream setting for top-to-bottom skiing. Acres of backcountry terrain have earned Sun Valley the nickname “the Alps of America.”
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Images courtesy of Jane McCann (Chef, Bistro, Tamale) and Dev Khalsa (Buffet)
— Clockwise from top: A communal table at a special event showcases colorful salads and signature fare; the sister’s popular tamale dish; Rasberry’s charming interior has made it a Sun Valley favorite.
“The Hispanic food influence—that’s what we grew up with,” adds Callie. “We knew families from all over the world. Our dad’s family is from West Texas, where the yellow-meated watermelons and fried chicken are famous, and every meal was served with sweet iced tea and coconut cream pie for dessert. Put all of that together, and it makes well-rounded, homestyle food.” While Rasberry’s serves up delicious eats, first and foremost, the sisters are also highly conscious of nourishing benefits and where their ingredients are sourced. Callie points to several local farms, farmers, and suppliers Rasberry’s has fostered relationships with, such as Old Almo Creamery, Squash Blossom Farms, and Kasota Hydroponics. This means a bountiful mix of everything from herbs, lettuces, and fruits to milk, cheeses, yogurts, and meats. Rasberry’s reputation and dedication fall under a banner that the sisters call “food reverence.” The regard they have for food—including the ingredients and those who grow it—is folded into every bite. “For us, it’s about respect,” Callie adds. “Taking the time to think about and acknowledge what you are doing; to slow down and think about what you are preparing for people to eat and enjoy. We think of what we can do to give back to the community, and to the earth, every day.” For a signature Rasberry’s recipe, visit Curated.ExclusiveResorts.com.
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Cheers
Some Like it Hot Mountain-bound this winter? Here are several high-spirited ways to keep warm. written by mark ellwood
forget hot chocolate—the best après-ski tipple is a hot toddy. Spiked with citrus, whiskey, and spices, it’s almost impossible to drink just one. “It’s a full-body winter warmer, like a warm hug or a liquid jacket,” says Tullamore D.E.W.’s U.S. Brand Ambassador Tim Herlihy, who’s given lectures on hot toddies. Herlihy says that the “more-ishness” of this classic cocktail—its nature to both comfort and ignite the senses—derives from its simplest ingredient: warm water. “With heat comes more flavor, fragrance, and aroma.” He adds, however, that the origins of this drink are murky. Per one theory, it was first mixed 300 years ago to mask the rank taste of raw scotch, then a moonshine-like hooch; spices and hot water offset the burn. Another
theory posits the drink as deriving from Tod’s well, the water source in central Edinburgh which provided the city’s earliest clean drinking supplies. But Herlihy, a proud Irishman, prefers the notion that credits a fellow countryman with its invention. Robert Bentley Todd, a doctor, was renowned for prescribing hot, brandy-based drinks as medicine. Doctor Todd’s theory wasn’t pure quackery, either; recent studies have shown that hot, spicy drinks promote mucus secretions in the nose and mouth. These, of course, act as the first natural defense against infections by viruses or bacteria. Yet you don’t need to be sniffling to justify a toddy or two today, or even be a confirmed whiskey drinker. These are versatile drinks, per Herlihy, with few hard and fast rules. “You can’t go wrong, and there are endless family recipes,” he says. “I love substituting hot water for hot apple cider.” Indeed, many of the best American ski resorts are offering their own distinctive riffs on the classic recipe this winter. Alas, our top picks for elevated sips.
— From top: Tim Herlihy, Tullamore D.E.W.’s Brand Ambassador; the Sultan, a bourbon-based cocktail from Deer Valley’s The Brass Tag.
THE SULTAN THE BRASS TAG • DEER VALLEY, UT
Whiskey from Park City—combining rye, bourbon, and scotch for extra complexity—is the basis of this drink from manager Josh Hockman. 1.5 oz. High West campfire whiskey ½ oz. Utah honey ½ oz. fresh lemon juice 2 dashes Scrappy’s Seville orange bitters 3 oz. hot water Combine and stir honey, hot water, and lemon juice in a glass. Add the bitters and whiskey. Garnish with cinnamon, an orange peel, and fresh grated nutmeg. 40
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MOUNT GAY HOT TODDY THE LODGE AT VAIL, A ROCK RESORT VAIL, CO
Awaiting skiers just steps from Gondola One in Vail Village, this toddy is made with Black Barrel aged Mount Gay rum, Colorado honey, fresh lemon juice, and cinnamon heated to perfection. 1.5 oz. Mount Gay Black Barrel rum ½ oz. lemon squeezed 3/4 oz. honey Combine and stir honey, hot water, and a splash of orange and lemon juice in a tall coffee glass. Garnish with clove, orange, and cinnamon stick.
Images courtesy of Deer Valley Resort, The Lodge at Vail, and The Little Nell
— From top: The Lodge at Vail serves alpine inspired toddies; Aspen’s The Little Nell features a Hennessy cocktail finished with chamomile tea.
WALLY TODDY
THE LITTLE NELL HOT TODDY
WOLFDALE’S • LAKE TAHOE, CA
THE LITTLE NELL • ASPEN, CO
Don’t get spooked, but this toddy’s named after the in-house ghost who is a legacy of the historic building—a Comstock mine-era lumberman’s home prior to becoming a restaurant.
The heady floral bouquet keeps this toddy lighter and dangerously drinkable.
1.5 oz. Makers Mark bourbon ¾ oz. honey simple syrup (equal parts water and honey boiled down) ½ oz. fresh-squeezed lemon juice 4 oz. hot water
2 oz. Hennessey VSOP (or XO) Cognac ¾ oz. lemon juice ½ oz. anise, nutmeg, and honey simple syrup Build the cocktail in any insulated glassware (even a jetboil works) and top with Rishi’s “chamomile medley” tea. Garnish with a nutmeg-dusted lemon wheel.
Build the cocktail in a snifter glass and serve with a lemon twist. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Savor
ER Inspired
KOHALA COAST, HAWAII The Kona Inn was the first hotel in Kona, and this is its famous banana bread recipe.
3 KONA INN BANANA BREAD 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup softened butter (not margarine) 6 ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 3 cups) 4 eggs, well beaten 2 ½ cups cake flour 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. With an electric beater, cream together the sugar and butter until it’s light and fluffy. Add the bananas and eggs, beating until well mixed. Sift together the dry ingredients two times, then mix the dry ingredients with the banana mixture until just blended; don’t overmix. Pour into two lightly greased loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to one hour, until the loaf is firm in the center and the edges begin to come away from the pan. Cool the pans on a rack for 10 minutes and then remove the bread from the pans.
Kitchen DIY Inspired by private chefs from Exclusive Resorts’ Vacation Collection, these oh-so-tasty, regionally inspired recipes will leave family clamoring for your “secret” sauce.
Looking for something more savory? Try Hawaiian Miso Chicken for a festive take on a classic favorite. HAWAIIAN MISO CHICKEN 5 lbs chicken thighs, boned SAUCE:
1 cup sugar 1 cup soy sauce 1 cup miso 1 cup beer Mix the sauce. Soak the chicken thighs in the sauce overnight in the refrigerator. Place the thighs in a baking pan and bake for 45 minutes (uncovered) at 350 degrees. You can also grill the chicken, which is what the private chef team in Kohala Coast does!
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PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, COSTA RICA Here, the sea inspires Chef Nicolas Devenelle. This Club favorite is best paired with a spicy cilantro margarita or crisp rosé.
6
PORO PORO CEVICHE One hour before serving, place the filet of fish in a bowl and add all the marinade ingredients (the juices should cover the fish). Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 40 minutes. MARINADE:
12 oz. of the fresh seabass (or Mahi-Mahi), cut in small cubes 4 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice 4 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice 1 teaspoon kosher salt Pulp from half of a passion fruit (optional)
SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA Nothing’s better than southern comfort food. This winter, impress your guests with this lowcountry mainstay.
