CURATED Magazine by Exclusive Resorts • Spring/Summer 2015 by Exclusive Resorts

MAGAZINE

real del mar

RHAPSODY Globe trot to SAYULITA and the Marieta Islands’ HIDDEN BEACH

ARBITERS OF ADVENTURE THE CALL OF CUBA LEICA LUXURY

T H E P E R F E C T PA U S E The Restaurants of Neiman Marcus

1.800.365.7989 NEIMANMARCUS.COM

468F14.NMS CURATED MAG.RESTAURANTS.spread.indd All Pages

12/22/14 5:03 PM

T H E P E R F E C T PA U S E The Restaurants of Neiman Marcus

1.800.365.7989 NEIMANMARCUS.COM

468F14.NMS CURATED MAG.RESTAURANTS.spread.indd All Pages

12/22/14 5:03 PM

ASPEN

BACHELOR GULCH

CABO SAN LUCAS

JUPITER

M AUI

NAPA

FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE DESERT, FROM THE BEACH TO THE ROLLING HILLS OF WINE COUNTRY, THE TIMBERS COLLECTION IS PAR ADISE, PERFECTED.

IT JUST FEELS

DIFFERENT

YOUR

WHEN IT IS

HOME.

If you love vacationing at incredible destinations around the world, then why not call them home? As an Owner with Timbers Resorts you’re surrounded by familiar faces and the special hospitality that make our resorts unique. And when you trade and travel throughout the entire Timbers Collection, you’ll be welcomed warmly, as only an Owner can be. We invite you to join those who have come to appreciate all that makes ownership with Timbers, truly, paradise perfected.

866.215.4824 • www.timbersresorts.com/exclusive

This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase to residents of any state or country where registration is required and is not yet complete.

TUSCAN Y

SCOTTSDALE

SNOWM ASS

SONOM A

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

U.S. VIRGIN ISL ANDS

VAIL

ASPEN

BACHELOR GULCH

CABO SAN LUCAS

JUPITER

M AUI

NAPA

FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE DESERT, FROM THE BEACH TO THE ROLLING HILLS OF WINE COUNTRY, THE TIMBERS COLLECTION IS PAR ADISE, PERFECTED.

IT JUST FEELS

DIFFERENT

YOUR

WHEN IT IS

HOME.

866.215.4824 • www.timbersresorts.com/exclusive

This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase to residents of any state or country where registration is required and is not yet complete.

TUSCAN Y

SCOTTSDALE

SNOWM ASS

SONOM A

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

U.S. VIRGIN ISL ANDS

VAIL

Painter Sculptor Évocateur

“The form of The Heart of Peace evokes a root structure,” says the Maui-based Street. “The heart is the root of everything that matters.”

To own a work of art by Spar Street is to infuse your space with beauty and serene energy. His work is a continuous invitation to remember what matters most. To explore owning The Heart of Peace, or a personal commission, call Mana Art Group at 844-MANA-ART (626-2278).

World-renowned artist, Spar Street, creates moments of energy, passion and connection through art. His work adorns the collections of Ted Turner, Sir Richard Branson, Nobel Peace Prize winner Thich Nhat Hanh, and His Highness the Sultan of Brunei.

“The World Peace One Foundation has selected Spar Street’s creation The Heart of Peace as its International Heart of Peace Award. We will award and honor those persons who ceaselessly dedicate their lives to world peace and world service, and who are thereby creating a better, safer and saner world.”

See the collection of paintings and sculptures at ManaArtGroup.com.

SPAR STREET

Forged of pure bronze with a sensuous gold-leaf ﬁnish, The Heart of Peace embodies Spar Street’s signature marriage of opposites – energy and restraint, soft curves and solid core, organic form and sleek golden surface.

Claes Nobel, World Peace One Co-Founder and Chairman

Kai Mana

For every Heart of Peace sculpture commissioned, a donation is made to World Peace One.

worldpeaceone.com

Painter Sculptor Évocateur

“The form of The Heart of Peace evokes a root structure,” says the Maui-based Street. “The heart is the root of everything that matters.”

See the collection of paintings and sculptures at ManaArtGroup.com.

SPAR STREET

Claes Nobel, World Peace One Co-Founder and Chairman

Kai Mana

For every Heart of Peace sculpture commissioned, a donation is made to World Peace One.

worldpeaceone.com

IN FOCUS

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/LEICA

BOARD MEETING Captured during a Destinations In Focus weekend to the Papagayo Peninsula, a Costa Rica sunset beckons a surf soirée.

oments like these inspire travel. The light in the sky demands pause, damp sand hugs the toes, and a frisky ocean calls for a playmate. No cell phones, the digital detox welcomed, and answered, simply, by man and nature. Such moments-in-the-making are captured with the Exclusive Resorts Destinations in Focus series, where sunset scenes are fine tuned by accompanying Leica Akademie instructors. And with the new Leica on Loan program, members can now access Leica’s full line of cameras and sport optics while on curated sojourns. Join Leica and Mary Aarons, daughter of famous photographer Slim Aarons, for a series of photography weekends inspired by the photo icon. The series kicks off in Las Vegas May 14-17, 2015. And for further eye candy inspired by Leica pros, visit page 88 for our “Shot on Site” photography feature.

Leica Akademie instructor Tom A. Smith in front of the lens during a Costa Rica Destinations in Focus getaway.

Photo by Craig Semetko

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

M A G A Z I N E

31 Chris Davenportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hit list for the ultimate in cat skiing.

contents 18 LETTER FROM THE CEO 20 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 22 CONTRIBUTORS 26 FATHOM The quintessential road trip with Airstream 2 Go; Set sail to the British Virgin Islands with a new Monocle yacht charter.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

ARBITER 31

POWDER PROWL Where to cat ski next? Celebrity skier and professional mountaineer Chris Davenport divulges where to score epic western ski sessions.

GLOBE TROTTER A pioneer of the luxury safari, Geoffrey Kent, founder, chairman, and CEO of Abercrombie & Kent, unveils an education gleaned from a serious case of wanderlust.

36 ON PAR While his drive for design takes him to far corners of the globe, the legendary Jack Nicklaus considers family his greatest achievement. 38

JEWEL OF THE ISLES Kohala Coast Residence Manager Carol Edmonson divulges destination gems for a haute Hawaiian escape.

40 SUN KISSED Bid adieu to mid-winter blues with these favorite warm-weather escapes.

Photo courtesy of Eleven Experience

6 IN FOCUS Captured during an adventure to the Papagayo Peninsula, a Costa Rica sunset beckons a board meeting.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CONTENTS

Exclusive access and a serene escape to Arizona’s Miraval Resort & Spa.

BESPOKE

44 FASHION & ACCESSORIES The ultimate carry-on, Loro Piana’s yachting inspiration, chic golf wear, and après ski style. Plus, Leica’s latest and greatest, and a custom-designed passport case. 52

MASTER OF MIRAVAL Exclusive Resorts member, wellness coach, and Miraval Resort & Spa regular, Sharon Wax unveils the benefits of digital detox and the five dimensions of wellness.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

54 CHILD’S PLAY From the iconic sights of New York City to a sailing camp in the British Virgin Islands, Exclusive Resorts’ Kids Take series gives families memories to last a lifetime.

SAVOR 57

SUBLIME SEAFOOD At the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, island cuisine meets master chefs.

58 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL Indulge in an epicurean escape with Michelin master Alain Ducasse. 60 TALES OF TERROIR A trend in rising female Napa winemakers finds Helen Keplinger as a top trailblazer.

62 CHEESE, PLEASE! Author and nationally acclaimed cheese expert, Laura Werlin, flaunts five great American cheeses, while master sommelier and author, Richard Betts, toasts the perfect pairings. 64 ALL ABOUT APRÉS A tour of top alpine playgrounds by acclaimed ski writer Rob Story celebrates an elevated cocktail culture.

CULTURED 67

HAWAIIAN RHAPSODY Brooklyn-based photographer Kirk Edwards captures the beauty of an island-inspired tradition with HULA, a new book and photography collection.

68 OUTBACK INSPIRED With an eye on Dennis Scholl’s contemporary Australian

Aboriginal art, writer Linda Hayes curates a growing art movement that beautifully bucks the norm.

70 GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? Inspired by a trip to Mexico’s Real del Mar with Exclusive Resorts, iconic event designer Jung Lee divulges her inspiration for the ultimate destination dinner party. 72

SCREEN SHOT Exclusive Resorts member and “Meet Me There” host D.J. Duckworth takes the Sundance experience to the streets of Park City and Deer Valley.

TRÈS CHIC Style seekers go behind the scenes at New York and Milan fashion weeks.

Photos Courtesy of Miraval Resort & Spa

43 CALLING ON CARTIER Parisian exhibition designer Nathalie Crinière has transformed the Denver Art Museum into a magnificent ode to jewelry with the exhibition, “Brilliant: Cartier in the 20th Century.”

D LLD

LIZZIE DRIVER AVA I L A B L E AT C O U N T R Y C L U B S & R E S O R T S W O R L D W I D E & O N L I Z Z I E D R I V E R .C O M

CONTENTS

ODE TO MEXICO Whether on the hunt for fresh catch in Banderas Bay, surf in Sayulita, or gourmet tapas in a quaint fishing village, discover why this coastal escape is the gem of Mexico.

By Erin Lentz Photography by Stefanie Michejda

SHOT ON SITE With the new Leica on Loan Program and Destinations in Focus Weekends, Exclusive Resorts members and Leica Akademie instructors curate a world in brilliant focus.

Photography by Chip Litherland and Tom A. Smith

THE CADENCE OF CUBA With the U.S. policy toward Cuba shifting, this long-forbidden island has quickly jumped rank on personal map quests. An intimate tour of Havana reveals the ryhthm of these storied streets, and dances with a culture and community as authentic as its Caribbean history.

Story and photography by Peter McBride

106

IN MOD PURSUIT Inspired by ‘60s photographer Slim Aarons’s jet-set style, a sojourn to Newport’s The Resort at Pelican Hill celebrates the retro culture of the California coast.

Photography by Dove Shore Styling by Leah Adicoff

118

WINDY CITY IN WINTER? Pack your warmest coat and prepare for a tour of Chicago. With these haunts and happenings, this urban escape remains on our hot list, even during the big chill.

By Nicole Frehsee Mazur

ON JULIA: Vintage pink crop top. Blush blazer, 3.1 Phillip Lim, 31philliplim.com. Red skirt, Elisabetta Franchi, elisabettafranchi.it. (prices upon request) ON PAUL: Vintage shirt. Theory Varsity pants and jacket, theory.com. (prices upon request) 2015 CURATED 12 WINTER/SPRING

106

Coastal Chic at Newport Beach’s The Resort at Pelican Hill

Photo by Dove Shore

FEATURES

M AY T H E P L A C E S YOU EXPLORE BE THE SECOND MOST BEAUTIFUL THING THERE

Michele Carter, Adventuress Founder

PROTECTION IN THE FACE OF ADVENTURE. goAdventuress.com It’s your skin against the world. Give your delicate outer shield the naturally healing ingredients of Adventuress Skin Care for ultimate protection, cleansing and nourishing every single day. Formulated through years of testing by outdoor enthusiast Michele Carter and leading skin care scientists, Adventuress products are naturally derived, fragrance free and formulated for sensitive skin. And it’s the only skin care regiment you’ll need, whether you’re taking on extreme elements or just everyday environmental stresses. Life’s an adventure. Enjoy and conquer. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CONTENTS

124

The majestic Grand Canyon, now included among the 2016 Exclusive Resorts Journey Collection.

MAP QUEST

124

EXCLUSIVE RESORTS EXPERIENCE COLLECTION A curated guide of where to go next, in collaboration with Exclusive Resorts’ worldwide travel partner, Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC. With such destinations as the Grand Canyon, Kiliminjaro, Galapagos Islands, Dubai, Cuba, and more, your bucket list just increased in length.

Caribbean villas on St. John and Virgin Gorda, plus luxe new digs in Miami’s South Beach.

142

BOOK IT! An eventful spring and summer includes wine festivals, the Kentucky Derby, Eden Club golf tournaments, and much more. All with special VIP access, of course.

136

NEW RESIDENCES & DESTINATIONS A sneak peek at Exclusive Resorts’ new luxury residences and destinations, including new California properties,

144

BUCKET LIST Member Peter Dauterman reveals an inspired Bucket List trip to Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo, where he shot with Leica Akedemie instructors during a sunset sail. Check. What’s on yours?

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

ON THE COVER: A view of the Hidden Beach at The Marietas Islands, near Real Del Mar resort, Mexico, page 80. Photographed by Stefanie Michejda.

CURATED. exclusiveresorts.com DIGITALWANDERLUST Visit our new digital edition for interactive features, bonus content, and behind-the-scenes travel videos. SUBSCRIBE

exclusiveresorts.com/getstarted

SOCIALSTUDIES Facebook.com/exclusiveresorts Twitter.com/exclusiveresrts Instagram.com/exclusiveresrts Pinterest.com/exclusiveresrts YouTube.com/exclusiveresortsclub

Photo by Stefanie Michejda

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

M A G A Z I N E

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF Erin Lentz

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Karrie Sims

PHOTO DIRECTOR Stefanie Michejda COPY EDITOR Christine Benedetti CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR Leah Adicoff EXCLUSIVE RESORTS

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Kristen Nolte DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS Caitlin Austin CREATIVE DIRECTOR Justin Parnell INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Haley McCoy ADVERTISING SALES

GLOBAL SALES DIRECTOR Erin Haraway; eharaway@curated-mag.com U.S. SALES Kristy North Farrey; kristy@curated-mag.com CANADIAN SALES Jan Frolic; jan@magnetwork.com CONTRIBUTORS

Leah Adicoff, Amiee White Beazley, Richard Betts, Doug Brown, Chris Davenport, Peter Dauterman, D.J. Duckworth, Carol Edmonson, Kirk Edwards, Sarah Hartzog, Kelly Hayes, Linda Hayes, Jung Lee, Chip Litherland, Nicole Frehsee Mazur, Peter McBride, Stefanie Michejda, Maridel Reyes, Andrew Sessa, Oliver Sharpe, Dove Shore, Tom A. Smith, Rob Story, Sharon Wax, Laura Werlin

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. info@curated-mag.com

©2015 TAG Custom Publishing LLC. 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@curated-mag.com.

TAG Custom Publishing LLC 300 E. Hyman Ave. Aspen, CO, 81611; info@curated-mag.com

Exclusive Resorts Management, LLC Headquarters 1515 Arapahoe Street Tower 3, Suite 500 Denver, CO 80202 For membership information and opportunities, call: United States: 844.541.2714 Europe: +44(0)20 7101 7911; 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.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Yoga. Fitness. Spa. Equine. Discover a resort where insight is an amenity and eyeopening moments await around every corner. Come experience the spiritual effects of Miraval to create a life in balance. Retreat with purpose.

MiravalResorts.com 888.655.3228

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Travel, Transformed Philippe at the Exclusive Resorts residences in Miami, with wife Martine, and grandchildren Gabriel, Marie, and Oscar.

Certain people, myself included, believe that dreams can transform the world. And yet I recently noticed that when we become adults, many of us stop dreaming. As if our ability to dream ended along with childhood.