Once the fish has been marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and drain the juice. In the same bowl, add the onions, bell pepper, mango, orange juice, lime juice, and passion fruit. Mixing delicately, add in the cilantro and season it to taste. The ceviche can be served with green plantain chips or tortilla chips. CEVICHE:
5
GRITS & SHRIMP 4 cups heavy cream
CREOLE SAUCE 1 ½ cups yellow onion
3 oz. red onions, finely sliced
4 cups water
1 cup celery
1 oz. chopped cilantro
2 cups stone ground grits
1 cup red pepper
2 oz. fresh diced mango
2 ears fresh corn
1 oz. minced garlic
2 oz. fresh lime juice
4 oz. butter
1 ½ cups clam juice
1 oz. fresh orange juice
Salt & pepper to taste
3 cups whole peeled tomatoes
1 teaspoon pulp from half of a passion fruit (optional)
Pour the cream and water into a large pot and turn the burner on high. Shuck the corn and cut off the kernels using a sharp knife. Pour the corn kernels and water into a large pot and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, pour in the grits. Turn the heat down to medium. Allow the grits to simmer, consistently whisking them until tender (about 20 minutes). Adjust the heat if needed so the grits don’t burn to the bottom of the pot. Fold the butter in using a whisk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sautée the shrimp in olive oil and serve over grits. Add creole sauce (see recipe in following column).
¼ cup Creole seasoning (5 Tbsp paprika, 4 Tbsp salt, 4 Tbsp garlic powder, 2 Tbsp black pepper, 2 Tbsp onion powder, 2 Tbsp cayenne pepper, 2 Tbsp dried oregano, 2 Tbsp dried thyme)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 oz. assorted bell pepper, finely sliced
1 bay leaf Salt to taste ¼ cup olive oil In a large pot, turn the heat to medium. Add olive oil. Cook the onions, celery, and peppers until tender (about five minutes), using a spatula. Add the garlic and cook for two more minutes. Add the clam juice and canned whole tomatoes. Bring to a simmer. Once simmering, crush the tomatoes with a whisk and add the creole seasoning and bay leaf and simmer for another 30 minutes. CURATED / Winter 2020
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CULTURED
Art of Travel • Inked • Take Note • Eye on Design
Design Finds Journeying to Marrakech? Discover how to source hidden gems at stylish local souks. page 46
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Art of Travel
Souk It To Me! Exclusive Resorts’ Co-Chairman of the Board, Philippe Bourguignon, reveals the magic of Marrakech. written by jen murphy
marrakech ranks among the great shopping cities of the world. Divided into the medina (the old town) and Guéliz (the Ville Nouvelle or new town), the exotic city is home to master craftsmen who have been honing their skills for centuries. The key to a successful shopping sojourn is knowing how to navigate its labyrinthine souk and bargain for top-quality caftans, rugs, and leather goods. “The souks offer a fascinating mix of traditions, from Berber to French,” says Exclusive Resorts’ Co-Chairman of the Board, Philippe Bourguignon. Having spent his boyhood in Morocco, Bourguignon makes regular trips back to Marrakech and has mastered the art of unearthing the city’s best artisans. “I always recommend people have a guide when they go to the souk,” he says. “If you’re alone, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of stalls and it can be overwhelming having artisans heckling you. A guide will know exactly where to go for what you need and will help you get the best deal.” And while the medina is Marrakech’s most famous shopping mecca, Bourguignon also frequents the independent boutiques in Gueliz, the shops of the Majorelle area near the famous gardens, and Sidi Ghanem, the industrial area, where you shop directly in showrooms. Many of the city’s riads and luxury hotels also have detour-worthy boutiques, and Rosena Chamoy, founder of Boutique Souk (boutiquesouk.com) can unlock the doors to some of the city’s top workshops and studios. Here, Bourguignon shares his Marrakech shopping black book. 46
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— Above: Colorful leather goods can be sourced at Galerie des Tanneurs.
galerie des tanneurs “Marrakech is an amazing city for leather goods— shoes, bags, and jackets,” says Bourguignon. Galerie des Tanneurs has been in business over 25 years. You can shop off the shelf from their store or have pieces madeto-order in the neighboring workshop. “I brought in a photo of a jacket I wanted, they took my measurements, and in 24 hours I had a jacket that I now wear once or twice a week. You cannot beat the quality,” he says. —galeriedestanneurs.com
palais saadien Tucked away in the heart of the medina in the El Ksour district, this family business is known for ancestral carpets and Berber antiques. Artisans are on hand to explain the differences between the highly prized M’rirt carpets, dense wool, and Arab carpets distinguished by their floral motifs. —palaissaadien.com
— From left: Topolina, a chic outpost of French style icon Isabelle Topolina; 33 Rue Majorelle, Marrakech’s large concept shop featuring local artisans.
topolina Located in the industrial area, about a 20-minute taxi ride from the medina, Topolina is the eponymous atelier of French designer Isabelle Topolina. Shop her handsewn dresses made from fabrics sourced in the souks, Chinoiserie-print loafers, and wax-print textiles imported from Senegal. Her son, Pierre-Henry, overseas the well-edited men’s collection. —topolina.shop
atika A shoe lover’s dream, this boutique in Gueliz features endless shelves of soft leather loafers in colors ranging from a sensible camel tone to an outrageous pink patent. —atika-marrakech.com
33 rue majorelle
Images courtesy of Galerie des Tanneurs, Topolino, and 33 Rue Majorelle
The city’s top concept shop spans two floors of goods made by up-and-coming local artists and designers like Hamimi Living and Ray Joyce Designs. In contrast to the souk, everything is wonderfully curated in a gallery-esque manner, making it effortless to browse the boldly printed babouches (slippers), kitchen goods, and tassel earrings. —33ruemajorelle.com
ensemble artisanal
Stay marrakech, morocco
For handmade wares without the haggling, head to this government-sponsored complex of shops where all goods have fixed pricing. “It’s not as exotic as the medina, but you’ll find the best handicrafts here,” says Bourguignon. “I bought a cedar pen I absolutely love.” —Avenue Mohammed V
1 residence • 4 bedrooms A standalone home via a partnership with The Hideaways Club, the Dar Hasnaa palatial countryside villa is located just on the outskirts of Marrakech and offers the perfect combination of easy access to the city and privacy away from the crowds. Brightly colored Moroccan accents and traditional architectural details bring touches of local style to the home’s fresh, open-air ambiance.
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Travel Type
Inked With this collector’s guide for the book enthusiast, take an inspired trip from your nightstand. written by meredith diers
ULTIMATE COLLECTORS: CHILDREN’S
Eloise
Madeline
by kay thompson
by ludwig bemelmans
Kay Thompson’s story of the precocious little girl who lives in The Plaza Hotel brings whimsy, humor, and cleverness to its pages. Eloise never wants to be bored and has a blossoming imagination. Both children and adults alike will enjoy following her antics and adventures while living in one of the world’s most famous hotels. What’s more, you can find a portrait of Eloise in the famous New York City landmark today.
As one of the most famous children’s cultural touchstones, Madeline has resonated with decades of American families. The story about the smallest, most fearless girl in the class combines curiosity, playful humor, and wonderful artwork—all of which has proved a children’s classic for more than 75 years. As Bemelmans so famously describes, “In an old house in Paris, that was covered with vines, lived twelve little girls, in two straight lines, the smallest one was Madeline.”
—Simon & Schuster
—The Viking Press
ULTIMATE COLLECTORS: TRAVEL
On the Road
The Odyssey
by jack kerouac
by homer
The story of two friends who take a cross-country road trip on a quest for meaning and freedom is full of colloquial prose and rhythmic cadence. Hitching rides and boarding buses, the duo enters a world adrift from conventional society. Through Kerouac’s love of America, compassion for humanity, and young naiveté, this beatnik pilgrimage changed the landscape of American fiction. —Penguin Random House
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As one of the oldest recorded stories, this epic travel saga chronicles Odysseus as he makes his way back home from the Trojan War. Hardship, trials, and alluring side trips create the bulk of the story, which is a true test of endurance. A metaphor for the universal life journey, the lyrical prose brings the tale to life and remains a timeless classic. —Signet Classics
ULTIMATE COLLECTORS: COFFEE TABLE BOOKS
The Vanity Fair Portraits: A Century of Iconic Images by graydon carter and the editors of vanity fair
Portraits of famous figures spanning art, film, music, sports, business, and politics are featured among the 300 photographs within this anthology of Vanity Fair’s first 75 years. The timeless tome captures fame, talent, and beauty—and not just that of the subjects, but of the photographers, too. From Pablo Picasso to Amelia Earhart and Katharine Hepburn, it celebrates the glamour and genius of the 20th century.
Images courtesy of Simon & Schuster, The Viking Press, Penguin Random House, Signet Classics, Modern Library, Rupert Hart-Davis, National Geographic, and Abram Books
—Abrams Books
National Geographic: The Photographs by leah bendavid-val
With five chapters covering core National Geographic themes—land, water, wildlife, global culture, and science—featured images have captured unprecedented interest and offer readers National Geographic’s unique, insider point of view. The curated selection showcases the imagination and skill of top global photographers. —National Geographic
ULTIMATE COLLECTORS: NON-FICTION
Out of Africa
Seven Years in Tibet
by karen blixen
by heinrich harrer
Chronicling Karen Blixen’s 17 years in Kenya and British East Africa, the memoir—a vivid portrait of African colonial life— was also written as a tribute to the people who impacted her experience. Some believe the book overly romanticizes African colonies, while others say the account was a compassionate and respectful depiction of Africa during that time. Later, a part of the book was made into the famous film starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford.
Characterized as “one of the grandest and most incredible adventure stories” by The New York Times Book Review, Harrer recounts his adventures as one of the first Europeans to travel to Tibet and meet the Dalai Lama. The timeless story illuminates the generosity of the local villagers and an interest and hunger for intelligence and education. It’s a must-read for lovers of adventure, culture, history, and travel. —Rupert Hart-Davis
—Modern Library
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Cultured
Take Note
john oates’ 30,000-foot playlist John Oates of Hall & Oates— the number-one selling duo in music history—has made Nashville home while embarking on a lauded solo career. As a traveling musician, he spends ample time in the air en route to various global stages. On the heels of his latest solo album, Arkansas, inspired by the music and legacy of Mississippi legend John Hurt, Oates reveals his ultimate inflight playlist—inspiration for your next trip’s soundtrack.
Sound Bites Looking for music inspo while vacationing? John Oates and the Belly Up Aspen have you covered. written by erin lentz
— Above: John Oates, a 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, calls Nashville home. 50
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1.
Arkansas john oates and the good road band
2. Working In The Coal Mine 3. Day Dreaming
lee dorsey
aretha franklin
4. Deep River Blues
doc watson
5. Keep On Pushing
curtis mayfield
6. The Unfaithful Servant 7. Blue
the band
joni mitchell
8. Same Ol’ River
sam bush
9. King of Broken Hearts jim lauderdale
belly up aspen’s ultimate ski playlist Celebrating its 15-year anniversary this year, the Belly Up Aspen has become a favorite stop among famous musicians and rock stars. The intimate, 450 max-capacity venue in the heart of Aspen has hosted the likes of B.B. King, Blondie, Slash from Guns ‘n Roses, The Raconteurs, Nora Jones, Chris Isaak, Black Pistol Fire, and Rüfüs Du Sol, in addition to countless international DJs like Nora En Pure, Marshmello, The Chainsmokers, and Kygo. Here, the Belly Up Aspen divulges its ultimate playlist to keep you revved while tackling Aspen’s ski slopes.
1.
Drive black coffee & david guetta feat. delilah montagu
2. Hold On
illenium (with georgia ku)
3. Con Altura
rosalía, j balvin, el guincho
4. Takeaway
the chainsmokers, illenium, lennon stella
5. Goodbyes
post malone feat. young thug
6. what u need
ilo ilo
7. Good As Hell
lizzo
8. Level
black pistol fire
9. Ready To Let Go 10. This Life
vampire weekend
11. Higher Love
Images courtesy of Philip Murphy and Belly Up Aspen
12. Home
cage the elephant
kygo, whitney houston
martin garrix feat. bonn
— Left: Norah Jones plays to a sold-out crowd at Belly Up Aspen. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Cultured
Eye on Design
the peninsula hong kong
Design of the Times For Peninsula Hotels, the past and present collide with high art and chic style. written by jackie caradonio
any world traveler will tell you the greatest hotels are neither old nor new, neither traditional nor contemporary; they don’t need to be trendy, but they should never be stale. Rather, they are timeless, effortless, and always welcoming no matter who you are, where you’re from, or where you’re checking in. It’s not an easy feat, of course, to stay relevant in the ever-changing landscape of travel, but Peninsula Hotels seems to walk the line with ease, honoring its long heritage (the brand turned 90 years old last year) yet continually evolving for the present and future. How does a hotel manage to feel current no matter how many decades it has under its belt? It’s all about design. Here, three Peninsula properties show us how it’s done. 52
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— Above from left: Peninsula Hong Kong’s Felix restaurant has views as notable as its cuisine; the property’s decadent Marco Polo suite.
Peninsula’s very first hotel (and Hong Kong’s oldest) is still the brand’s matriarch and blueprint for success. Though its lobby may be a soaring study in classical architecture—its vaulted ceilings and gilded cornices are as dramatic today as when the hotel first opened in 1928—the property is filled with plenty of fresh design twists. While dining on old-school gastronomic delights at Felix restaurant, for instance, you’ll be surrounded by the avant-garde creations of wild-child architect Philippe Stark, who went for sleek Carrara marble tabletops and a discoinspired circular bar when recently redesigning the space. Guest rooms and suites are a careful combination of local and worldly, where minimalist furnishings and floorto-ceiling windows create a simple backdrop for elaborate chinoiserie detailing, chandeliers dripping in crystal, and the occasional modern art canvas.
Images courtesy of The Peninsula Hotels
the peninsula paris
the peninsula new york
When the iconic grande dame on Paris’ Avenue Kléber became Peninsula’s first European hotel, it was no small thing: The renovation of the former Hotel Majestic took more than four years. Locals and devoted visitors alike waited with bated breath to find out if the old landmark would emerge a thoroughly modern revision—or a classic remaking of its 19thcentury predecessor. The result was a perfect melding of both. After chiseling, gilding, buffing, and polishing the original mosaics, wood carvings, and stonework, Peninsula brought in a team of contemporary designers to bring the spaces into the 21st century. Now a sleek black-and-gold reception desk sits in front of the original plastered walls, a massive crystal installation dances beneath ornate ceilings, and a terrace with minimalist furnishings floats above the 16th arrondissement’s old Haussmanian rooftops—all dramatic juxtapositions indeed, but somehow, they all seem right for the space.
Peninsula’s penchant for design has turned its properties into a collective patron of the arts, hosting events for the world’s most important fairs and shows (Art Basel Hong Kong and Frieze New York, among them) and enlisting top curators and famed artists to turn lobbies and public spaces into living galleries. Nowhere is this more on display—literally—than at the brand’s Manhattan hotel on Fifth Avenue, where rotating works create a veritable museum for guests. On view at the hotel currently is Home, an exhibition exploring the ideas of origin, identity, and community with works by artists from around the world, including London-based Do Ho Suh, who turned the hotel’s Palm Court into a life-size installation modeled after his former Berlin apartment, rendered in fabric. It’s a striking contrast to the glamorously refined style for which The Peninsula is known—and another reason why this age-old brand always seems to be completely of-the-moment.