For me, travel is what allows me to dream and stay grounded. I still find inspiration in everything I encounter along the way. I believe in the transformative power of travel. I know that new experiences open hearts and expand minds, and I am certain that immersive excursions and authentic journeys enrich lives exponentially. It is the reason I have dedicated my life to tourism and why I feel so passionately about Exclusive Resorts and the joy it brings to our members. As a father and grandfather, I understand the value of time and how fleeting it can be. As a young professional immersed in a high-pressure corporate world, I made a decision to use my vacations as a way to reconnect with my family. Every three months, I would take my wife Martine, daughter Emily, and son Sebastian on a trip to a destination of their choosing. I will forever cherish the collection of memories we made on these adventures. It is a tradition that spans more than three decades and still lives on today with a new generation—my grandchildren. I vehemently believe that the close ties I was able to create with my family from these trips have had a lasting impact on my own personal health and well-being. Not only did this time away from work improve my productivity and creativity, it (more importantly) strengthened my bond with loved ones, making me a happier and healthier person. As we set our resolutions for the year ahead, I would ask that you consider making togetherness and personal growth a priority. At Exclusive Resorts, we believe in providing our guests with a level of fulfillment during their vacation that they can carry forward into everyday. Our goal isn’t to fill a need for beds, but to fulfill our members’ dreams—and not just while they’re on vacation. By opening up a world of discovery and adventure, we invite you to (gently) push your boundaries, expanding your horizons through travel, through adventure, through meaningful moments shared with family and friends. Your journey is our journey, the joy of your self-discovery our greatest reward.

PHILIPPE BOURGUIGNON

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A Curated Debut

hen travel is at its peak, a pivotal moment arises. One that shapes, defines, surprises, demands change, or celebrates. As a writer and editor, I’ve been fortunate to visit far corners of the globe. A personal pivot was diving

the Blue Hole in Belize. Deep underwater, after freefalling to a labyrinth of stalactites while the temperature rapidly decreased, our dive group connected for five minutes with an intensity I rarely share with others. A school of hammerheads playfully drew near. Curious yet cautious, they circled, demanding full attention. When all divers give the shark sign, nerves are fully awake, yet, ironically, it was one of the most peaceful experiences I’ve encountered. As a Florida native turned longtime Aspenite, personal travel is most often rooted in outdoor and cultural curiosity. On this particular trip I discovered something entirely foreign, yet, in that moment, surprisingly intimate, too. As such, our natural wanderlust is re-fueled. I’m thrilled to bring you CURATED Magazine, which celebrates the ultimate in wanderlust. With this debut issue we capture and deliver authentic Exclusive Resorts travel experiences and destinations. Written by globetrotting experts, athletes, foodies, and style icons, CURATED chronicles travel that transforms, connects, and educates. Our back page “Bucket List” defines a pivotal moment from the lens of an Exclusive Resorts member. What’s on yours? Find bucket list inspiration during a journey to Cuba with National Geographic writer, photographer, and filmmaker Peter McBride; cat-ski America’s top resorts with celebrity skier Chris Davenport; discover Mexico’s Hidden Beach; or visit Chicago with a curated itinerary by former Rolling Stone writer Nicole Frehsee Mazur. These days, time equals luxury. Via elevated editorial and intimate photography, we hope you take time to discover and imagine your next pivotal moment. Happy Travels!

ERIN LENTZ elentz@curated-mag.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

FENDI

BA R N E YS.CO M

N E W YO R K

B OS TO N

CHICAGO

L AS VEGAS

LOS A N G ELES

SAN FR ANCISCO

F O R I N S I D E R FA S H I O N A C C E S S: T H E W I N D O W. B A R N E Y S . C O M

SCOT TSDA LE

S E AT T L E

CONTRIBUTORS

CHRIS DAVENPORT Two-time world champion skier Chris Davenport, who divulges his top cat skiing destinations in “Powder Prowl” (page 31), is one of the top big mountain skiers in the world. In 2007 Chris became the first person to ski all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks in less than a year. He can claim numerous first descents of peaks around the globe, and recently guided and skied on Mt. Everest. He’s been in more than 30 ski films and is a TV commentator for ESPN, ABC sports, and Outside Television, and is an Olympic and World Cup announcer for ski racing events. Chris resides in Aspen, Colorado, with his wife and three boys. FIRST SKI RUN: The parking lot of Mt. Cranmore, New Hampshire, in 1975. I was

four and walked up a little hill at the end of the parking lot that was basically just a big pile of dirt. I was on plastic skis, it was five degrees outside, and I loved it! NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT: A foam roller to roll out and lengthen the muscles at the end of a long day skiing. NUMBER OF COUNTRIES VISITED: 36, and have skied in 17 of them. BUCKET LIST TRIP: Join Virgin Galactic on a trip aboard Space Ship 2 into space!

NICOLE FREHSEE MAZUR As a former Rolling Stone editor and freelance writer for publications including O, The Oprah Magazine, Maxim and Budget Travel, Nicole penned “Windy City in Winter?” (page 118), and has covered everything from Taylor Swift to the rise of Groupon to American wine regions. She’s called many cities home, including New York, Denver, Chicago, and currently Birmingham, Michigan, where she lives with her husband and the world’s cutest puppy. TOP ROLLING STONE MEMORY: Traveling to Las Vegas to shadow Fall Out Boy on tour in 2009. It wasn’t Almost Famous-level crazy, but let’s just say there were Playboy bunnies and a Slip ‘N Slide. FAVORITE CHICAGO HAUNTS: Bavette’s for their Lillet Rose Martini and Ora Sushi in Andersonville for super fresh fish in a low-key setting. Sit at the bar and you might score a free slice of sashimi. HAPPIEST WHEN TRAVELING TO: Anywhere with sunshine and a beautiful beach.

Barcelona, St. Thomas, and Buzios are favorites. BUCKET LIST TRIP: Island-hopping in Greece, then flying to Tahiti and staying in an over-water bungalow.

PETER MCBRIDE

TOP NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MOMENT: Flying a WWI, open-cockpit replica biplane

through Africa, retracing the first African air passage. Egypt’s Pyramids and Zambia’s Victoria Falls from just 800 feet are visuals I’ll never forget. NEVER SHOOT WITHOUT: Curiosity, patience. BUCKET LIST TRIP: Bhutan. Years ago I walked the Snowman Trek (230 miles) through the remote corners of this Himalaya happiness hamlet and I long to return.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Nicole’s Photo by Blaine Siesser

Peter, who shot and wrote “The Cadence of Cuba,” (page 96), is a native Coloradan who has spent two decades studying the world with a camera. A self-taught, award-winning photographer, writer, and filmmaker, he’s traveled on assignment to over 70 countries for National Geographic Society, Smithsonian, Outside, Esquire, Stern and such companies as Patagonia, Microsoft, The Nature Conservancy, and more.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CONTRIBUTORS

STEFANIE MICHEJDA Shooting cover story, “Ode to Mexico” (page 80), Stefanie is a Bay Area photographer who shoots what she loves most—travel, food and wine, people, and live music. She has contributed to Spin, People, Food & Wine, Playboy, 7x7, California Home & Design, and Foam, among other publications. BEST SAN FRANCISCO FOODIE FIND: Swan Oyster Depot, an SF institution. TOP CURATED MOMENT: Our journey to the Hidden Beach on the Marieta Islands.

I had to swim through a cave with one hand above my head to protect it from hitting the ceiling, while trying to shoot with my GoPro in the other. The light inside the cave was magical.

BUCKET LIST TRIP: Gorilla tracking in Uganda—officially obsessed!

DOVE SHORE Dove shot “In Mod Pursuit,” (page 106) and started his photography career working for David LaChapelle and Brian Bowen Smith. Paying careful attention to every artistic detail helped him to define his own style. Shore’s work can be seen in magazines worldwide, including Harpers Bazaar, Elle, Vogue, and GQ, among others. Dove lives in Los Angeles. TOP BEHIND-THE-LENS MOMENT: Shooting James Franco for the cover of

Harpers Bazaar. WOULD MOST LOVE TO PHOTOGRAPH: Jay Z, Rick Rubin, Bob Marley. BUCKET LIST TRIP: Bora Bora.

ROB STORY A correspondent for Outside Magazine and the columnist for Skiing magazine, Rob divulges top après haunts (page 64) and profiles Geoffrey Kent (page 34). He’s been published in Men’s Journal, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, American Way, and Rolling Stone. He’s the author of two books, Telluride Storys and Outside Adventure Travel: Mountain Biking. He lives in Telluride, Colorado. FIRST TRIP: Taking the family station wagon west across the Kansas Plains to Winter Park, Colorado, as an 11 year old. TOP SKI RUN, EVER: Tempted to mention Alaskan heli-ski runs, but since those are not really runs, I’d say Vallée Blanche in Chamonix, for its ridiculous views and glaciers and its 13-mile length. NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT: Good walking shoes. I simply don’t understand those who travel in flip flops, inevitably finding themselves inefficiently thwok-thwokthwoking through endless airport terminals, missing flights because they have no ability to sprint. BUCKET LIST TRIP: I’ve skied Chile a couple of times, but really want to spend a summer week in Argentina.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

FATHOM

ON DECK A Monocle yacht stealthily slices the waters surrounding the British Virgin Islands. This year, charters aboard the Sea Legend feature an eight-day itinerary of blissful island-hopping.

GO > TO BOOK A NEW EXCLUSIVE RESORTS MONOCLE YACHT CHARTER VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/YACHT

Harmony of the Sea Board Exclusive Resorts’ new yacht charter, the Sea Legend, and set sail to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands

ir Richard Branson bought his own private Necker Island in the BVIs for good reason: this idyllic chain of isles hugs azul waters, celebrates a playful yet poised yachting culture, and sources sensual Caribbean cuisine. Exclusive Resorts, in partnership with the prestigious Monocle yacht company, now offers members customized charters to one of Jacques Cousteau’s favorite escapes. “Yachting is the ultimate in luxury vacations,” says Monocle’s Kevin O’Brien. Depart from Crown Bay Marina in the U.S. Virgin Islands, cross the Sir Francis Drake Channel, and discover such famed locales as Sopers Hole Marina, Norman Island, and Peter Island. Scuba, snorkel, or simply sunbathe along the way, and while navigating the BVIs, options are plenty: Explore the renowned Baths on Virgin Gorda, the posh Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), or the sugar-white beaches of Anegada. Alas, tough decisions, as paradise beckons.

FATHOM

Haute Highway Exclusive Resorts’ new Airstream 2 Go excursions celebrate an icon of adventure and the storied American West. BY DOUG BROWN

Those with a serious case of the travel bug yearn for such bucket-list destinations as New Zealand and desire thrilling experiences. Dining throughout Paris? Oui! List logistics are fairly straightforward: flights. Rooms. Transportation. Activities. Food. But one common travel adventure dream—the RV trip across the American West—often falls to the wayside, largely because details may prove challenging. Not anymore.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

GO QUINTESSENTIAL ROAD TRIPS BIG SKY LOOP Travel Dates: May 15-Oct. 15, 2015 Natural Inspiration: Private fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, caving adventures, wildlife safari, kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding.

hat fantasy, however, is now parked in reality. Exclusive

Map Quest: Bozeman, Henry’s Fork River, Grand Teton National Park, Gallatin Canyon, West Yellowstone National Park.

“It’s your resource for everything along the way,” says

Resorts has partnered with Airstream 2 Go, offering

Cathy Ross, Exclusive Resorts chief operating officer.

members curated, and creative, American road trips.

“Our members trust us. They know what we deliver will

Customized itineraries include such experiences as guided fly-

be exceptional. Someone who has dreamt about an RV trip

fishing excursions and hot air balloon rides across different regions

across Montana might never have done it, but now the

of the West, from the Grand Canyon and the California coast to

trust level is there. We make it easy. And off they go, doing

Montana’s Big Sky country.

something they’ve thought about for years.”

The lodging? An iconic, silver, 28-foot Airstream trailer—a

The curated excursions—anchored now in the West, but

mid-century-modern capsule of cool that has been eliciting envy

slated to eventually include such destinations as the Texas

on American highways and parks since 1936. These hip trailers

Hill Country, New England, and the Great Lakes—offer

get hauled by GMC Yukon Denalis, luxury SUVs with seating for

another partnership highlight. Airstream 2 Go works

up to eight. Welcome to camping in style.

with Off The Beaten Path, a venerable adventure travel

“When was the last time you enjoyed a campfire at a hotel?”

company that’s been customizing trips since 1986. Its team knows which campsites are

asks Richard Riegel, a former Airstream CEO who now owns Airstream 2 Go. While talking about the new collaboration, Riegel fits comfortably at one of the Airstream’s dining-room tables—no easy feat for a guy who stands 6’7”.

“WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU ENJOYED A CAMPFIRE AT A HOTEL?”

tops. Given the company’s long-

RICHARD RIEGEL, OWNER OF AIRSTREAM 2 GO

mountain biking tour outfitters

for extraordinarily easy trips. The Exclusive Resorts’ Airstream

best surf schools in California, guides in Montana, and the top

itinerary draws from the best in the business. Members join Exclusive Resorts because they love travel

2 Go partnership books the best campsites (with close-up views

and adventure, and the vacation club offers lots of both. But

of natural splendor and wildlife unattainable at a hotel) at

with the Airstream 2 Go partnership, they now have the

national parks before the vacationers hit the open road. Where

opportunity to embark on something entirely different—a

to go? The most scenic routes and all of the must-see sites and

trip that may never happen if not for the club’s vision. The

stops are included on the itinerary.

target audience for that winding trip through Grand Canyon

Without training, navigating an Airstream may pose challenges. But before members embark on their American

Natural Inspiration: Private guided hikes, tide pooling with marine biologists, kayaking, surf lessons. Map Quest: Yosemite National Park, Monterey, Morro Bay, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and additional options of extending the journey to Exclusive Resorts’ Laguna Beach or Newport Beach destinations.

the most acclaimed fly-fishing

and river guides in Utah, each

The excursions, ranging from eight to 10 days, involve little planning by the travelers, making

standing relationships with the

CALIFORNIA CRUISING Travel Dates: Peak (March 15-Sept. 30); Off-Peak (Oct. 1-March 14)

splendor runs the gamut. “It could be that entrepreneur who has started a

adventure, an ambassador gives the 4-1-1: How to hook up the to

company and wants simple time with his family,”

campsite power, utilizing the shower, connecting the propane

says Ross. “Or a couple with two children. They are

tank, working the stove — even where to find the Wusthof knives.

adventurous, and want something new. It’s geared towards

If details are forgotten, no fuss. An iPad in every Airstream

families, but there’s something to be said for escaping, no

becomes a virtual tutor, displaying RV technical info,

matter whether it’s retirees finally realizing a dream or the

itineraries, and details on things to do—even different musical

young family beginning a lifetime of road trips. There is

playlists.

something iconic about the Airstream, something hip.”

CURATED

CANYON COUNTRY Travel Dates: Peak (March 15-Sept. 30); Off-Peak (Oct. 1-March 14) Natural Inspiration: Canyoneering and naturalist-led hiking, exploring slot canyons, guided Grand Canyon National Park hikes. Map Quest: Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Lake Powell, Grand Canyon.

For full trip itineraries and Airstream 2 Go details, visit exclusiveresorts.com/ airstream2go.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

Refresh, rejuvenate, repeat. Wrap yourself in comfort and let the road refresh your soul. Enjoy up to 25% off your rental and turn your downtime into great time. Visit avis.com or call 1.800.331.1212 and use AWD# D868300 to make a reservation.

CURATED

ARBITER

Photo by Christian Pondella/Red Bull Content Pool

ADVENTURE // ICONOCLAST // CONCIERGE CONFESSIONS // RESORT REPORT

Powder Prowl WHERE TO CAT SKI NEXT? CELEBRITY SKIER AND PROFESSIONAL MOUNTAINEER CHRIS DAVENPORT DIVULGES WHERE TO SCORE EPIC WESTERN SKI SESSIONS.

INSIDE LINE Chris Davenport tackles the Chamonix backcountry.