Stay hotel collection
With 10 Peninsula Hotels in Exclusive Resorts’ Hotel Collection—Beverly Hills, Chicago, New York City, Paris, Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong, Manila, Shanghai, and Tokyo—Members traveling to these urban hubs can immerse themselves in local cultures.
The Peninsula Chicago This five-star hotel celebrates traditional Asian hospitality in the Windy City. Nearby you’ll find such landmarks as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Dine in style at The Lobby, Pierrot Gourmet, and Shanghai Terrace.
The Peninsula New York An ideal starting point for a whirlwind cultural vacation filled with shopping, entertainment, and culture. If reserving a suite, take advantage of the complimentary house car, a MINI Cooper S Clubman.
— Below from left: The lobby at The Peninsula Paris; Do Ho Suh’s life-size installation of his former Berlin home inside the Palm Court of The Peninsula New York.
The Peninsula Paris Enroll your children in a chocolate-making class with the pastry chef, or set up a VIP meet-and-greet with a player on the Paris Saint-Germain Football Club. Located just steps from the ChampsÉlysées.
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WINTER 2020
New York City • Riviera Nayarit • European Collection • Extraordinary Service
Bridge & Tunnel Discovering New York’s up-and-coming neighborhood hot spots. page 56
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OUT
OF
— Clockwise from top left: The Heather Garden at Fort Tryon Park; crossing the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan; a renovated 19th-century residential building on one of Dumbo’s tree-lined streets; a wellness cocktail on the rooftop at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.
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BOUNDS NEW YORK, NEW YORK. WHO DOESN’T WANT TO BE A PART OF IT? FOR THE EXCLUSIVE RESORTS MEMBER WHO LIVES FOR THE CITY, WE HAVE 28 UNDER-THE-RADAR WAYS TO EXPERIENCE A WHOLE NEW SIDE OF THE BIG APPLE.
written & photographed by jackie caradonio
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T
he most remarkable thing about New York—and there are many remarkable things about this wonderful city—is that it can be anything to anyone and everything to everyone. It’s a shapeshifter, a chameleon, the ultimate democratic destination where no matter who you are, you can find somewhere to feel at home. And it’s all due to its dizzying concentration of neighborhoods. For a sample of just how quickly the NYC landscape changes, start at Exclusive Resorts’ Park Avenue Place residences in Midtown East (all 14 of which are fresh off a renovation) and go a few dozen blocks in any direction to find yourself in another world. Head south and you’re in Murray Hill, dining on the best Indian food you’ve ever had outside of India; go north, and you’re on the Upper East Side, strolling Museum Row and sipping martinis at Bemelmans Bar; head west and you’re in Columbus Circle at the edge of Central Park; and if you’re traversing east, you’ll end up in another borough entirely, crossing Roosevelt Island to the cool Queens neighborhood of Long Island City (more on that later).
— Clockwise from top left: The coconut stand at the Rockaway Beach Surf Club; waterfront views of Manhattan and the famous Jane’s Carousel from the edge of Dumbo in Brooklyn; the art-filled courtyard at MoMA PS1. 58
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Of course, for the nascent New York visitor, there’s a certain migration that takes place in this sea of mini-districts, from Midtown to Flatiron, up to Fifth Avenue, and down to the Village and Soho. But what happens when you’ve been to New York more than a few times, and you’re looking for that elusive, local, “secret New York” experience? Truth be told, there are hardly any secrets in New York anymore—not for always-in-the-know New Yorkers anyway. But for even the frequent visitor, there’s a whole world of surprises to be uncovered. Secrets like the best place for dinner with a view (no, it’s not the Rainbow Room anymore) or the best sweets to indulge in (cronuts are so five years ago) or the museums you have to visit to discover the next big artists (we’re not talking about MoMA). Once you’ve been around the block a few times, you might just be ready to check out a brand new range of neighborhoods that will have you loving NYC in a whole new way. Here, with the help of Exclusive Resorts’ all-knowing Concierges, we take you on four perfect days in four neighborhoods you’ve probably never seen before.
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Long Island City
— From left: Octopus ceviche at Casa Enrique; the bar at Boro Hotel. 60
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Just one subway stop from Grand Central Station, Queens’ most dynamic neighborhood has gone from industrial desert to artistic epicenter in a single decade. “Long Island City has a whole vibe of its own,” says Sergio Martinez, an Exclusive Resorts Concierge who was born and raised in Queens. To experience this vibe at its best, we start at PS1, MoMA’s smaller, cooler art museum set in a former public school. During summer weekends, its giant courtyard turns into one big party, DJs and all; year-round, its exhibits span everything from contemporary paintings and sculptures to architecture and design. It’s a perfect intro to this neighborhood, which has, in the last few years, seen so many chic—and diverse—restaurants and bars that even the locals have a hard time keeping track. “Just walking down my street, I can pick from Argentinian arepas, Brazilian food, Colombian, French, and a fish market,” says Septimia Lechintan, Regional Residence
Manager and Park Avenue Place Concierge, who has lived in the neighborhood for nine years. From PS1, we head west to Vernon Boulevard, where we struggle to decide between authentic Italian at Manducatis, magnifique French fare at Tournesol bistro, and Michelin-starred Mexican at Casa Enrique. We opt for Chef Cosme Aguilar’s south-ofthe-border spectacular and don’t regret it for a minute as we dig into mole de Piaxtla—a rich sauce originating in the town of Puebla and made from seven different chiles, plus raisins, chocolates, and plantains—and sip on spicy Chimbobo margaritas. Heading farther west we arrive at LIC’s most postcard-worthy site: Gantry Plaza State Park. It’s hard to imagine this pristine stretch was once a blighted industrial complex. Today, it’s surrounded by brand-new glistening towers and overlooks Midtown Manhattan across the East River. A giant Pepsi sign—a beloved landmark for many New Yorkers—is the last remnant of the warehouses that once lined this picturesque coast now covered in greenery and teak lounge chairs for sun-soaking all year. As the shadows grow long, however, we have one more view to check out: The cityscape from the rooftop bar at Boro, a trendy new hotel just a handful of blocks away where we sip Negronis and pick out our favorite Manhattan landmarks—from One World Trade to the George Washington Bridge—as the sky falls dark.
Rockaway Beach
Surf City, U.S.A., might sound like California, but turns out New York City has a beach bum’s paradise all of its own. Of course, the sand at Rockaway Beach has always been there, but only recently has this coastal Queens neighborhood become the daycation getaway New Yorkers crave. To get there, we skip the train or traffic-jammed drive and hit the water right away by taking the hour-long ferry ride from Wall Street. We pass the Statue of Liberty and Governor’s Island, zip under the enormous Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and speed past Coney Island before we land on the sands of Rockaway. Nearly everything here is accessed by a casual saunter along the boardwalk, which stretches for miles along the coastline. First, it’s a stop at hang-ten hangout Locals Collective, a café, surf shop, and art gallery all in one. We sip watermelon juice and browse the surfboard selection while plotting out our day before heading back into the sun and walking a few blocks to Rockaway Brewing Co.—a favorite haunt during all
seasons for its amber, stout, and fruity beer (the brewery also has an outpost in Long Island City). Back on the boardwalk, we head south among a sea of bikinis, bicycles, surfboards, and sandals to arrive at Ripper’s, an al fresco burger joint where the “beach juice” (a frozen concoction resembling sangria) is sweet, the picnic tables are electric pink and blue, and the vibes are always cool. Just steps away, the surf is calm, calling for a dip—the Atlantic water is warm enough for a swim from late spring until early fall—but it’s a quick siesta on the sand before we grab one of the lime-green rental bikes dotting the boardwalk and ride over to the Rockaway Beach Surf Club for an afternoon cocktail in a colorful courtyard covered with dancing umbrellas strung overhead. There’s fresh coconuts and strong margaritas, and out back, the famed Tacoway shack serves fish tacos and citrusy guacamole. It’s only 3 p.m., yet the party is already well underway: There’s the crowd that played hooky from work, still dressed in their business attire; the group dancing in their wet bathing suits (no dress code here!); and the surfers chilling in the shade—all making for a scene that’s a little bit New York, a little bit Surf City, and 100-percent authentic.
— From top: Locals Collective surf shop and cafe; the tide guide at Ripper’s; the cheerful courtyard at the Rockaway Surf Beach Club. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Change of Scenery Skip the well-beaten tourist track and bypass the usual guidebook stops. These alternatives to the typical New York itineraries will have you discovering more of the Big Apple like a local.
Instead of Little Italy… ARTHUR AVENUE
Instead of Broadway… THE PUBLIC THEATER
Instead of Cronuts… PORTUGUESE EGG TARTS
Instead of Death & Co… ATTABOY
Instead of Rainbow Room… MANHATTA
There once was a time that proud Italian immigrants ran a large portion of Lower Manhattan—which meant amazing pizza and pasta for all!—but today the neighborhood known as Little Italy is hardly more than a tourist trap. For the real deal, head to the Bronx’s Arthur Avenue, where the Italian contingent is still strong, with hot spots like the Arthur Avenue Market (a more authentic version of Eataly) and Zero Otto Nove (arguably the best trattoria in all of NYC).
There will always be another big-lights show on Broadway to get to, but for the culture vulture with a penchant for discovering the next Tonywinning show—before it makes it big—this landmark venue in NoHo has just the playbill. Some of Broadway’s biggest shows have started out here, from Hair to Hamilton.
Sure, you could wait in line to try chef Dominque Ansel’s famous cross between a croissant and a donut (or, if you’re a New Yorker, you could just pay someone to stand in line for you). But once you’ve done it, move on to something with a little more soul and head over to Joey Bats Café, a charming bakery in the Bowery where the star is the sweet little pastel de nata, a warm crème brûlée wrapped in a flaky croissant that hails from Portugal.
The speakeasy trend has gotten so big, it’s nearly impossible to keep a good one “underground.” But Attaboy maintains the first rule of Prohibition drinking— secrecy—with its Lower East Side bar featuring just a handful of seats and nary a sign to welcome visitors. Arrive a few minutes before opening (6 p.m. daily) and ring the doorbell to get in.
Manhatta is hardly a secret by now, but while Danny Meyer’s much-talked-about restaurant on the 60th floor of a Financial District skyscraper gets plenty of buzz, it still manages to feel far more exclusive and intimate than the all-too-frequented Rainbow Room. Objectively speaking, its food is better; subjectively speaking, its views are better, too.
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— From left: Pastoral views over the Hudson River from Fort Tryon Park; eggplant ragu croquettes at the Uptown Garrison in Morningside Heights; the gardens at the Met Cloisters.
Washington Heights
Exclusive Resorts Members rarely make it north of Columbus Circle, Sergio Martinez tells us. But there’s one neighborhood near the tip-top of Manhattan that is a must for those in search of a perfect “local’s day.” Washington Heights has long had plenty worth heading north for—culture, history, and spectacular views—but with the forthcoming release of local resident Lin Manuel-Miranda’s film, In the Heights, based on the Hamilton creator’s 2005 musical, the neighborhood is suddenly on everyone’s radar. We emerge from the A train at 190th Street to find a charming tree-lined neighborhood—like the old New York you see in movies. “There’s a real sense of quiet up there,” says Jeffrey Behrens, an Exclusive Resorts Concierge who has lived in WaHi, as it’s known to locals, for five years. “But you still get the sensibility of being in a classic New York setting.”
We’re at the southern entrance of Fort Tryon Park, a spectacularly verdant retreat created by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the early 1900s and designed by the Olmsted Brothers (better known for their work as the architects of Central Park). We walk north through the garden’s rows of giant hibiscuses and violet crocuses and roses in every shade of red and pink, then wind through towering linden trees with views over the Hudson River and across to the Jersey Palisades, a lush stretch of land that Rockefeller also purchased to forever preserve the views. As we head deeper into the park, we encounter a stone cottage— actually it’s New Leaf, a restaurant housed in another Rockefeller structure, where we dine on watermelon salad and crispy calamari. But more discoveries await. Farther north in Fort Tryon, we find a medieval structure right in the middle of the trees. Yet another Rockefeller creation, it’s the Cloisters, the Metropolitan Museum of Arts’ branch housing more than 2,000 works of medieval European art and artifacts. We linger in the museum’s gardens—themselves a display of medieval horticulture—before grabbing a quick cab down to 181st for speakeasy-inspired sips at Uptown Garrison, like the Business (a riff on the Prohibition-Era Bees Knees gin cocktail using lime instead of lemon) and the Oaxacan Old Fashioned (a twist on the bourbon classic using mezcal). Then it’s one last view to top off our day: Down to 175th to cross the High Bridge on foot. New York’s oldest standing bridge, built in 1839, it was closed for 40 years, until in 2015, when it opened as a pedestrian walk across the Harlem River. It’s a little-known stretch of past and present—some even say it makes for better photos than the Brooklyn Bridge. And it’s one of the city’s most magnificent secrets—whether you’re a local or a visitor who truly loves New York. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Dumbo
You know Soho. You know NoMad. But do you know Dumbo? According to Lechintan, the nascent Brooklyn neighborhood is one of the destinations she sends venturing Members to most. “It’s one thing I always tell people to put on their to-do list,” she says. “It’s a really cool experience.” It starts with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge—an iconic New York experience if ever there was one. Then, a short walk east takes us toward the Manhattan Bridge, which is where Dumbo gets its name from: the acronym means “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.” Here, the neighborhood has been revitalized, yet retains its quintessentially Brooklyn vibe, brownstones, cobblestone streets, and all. We can’t help but take a few selfies on Washington Street, where the rows of red-brick buildings perfectly frame the bridge—a favorite on Instagram—before we cross over to the waterfront, where Empire Stores, an old warehouse turned new shopping complex, has everything you could want to eat, drink, or buy: jewelry from local designer Miansai, watches from Detroit game-changer
— Below: Elegant cocktails are made by mixologists in black ties and white jackets at Cecconi’s Dumbo.
Five within Five You don’t have to venture far from Park Avenue Place to have a perfect New York day. Here are five not-to-miss spots within five(ish) blocks of the Exclusive Resorts residences.
1
The Whitby Drop in for an elegant breakfast or afternoon tea at the Orangery, a bright and eclectic dining room lit by a giant skylight in the back of this colorful hotel on West 56th Street.
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The Grill It’s ostentatious, yes, but this luxurious restaurant, and its bar, the Pool, is a must-try at least once. Come for the scene—you’ll find New York’s elite gathering here for lunch, drinks, and dinner every day of the week—and stay for the excellent Dover sole and flambé dessert.
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Paley Park One of a few “pocket parks” around Manhattan, this pint-sized swatch of greenery at 53rd and Fifth is a pleasant respite—complete with a waterfall— during any afternoon shopping spree.
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Rareties This secret cocktail spot inside the Lotte New York Palace Hotel is hidden behind a velvet curtain just off the Madison Avenue entrance and packed with rare labels, from Louis XIII de Rémy Martin Rare Cask cognac to Pappy Van Winkle. Ask your Exclusive Resorts Concierge to request an invitation for you.
5
Monkey Bar
This storied restaurant—where F. Scott Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra were once regulars—certainly lives up to its name, with monkey paintings and memorabilia tucked into every nook and cranny. But it’s not all monkey business—the service is spot-on and the food is pretty fabulous, too.