Chris Davenport has tackled ski terrain in nearly every corner of the globe. And with several North American ski resorts claiming serious bragging rights via new luxury powder steads, his list of top cat skiing will leave you begging for decadent descents. (continued on page 32)

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

ARBITER //ADVENTURE

TOP TERRAIN

(continued from page 31)

ASPEN MOUNTAIN POWDER TOURS If you’ve skied all four mountains at Aspen/Snowmass and are looking for something new and exciting, this is it. While the terrain isn’t the most challenging, a few things set this apart. First, the access. You step off Ajax Mountain’s Silver Queen Gondola, and the cat’s right there to pick you up. The runs are fun, stress-free skiing, and it’s all about being social. Take a great group of eight or 10 friends and spend the day talking life, business, skiing, and have an amazing gourmet lunch catered by The Little Nell. It’s truly a special experience. Get your name on the list, as it books fast. aspensnowmass.com LAKE TAHOE: PACIFIC CREST SNOW CATS Hire Olympian Jonny Moseley to help you tackle Tahoe’s terrain. The Sierra Nevadas are home to some of the best backcountry skiing to access by cat. And with Moseley or one of the head guides at Pacific Crest giving ski tips, leave with new, big-mountain skills. Warm up on intermediate runs, and after lunch hit the hard stuff. By après you’ll have serious bragging rights. pacificcrestsnowcats.com VAIL POWDER GUIDES Yes, I’m partial to Aspen, but Vail’s cat skiing—located off Vail Pass— is worth a trip. They have strong avalanche and safety knowledge, and the location is key. During the same ski vacation you can also hit nearby Colorado resorts, like Copper, Breckenridge, and Beaver Creek. So if the

whole family isn’t into cat skiing, they can hit the in-bound slopes while you take on the Colorado backcountry. vailpowderguides.com SCARP RIDGE LODGE & IRWIN GUIDES What makes Irwin special is the attention to detail, everything from staying at the Scarp Ridge Lodge to the custom “Tucker” snow cat. With flat-screen TVs and leather couches, it transports you up Kebler Pass Road. Then you pull into the movie cabin and their brand-new cat barn at 11,000 feet, and it’s one of the snowiest places in Colorado. Rarely have I felt that sense of anticipation about what the day will bring. You get on the ski cat, listen to music, and ski all day long. It’s moderate, fun terrain—powder paradise. Then you’re back to the Scarp Ridge Lodge for a massage and hot tub. It doesn’t get much better. irwincolorado.com; elevenexperience.com CIMMARON MOUNTAIN CLUB You need to buy into this new, private cat skiing operation and alpine club between Telluride and Crested Butte, but with 2,000 wilderness acres, the terrain is playful and beautiful. Skilled guides lead a range of ages, ideal for families and groups of varying ski levels. And with execs such as Telluride’s legendary Johnnie Stevens at the helm (Cimmaron’s General Manager and Colorado Ski Hall of Famer), Colorado ski culture continues to thrive. cimarronclub.com

GO > TO BOOK AN EPIC EXCLUSIVE RESORTS SKI VACATION, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Chris Davenport photo by Christian Pondella/Red Bull Content Pool; Cat skiing photo by @Grafton Smith 2011

Aspen Mountain Powder Tours traverses the backside of Ajax Mountain in top-of-the-line snowcats and dishes a gourmet lunch at nearly 11,000 feet.

‘HA UTE C O UTURE’ RESTA URA NTS

Our passion. Your pleasure R ESTAUR ANT LE MEUR IC E ALAIN D UC ASSE

A LA I N DUCA S S E AT T H E DO RCH E S T E R

LO UI S X V A LA I N DUCA S S E

A LAIN D U C ASSE A U P L AZA ATHÉNÉE

PARIS

LON DON

MON A CO

PAR I S

A n d t o d isc o v e r m o r e a b o u t u s . O u r r e s ta u r a n ts i n th e u s . B e n o i t N e w Yo r k • m i X i n L a s Ve g a s

w w w. a l a i n - d u c a s s e . c o m

ARBITER //ADVENTURE

GLOBE TROTTER

A pioneer of the luxury safari, Geoffrey Kent, founder chairman, and CEO of Abercrombie & Kent, unveils an education gleaned from a serious case of wanderlust. BY ROB STORY

eoffrey Kent founded the travel company Abercrombie & Kent in

motorbike, the 5,000 often-treacherous miles between Kenya and Cape

1962 to halt luxury travel’s slide toward boring redundancy. “At

Town, South Africa. He joined the British Army, which posted him in

the time,” he says, “wealthy travelers returned to the south of France every

Bahrain, Oman, Yemen, Libya, and Malta, and fed his appetite for seeing

year, rarely enjoying adventure or local experiences. I realized they could

the world.

appreciate wilder places like Africa if the finer things were provided.” So

The founder, chairman, and CEO of A&K still scoots around the globe

Kent built deluxe camps in Kenya for photo safaris, and suddenly clients

270 days a year—and wouldn’t have it any other way. “Travel has truly

were “participating in trips rather than just observing.”

made me a citizen of the world,” Kent claims. “Experiencing different

The marriage of adventure with high-end comfort is just one of the

cultures and places opens your mind, moving your beliefs from dogma to

myriad ways travel has changed since Abercrombie & Kent’s founding.

insight. Travel offers unique perspectives on geopolitics and global issues

“In the ‘60s, only the rich could travel,” Kent muses. “It’s since become an

such as global warming. It’s especially educational for children, better

essential need for all manner of people. Travel now comes before jewelry

than school in many ways. As kids get to know far-flung countries, they

or a car. The more people travel, the more they want to keep traveling. It’s

can talk knowledgably about them.”

like a disease—but one that’s much better for you than smoking!”

A&K’s formula—providing customers a “luxury cocoon” from which

Launched in 2008, Exclusive Journeys—a collection of curated,

to explore new lands—attracts 250,000 clients per year. They visit more

members-only adventures to far corners of the globe—is now in

than 100 nations, as well as the Arctic and Antarctica. “We can suffer

collaborative partnership with Abercrombie & Kent. Celebrating both

short envelopes, though,” Kent cautions. “For instance, we were going to

cultural history and natural exploration, the 2015 Journeys collection

Libya 10 years ago, but now that window’s closed. Don’t wait ‘til tomorrow.

traverses the globe to more than 15 destinations, from Alaska and

Earth has so many places you’ve got to see before you die.”

Antarctica to Scandinavia and South Africa.

Asked what three destinations currently pique the interest of discerning

Kent was born in 1942 while his parents were actually on safari in

travelers, Kent gushes about a dozen. The gist: Cuba and Uganda. His

northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). He grew up on the Aberdare Highlands

company’s “Cuba: People to People” program allows Americans access

of Kenya, and at age 16 became the first person to travel (solo), by

to the long-off-limits island. Only 24 guests will explore Cuba’s Moorish architecture, spicy cuisine, and baseball mania. In Uganda, A&K’s patronage has built a sanctuary that’s saved 300 endangered mountain

MAP QUEST Book an Exclusive Experience, many of which are in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, the club’s worldwide travel provider—and the following destinations are easily within reach.

gorillas. The licensing fees guests pay to tour rainforests and national parks have built schools and hospitals. Incredibly, two destinations have yet to be crossed off Kent’s bucket list. The man who’s gone from pole to pole and across the seven seas can’t seem to bag Easter Island. “I’ve tried three times, and it always fell

ICELAND

MT. KILIMANJARO

through,” Kent frowns. “On the plus side, I’ll soon visit Indonesia and see

ITALY

KENYA

my first Komodo dragon.”

DUBAI, OMAN, AND JORDAN

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS PANAMA/COLUMBIA

upgraded a lot), when his seatmate struck up a conversation. “Where

CHINA

GRAND CANYON

do you live?” the man asked him. “I said ‘I don’t know,’” Kent recalls. “I

THAILAND

COLORADO

wasn’t trying to be flip. I’m simply on the road so much, I couldn’t say.

THE HIMALAYAS

CUBA

But then the guy asked, ‘Well, where do your dogs live?’ In Monaco and

Dates, itineraries, and destinations for the 2015 and 2016 Exclusive Experiences Collection are subject to change or cancellation.

Recently, Kent was airborne, relaxing in first class (yep, he gets

London, I said. So I suppose I live there.”

GO > TO BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE JOURNEY VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Photo by John Niva

A MAVERICK OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL Geoffrey Kent says, “Experiencing different cultures and places opens your mind, moving your beliefs from dogma to insight.”

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

ARBITER // ICONOCLAST

On Par

Founded in 1999 by Jack and Barbara Nicklaus, The Bear’s Club graces Jupiter, Fla. Nicklaus has been an Exclusive Resorts member since 2006.

While his drive for design takes him to far corners of the globe, the legendary Jack Nicklaus considers family his greatest achievement. BY OLIVER SHARPE to the exploding popularity of golf overseas. He currently has projects

and 73 PGA Tour victories as a professional, and now Nicklaus

underway in Asia, Europe, and Russia. Despite work-related travel, he

Design, his creative course design firm, has nearly 380 courses in play in 36 countries and 39 states. But the aforementioned doesn’t define his life’s work. Rather, he counts his lasting legacy as “my children, and now 22 grandchildren. The tournament wins, major titles, that’s golf. Golf’s a game. I’m very proud of my record and what I’ve accomplished. But what’s important to me are my children, not my trophies. My life and role as a husband and father far eclipses anything I could have accomplished as a golfer.”

These days, Nicklaus spends most of his time on the road, thanks

Nicklaus’s prolific career. The Golden Bear amassed 18 career majors

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

still escapes with family, all of whom prefer a different Exclusive Resorts destination. “Depending on who you asked in my family, you’d probably get a different answer every time. One might tell you the Trump in New York. Another, destinations in the islands or skiing in the mountains. And one loved the cruising experience on The World. Of course, I’d have to recommend one tied to one of my courses like Reno and Kiawah.” Nicklaus Design courses are often media-hyped, playing host to 750

Photos by Jim Mandeville

t’s challenging to not focus solely on stats when discussing Jack

MY LIFE AND ROLE AS A HUSBAND AND A FATHER FAR ECLIPSES ANYTHING I COULD HAVE ACCOMPLISHED AS A GOLFER. professional and amateur championships. “I’m very proud when I see one of my courses host a pro tournament like the Memorial Tournament or Honda Classic each year, or other events like the last 12 months where the Ryder Cup, President’s Cup, and PGA Championship were all held at courses I designed,” he says. “I like to see how the courses play in tournament conditions.” As much as he enjoys watching the pros play, however, he’s more focused on the public, adding, “To be honest, it’s probably more important FROM TOP: Nicklaus leads a golf clinic at The Bear’s Club; the Nicklausdesigned Chapelco Golf & Resort in Argentina; Nicklaus finds inspiration in Panama air space.

to see how the course plays the other 51 weeks of the year, when the average person or member plays in normal conditions with no TV cameras or spectators.” Whether designing for touring professionals or highhandicap amateurs, his approach is simple. “I try to design the best course I can, one that’s interesting, challenging, and beautiful, that fits with the land I’m given and the needs of the person who asked me to design it. My job is to turn their vision into a golf course. If the owner’s happy, then we’ve been successful.” As far as toasting success, there’s no signature Golden Bear cocktail. Rather, Nicklaus keeps it simple. “This might seem boring, but I’m a huge believer in hydration. So you’ll likely see me with a bottle of AquaHydrate water. I don’t like carbonated drinks or caffeine. If I have a glass of wine at dinner, [it’s] one of the Nicklaus Wines by Terlato. We make a great wine.” Cheers!

GOING GREEN TEE OFF AT THESE NICKLAUS-DESIGNED COURSES FOR AN EXCLUSIVE RESORTS GOLF GETAWAY. KONA/BIG ISLAND Hualalai Hokuli’a

REAL DEL MAR Punta Mita Vista Vallarta

LOS CABOS Cabo del Sol Club Campestre Palmilla El Dorado

KIAWAH Turtle Point SCOTTSDALE Desert Mountain

BEAVER CREEK Country Club of the Rockies Cordillera DEER VALLEY/PARK CITY Park Meadows Promontory

TUCSON La Paloma LAS VEGAS Bear’s Best LA QUINTA PGA West

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

ARBITER //CONCIERGE CONFESSIONS

Jewel of the Isles Kohala Coast Residence Manager Carol Edmonson divulges destination gems for a haute Hawaiian escape.

hough Maui and Kauai inspire mid-winter wanderlust, those in the know also flock to the Big Island of Hawaii. Spiritual, serene, and home to the world’s longest-erupting active volcano, Kilauea, the Big Island and its Kohala Coast are pearls of the Pacific. Whether on the hook for deep-sea fishing, diving with manta rays, or boutiquehopping for authentic Hawaiian décor, longtime local Carol Edmonson’s hit list of hot spots and happenings may find you re-booking that flight for an extended escape.

LOCAL FLAVOR: My top two would be the Beach Tree restaurant and ‘Ulu Beach Grill at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai—impeccable service and food with ocean views. Merriman’s in Waimea features local fish, meat, and produce. And Napua’s at the Mauna Lani Beach Club serves amazing food and overlooks Mauna Lani Bay. DID YOU KNOW? We organize full-day trips that include bicycle rides through the volcano national park. At the end, during the evening, you can see the glow of the flowing lava. JUST ADD WATER: The Kona Coast is home to over 200 resident manta rays and is unique to the Big Island. Known as the “gentle giant,” witness these manta rays gliding through the waters. Spectacular! SPA SCENE: Mauna Lani Spa is a luxury spa that resembles a Hawaiian village, with thatched huts, natural lava saunas, a meditation hale, and Watsu pool. A must.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/KOHALACOAST

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

CHILD’S PLAY: Hula Kai at the Mauna Lani Bay Resort will take your keiki (children) on a canoe ride where you can fish. LEGEND HAS IT: Our parades feature Pau (Hawaiian horseback) riders, with colorful garments on horseback, each representing a Hawaiian island. This is an only-on-the-Big-Island experience. COCKTAIL CULTURE: The best sunset cocktail is at Lava Lava’s Beach Club at Anaehoomalu. With an open-air ambience, swaying coconut trees, stunning sunsets, and tropical trade winds, happy hour is heightened by authentic Hawaiian music. BEST CUP OF HAWAIIAN JOE: Hula Daddy’s coffee. This worldclass Kona coffee farm produces one of the top six coffees in the world. They even hired a soil consultant from Napa Valley during the early days of production. ALL’S A LU’AU: The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Lu’au is set against the sound of surf and is the most authentic on the Kohala Coast, with an array of foods and a hula show that features a fire dance. FARM-TO-TABLE: The top farmers’ market is located on the other side of the island, in Hilo. Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this market features over 200 local farmers and craftsmen, and is known as the best open market in the state of Hawaii.

Tuna photo courtesy of the Four Seasons Resort; Lava Lava’s photo by Charla Photography; Volcano National Park courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

FROM LEFT: Tuna poke at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai; sunset cocktails at the Lava Lava’s Beach Club; the Big Island’s volcano national park; Exclusive Resorts’ luxury villa at the Kohala Coast.

LEICA ON LOAN Brought to you in partnership with Exclusive Resorts Exclusive ResortsÂŽ presents the Leica on Loan program, an opportunity for members to capture once-in-a-lifetime vacation moments with the Leica camera of your choiceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from the compact, WIFI-enabled Leica C to the sought-after Leica T. To reserve your camera today, visit www.exclusiveresorts.com/leicaonloan

Leica on Loan program available only to Exclusive Resorts members and subject to terms of Product Loan Agreement. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Photo credit Chip Litherland.

ARBITER //RESORT REPORT

Sun kissed Bid adieu to mid-winter blues with these favorite warm-weather escapes. BY ANDREW SESSA On the hunt for sun, surf and island spas? With these latest updates and events at Exclusive Resorts’ partners from around the globe, beach bliss is easily lassoed. < MONTAGE KAPALUA BAY

Maui, Hawaii News barely gets bigger than recent developments at this tropical, palm-dotted seaside retreat on Maui’s northwestern coast. In June, the former Residences at Kapalua Bay emerged from a $15 million renovation to debut as the Montage Kapalua Bay. A sister of the beloved Montage resorts in Laguna Beach and Beverly Hills, California, and Deer Valley, Utah, this latest outpost now hosts a signature restaurant, Cane & Canoe, that blends Asian and modern Hawaiian flavors and is helmed by Culinary Institute of America-trained Chef Riko Bartolome. A sprawling, 30,000-square-foot spa features soothing rituals that incorporate traditional updated is the resort’s waterfront recreational activities, including watersports, beach amenities, and cabanas, as well as the addition of Paintbox and M-Teens, which Montage fans will recognize as the brand’s stand-out children’s program, and adolescent activities (think stand-up paddleboard lessons and mid-day snorkeling excursions). Those celebrating a special occasion will want to visit the new Cliff House, a wood-and-stone structure built into a coastal bluff, with incredible Pacific sunset views, easy access to snorkeling, and gourmet, customized menus.

STAY > 10 THREE-BEDROOM VILLAS AVERAGE 3,150 SQUARE FEET, WITH OVERSIZED LANAIS, AND DUAL MASTER SUITES.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Girls on surfboard courtesy of Montage Kapalua Bay

techniques and products indigenous to the islands. Also

THE RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN > Cayman Islands Set beside the impossibly clear, turquoise-blue waters of the Caribbean, this resort, poised on a powdery stretch of Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach, has long been tops for island hoppers. Why? A pampering La Prarie Spa; a nine-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course; a tennis program affiliated with Nick Bollettieri (who trained the likes of Andre Agassi and Maria Sharapova); and seven restaurants, including one from multi-Michelinstarred French Chef Eric Ripert. But, now, there’s more. This summer, the property debuted the Harbour Club, which serves as a hedonistic hub for its vast array of recreational activities. Among the latest and greatest is Starfish Cay, a water park designed to thrill little tykes, and FootGolf, a sports craze that’s a mash-up between soccer and golf. The Courts by Bollettieri, meanwhile, have forged a partnership with Florida’s prestigious IMG Academy, bringing even more tennis expertise to training opportunities. On the epicurean menu, the Harbour Club houses Andiamo, a casual, outdoor eatery specializing in Italian-style flatbreads and gelato. Meanwhile, the resort’s new meeting area features the Culinary Studio, a stylish demonstration kitchen—one of the top places to be during January’s annual Cayman Cookout, when such star chefs as Anthony Bourdain mix and mingle with guests. SEA ISLAND > Sea Island, Georgia This refined retreat off the coast of Georgia has been sharing its particular brand of southern hospitality with genteel guests since 1928, making it an historic vacation destination. But while its classic, shingle-style architecture and traditional pursuits such as skeetshooting, wooden yacht-sailing, and bird-watching keep it firmly tied to an illustrious past, Sea Island’s present focus is just as notable, offering a 65,000-square-foot Forbes Five Star-rated spa. The most of-the-moment attraction, however, is the newly expanded Golf Performance Center, where several PGA players have been training for years. Complementing the resort’s three, 18-hole courses (with designs by Tom Fazio, Rees Jones and brothers David and Mark Love), the Center now has five covered hitting bays, an indoor putting lab, and an enlarged golf fitness area that utilizes cuttingedge Nike and Titleist technology to help trainers design personalized stretching and strengthening programs (in addition to the Center’s existing indoor video studio, target greens, and customized club-fitting service.) Additionally, the resort announced a 2016 expansion that will include an additional 63 rooms and new pool. This February, it will also host the secondannual Creativity Conference, a TED-like affair with such featured speakers as New Yorker articles editor Susan Morrison, MacArthur “Genius” grant-winner and Harvard anthropologist Richard Wrangham, and master magician Mark Mitton.

STAY > 14 LUXURY 3,500-SQUARE-FOOT CARIBBEAN VILLAS WITH GOLF COURSE AND LAGOON VIEWS

STAY > 18 CLOISTER COTTAGES AT SEA ISLAND MEASURE 3,700 SQUARE FEET AND FEATURE DINING PORCHES WITH SUMMER KITCHENS

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

Uniquely offering women and organizations the best solutions to womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advancement.

Are You Ready?

womenofinfluence.com

BESPOKE FASHION // TRAVEL ACCESSORIES // SPA & BEAUTY // LITTLE LUXE

Calling on Cartier Parisian exhibition designer Nathalie Crinière has transformed the Denver Art Museum into a magnificent ode to jewelry with “Brilliant: Cartier in the 20th Century.” Multiple DAM galleries display installations that highlight Cartier’s gold rush: iconic and historic pieces that tell a story through gems. Exploring such themes as “Aristocracy and Aspiration,” “Masculine View,” “Art of Smoking” and “Icons of Style,” the show also displays original drawings, historic photos, film clips, and movie

Nick Welsh, Cartier Collection @ Cartier

stills. – BrilliantinDenver.com

ROCK STARS Made as a special order for Mexican film actress María Féliz, this 1975 crocodile necklace by Cartier Collection features gold, diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.

BESPOKE //FASHION + ACCESSORIES

MASTER PLAN

The itinerary may be top priority, but a posh carry-on is a jet-setter must. Marrying fashion with function, The Quartermaster by Ebby Rane practically organizes itself. The patended packing system includes 10 carryallsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;vanity, jewelry, and tech cases, laundry, liquids, and beach bags, shoe sleeves, a dust cover, the 1887 leather clutch, and even a knickers stash. A smooth rolling system allows for effortless navigation, from jet way to ski chalet.

The Quartermaster by Ebby Rane in Runway Black ($1,145); ebbyrane.com.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

TAILOR MADE

Haute couture from a keyboard? Tres chic! Given todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tech world, Tinker Tailor co-founder and CEO Aslaug Magnusdottir has trail blazed the first digital destination for customizing and creating bespoke fashion. Whether on the hunt for a Rodarte or Vivienne Westwood piece, shopping for of-the-moment accessories, or wanting to create your very own, one-ofa-kind Tinker Tailor dress using 3D web technology, this one-stop digital shop is a fashionistaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gold mine.

Christian Siriano Full Skirt Tea Length Pink, subject to availability, ($2,200); tinkertailor.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

BESPOKE // FASHION + ACCESSORIES

MARITIME MAN

Pier Luigi Loro Piana may be celebrated for his brilliant Italian fashion sense, yet perhaps lesser known is that his 90-year-old company is inspired by sport and adventure. Held annually in the British Virgin Islands, the Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous stages the largest sailing yachts in the world. As such, this Regatta-inspired windbreaker is hip-length with a classic fit, and the pieceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wind 3L Storm System includes a three-layer, water-repellent and wind-resistant microfiber fabric to ensure a stylish sail.

Loro Piana New Regatta windbreaker, (price upon request); loropiana.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

DRIVING FORCE

High-end Exclusive Resorts golf courses meet chic golf fashion with the latest from Lizzie Driver. Launched in 2011 by Karen Preston and Lorrie Forgatch, the two friends have filled a niche in stylish golf wear that plays well both on and off course. An L.A.-inspired collection features tops, bottoms, dresses, and jackets, and the line can be found in nearly 225 shops in the U.S. and abroad. With these chic designs, staid golf apparel is no longer par for the course.

Lizzie Driver Golden Coast 3/4 Sleeve Polo ($110) and Golden Lady â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shortâ&#x20AC;? Shorts ($130); lizziedriver.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

BESPOKE //FASHION + ACCESSORIES

APRÉS SKI CHIC

Toast an Aspen or Whistler-Blackcomb alpine adventure in one of Gorski’s oh-so-cozy après-ski vests. A 30-year-old fashion powerhouse based in Montreal, Gorski is a trailblazer in designer furs, cashmere, and luxury outerwear for men and women. Founded by avid traveler Leonard Gorski and helmed by daughter, Laura, its accessories collection—fur scarves, hats, and cuffs—ensures stylish schussing, too.

Gorski Red Cross Fox Layered Vest, stand collar, reversible to cashmere ($3,400); gorskifurs.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

BESPOKE // FASHION + ACCESSORIES

LUXE LENS

An inspired trip isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the same without gorgeous photos as proof of play. One of the latest engineering feats from Leica is the T Camera system. An all-aluminum body fits snugly in hand, while a less-is-more approach marries technology and form. Assembled by hand, the T also has four compatible lenses, including a highperforming telephoto zoom. And the accessories collection, a collaboration with Audi Design, features protective cases in melon yellow, orange-red, black, and white. Wanderlust never looked so good.

Leica T ($1,850); us.leica-camera.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

TRAVEL COMPANION

Say goodbye to that battered passport and worries of theft. With the iWallet Corporation’s new tech-sessory, the iPassport, security is literally at your fingertips. Sporting a carbon-fiber design and room for travel docs and credit cards, the iPassport features a biometric locking system that opens only with the owner’s fingerprint. It defends against passport fraud, and with Bluetooth™Smart tethering technology it can be connected to a smartphone for added peace of mind, ensuring its locale is always known.

iPassport ($599); iWalletUSA.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

BESPOKE // SPA + BEAUTY

Master of Miraval

Located in the serene Sonoran desert, Miraval’s Life in Balance Spa draws from global inspiration and natural remedies.

Exclusive Resorts member, wellness coach, and Miraval Resort & Spa regular, Sharon Wax unveils the benefits of digital detox and the five dimensions of wellness.

en years ago, during my first visit to Miraval Resort & Spa, I experienced a surprising withdrawal. Realizing I’d be unplugged (cell phone use is limited at the resort), this technological detox was a total departure from my daily life. Prior to that initial introduction, I hadn’t learned how to best incorporate mindfulness and wellness practices. Now, I return to Miraval at least twice a year to recharge, re-center, and decompress. Akin to yoga, which is always referred to as a practice, wellness, too, is a practice, and one that is never completely mastered. Today, I welcome the digital detox, my cell blessedly tucked away as I navigate the beautiful surroundings and experience Miraval’s many offerings. Miraval “sources” you. Many aspects of our lives can deplete us or create negative energy, including stress, anxiety, illness, and loss. As such, these Five Dimensions of Wellness can be experienced at Miraval and also practiced at home:

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

1) Physical Wellness (exercise, healthy eating, rest, sleep) 2) Emotional Wellness (experiences of joy, play, fun) 3) Mental Wellness (learning, growing, reading, expanding your mind) 4) Spiritual Wellness (yoga, meditation, gratitude) 5) Relational Wellness (connecting with others, communication, intimacy, community) During my many visits to Tucson, my physical well-being is served at Miraval via the numerous exercise classes offered, delicious, healthy food, and an amazing menu of spa treatments and services. After a luxurious day of pampering and restoration, I enjoy a nighttime Jacuzzi in the privacy of my Exclusive Resorts villa and relax under the desert stars. (And the bed, that big cloud of down feathers? I’m unsure if it’s the bed, or simply the inner peace feel while there, but I’ve never slept better!)

CLOCKWISE: Eight LEED-certified Exclusive Resorts villas at Miraval Arizona frame the Catalina Mountains; Miraval Executive Chef Justin Macy’s healthy cuisine is as notable as the resort’s treatment menu; spa offerings are inspired from global remedies.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT CELEBRATING SUCH TASTY INGREDIENTS AS COFFEE, HONEY, AND ALMOND, MIRAVAL’S TOP BODY TREATMENTS ARE NATURALLY INSPIRED VIBRANT MORNING If you like to sip citrus to kickstart the day, so may your skin. An Italian Blood Orange salt scrub and body butter invigorates and hydrates. ($150/50 minutes)

Photos Courtesy of Miraval Resort & Spa

FLOURISH ORGANIC BODY SCRUB Sea salt harvested from the Isla Das Rocas takes center stage, while a choice of botanical blends such as fresh lavender stimulates skin cell renewal. ($160/50 minutes)

DESERT RAIN SCRUB Employing mineral salts and herbs from the desert, the sage body butter leaves skin ultra-hydrated. ($150/50 minutes) HAMMAM Coffee, crushed sugar, almond, and lemon essential oils create the ultimate exfoliant. ($215/75 minutes) PRICKLY PEAR SUGAR SCRUB This sweet scrub is a gentle exfoliant, with a prickly pear body butter as a fragrant finale. ($150/50 minutes)

Sweeten a Miraval Resort & Spa retreat with body treatments that employ honey and crushed sugar.

Cardio Drumming and Zumba are my go-to classes; they are simply so much fun. As adults, we often can forget how to play. What better way to support my emotional well-being than the joy from dancing and the laughter created when I look in the mirror. I also cherish lectures by women’s health expert Sheryl Brooks and wellness counselor Anne Parker. I gain knowledge from these Miraval leaders and the discussion generated by other guests; no matter how often I’ve attended, the take-away is always a new and interesting perspective. This expands my mind and mental well-being. Additionally, Miraval offers opportunities to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. I was never into meditation, because I just didn’t get it. However, I never tried it until I visited Miraval. I finally learned how to quiet my mind and reach a level of clarity never experienced before. Everyone discovers spirituality in his or her own, unique way. For me, it was through the journey of meditation. And Miraval’s greatest gift? The women I’ve befriended while there. Exclusive Resorts is now offering Member Gatherings, and I hosted the inaugural event last October. It was an opportunity for members visiting Miraval to connect and get to know one another. Although I’m fortunate to have many friends at home, there’s something wonderful that can happen when you get to know someone not connected to the rest of your life.

We can often be more vulnerable and open with someone outside our social circle. These unique friendships foster my relational well-being. A magical place, Miraval sources me on several levels. I’m practicing incorporating what I’ve experienced there into my everyday life. By identifying what sources us, we each have more power to create positive energy to counter balance the negative that is created by life challenges. The more we consciously fill our cup, the greater the capacity we have to manage those things that deplete us. When I depart from Miraval and head home, my cup overflows. Sharon Wax is a wellness coach based in the San Diego area and has visited Miraval more than 10 times. For more information visit sharonwaxcoaching.com.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/MIRAVAL CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

BESPOKE // LITTLE LUXE

child’s play A

bout four million people visit the Statue of Liberty every year. But one night last October, a handful of Exclusive Resorts members and their children experienced an afterhours tour of the landmark—sans crowd. The event, part of a series of Kids Take programs held throughout the year at different destinations, was the kickoff to Kids Take New York, a weekend designed with youngsters in mind. Besides insider access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the itinerary included a sleepover at FAO Schwarz (no parents allowed) and orchestra-level seats to the award-winning Broadway musical Matilda. BY MARIDEL REYES The festivities began with a sunset ferry from lower Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty. Flashlights in tow, park rangers led a night tour of Liberty Island, dispensing facts about the landmark along the way. The sound of waves lapping against the rocks filled the air, and families snapped photos at the base of lit-up Lady Liberty, with New York’s sparkling skyline in the background. Another boat ride brought members to Ellis Island, where dinner was held in the museum’s Registry Room, also known as the Great Hall, where new arrivals once waited to be inspected and registered by Immigration Service officers. After a kid-friendly meal of Shake Shack sliders, macaroni and cheese, pizza and ice cream sundaes (and salads, pasta, crab cakes and wine for grown-ups), kids were let loose in the museum with a park ranger for junior ranger training. The children were rapt and engaged while the ranger explained the process a newcomer had to go through to enter the country. They got to touch antique inspection tools and even filled out their own mock applications to

Photos by Andrew Renneisen

From the iconic sights of New York City to a sailing camp in the British Virgin Islands, Exclusive Resorts’ Kids Take series gives families memories to last a lifetime.

BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG CITY During Kids Take New York, children visited Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, followed by a special, kids-only sleepover at FAO Schwartz.

enter America. At the end of the night, each child received a badge and was sworn in as a junior ranger. “This is a really special night,” said Exclusive Resorts Brand Ambassador D.J. Duckworth, mother to 9 year-old Corbin. “This is one that I knew Corbin would really enjoy, especially since we live in New York City.” Her son’s favorite activity of the Kids Take New York weekend was the sleepover at FAO Schwartz: “That’s every kid’s dream, right?” But the most memorable moment for Duckworth was seeing the Statue of Liberty and visiting Ellis Island for the very first time—after dark. “There were no tourists and no crazy lines,” she said. “It’s funny, Exclusive Resorts showed me the biggest tourist destination in my own city. I’ve lived here now for four years and [have] never gone out to see either.” Exclusive Resorts’ Kids Take series started seven years ago, says Andy Irvine, director of events, after a wildly successful Harry Potter-themed event that involved a mock Hogwarts competition at a castle in England. “The goal was to bring families together to enjoy new things about a city,” he said. “We have done Kids Take in Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and New York City numerous times. It’s now on to our

fifth year at Disney World.” This August, Kids Take is getting bigger, bolder—and splashier. Children from 10 to 16 will experience Exclusive Resorts’ first-ever Summer Young Voyagers Camp, a program designed to expose youngsters to different cultures, teach valuable skills and, in some cases, give them the opportunity to earn certifications. The inaugural program is a sailing camp in the Caribbean, during which kids of all skill levels will sail and island-hop on a 46-foot catamaran. But it’s not just a leisure cruise: While aboard, the kids will help with cooking, cleaning, and sailing each day, learning what it’s really like to live on a boat and the importance of working as a team. In addition to sailing instruction, kids can experience scuba lessons and certification and such water sports as wakeboarding, waterskiing, and paddle boarding. While on land, they’ll hike and sightsee. Three adult crewmembers will accompany 10 to 12 campers per ship, and kids can sleep on decks under the stars. Addtionally, Kids Take San Francisco is slated for October 9-12, which includes dinner and a sleepover at the San Francisco Bay Aquarium, a private viewing area to the Fleet Week Air Show, followed by dinner and fireworks cruise on a private yacht through San Francisco Bay.

CARIBBEAN CRUISE

Young Voyagers Camp 2015 Exclusive Resorts’ first-ever summer camp for kids and teens redefines the traditional sleep-away summer adventure. Hosted on luxury catamarans, Young Voyagers Camp 2015 features weeklong, sea-faring adventures to the Caribbean and takes campers ages 10-16 to the islands of St. Barts, St. Martin, and Tintamarre. Helmed by Broadreach, a reputable name among summer sailing programs, aspiring sailors will find their sea legs, and will hike, beach hop, and scuba dive, too. August 2-9 & August 9-16; exclusiveresorts.com/yvc

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

YOUR PERFECT GOLFING PARTNER More than just the most luxurious club home to St. Andrews The Eden club is an international private members club which compliments your existing golf memberships by offering you access to the ďŹ nest golf experiences around the world! For further details please visit www.theedenclub.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Proud partners with Exclusive Resorts

SAVOR

TOP TOQUE // VINE ART // THE DISH // SHAKEN & STIRRED

Sublime Seafood

Photo By Don Riddle

At the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, island cuisine meets master chefs. For celebrity chef Eric Ripert, epicurean inspiration is found under water, among a kaleidoscope of brilliant fish. Considered the master of seafood, he can often be found scuba diving or snorkeling in the Caribbean, and his restaurant, Blue by Eric Ripert at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, is temptation enough for a mid-winter island jaunt. Ripert’s tuna-foie gras or wahoo sashimi with tomatoes, lemon confit, and pesto broth artfully capture the flavors of the season. And with the resort’s new Culinary Studio, foodies can seek inspiration, too, with a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen, reserve wine tastings, Caymanian cuisine and interactive dinners by a roster of celebrity chefs.

GO > FOR A CAYMAN ISLANDS SOJOURN WITH EXCLUSIVE RESORTS VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/GRANDCAYMAN

SAVOR // TOP TOQUE

“We chefs have to take into account the long-term interest of the planet in our craft,” says celebrity French chef Alain Ducasse.

Kitchen Confidential Indulge in an epicurean escape with Michelin master Alain Ducasse BY AMIEE WHITE BEAZLEY

hef Alain Ducasse is arguably the most influential leader of today’s global culinary scene, with a distinguished and personal approach that fuels Michelin-star kitchens around the world. Exclusive Resorts members often travel to this Monegasque chef’s restaurants, each steeped in

the pride and practice of French haute cuisine. Catching up with Chef Ducasse between his global travels, he shares his take on tradition, terroir, and his enduring legacy.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

AMIEE WHITE BEAZLEY: THIS YEAR YOU’LL OPEN NEW DUCASSE RESTAURANTS, WHILE EXTENSIVE REMODELS AND REINVENTIONS OF EXISTING SPACES WILL BE COMPLETED, TOO. IS THIS A REINTRODUCTION OF THE DUCASSE BRAND? ALAIN DUCASSE: It’s rather about a permanent evolution. Each restaurant

France, one taken by professionals about their own industry. We believe that, as cooks, we are in the best position to evaluate the quality of restaurants. The commitments of the affiliated restaurants are clear and simple. In essence, they guarantee the quality of sourcing, culinary techniques, and service. We all know that we live in a highly competitive environment. Destination

tells its own story and evolves at its own pace. Each year we undertake some remolding to stay in tune with the spirit of the epoch. Sometimes, the change is just an aggiornamento, sometimes it’s more drastic. This has been the case for my restaurant at Plaza Athénée in September 2014. It will be the case for other venues in 2015.

France is like a brand name—to keep it attractive we must ensure it always delivers the dream it promises.

AWB: YOU WERE ONE OF THE FIRST CHEFS TO CONSIDER VEGETABLES AS MAIN INGREDIENTS RATHER THAN SIDE COURSES. VEGETABLES HAVE MORE OF A PRESENCE ON THE ALAIN DUCASSE AU PLAZA ATHÉNÉE MENU, ALONG WITH ORGANIC GRAINS, LINE-CAUGHT FISH, AND VEGETABLES FROM THE QUEEN’S GARDEN. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO YOU? AD: One can draw a line from the “Garden of Provence” menu I served for

the first time at Le Louis XV, in Monaco, on May 25, 1987, all the way to the “cuisine de la naturalité” I propose today at the Plaza Athénée. The latter deepens and enriches the vision I developed 30 years ago. We chefs have to take into account the long-term interest of the planet in our craft.

AWB: HOW HAS FRENCH TRADITION IMPACTED AMERICAN CUISINE AND DINING? AD: French cuisine has had an extraordinarily active and talented ambassador in the U.S.: Julia Child. Along with the first French chefs who settled in the country (Jean-Louis Paladin, Alain Sailhac, and more), she made French cuisine known and appreciated. Today, the French techniques and French service still provide the basis of fine dining. However, a new generation of American chefs arose. Dan Barber is probably one of the most talented and representative of these American chefs. AWB: YOU ARE OFTEN CITED AS THE MAN WHO MODERNIZED FRENCH CUISINE. WHAT’S NEXT? AD: The focus will be unchanged: Delivering a dining experience in tune

with the epoch and leaving a memorable trace in the consumer’s mind. This

“Cooking starts with a simple question: What products are available here and now?” - Alain Ducasse AWB: IS EMBRACING THIS SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO HAUTE CUISINE A GLOBAL TREND, AND WILL IT TRANSFER TO ALL OF YOUR RESTAURANTS? AD: The sustainable approach of food [has been] floating around for many

years. What I did is apply it to haute cuisine. This is important, because haute cuisine acts as a catalyst for the entire industry. Developing a responsible approach to haute cuisine will therefore have a positive impact on the global scene. Sourcing is the first, key issue: All restaurants, wherever they are located, must favor local producers with a genuine respect for nature. This is what I do, and more of my colleagues, throughout the world, are also taking the same stand. AWB: WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF TERROIR IN GROWING FOOD AND HOW DOES IT INFLUENCE YOUR CUISINE? AD: This is crucial. Cooking starts with a simple question: What products

are available here and now? Before cooking there is nature. Yet a “terroir” isn’t just about wild nature. It’s about the interaction between nature and men and women, and the knowledge they accumulated, one generation after the other, to extract the best produce from the soil and the sea. The “terroir” is a cultural heritage and the cook’s mission is to bring it into the consumer’s dish, intact and authentic. AWB: HOW ARE YOU HELPING TO PROMOTE AND PRESERVE FRENCH COOKING TERROIR? AD: Favoring producers who are conscious actors of terroir is of utmost

importance. Agricultural, breeding, and fishing techniques that are respectful of nature tend to be economically more fragile. The producers need to find restaurants capable of paying some sort of premium for their products and ensuring a long-term commitment. AWB: WHAT IS THE “RESTAURANT DE QUALITÉ” PROGRAM AND WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT TO DESIGNATE RESTAURANTS IN FRANCE AS SUCH? AD: “Restaurants de Qualité” is an initiative taken by the Collège Culinaire de

is a never-ending programme since it demands to always keep one’s eyes wide open and to always keep renewing the restaurants’ proposals. Yet it is exactly what keeps me excited! AWB: YOU HAVE BEEN AN INFLUENCE ON A GENERATION OF CHEFS AND RESTAURATEURS AROUND THE WORLD. WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR LEGACY AMONG TODAY’S CHEFS IS? AD: I’m just at the early days of my career. -- alain-ducasse.com/en

Exclusive Entrée With chef-table seating at the Michelin three-star Plaza Athene in Paris and priority access to Ducasse outposts in the U.S., France, England, and Asia, French fare never tasted so good. GLOBAL DUCASSE RESTAURANTS PARIS La Cour Jardin; Le Jules Verne (Michelin – 1 star); Benoit Paris (Michelin – 1 star); Aux Lyonnaise; Rech; Restaurant Le Meurice MONACO Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse (Michelin – 3 stars) LONDON Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester (Michelin – 3 stars) LAS VEGAS Mix in Las Vegas (Michelin – 1 star) TOKYO Beige Alain Ducasse (Michelin – 1 star) HONG KONG SPOON by Alain Ducasse NEW YORK CITY Benoit MEMBER BENEFITS Preferred seating within 24-hour notice Preferred access to special in-kitchen seating at Plaza Athenee in Paris and Le Louis XV in Monaco VIP treatment at restaurants Preferred access and VIP treatment at Ecole de Cuisine in Paris

GO > TO EXPERIENCE AN EXCLUSIVE RESORTS EPICUREAN ESCAPE WITH ALAIN DUCASSE, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/ALAINDUCASSE CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

SAVOR

// VINE ART

Tales of Terroir

he best pairings in life typically marry tradition and innovation. Such is the case with fine wines, too.

California vintner Nicolas Allen, whose family owns Domaine Clarence Dillon in Bordeaux, understands the value of tradition and the importance of innovation as he crafts his premier Napa Valley and Sonoma Carte Blanche wines. By sourcing the best fruit

A trend in rising female Napa winemakers finds Helen Keplinger as a top trailblazer. BY KELLY HAYES

from prestigious vineyards and engaging rising star winemaker Helen Keplinger, Allen has positioned his label to be a significant player on the California wine scene. “Wine should be an expression of the site,” says Keplinger, with a conviction that had its genesis when, and earth in her hometown of Canton, Ohio. “If a wine does not reflect where it comes from, the vineyards and the terroir, it lacks identity.” This passion to find great soils and vineyards has been the driving force of her meteoric rise.

GO > TO BOOK A TRIP TO WINE COUNTRY, WITH EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO TOP VINEYARDS AND NEW SONOMA PROPERTIES, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/SONOMA

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Photo by Nicola Siso

as a young girl, she developed a fascination for rocks

iWine Want to learn more about grape and grain? Mark the iCal, as these wine festivals will sharpen any discerning palate. Napa Valley Wine Auction | June 4-7 Festival del Sole, Napa | July 17-20 California Wine Tour | Sept. 23-27 Visit exclusiveresorts.com/ Vacations/Events Member events are subject to change or cancellation.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Keplinger and Carte Blanche Wine proprietor Nicholas Allen at work in Napa; vineyards for her namesake label, Keplinger Wine; Keplinger checks the fruit of her labor.

The quest to make wines that express identity has

Warner, under the Keplinger label. Made from such

20 years ago, when the Smith College graduate

varietals as Syrah and Grenache and sourced from

decided on the unbeaten path. “I had considered

far-flung vineyards in Sonoma, Napa, and Amador

being a doctor,” she says, but a love of wine led her

counties, their wines have achieved high scores and

to University of California, Davis, and its graduate

brought acclaim from collectors and the wine press.

enology program. Over the next decade she learned

It also brought an ironic twist to Keplinger’s original

the art of winemaking from a who’s-who list of

decision to become a winemaker.

accomplished winemakers. From Heidi Barrett Peterson (with whom she worked two stints) to Kathy Joseph at the Central Coast’s Fiddlehead Cellars (“she was so entrepreneurial, and I learned to be picky”) to David Abreu and Michelle Roland, Keplinger had mentors of the highest order. “I Photos by Stefanie Michejda

She also produces her own wines, with husband DJ

been at the forefront of a career that began nearly

don’t really do everything that any of them do,” she says reflecting on those with which she worked. “But I took a little something from each. I’m pretty individualistic.” Her journey led her from stints working nearly solo in the harsh vineyards of Spain’s rugged Priorat region to high-profile gigs at cult Cab producers in Napa,

“I remember calling my Dad and telling him, ‘I’m really sorry about not going to med school.’ But he just laughed and said, ‘Hey, I don’t mind as long I see you on the cover of the Spectator.’” In June 2014, a bejeaned Keplinger graced the cover of Wine Spectator. It was not just a profile, but also a validation for the outstanding wines and work she has produced since deciding to enter the wine profession. The 2014 vintage is the first that Allen and Keplinger are collaborating on for Carte Blanche. And if the past is a prognosticator for the future, it should be one to anticipate. carteblanchewine.com

including Bryant Family and Kenzo Estate.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

SAVOR

// THE DISH

Cheese, Please!

ow could a food that, at its core, is simply fermented milk, be so compelling? Ask any turophile and words will most likely be replaced with reverie. My own passion for cheese preceded a full set of teeth. The soul of that passion can be found between the borders of Maine and California, where cheesemakers are producing astoundingly delicious cheeses. A few of my current favorites happen to be complementary on a cheese board, though each of these cheeses can unquestionably stand alone. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Laura Werlin

GO > FOR AN ASPEN/SNOWMASS ESCAPE WITH EXCLUSIVE RESORTS VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/SNOWMASS

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Styling and Photo by Stefanie Michejda

Author and nationally acclaimed cheese expert, Laura Werlin, flaunts five great American cheeses, while master sommelier and author, Richard Betts, toasts the perfect pairings.

1) TOMALES CREAMERY “KENNE” TOMALES, CALIFORNIA A desire to preserve historic dairy land and roots amidst the rolling hills of Tomales Bay has produced one of California’s newest and most impressive farm and cheese operations. After buying the land in 2003, owners Tamara Hicks and David Jablons procured goats and sheep to complete the dairy picture. Their three cheeses are stellar, but the goat’s milk cheese Kenne (“one” in native Miwok language), made by cheesemaker Jennifer Kirkham, practically requires a spoon to eat. Its flavors are akin to whipped lemon cream cheese, and an oozy texture almost bursts the seams of its paper-thin, faintly mushroom-y rind. Superb.

3) BLACKBERRY FARM “SINGING BROOK” WALLAND, TENNESSEE National parks aren’t known for cheese production, and while Blackberry Farm isn’t technically inside Smoky Mountain National Park, the great Tennessee nature expanse is just a stone’s throw away. Known for growing the produce it uses, this five-star property also has a stellar herd of sheep whose cheesemaker Ryan Burger harnesses into knockout sheep’s milk cheeses. The farm’s signature cheese, Singing Brook, is aged six to nine months. The result? Nutty, savory, buttery flavors, and a semi-firm texture that, when shaved thin, literally melts on your tongue.