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— Clockwise from left: The lobby at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge; picture-perfect views of the Manhattan Bridge on Washington Street; Empire Stores, a pre-CivilWar-era warehouse turned trendy shopping center.
Shinola, and an upscale food hall featuring stalls by celebrity names like David Bourke and Pat LaFrieda from the New York knowit-alls behind Time Out magazine. We linger on the Time Out terrace, admiring the views of Manhattan and Jane’s Carousel (a historic landmark that will soon celebrate its centennial), before heading over to Cecconi’s for upscale pizza and old-school charm. Our bellies stuffed with burrata, wild mushrooms, and parmigiano, we walk off some calories with a leisurely stroll to
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. Opened in 2017, the hotel is a gathering place for locals and travelers alike—it put this neighborhood on the map when it debuted its rooftop terrace and excellent collection of restaurants that even includes a lobby farm stand. But this day, like any good day in New York, is all about views so we head straight to the top to Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge to order a round of “wellness cocktails” (concoctions like vodka-cucumber-lime and tequila-watermelon-jalapeño have us almost feeling like we’re being healthy) and watch the Brooklyn Bridge and, just across it, Manhattan, abuzz with energy.
Stay park avenue place
• 2 bedrooms What’s the secret to enjoying the city that never sleeps? Having a Concierge with the inside scoop, whenever you need the latest information about what’s happening right now and what’s about to begin.
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— Young Club Member Montana Bell Jenkins celebrates hues of blue at a Real del Mar residence, where an infinity pool overlooks a serene Banderas Bay.
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HOLA
MEXICO
a perennial member favorite, exclusive resorts’ 2018 destination of the year, real del mar, claims the title of most coveted escape. just what makes this top hideaway so unique? club members reveal their tips to experience the riviera nayarit. by Jen Murphy
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M
exico’s 200-mile Riviera Nayarit and the gorgeous hillside haciendas of the Real del Mar community live like a secret seaside sanctuary that casts its spell on Exclusive Resorts Members year after year. Tucked away in a gated community adjacent to the authentic town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Real del Mar is a 45-minute drive from busy Puerto Vallarta but feels worlds away. Of Exclusive Resorts’ 75+ destinations, this Club flagship is a perennial favorite thanks to its combination of spacious homes, tranquil setting, and warm staff who deliver elevated service. Exclusive Resorts introduced the destination to its Portfolio in 2004 with just one home. It’s since grown to include 13 cliffside residences, all of which recently underwent renovations. Members certainly approved of the updates, as their feedback positioned the property as the 2018 Destination of the Year.
• JENKINS
FAMILY
Members Since 2006
like many members, Keli and Mike Jenkins were initially drawn to Real del Mar’s accessibility. The destination is an easy flight from their home just north of Dallas, and after their first stay, they fell in love with all the property has to offer. Members for 13 years, the couple has now logged 32 visits to Real del Mar. One of the draws is the selection of residences. Keli estimates they’ve stayed in nearly every home. “Each has a different layout, style, and personality to experience,” she says. “Trying to pick a favorite is like picking a favorite child,
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it’s just not possible.” She finds some homes better suited for little kids, like Casa Patio, as most of the bedrooms are located inside the large main living area and the beach club is only a few steps away. When they travel with other couples or older kids, they choose homes with the privacy of separate rooms, all of which have unforgettable views of Banderas Bay. The Jenkins are keen on traveling with multiple families, often hosting large group gatherings and festive al fresco dinners on the outdoor terraces.
— Clockwise from left: The colorful living room at Casa Risco; outdoor living at Casa Cielo calls for al fresco dining; Club Members Mike Jenkins, Keli Jenkins, Mikey Jenkins, Montana Belle Jenkins, Vicki Snyder, and Taylor Snyder at the Real del Mar beach club.
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• McKIBBEN
Tried + Trending: FAMILY
TOP REAL DEL MAR EXPERIENCES
Members Since 2005
dallas-based members Tim and Lydia McKibben also like how the destination is less than a two-hour flight away. In addition to the variety of the homes, they love the privacy the resort offers. “We’ve been to nearly every Exclusive Resorts destination and this is unlike any other offering,” says Tim. “About 70 percent of the gated community is private and the rest is devoted to Exclusive Resorts. The maintenance of the grounds, the service, the food, and the Beach Club are all a 10—absolutely perfect.” Over the past 14 years, the couple has also accrued 32 visits to Real del Mar. The ocean views are one of their favorite aspects of the villas. “There are very few places where you can have whitewater views (of the ocean),” says Tim. “The homes are perched on cliffs and appear to cascade down the mountain side. You have this rare vantage where you can see the ocean and the waves right in front of you. And hundreds of whales migrate to Banderas Bay so you can whale watch right from your home.”
A Member favorite, Real del Mar is a serene oasis nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay. A 45-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta, this quiet gated community offers plenty of options to unplug and play.
In-Residence Tequila Tasting and Margarita Classes Learn from a local tequila expert, who reveals tricks of the trade.
— From top: Member Lydia McKibben (left); Casa La Costa overlooks the horseshoe bend of Banderas Bay. Opposite from left: R&R at Casa Punta Sur; Marcela and Alvaro Rodríguez Arregui celebrate Alvaro’s 50th birthday at Real del Mar.
Private Chef Dinner with Guacamole Class A Member favorite, the local chefs may have fine-tuned the recipe for the tastiest guac on the globe. Adventure: Deep Sea Fishing + Marietas Islands If the ocean is your muse, boat excursions are anchored in Real del Mar’s natural bounty. Sayulita Day Trip and Surf Lessons Just a scenic, 45-minute drive from the resort, Sayulita is a bohemian-chic town with plenty of wave riding. La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Fish Market Want to live like a local? Shop for fish straight from the sea, and then, come evening, Real del Mar chefs can prepare it for a beachside family meal. Real del Mar Beach Club Just a short ride in your private golf cart is the ultra-private Real del Mar Beach Club. Other highlights include a tennis and fitness center, volleyball courts, and paddleboards. Health & Holistic Center Arrange for a massage and facial at Real del Mar’s spa or opt to enjoy a treatment in the privacy of your residence. Whale Watching If traveling in December, this rare experience should top your itinerary.
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The Service Factor Real del Mar’s Concierge team delivers elevated service, valuing Member experience above all else. Memberfocused hospitality is leveraged by exceptional, knowledgeable individuals to make Real del Mar a truly best-inclass destination. Residence Manager David Lozano and his team of three Concierges earned an average score of 4.89 from 2018 post-trip Member surveys (receiving a perfect 5.0 in the last quarter of 2018). Member comments always reveal their dedication to detail and display of care for families, and many having developed close relationships with Members.
• RODRÍGUEZ ARREGUI
FAMILY
Members Since 2005
unlike cabo san lucas, where the ocean tends to be too rough to swim, Banderas Bay is like a large pool, making it an ideal beach getaway for families with young kids. Members Álvaro and Marcela Rodríguez Arregui have been vacationing here since 2006 and joke that their twin sons Mateo and Lucas practically grew up at Real del Mar. They learned to surf here at age four, and at the ages of 17, they venture further afield to ride bigger waves in nearby Punta Mita and Sayulita. The family owns bragging rights of 33 stays—the most of any other Club Member. They typically visit for three weeks each summer, using their villa as a family beach retreat with a rotating cast of visitors.
“One week we’ll have my family, the next Álvaro’s family, and then the third week we have friends,” says Marcela. Álvaro adds that even the nicest hotels in the world can’t accommodate family groups as comfortably as Real del Mar’s residences do. “One person can be reading in the living room, others playing a board game, another fixing something in the kitchen,” he says. “We can easily have meals together without a hassle of reservations. These residences were designed to support multigenerational travel.” Marcela appreciates that the destination offers something for everyone. “You can be really active and nonstop all day with zip-lining, scuba diving, golf, hiking,” she says. “Or you can just sit and lounge by the pool.”
Frequent trips by the Rodríguez Arregui family mean the staff have become like family. Jiro, the head of the beach club, joins the boys when they’re watching soccer matches and points them to the best surf breaks. “At a hotel, you might see the concierge at check-in and never again,” says Marcela Rodríguez Arregui. “Here, the staff makes a point to see you every day and ask how your stay is and if you need anything.” Keli Jenkins agrees that the familiarity her family has with the Concierge team and Beach Club staff always makes them feel at home the minute they arrive. “Anything we ask for is taken care of and the Concierge team is constantly checking in,” she says. During a recent trip, the staff set up spa services all over the property for the family: Beachside and in-home massages, manicures by the pool, and facials at the spa. On another vacation, the family needed a doctor and was pleasantly surprised with a house call. CURATED / Winter 2020
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— This page: The master bedroom terrace at Casa La Costa is the perfect perch for coffee and ocean views. Opposite from left: Aerial view of Alvaro Rodríguez Arregui’s beachside 50th birthday party; the entry to Casa Risco features regionally inspired sculptures.
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•
MILESTONE MOMENTS the selection of four- and five-bedroom residences has made Real del Mar a popular option for Members looking to celebrate holidays and special occasions. The Rodríguez Arregui family booked four residences and invited 20 couples to celebrate Álvaro’s 50th birthday. Keli Jenkins celebrated her mom’s 60th birthday there this year—a surprise soirée with close friends and family. “The team helped us hire a saxophone player for the cocktail reception and passed around hors d’oeuvres and even set up a tequila tasting station,” Jenkins adds. “They grilled freshly caught fish, shrimp, lobster, and steak to order. We also had a mariachi band surprise her during dinner and dessert. The Concierge team had a beautiful cake made from a local bakery and ordered the most beautiful floral arrangements for the table centerpieces as well as arrangements for inside the home during the week.” More than a vacation home, Real del Mar is truly a Members’ home away from home. And after its recent design face-lift and being named the 2018 Destination of the Year, this Riviera Nayarit gem is poised for continued applause.
Behind the Scenes: 2018 DESTINATION OF THE YEAR Every year, Exclusive Resorts calculates the post-trip survey scores for each destination and ranks them. The Club takes the average score of overall satisfaction with the trip, Concierge service, quality of housekeeping, and residence satisfaction, and each destination must have a minimum of 30 surveys to qualify. The destination with the highest average score wins. Real del Mar clenched the 2018 title with the following satisfaction rating.
Stay • 4-5 bedrooms All 13 of The Club’s cliffside villas, ranging between 5,000-8,938 square feet, boast panoramic views of the Sierra Madres mountains and Banderas Bay.
13 residences
4.86 Total Average Satisfaction
Yet Real del Mar is ultimately defined by the relationships nurtured while there. Members return year after year not just because of the homes and amenities, but because the Concierge team, housekeeping, and staff become like family. Members request to have their same Concierge, housekeeper, and cook with each visit. It’s this emotional DNA of Real del Mar that anchors the property’s “wow” factor. CURATED / Winter 2020
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five senses
A PHOTO ESSAY CAPTURING THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS, SCENTS, TEXTURES, AND FLAVORS OF EXCLUSIVE RESORTS’ 2020 EUROPE COLLECTION.
curated by justin parnell 74
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Images courtesy of Annie Spratt and Cassia Tofano via Unsplash
lisbon portugal
— This page: The scent of the sea and roar of the surf beckons wave riders. Opposite: The sounds of Lisboa Trams fill Portugal’s narrow streets. CURATED / Winter 2020
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amalfi coast italy
— Colorful terraces blend into the rock, adding a vibrant charm to the natural beauty of the coast.
florence italy
— Artful nooks and crannies can be spied in historic buildings that dot the famous Florentine landscape. 76
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lake como italy
Images courtesy of Jack Young, Simone Pellegrini, and Will Dunkley via Unsplash
— Shaped like an upside down Y, Lake Como rests at the foot of the Alps. Serene slivers of dawn awake the senses with the sounds of shutters opening and boats preparing to adventure into another day, while in nearby Bellagio the morning is greeted with the scent of espresso.
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provence france
— Known for its ravishing culinary scene—with cafés emitting the flavors of land and sea, a lone fishing boat takes to the water in hopes of wrangling an inspired catch of the day.
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Images courtesy of Matthieu da Cruz and Tamara Budai via Unsplash
san sebastiån spain — Famous for its pintxos, San Sebastian is immersed in Basque culture, which is also defined by local street scenes celebrating simplicity and authenticity.
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dubrovnik croatia
— For those who tackle basketball at the City Wall Rooftop Court in Dubrovnik, the experience is quintessentially Croatian. The court is nestled among the old, terracotta roofs of the city, with turquoise views of the Adriatic Sea.
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prague czech republic
Images courtesy of Scott Stephens, Matthieu Joannon, and Anders Nord via Unsplash
— From left: Quaint cafés pepper the streets of downtown Prague, which come alive with the sounds of local buskers; a stylish coffee break along the quiet alleys of Prague’s Old Town Square, defined by colorful baroque buildings.
europe 2020 collection To view Exclusive Resorts’ full Europe Collection, visit: ExclusiveResorts.com/Europe-2020. CURATED / Winter 2020
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Exclusive Resorts’ tangible differentiator in today’s saturated travel industry? Its people. Here, Members, on-site Concierges, and Vacation Ambassadors give first-hand accounts of elevated service. written by jen murphy
THE HUMAN TOUCH. 82
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hen vacation ambassador Michelle Bokone learned an Exclusive Resorts Member she had worked with for six years unexpectedly needed a heart transplant, she bought a heart-shaped cookie jar and customized it to his family name. The entire Exclusive Resorts team was so inspired by her actions that every employee filled it with notes of encouragement. “I really wanted him and his family to know we were thinking of him,” Bokone says. “I’m now getting ready to send his family on their first trip since his doctor cleared him to travel.” Club Members will likely always want to travel, given The Club’s Vacation Collection of residences in coveted locales, yet it’s the unique human factor that has fast become the most compelling reason to stay involved. Exclusive Resorts’ luxury “service” is ultimately defined by one-to-one relationships with each Member, which are completely unique to every family and nurtured in distinct ways. Via this relationship-based service, Members are taking their valuable time and choosing to not only spend it, but have it organized by The Club. Ambassadors and Concierges are responsible for making each vacation easy and thoughtfully executed, while doing it all intuitively. As such, Michelle Bokone is one of only a handful of Club team members to receive a Platinum Designation. Earlier this year, The Club rallied behind the Platinum Rule. One step beyond hospitality’s signature Golden Rule—treat others as we’d wish to be treated ourselves—this new edict strives to deliver a truly superior level of personalized service, and to treat others how they’d want to be treated, knowing what will make Members happy and then going the extra mile to do something special for them. For example, when a Member was traveling to Tuscany and asked the Concierge to find his study abroad host mother he had lost contact with 35 years ago, she didn’t hesitate to put on her detective hat, track her down, and arrange a reunion. Inspired by stories like this, Jay Wong, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience for Exclusive Resorts, developed the Platinum Challenge, a call to action for employees to go above and beyond their job skills when delivering service. “That personalization is what elevates us beyond extraordinary,” he says. An authentic personal connection with our Members is the epitome of how Exclusive Resorts does business, adds Wong. “Airbnb Luxe and Four Seasons can’t do that,” he says. “When you’re an Exclusive Resorts Member, you are part of our family.” “We’ve been Members two years, and right from the start could tell our Ambassador, Emmy Hermes, was genuinely listening to us as a family,” says Lisa Reber. When Reber first joined, she says she was overwhelmed by The Club’s vast Portfolio of vacation options. But Hermes patiently went through detailed explanations of residence configurations and highlighted destinations that offered activities and experiences the family enjoyed, explained what each destination offers in the various seasons, and further detailed specific resort access. “Exclusive Resorts’ properties are incredible, but it’s Emmy’s service, sincerity, organization, and bubbly personality that have very much been a part of making our trips special,” says Reber. “She’s invested in our family and we can tell. She recently helped us secure last-minute stays in London and Paris this summer. Being unfamiliar with the properties, she walked us through the location options and chose those she knew had the best service, amenities, and embraced the city. Although summer is an incredibly busy season for Ambassadors, Emmy kept her eye on cancellations and changes in both popular cities and managed to upgrade us to a larger residence for our stay—something we would not have had visibility into. She knew it was our first Europe trip as a family and wanted it to be as best as it could be.”