BETTS PAIRING: KALIN CELLARS SEMILLON, LIVERMORE, CALIFORNIA 2000 No one makes white wine like Terry and Francis Leighton. They go the extra miles by aging everything until they think it’s ready. Their 2000 vintage semillon is spellbinding stuff that, at 14 years, is just starting to hit its stride.

BETTS PAIRING: SANDHI SANTA BARBARA, COUNTY CHARDONNAY, CALIFORNIA, 2013 Raj Parr fashions chardonnay of real balance and grace and also makes it especially food-friendly. I’m a big believer in these wines. They find their way onto my table often, and his Santa Barbara Chardonnay is a great partner to the Singing Brook.

2) FARMS FOR CITY KIDS FOUNDATION, SPRING BROOK FARM “TARENTAISE,” READING, VERMONT When a cheese takes “Best of Show” in a competition of nearly 1,700 cheeses, it’s something special. And while that particular cheese, Tarentaise Reserve, is made in preciously small quantities, the more readily available, younger version, Tarentaise, is no slouch. The brown butter, hazelnut, grassy flavors and sunshine color will certainly draw you in. But so should the fact that the Farms for City Kids Foundation—a nonprofit that brings urban kids to Vermont to learn aspects of farm life first-hand and build confidence—is behind this award-winner. Great cheese doing good? Score.

4) JACOBS & BRICHFORD FARMSTEAD CHEESE AMERIBELLA, CONNERSVILLE, INDIANA One look at this cheese, and surely it harbors an orange dye. Or so you’d think. Rather, it’s the natural color of milk when cows eat the bovine world’s richest offerings—their diet comes from the neongreen grasses of southern Indiana. Ameribella is from a family farm on which dad Matthew Brichford makes the cheese and mom Leslie Jacobs and daughter, Maize, market it. Soft in texture (sometimes even spoonable) and assertive in flavor, this sunflower-hued cheese with an orangey-pink rind has a kaleidoscope of flavors: salty, meaty, brothy, grassy, tangy, and buttery.

BETTS PAIRING: RAVINES DRY RIESLING FINGER LAKES, NEW YORK 2013 Riesling is the greatest wine for food. It can handle most things you throw at it. I have sommelier Thomas Pastuzak to thank for sharing this one with me and opening my eyes to the wonders of New York’s Finger Lakes region, which produces some of the best rieslings in the world.

BETTS PAIRING: WIND GAP “SCEALES VINEYARD” GRENACHE, CALIFORNIA 2012 Pax Mahle is on it! He’s making some of the most beautiful, unencumbered, and site-specific wines in America today. His grenache is all about red fruits and elegance, without being burdened by new oak or heavy-handed winemaking. Think of it like a more generous version of pinot noir and a perfect partner to this farmstead cheese.

5) ROELLI CHEESE HAUS “DUNBARTON BLUE,” SHULLSBURG, WISCONSIN A cheesemaker from a four-generation Wisconsin cheese family and a new era in American artisan craftsmanship create this unique and spectacularly delicious cheese. Cheesemaker Chris Roelli, whose dream was to follow in his family’s footsteps, makes this blue-meets-cheddar, cave-aged, semi-hard cheese in which flavors of roasted, salted nuts, caramel, bacon and beef defy the palate and define the new American cheese. BETTS PAIRING: MY ESSENTIAL RED, CALIFORNIA 2011 This red blends five grapes, including Cabernet Franc and Syrah, which give it aromatic lift and spice to match the cheese. It’s also made without the use of new oak, which leaves the fruits free to play with the richness of the cheese. Enjoy!

Laura Werlin, a James Beard award-winning author, and Richard Betts (who recently penned The Essential Scratch and Sniff Guide to Becoming a Wine Expert) are regular speakers at the annual FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen, held June 19-21, 2015. visit foodandwine.com/classic. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

SAVOR

// SHAKEN + STIRRED

all about aprés A tour of Exclusive Resorts’ top alpine playgrounds by acclaimed ski writer ROB STORY celebrates an elevated cocktail culture. TELLURIDE: OAK Situated on the Gondola Plaza in the heart of Telluride Ski Resort, Oak is the town’s only ski-in, ski-out booze emporium. While dogs and kids romp around the adjacent courtyard, skiers settle their tired trunks on barstools and sigh with relief. Outside are sunny tables; inside is a long wooden bar serving cheap drafts of Schlitz and, befitting Oak’s Deep South ownership, a wide selection of fine bourbons. Oak also slings T-ride’s

best finger food: zesty nachos, sweet potato fries, and deep-fried okra. -oakstelluride.com VAIL: LOS AMIGOS You haven’t done Vail ‘til you’ve sipped a zesty margarita on the deck of Los Amigos. The joint’s magical, tart-yet-sweet cocktails come in saltrimmed goblets befitting an Aztec god. Plus, there’s entertainment. Thanks to the miracle of mountain topography, Los Amigos bathes in

sunshine, while nearby Pepi’s Face gets shadowed and slick. The result: bloodthirsty tipplers cheering the inevitable biffs of tired skiers. Sometimes Los Amigos patrons rank the wipeouts by holding up scorecards. Ole! -- losamigosvail.com ASPEN: AJAX TAVERN There’s a reason this Aspen outpost, nestled at the foot of Ajax Mountain, is continually ranked as one of the top U.S. aprés-ski haunts. Only in

GO > TO BOOK EXCLUSIVE RESORTS’ DIVERSE MOUNTAIN DESTINATIONS, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

the rarified air of this famous resort does an oil tycoon, ski bunny, pro athlete, and lift operator rub elbows while sipping spicy margaritas. After tackling the Ridge of Bell or following a local’s lead to the secret on-mountain shrines, the $17 Ajax Truffle Fries are worth every penny. -- ajaxtavernaspen.com JACKSON HOLE: MANGY MOOSE As the name suggests, there’s nothing genteel about the Mangy Moose. Its

Mangy Moose: Photo by Chris Figenshou, Aprés Dube: Photo by Stefanie Michejda, Edgar’s: Courtesy of Deer Valley Resort, The Ceasar: Courtesy of WhistlerBlackcomb, The Chammy: Photo by Stefanie Michejda

OPPOSITE PAGE: The storied Mangy Moose tavern in Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Aprés inspiration in Lake Tahoe, California; ABOVE, FROM LEFT: The famous Ajax Tavern patio, at the base of Aspen Mountain in Aspen, Colorado; Canada’s national cocktail, The Caesar; post ski-session at “The Chammy” in Lake Tahoe.

walls percolate spilled beer, wet dogs, and the weed pipes circulating freely on the porch. Fortunately, the Moose is a warm, two-storied barn of a tavern with plenty of airspace. Situated slope-side, just a short glide downhill of the Jackson Hole tram, the Moose wins customers with both gravity and its decadesold reputation as an irreverent, boisterous, speaker-rattling Jackson Hole landmark. Blessedly, the Moose operates a peaceful, family-friendly restaurant just a hallway away, promising refuge from the bar’s mangier parts. -- mangymoose.com WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB: GARIBALDI LIFTS COMPANY Occupying a giant chunk of prime Whistler real estate, the GLC combines a commodious, sunsplashed deck with a terraced

interior big enough to host music headliners such as Michael Franti. The bar mixes a mind-blowing Caesar (the vodka- and-Clamato juice blend considered Canada’s national cocktail). A GLC Caesar feels like a meal, adorned as it is with habanero, celery, lemon, and even bacon. Enjoy it just yards (sorry: meters) from the slopes, on which skiers and snowboarders backflip off a fat kicker. -- whistler.com SUN VALLEY: APPLE’S BAR & GRILL The passion for skiing—and especially ski racing—emanated by this pub shows even in its address: 205 Picabo Street. Located at the base of Mt. Baldy in the Warm Springs base area, Apple’s has poured brewskis and grilled all-natural burgers for après ski

long before the street outside was renamed for local Olympian Picabo Street. Sit beneath vintage posters of gate-bashers and relish Apple’s unmatched collection of World Cup memorabilia. And get there early, ‘cause this Sun Valley institution closes at six. -- applesbarandgrill.com LAKE TAHOE: LE CHAMOIS & THE LOFT BAR A.K.A. “CHAMMY” It’s amazing that—in developmentcrazed California—virtually no bar, pub, or social club rose to challenge the Loft for après business ‘til the turn of the century, when Squaw Valley replaced a vast parking lot with a thriving pedestrian village of shops and restaurants. By then, this festive tavern enjoyed a 30-year head start, evidenced by the Loft’s old school character, cheap pitchers, and

sweet memorabilia. --squawchamois.com DEER VALLEY: EDGAR’S BEER AND SPIRITS LOUNGE Located in Deer Valley’s Snow Park Village, this après institution is named after the resort’s founder, Edgar B. Stern Jr. Beneath flatscreens broadcasting all manner of sports, Edgar’s Beer and Spirits Lounge offers appetizers, draft and bottled beer, fine wines and cocktails. Thankfully, the bar is aware how confusing Utah liquor laws are to out-of-staters—especially the where’s and why’s of 3.2 beer. So: Should you desire a normal beer’s taste and buzz, order from Edgar’s “Full Strength” menu. -- deervalley.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

PERFECTION IS NEVER OUT OF REACH. wynnlasvegas.com

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

CULTURED ART OF TRAVEL // EYE ON DESIGN // MEET ME THERE // RSVP

Hawaiian Rhapsody Brooklyn-based photographer Kirk Edwards captures the beauty of an island-inspired tradition with HULA, a new book and photography collection. “As a photographer, you find art and inspiration in all that is around you, from the smallest flower to the tallest mountain and all that is in between,” explains Kirk Edwards. His latest inspiration is beautifully embraced in an oversized, leather-bound book titled HULA, which celebrates the ancient Polynesian kahiko dance and the Hawaiian landscape. “I had a rare opportunity to meet incredible dancers and experience their beautiful, sacred world of hula, and its connection to the environment, people, history, and culture. As an artist, the ultimate gift is to experience the power when all those details come together as a collective whole. Travel lends itself to that vision—you discover a new world, its culture, its traditions, food, people and rhythm. But it’s when you bring all those experiences together that you are enriched with a whole new perspective.” To view individual prints and the HULA online gallery visit kirk-edwards.com Dancer Joy Hinojosa wears traditional hula fashion in Hawaii. Photography by Kirk Edwards.

GO > FOR AN AUTHENTIC HAWAIIAN ESCAPE WITH EXCLUSIVE RESORTS VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

Billy Joongoora Thomas. Wangkajungka. Born c.1920. Died 2012. Gunambalayi—Travels of the Black Snake, 2004. Natural earth pigments and synthetic binder on canvas. 59 1/16 x 70 7/8 in. (150 x 180 cm). © Billy Thomas estate, courtesy Red Rock Art, Kununurra.

CULTURED // ART OF TRAVEL

OUTBACK INSPIRED With an eye on Dennis Scholl’s contemporary Australian Aboriginal art, writer Linda Hayes curates a growing art movement that beautifully bucks the norm.

here’s a pattern emerging within the contemporary art world that finds even the most hard-core collectors focused on outsider art—work from artists found on the periphery of the mainstream gallery and museum ecosystem. Take Dennis and Debra Scholl, for instance. Inveterate Miami-based collectors, they have acquired more than 1,500 museum-quality works (300 recently went to the Pérez Art Museum Miami) over four decades. Several years ago, while following another passion—winemaking in the Barossa Valley in South Australia with master sommelier Richard Betts—Dennis took a detour to Sydney. At the Art Gallery of New South Wales, he had an “epiphany moment.”

STAY > NEW MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA THREE 2-BEDROOM, 2-BATH RESIDENCES, IN THE HEART OF SOUTH BEACH. VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/MIAMI

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Paddy Bedford. Gija. Born c.1922. Died 2007. Untitled, 2005. Gouache on paperboard. 20 x 30 in. (51 x 76 cm). © Paddy Bedford estate, courtesy William Mora Galleries, Melbourne.

On Display Sue Hostetler, editor-in-chief of Art Basel magazine, shares top trends within the contemporary art world, from Art Basel in Miami Beach and beyond. CELEBRITY CURATOR Given these famous curators, including Okwui Enwezor (Venice Biennale 2015), Eungie Joo (Sharjah Biennale), Franklin Sirmans (Prospect 3), the omnipresent Massimiliano Gioni (former Venice Biennale curator and current New Museum curator) and Hans Obrist (London’s Serpentine Gallery), the role of curator is more significant and celebrated than ever. These brilliant, trailblazing minds are re-imagining and elevating the contemporary art conversation.

“I’d been looking for something a little closer to the artist, a little more outsider-y,” he explains. “But everything I was looking at (in the Barossa) was tourist art, not very good. The museum in Sydney has a significant collection of Australian Aboriginal art. I realized ‘this is what everyone is talking about.’ I went home and told Debra ‘you’re not going to believe what we’re collecting next.’” True to his word and following his instincts, the Scholls have since acquired a 300-piece collection of contemporary Australian Aboriginal paintings, one of the five largest in the United States. While the collection focuses on abstract painters who had reached senior status in their communities and transcended not only the expectations of those communities but the art world as a whole, it was the intrinsic beauty of the paintings that ultimately drew them in. “There’s a whole spiritual underpinning to the work, which has a 50,000-year-old tradition, and that’s been very intellectually challenging and exciting,” Scholl shares. “But the reason we collect it is that it’s so extraordinary looking. You can disappear into the work in such a profound way. There’s a sense of optics that draws you in from the visual standpoint. It’s very hard to not fall in love with these pieces.”

“There’s a whole spiritual underpinning to the work, which has a 50,000-year-old tradition, and that’s been very intellectually challenging and exciting.” -- Dennis Scholl, art collector More than 75 paintings drawn from the Scholl’s collection, created between 1992 and 2012 by nine trailblazing Aboriginal artists, were shown at an exhibit titled “No Boundaries” at the Pérez Art Museum Miami during Art Basel Miami Beach. Each of the artists, including Warlimpirrnga Tjapaltjarri, Paddy Bedford, and Jananggoo Butcher Cherel, was a respected senior Lawman, knowledgeable in every aspect of Aboriginal ceremonial traditions. As skilled artists, they turned their knowledge into dynamic contemporary art. Their paintings speak across indigenous and Western cultures, a reminder that contemporary art comes from all corners of the globe. “No Boundaries,” which features works rarely seen in the U.S., is currently on a national tour, traveling to distinguished museums, including Nevada Museum of Art (Feb. 14-May 3, 2015), Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (June 20-Aug. 15, 2015), Pérez Art Museum Miami (Sept. 17, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016), Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit (Jan. 17-May 15, 2016), and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University (June 11-Aug. 14, 2016). Collector or not, experiencing such emerging art is becoming easier across the board. “There’s an increasing willingness in America to look at art from all places,” says Scholl, “to break down barriers of insider art that gets shown in Chelsea and at art fairs, for instance, and outsider art. It’s a very positive trend.”

PHYSICAL EXPANSION OF THE ART WORLD From the dozens of private museum spaces in Asia to new galleries in Los Angeles (designed by such architects as Pritzker prize-winning Herzog & de Meuron), the growing global exhibition and sales space for contemporary art is explosive. INTERSECTION OF ART AND FASHION The two are cross-pollinating more than ever. Muicca Prada commissioned six artists to create murals for her catwalk. Marc Jacobs printed Richard Prince pieces on his bags, and Louis Vuitton consistently supports working artists. During its 13-year tenure, Art Basel in Miami Beach and luxury brands such as Bally, Swarovski, and Berlutti have hosted major programs. PUBLIC ART PROJECTS Making art as public as possible reaches the most viewers. Nicholas Baume from New York City’s influential art public fund curated the art public sector at Basel, called “Fieldwork.” Work by such brilliant artists as Elmgreen & Dragset, Ernesto Neto, and Justin Matherly were displayed in Collins Park. ALL’S A GLOBE New art capitals are popping up in the farthest reaches of the world, including Dubai, Istanbul, Rio de Janeiro, and Cuba, spurring more collectors and record auctions than ever.

CULTURED // EYE ON DESIGN LEE’S CURRENT OBSESSIONS Rina Menardi ceramic platters and nesting bowls. “Sculpturally beautiful on their own, but practical for serving ceviche plantains, chips, and guacamole for a taste of Mexico. The collection comes in a variety of beige, greys and blues.” Mario Luca Giusti acrylic goblets. “I love the playfulness. With dining and entertaining, you’ve gotta have fun.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Rectangular Nocciola Wavy Tray ($215); Medium Craquele Triangolo Birch ($355); Night Blue Conchiglia Bowls ($95-$170).

The Elli Vase “For single stems, or the large joke vase for large exotic arrangements or elephant ear palms.” jungleeny.com

Inspired by a trip to Mexico’s Real del Mar, Exclusive Resorts’ new style ambassador, Jung Lee, dishes on her inspiration for the ultimate destination dinner party.

fter a trip to the gorgeous Real Del Mar properties along the Riviera Nayarit, Jung Lee, co-founder and creative director of New York event-design firm Fête and retail shop Jung Lee NY, had a brilliant flash of inspiration. “When I was at the market, there were thousands of beads, organized by color, and a little old man, with a needle and thread, sewing one tiny bead at a time. You look at what they’ve created and it’s countless hours and a labor of love. It’s a deeper appreciation when you see a true artisan making it for you.” From her headquarters in New York, Lee brings her travels to the table, incorporating wanderlust into both once-in-a-lifetime event experiences and everyday objects. When sojourning to that next bucket list locale, Lee lists the following tips and picks for the quintessential bash abroad, or even right at home.

CALL ON COLOR “I’m usually much more of the greyish, neutral family. My natural disposition is not bursts of color. But [after traveling to Mexico] and seeing the color in local shops, it’s so vibrant. You see the commitment that’s poured into it, and you can’t help but fall in love.”

HAUTE CRAFTSMANSHIP

“I was inspired after seeing all that hand embroidery in Mexico. When I’m producing a high-profile wedding and have 300 chairs, if I do 20 of them in

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

hand-embroidered silk covers and you see the texture and color, it comes to life.”

AUTHENTIC & INTERACTIVE

“I’m always looking for amazing experiences, and I think that’s what’s so great about Exclusive Resorts. It’s not just a beautiful home on gorgeous property. It’s that next level. So if I can have a chef that’s showing how to peel an avocado properly, how to make amazing guacamole with beautiful spices, and you see someone actually muddling the fresh lime and the cilantro, it heightens the whole experience and ties in the memory; it makes it interactive. You take home a cool new trick.” TIMING IS EVERYTHING “My clients and the Exclusive Resorts members are all part of the same boat. We can, and have, experienced most anything. The magic of timing and creating unexpected surprises with great meaning is important. If you’re having fun, time is irrelevant. Once we’re all together, it’s a collaborative journey.”

EXPERIENCE > For the host on the go, Exclusive Resorts offers curated dinner party packages and Bride to Be experiences in partnership with Jung Lee. Visit exclusiveresorts.com/jung-lee.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CULTURED // MEET ME THERE

screen shot

TRAVEL EXPERT blogger, and Exclusive Resorts spokesperson D.J. Duckworth showcases best kept destination secrets in her new “Meet Me There” video series.

Exclusive Resorts member and “Meet Me There” host D.J. Duckworth takes the Sundance experience to the streets of Park City + Deer Valley

y inaugural trip to the Sundance Film Festival in 2008 was

September lottery system in order to secure tickets for the January

a true adventure. First, I’m not an avid skier, so I wasn’t

festival—a process, yes, but it ensures entry to films that may (or may

particularly itching to hit the slopes come daybreak. And second, I’m

not) rock your world. Admittedly, I’ve left a few wishing I could have

a casual moviegoer (not the fan awaiting, with bated breath, the next

those two hours of my life back, yet I’ve also attended screenings of

Bradley Cooper premiere). As such, imagine me—in the crux of Park

such Academy Award-winning films as Precious: Based on the Novel

City’s Sundance Film Festival and staying at an incredible Deer Valley

Push by Sapphire. I’ve never cried as much during a film, and left in

ski lodge—without much of a plan! However, it’s since become one of

search of a cocktail and the crisp mountain air!

my most anticipated annual escapes. During that first initiation I discovered how to “Sundance” while not attending screenings or sliding down a steep mountain. Key: Enter the

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Whether visiting in January or June, here are my top 10 favorite places to eat, shop, spa, and celebrate while in Park City and Deer Valley.

ALPINE CHIC D.J.’S HIT LIST FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE CHIMAYO. Amazing food with a Southwest flair and over-the-top presentation. chimayorestaurant.com PANACHE. A well-curated selection of beautiful clothing. Score high-end designers mixed with Diane Von Furstenberg and Mother jeans—the best selection of mountain chic in Park City. panachesunvalley.com HIGH WEST DISTILLERY. Go for the whiskey, stay for the food. Tours showcase how spirits are distilled on site (no reservations). highwest.com SPA AT MONTAGE DEER VALLEY. One of the best spa experiences, ever! The indoor pool and amenities are stellar, as is the view from the terrace overlooking the Wasatch Mountains. montagehotels.com/spamontage/ deervalley/ BANKSY ARTWORK. This graffiti artist has left his mark—or art, rather—on Park City. A few of his pieces are easily spied, but the rat is hidden, as you’d suspect. banksy.co.uk ATTICUS. A great cup of coffee and quick bite, with no fuss. Browse the books and hang with the locals while a talented barista whips up your order. atticustea.com LUNATIC FRINGE. While hats are the Sundance accessories of choice, no one wants hat head. Book your blow out and makeup for a night on the town. lunaticfringesalon.com SLEDDING. After the lifts close, grab a sled and hit the slopes. Some of my favorite memories were made in a sled with my son. visitparkcity.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Sampling margartitas and spare ribs at Chimayo; mountain biking in Park City; D.J. visits The Spa at Montage Deer Valley; the majestic Montage view; sampling the goods at High West Distillery.

MOUNTAIN BIKING. Park City is renowned for its biking trails. Once the snow melts, make a call to All Seasons Adventures and hit the trails on two wheels. allseasonsadventures.com DOLLY’S BOOK STORE. Uncover a compelling selection of books in this local gem (tucked behind a chocolate shop—books and chocolate!). Take both back to the residence and cozy up to the fire. dollysbookstore.com

FOR MORE ON D.J. AND HER “MEET ME THERE” VIDEO SERIES, VISIT YOUTUBE.COM/EXCLUSIVERESORTSCLUB OR IAMDJDUCKWORTH.COM

STAY > TO BOOK EXCLUSIVE RESORTS DEER VALLEY VILLAS, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/MONTAGE; EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/IRONWOOD CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CULTURED // RSVP

INSIDER ACCESS With Exclusive Resorts’ VIP access to special events, including Milan and New York fashion weeks, insider access is runway ready.

Tres chic Style-seekers go behind the scenes at New York and Milan fashion weeks. BY MARIDEL REYES

he glare of the flashbulbs. Pumping music. The crush of the crowds. And the most beautiful clothes you’ll ever see—up close and personal.

Fashion week—whether it’s in New York, Paris, Milan

or London—is not for the faint of heart. But it will always be glamorous.

“EVERYWHERE WE WENT, WE WERE TREATED LIKE ROYALTY, WHETHER IT WAS AT THE FASHION SHOWS, PRIVATE SHOPPING, PRIVATE DINNERS, BEHIND THE SCENES.” - MEMBER, LINDA WEAR Most only observe the twice-yearly designer runway shows from afar. But Exclusive Resorts has been taking members behind the fashion scenes at two of the hottest style cities on the planet. During the Milan and New York collections, members nab backstage access, sit with editors and celebrities at the most buzzed-about fashion shows, and celebrate with designers at official afterparties. This past Fashion Week in New York, celebrity photographer Chiun-Kai Shih, whose work has appeared in GQ, Vogue, August Man, and more, captured top member moments.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Young Voyager’s Camp Set sail on a great adventure with Exclusive Resorts Exclusive Resorts’ first-ever summer camp for kids and teens redefines the traditional sleep-away summer adventure. Hosted on luxury catamarans, Young Voyagers Camp 2015 features week-long, sea-faring adventures to the Caribbean and takes campers ages 10-16 to the islands of St. Barts, St. Martin, and Tintamarre. August 2-9 & August 9-16 ExclusiveResorts.com/yvc • 844.260.0338

Terms and conditions apply. See www.exclusiveresorts.com for more information. Exclusive Resorts and the Exclusive Resorts flower logo are registered trademarks of Exclusive Resorts, LLC. ©2015, Exclusive Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved. CURATED WINTER/SPRING 2015 75

CULTURED

// RSVP Spring Flings Can’t make it to the shows this season? Update your look with these five wearable trends. BOHEMIAN Step out in a softer silhouette. Designers like Valentino, Vera Wang and Joseph Altuzarra sent models out in flowing, diaphanous frocks that looked oh-soromantic. GINGHAM It’s not that innocent anymore. The pattern appeared on everything from minidresses to mink fur coats.

inda Wear, a member from Paradise Valley, Arizona,

A cadre of personal shopping attendants brought in by

used to run a clothing trunk-show business. So when

Exclusive Resorts Director of Events Andy Irvine makes buying

she heard about the Milan Fashion Week event, she and

a breeze. “They were fabulous and very fun,” Wear adds. “All

a friend jumped at the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “The

were extremely professional and made shopping very easy by

best part about Milan Fashion Week was how you were treated,”

getting us into stores where you needed an appointment.”

says Wear, who attended the 2013 collections. “Everywhere we

Chicago-based Lori Schreiber also attended Milan Fashion

went, we were treated like royalty, whether it was at the fashion

Week in 2013. “It may be one of my favorite trips of all time,”

shows, private shopping, private dinners, behind the scenes.”

she recalls. “My favorite part of the Milan week, besides the

Guests often come home from fashion week with more than

incredible runway shows and the amazing shopping, was the

just memories and bragging rights. After attending private

wonderful attention we received. I don’t believe I even carried

presentations at such designer boutiques as Christian

a shopping bag or opened a car door. Everything was ready and

Louboutin and Fendi—and embarking on bespoke shopping

waiting for us at all times. We never had to worry about a thing.

tours and receiving style advice from industry experts—they

Except maybe what to wear, of course!”

often return with a refreshed wardrobe. “My favorite item I

And while this year’s fashion week events schedule is still

picked up was a diamond Bulgari bracelet,” says Wear. “Fendi

being created, Irvine hints that members may have the option

was fantastic, as well as Bulgari, Versace, House of Dior, Dolce

of individualized travel to visit fashion’s most iconic cities.

and Gabanna, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Missoni.” GO > FOR EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL AND SPECIAL EXCLUSIVE RESORTS EVENTS, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS/EVENTS

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

CULOTTES Forget all the uniform-wearing memories the shorts style bring to mind. The latest versions are elegant and versatile. Seriously. Pair it with blazers, tailored button-downs, and high heels. ONE-SHOULDER An evolution of last year’s offthe-shoulder look, arms steal the spotlight in the newest oneshoulder tops and dresses. - MR

Photos by Chiun-Kai Shih

Private shopping at 3x1 Jeans, where each member got a pair of custom jeans; front row at New York Fashion Week; runway ready with top seats; private shopping at BCBG; posing with a male model after runway shows; entry to a fashion-filled weekend.

FRINGE Shake off the winter blues. Spring is all about movement—and flapper-feeling fringe adds the perfect amount of sass to any outfit.

Rediscover the

Joy

of Prepping for

Adventure YO U R P E R S O N A L VA L E T AWA I T S…

T H E Q UA RT E R M A ST E R - C A B I N- S I Z E D LU G GAG E FO R S O P H I ST I C AT E D T R AV E L L E R S

E AC H Q UA RT E R M A ST E R I N C LU D E S T H E 1887 L E AT H E R C LU TC H A N D 10 E XQ U I S I T E C A R RYA L L S

RU N WAY B L AC K WITH EBONY & P LU M I N T E R I O R

• L AUNDRY BAG

C A RG O G R E E N WITH R ANGER & TA N G O I N T E R I O R

• BATH/BEACH BAG • TECH CASE • KNICKERS BAG • VANITY CASE • LIQUIDS CASE

C LO U D W H I T E W I T H S A N D STO N E & CADET INTERIOR

• JEWELS CASE • SHOE SLEEVES (2) • COSMETICS CASE

E B BY R A N E.CO M

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

the

American West, exclusively yours.

For the first time ever Exclusive Resorts members can now use their days for Airstream travel with Airstream 2 Go. Fully outfitted, luxuriously equipped, and complete with a GMC Yukon Denali, three custom, all-inclusive itineraries have been crafted to provide the road trip of a lifetime. To begin planning your exclusive journey through the American West, please visit www.exclusiveresorts.com/airstream2go

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

2015 IN THIS ISSUE > 80 real del mar 88 leica luxury 96 cuba 106 coastal chic 118 chicago bound

Photo by Peter McBride

96 Island hop to Cuba for unforgettable cultural discovery and the robust ryhthm of the Havana streets.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

ODE TO MEXICO WHETHER ON THE HUNT FOR FRESH CATCH IN BANDERAS BAY, SURF IN SAYULITA, OR GOURMET TAPAS IN A QUAINT FISHING VILLAGE, DISCOVER WHY REAL DEL MAR IS THE GEM OF THE RIVIERA NAYARIT.

STORY BY

ERIN LENTZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

STEFANIE MICHEJDA

“Neil Diah-mond o Mexicana tradicionale?” grins Salamon. He tunes his guitarra and strokes a curled mustachio. Cocks an eyebrow. We’ve just taken cover in the rustic kitchen of Serendipity Restaurant & Mezcaleria in Punta Mita—not the typical private dining room for three American touristas. Hurricane Odile has recently dawned and crumpled over Cabo San Lucas, and its little cousin, Tropical Storm Polo, is currently whipping Banderas Bay into a meringue of white caps. After sipping hibiscus-infused mezcalitas under a hauntingly beautiful sky, our al fresco dining plans are waylaid as a mighty orchestra of wind and rain has its own serenade over this quaint little fishing village. After several minutes huddled together near the restaurant’s entrance—now a wind tunnel—and watching two confused Chihuahuas wade through a muddied Main (and only) street, it’s quickly determined to set up camp in the dry cocina. And just like that, best-laid plans sidestepped, the evening becomes a dalliance of unexpected bliss: authentic Oaxacan platas, mas mezcalitas, uninhibited group sing-alongs (“Sweet Caroline” impressive, yet Salamon’s own tunes the stars of the storm). Travel turned experience; journey fine-tuned.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

AQUA ADVENTURE A solo moment at the governmentprotected Marieta Islands near Real del Mar.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

OPPOSITE PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP): Salamon strums his guitar at Serendipity restaurant; tourists tackle downtown Sayulita, cuisine from Casianos in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle; the Sayulita surf break; fresh sangarita juice; Exclusive Resorts concierge David Lozano; muststop shop Revolucion de Sueno; Casianos Chef Carlos Rojas. THIS PAGE: A Sayulita local navigates a Bohemian downtown.

f Mexico has had its own dance in courting northern neighbors, with media often hyping the notorious side of our southern counterpart, the 200-mile Riviera Nayarit and the gorgeous hillside haciendas of the Real del Mar resort are one of this country’s many magnificent gems. Hugged by the Sierra Madre Mountains and the expansive Banderas Bay—a breeding ground for the humpback whale—the Riviera is not only embraced by a strikingly beautiful jungle, but by a soulful community that welcomes those in search of sun, sand, and surf. A 30-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Real Del Mar is a private retreat adjacent to the tiny and decidedly un-tony town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Stereotypical street dogs and chickens line the La Cruz alleys, yet so do mouth-watering ceviche stands, frio coco, and the scent of fresh tamales. As the one-street town of La Cruz snakes northeast, a short hillside climb unveils the gated resort of Real Del Mar. David Lozano, Exclusive Resorts’ head concierge, greets us at the entrance and escorts us to Villa Abanico. With four separated bedrooms and a main living area that overlooks an infinity pool and Banderas Bay, our headquarters allow for both solace and celebration. We quickly find the outdoor terrace our gathering spot for the week—the view of the Madres and the Bay demands it. Our first afternoon is spent at the Real Del Mar Beach Club over fresh mahi mahi and shrimp ceviche. And though Odile, thankfully, has retreated, the bay rumbles with a large swell. As such, talk quickly turns to surfing and the nearby Bohemian beach town of Sayulita.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

Nathalie Mignot (right), owner of gypset-chic Pachamama boutique (above), traveled the world by sailboat for 10 years before calling Sayulita home.