“
A Million Little Things: Elevated Service Stories
delighting in the details I love how my job allows me to have personal relationships with people. It’s the small, thoughtful touches that people really appreciate. One Member was throwing a Westernthemed bachelorette party so I ordered them packs of straw cowboy hats with red and blue piping and attached a veil to one of them and bought matching neck handkerchiefs. If it’s Christmas and I know the family celebrates, I buy a petite live tree at Whole Foods and put together a gift bag of assorted decorations so they can deck the tree as a family. When I realized it was a Member’s son’s first ski day, I threw an end-of-day celebration with hot chocolate and s’mores to acknowledge the occasion.”
—Mia Keller, lead concierge ironwood at deer valley, ut
— Opposite page clockwise from top: Peninsula Papagayo’s Poro Poro Clubhouse in Costa Rica; Henry Family in Sea Island, Georgia; Residence Manager Holly O’Leary in Lake Tahoe, California; Concierge Bruni Trinidad in New York City, New York.
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“
like family: the member-ambassador connection
I was actually the first person who knew Member Phil Bodem was planning to propose to his wife, Jenny. He told me he wanted to propose during their trip to Vail, so I suggested a couple of ideas and locations where he could pop the question. He decided to ask Jenny during a snowmobile tour. We had become friends over the years, so I was also invited to come along and packed a bottle of champagne in my backpack so we could celebrate afterwards. It was probably zero degrees that day, but we went anyways. I had also arranged for one of my photographer friends to come along—Jenny thought he was employed by the snowmobile company. We captured the moment on video and in photos and enjoyed a chilled glass of champagne after she said yes. She was completely surprised.”
“
—Rob Layton, vacation ambassador
like family: milestone moments
Randy Green was in Vail for his daughter’s wedding last winter. As is the norm with weddings, there were a lot of details that needed to be covered. He was so nervous about the aisle runner arriving for the ceremony that he actually carried it on the plane to make sure it got there safely. Saturday came around and the Green party was in the Vail Chapel for the ceremony, set to start at 5:30 p.m. Randy rang me in my office at 5:15 p.m. He had forgotten the aisle runner in his residence closet. I hustled across Arrabelle Square, grabbed the runner, jumped in my vehicle and pulled up to the Chapel at 5:25 p.m., much to the delight of Mr. Green and the wedding coordinator.”
—Gregory Ciluzzi, regional residence manager
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— Clockwise from top: The Reber Family in London, England, and Paris France; Member Therese Stangl in Las Vegas, Nevada.
— Below: The Rimel Family visits the Big Island, Hawaii.
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seamless surprises
in an era of online bookings and virtual concierges, Exclusive Resorts’ human touch and personalized service sets it apart from any other travel brand. What’s more, The Club’s Ambassadors and Concierges watch Club families grow up, often planning for their young kids’ activities at various resorts, and then eventually arranging for engagements or weddings for those same Member children. Milestone moments including 50th birthdays and college graduations are also in continual demand—adding to the The Club’s intimate connection to its Members. And with many Vacation Collection destinations enticing repeated return trips, fostering tradition may just be the secret sauce of truly intuitive service.
We had an amazing experience with outstanding service from our Ambassador Jason when we were on the Big Island in Hawaii. I was staying with some girlfriends, and my husband was flying in to join me. But due to my friend’s medical issue, they had to leave earlier than expected. We were left with no accommodations. After our planned time on the Big Island we were scheduled to travel on to the new Club residence in Kaua’i, but in the meantime, we were stranded! It was such a busy time, and most everything on the Big Island was sold out. I first tried to secure accommodations on my own, even trying to get into the Kaua’i property early, but everything was booked. In desperation I called Jason to ask if there was anything he could do. Exclusive Resorts’ new Hale Ho’okipa residences were not quite open for use yet on the Big Island, but Jason worked his magic and was able to get approval for us to stay at Hale Ho’okipa—an amazing new four-bedroom residence. It was perfect—such a beautiful stay and experience. In addition, the service by the on-site Concierge was outstanding. Now we’re already booked to go back next year with friends.”
—Jerilyn Rimel, member
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Bucket List
if you go: Be sure to get on the
water—a sunset cruise, snorkeling, deepsea fishing or swimming off the beach. Zipline through the trees or go on a nature hike. Take your camera so you can see it all again when you get home.
favorite foodie find: Fresh tuna
ceviche made by Chef Nico at the Poro Poro Clubhouse is the best you’ll ever eat (see page 43 for the ceviche recipe).
Papagayo, Please!
not to miss: Take a sunset cruise and
Celebrating their 500th night with Exclusive Resorts, Members Alan and Karen Swift heed the call of Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica.
if i return i would: Take the whole
top takeaway from the trip:
Exclusive Resorts’ Poro Poro Clubhouse and surrounding private community are the perfect ways to experience Costa Rica. The residences are luxurious and include stunning views of the deep blue waters. And beyond all the usual top-notch amenities of Exclusive Resorts facilities, the staff is superb. Every meal was graciously served and delicious. Every question or request was promptly addressed. Plus, this may be the only Exclusive Resorts property where daily entertainment is provided by a passing gang of mischievous white-faced monkeys!
— Above from left: Karen and Alan Swift celebrate their 500th night with Exclusive Resorts in Peninsula Papagayo; a deep-sea fishing adventure is rewarded with a trophy catch. 88
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never thought i’d experience:
We will never forget the celebration to commemorate our 500th night with Exclusive Resorts. A champagne toast, a very special cake, a basket of wine and fruit, and the warm wishes of the entire staff are an example of the hospitality always present with Exclusive Resorts.
stop by Playa Huevos with the caves. Near Monkey Island, the sunset will be stunning.
family, stay in the Jicaro 11 residence again, and take gifts for Ricardo, Ronald, and all the staff!
most photo-worthy moment: Karen catching a yellow-fin tuna for our dinner.
most memorable experience (of all 500 nights!) with exclusive resorts:
The first night of the Botswana safari, when elephants arrived for a dinner of tree leaves over our tent; a sunrise boat ride on the Amazon in Brazil; riding a camel in Egypt; climbing Huayna Picchu mountain above Machu Picchu; and driving a jeep through Patagonia. All are super memories, as are days spent with our family and friends in beautiful and serene locations like Hawaii.
Another unforgettable day in Santorini
A N G U I L L A | A S P E N | A U S T I N | C O N N E C T I C U T | C O S TA R I C A | F I J I | F O R T L A U D E R D A L E | H AWA I I L O S C A B O S | M A I N E | N A PA VA L L E Y | PA R K C I T Y | R H O D E I S L A N D | T E L L U R I D E | S A N T O R I N I
AUBERG ERESORTS .COM
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O N E T R I P. 2 4 D A Y S. AROUND THE WORLD B Y
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B O O K N OW CALL 1-888-509-3083 V I S I T N ATG E O E X P E D I T I O N S .C O M /C U R AT E D
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*FLIGHTS BY ICELANDAIR