SAYULITA SURF & TURF There are two paths to Sayulita from Real Del Mar—one a longer, serpentine trail of emerald green. Considered the back way, a curvy, two-lane road kisses Jurassic Park-esque jungle. Bobbing along in a rental, heed the left blinker syndrome (left blinker signals the car behind you to pass, not for you to turn) but make time (40 minutes) to travel this route. Canopies of voluptuous trees tent the road, as fruit stands and tiny little villages pepper the route. When arriving in Sayulita proper, expect welcoming locals (more dogs, more chickens), and a funky, festive main village that hugs the town’s centro. The main square is sprinkled with tourists, weathered Mexican cowboys, young skateboarders, yoked local surfers, and a dizzying amount of restaurants—some seemingly tourist traps, others serving spot-on local cuisine and Sayulita charm. We park near Petit Hotel Hafa. On our hit list for its wine and tequila bar, Le Zouave de Hafa, once inside this heart-inspired hotel and boutique, we lasso rusty Spanglish to mine the manager on other top shops. Christophe and Marina Mignot own Hafa, and we’re given directions to his sister, Nathalie Mignot’s, Pachamama boutique. Known among the well-traveled, the Mignots have staked an international claim in the Tahitian black pearl business. With nine siblings amongst an impossibly chic and well-traveled clan, this prominent French family once circled the globe for nearly a decade via sailboat. Christophe and Nathalie found, of all the places they’ve roamed, Sayulita was home. We find Nathalie at her store; an effortless “Gypset” style the backbone of her Pachamama charm. Bellsleeved traditional Mexican caftans, leather-fringed totes, island-inspired art, and Nathalie’s latest obsession—oversized, brilliant dream catchers—all celebrate beach chic. A wealth of leather-embraced black pearl jewels, the Mignot stamp, is prominently displayed. Also exhibited is Assouline’s Gypset Style by author Julia Chaplin; dog-eared pages capture the alluring Mignot clan. “I love that I can walk barefoot, surf every morning, and I love the jungle here,” says Nathalie. Adjacent to her store is the spacious Pachamama art gallery, where on this particular dia oversized photos of her pro-surfer son and beautiful daughter, amongst other locals, showcase various poses with one of Sayulita’s most precious commodities: the coco. Nathalie has been championing her campaign “Toma Coco,” logo-ed in the familiar Coca Cola font, in an effort to promote health and wellness. Employing her camera, she explains, “I register what I see and who I love.” We’re invited to her eclectic home, located above her shop and overlooking Sayulita’s famous break. We acknowledge an enviable surfboard collection. “My library,” she winks. “The ocean is an

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

education.” And after she skillfully hatchets a coconut in her living room, we drink its milk from a communal bowl. Nathalie serves us fresh cactus sprinkled with sea salt and coconut oil (surprisingly delicious) while we smear fresh aloe from her garden on our thirsty skin. Though her rooftop begs for an afternoon siesta, next up is Sayulita surf. If one of this area’s coveted riches is coconut, its gold mine is a beautiful break right off the main drag. And considering Hurricane Odile’s recent wrath, an extra-large swell has recently teased Sayulita locals. As such, the surf community is jubilant. Though certainly no pros (skiers and snowboarders, we’re humbled by the ocean’s ride), a lesson with WildMex Adventures’ Edson finds us catching, and riding, almost every wave tackled. Between whoops, high fives, and grins, perhaps the biggest take-away is found in between sets—a glimpse of the Sayulita coast is at once wild and serene, in many ways a mirror of the funky town. “The ocean will talk to you,” instructs Edson as we attempt to read the sets. Today, the sea is kind to both beginners and local rippers, who master the larger break to our left. Using Edson’s terms, the ocean’s voice has been respected, and playfully answered. We refuel with mahi mahi tacos and margaritas from Restaurant Carmelita, located on the main square. Cheesy, albeit entertaining, American ‘80s videos are looped on the interior TV, and a mix of South African surfers, American tourists, and locals toast each other. Next door, the Yambak Bar sets up for the eve. Owned by Arturo Saucedo, a local surfer, he crafts his own beer—Yambak Stout, Sayulita Pale Ale, and Chango IPA—and has developed a loyal following by staging hip, live music. Yambak’s interior is clad with surprising little vignettes: A shrine to rock legends and classic records, a mural depicting a scene by famous Mexican artist Jos Guadalupe Posada, and a wall of vintage license plates brought by a late New Yorker with a passion for the Bohemian lifestyle. We linger over the pale ale, our favorite, and as Arturo explains his plans to move his brewery on premise, we receive a local tutorial on the underground Mexican DJ scene. Don Julio Blanco is passed, though we call it an early night, as tomorrow we’re off to the famous Hidden Beach.

BEACH BOUND “We never spot a California sea lion!” yells David, our Vallarta Adventures tour guide. It’s 9 a.m. and we’ve just left La Cruz Marina, a five-minute drive from Real Del Mar, on a private boat charter. While admiring a fleet of yachts as we set out to sea, our boat is greeted by an unlikely visitor—a skinny sea lion that plays by the bow and then climbs the rocky shore to pose. David, a young dive master and aspiring marine biologist, flashes a contagious smile. The day’s fortunate tone is set. After watching the lion sunbathe, our captain steers southwest to the famous Marieta Islands. A 40-minute boat ride from Real Del Mar, this natural sanctuary, though at times overrun with tourists, should remain top of the Riviera Nayarit checklist; there’s reason the legendary Jacques Cousteau pleaded with the Mexican government in the ‘60s to declare the islands off limits to inhabit. You can admire Marieta’s magical face from the boat, but you may no longer trample her delicate skin. The islands’ history is one of conflict—in the early 1900s the Mexican government conducted military tests, bombing the area. Eventually an international uproar, started by the outspoken Cousteau, led to protection of the islands, declaring them a national park. A favorite way to experience Marieta’s beauty is by swimming through a narrow arch to one of her most famous hidden beaches. A volcanic, cavernous shell, the top of it collapsed, and the result is azul waters and white sand topped with a circular gateway to, on the ideal day, a beautiful blue sky. A short swim through the 50-foot tunnel with David (who guides us through the six-foot airspace) once inside, visitors are privy to this national treasure. On a busy day, expect to navigate a sea of orange life vests, too (some tour boats carry groups of 100 and more), but it’s worth the trip regardless. Lady Luck’s on our side, and after enjoying the Hidden Beach all to ourselves, our private

Yambak Bar owner Arturo Saucedo crafts Mexican micro-brews and stages a hip underground DJ scene.

I LOVE THAT I CAN WALK BAREFOOT, SURF EVERY MORNING, AND I LOVE THE JUNGLE HERE. - Nathalie Mignot

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

STAY: REAL DEL MAR 15 expansive 4- and 5-bedroom Real del Mar luxury villas perched hillside above a secluded beach

• Locally inspired architectural elements and authentic, colorful design • Private hot tubs

• Yoga on the beach, volleyball or paddleboard lessons

• Spacious outdoor patios with grill and dining areas

• Daily in-residence breakfast

• Private fitness center

• Private golf carts

• Access to the ultra-private Real del Mar Beach Club

• Gourmet kitchens

• Real del Mar Health & Holistic Beauty Center

• Tennis courts

• Private infinity-edge pools

•

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

• Kids activities, including arts and crafts and movie nights

GO REAL DEL MAR SHOP Pachamama Boutique Bohemian beach chic and black pearl gems. pachamamasayulita.com.mx Revolucion de Sueno Artsy and whimsical Mexican finds. revoluciondelsueno.com Hafa Boutique Heart-inspired goods and beautiful pearls. hotelhafasayulita.com Artefakto Unique and funky home décor. EAT Real Del Mar Beach Club Incredible views and ceviche. exclusiveresorts.com Serendipity Restaurant & Mezcaleria Hibiscus-infused mezcalitas and Oaxacan cuisine. Sayulita’s festive main street; the hibiscus mezcalita from Serendipity restaurant, topped with a tasty chili pepper rim.

Casianos Sea-to-table tasting menu. casianos.com La Terraz Ola Beach Bar & Restaurant Cucumber margs a must. Restaurant Carmelita Amazing fish tacos, in the heart of town.

charter (which accommodates up to eight) also allows for ample time to watch the Marietas bird convention: rare, blue-footed boobys and magnificent frigate birds. Next, we visit another nearby island to snorkel and standup paddleboard. Underwater, we spy playful blue angelfish, parrotfish, and a stealthy tiger eel. Also a coveted dive spot, when visibility is good, a brilliant coral landscape gives reason to pause. On the way home, a huge sea turtle surfaces near the boat. David smiles, “Thanks to God for our blessings today.” Hidden Beach a trip highlight, we celebrate a blessed Mexican sojourn with a culinary finale at Casianos Restaurant in La Cruz. We’re treated to a private Don Julio tequila sampling and a five-course tasting menu. Tucked away in a tiny, unassuming locale off the main drag, this discreet gem is helmed by Executive Chef Carlos Rojas. His inspiration is simple and written on the wall: “No menu. No rules. Spontaneous cuisine.” Rojas combs local markets for nightly inspirations. As such, we’re served such knockouts as shrimp ravioli with corn and ginger sauce paired alongside salmon with cauliflower puree and chipotle sausage, and mahi mahi with crab and cilantro risotto and balsamic. “I don’t go into the markets to make something,” Rojas says. “I look for what’s fresh.” With an outpost in San Jose del Cabo, too, Casianos attracts diners typically staying at Real del Mar or posh Punta Mita resorts. Its refined, free-form cuisine and the staff’s passion for the region are authentic. The result, a culinary tour de force. We’ve been invited to a full-moon party in Sayulita, followed by live music at Yambak. Though tempted, we decide on a last night spent at our Real del Mar villa. Sun-kissed, bellies full, and just the right amount of local tequila, we tee up the iPod with retro ‘80s music and have our own full moon dance party. We toast a trip blessed with laughter and discovery. And in honor of Salamon’s serenade at Serendipity restaurant, we belt Sweet Caroline but practice a recently taught, authentic Mexican dance. We channel Nathalie’s gypsy spirit, and smile as bright as David. Tomorrow may call for real world re-entry, but the unsuspected journey has been instrumental.

Bar La Isla Rustic beachside bar with swings as seats and $20, 60-minute massages. juntoalrio.com Farmer’s Market Mercado del Pueblo at the Casa de Cultura, Sayulita (Fridays during high season, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.) PLAY Wild Mex Surf & Adventure Skilled and friendly surf instructors and surf camps. wildmex.com Vallarta Adventures Private boat charters to Hidden Beach, scuba, snorkel, and more. vallarta-adventures.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

shot on site WITH THE NEW LEICA ON LOAN PROGRAM AND DESTINATIONS IN FOCUS WEEKENDS, EXCLUSIVE RESORTS MEMBERS AND LEICA AKADEMIE INSTRUCTORS CURATE A WORLD IN BRILLIANT FOCUS.

WINTER 2015

t’s true a picture can be worth a thousand words. Or, rather, an authentic photograph may ignite an internal conversation that words simply can’t convey. Just as important to the journey may be what’s captured during that unexpected detour or lively encounter with a local—a significant moment perpetuated through the lens of a well-focused camera. “Travel photography should go beyond simply recording where you have been,” says photographer and Leica Akademie North American Manager Tom A. Smith. “I want to capture the way a place made me feel. The best images can provide a return ticket to a moment otherwise lost.” Launched in late 2013, Exclusive Resorts’ Destinations in Focus weekends—a collaboration with the German-based Leica Camera, an iconic mainstay in both equipment and photographic education—take travelers and shutter bugs on four-day experiential excursions to Exclusive Resorts’ most coveted locales, including Costa Rica, Mexico, Arizona, and Georgia, among others. And via the Leica on Loan Program, guests now have complimentary access to the brand’s iconic line of cameras and sport optics while vacationing. Travelers pick from the revolutionary brand’s equipment, whether the WiFi-enabled Leica C or the coveted Leica M, and the tools of the trade are available in residence or shipped to their home pre-journey. Posttrip, the images on these pages reveal that, whether a pro or novice, beauty is not just in the eye of the beholder, but is forever captured through imagination and an idyllic palette—landscapes and destinations that both inspire and connect.

CURATED

AQUA ADVENTURE uis Autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse Molestie Consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros Et Accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit Praesent Luptatum.

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Chip Litherland Where: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Mexico Inspiration: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I loved the blue of the VW bug mixed with the raindrops and splashes of color by the toys in the car window. It felt more painterly than a photograph.â&#x20AC;? Exposure: ISO 400, f/6.8 at 1/250 The Gear: Leica M 240, 50mm f/1.4

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Tom A. Smith Where: Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica Tips of the Trade: “When you make photographs is as important as what you photograph. Plan your day around the light. Get up early, nap in the afternoon, and shoot the sunset at day’s end.” Exposure: 1/250 of a sec @ F4.5 The Gear: Leica X-Vario

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Tom A. Smith Where: Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica Tips of the Trade: “Good stories have details! Don’t forget to include the details of your vacation.” Exposure: 1/250 of a sec @ F4.5 The Gear: Leica D-Lux

FROMTHE THEFIELD FIELD FROM Photographer Photographer: Tom A. Smith TK Where: Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica Inspiration Tips of the Trade: “The TK world is threedimensional. Use framing elements to increase Exposure the sense of depthTK in a photograph.” The Camera Exposure: 1/250 of a sec @ F4.5 whichever TheLeica Gear:TKLeica X-Vario model used

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Tom A. Smith Where: Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica Tips of the Trade: “Perspective. Find an angle that is most interesting. Changing your point of view can make all the difference in the final image.” 18 1/250 CURATED Exposure: of a secWINTER @ F4.5 2015 The Gear: Leica D-Lux

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Chip Litherland Where: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Mexico Inspiration: “In the fish market, you can literally buy fish as they are taken off the boats and laid into the bed of ice. Each fish has its own color and vibrancy especially against the white of the ice.” Exposure: ISO 400, f/2.8 at 1/250 The Gear: Leica M 240, 50mm f/1.4

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Chip Litherland Where: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Mexico Inspiration: “These fishing boats, located outside the fish market, all have their own identity and personality. Once tied up, they’ve gone to sleep for the day until they go back out for the next day’s catch.” Exposure: ISO 400, f/6.8 at 1/500 The Gear: Leica M 240, 50mm f/1.4

FROM THE FIELD Photographer: Chip Litherland Where: Sayulita, Mexico Inspiration: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sayulita is one of my favorite places on this planet and is always hopping with surfers, shoppers, and tourists. Something about the quietness of the pelicans against the bright blue sky and the lonely branch reduced all that to its naturalistic origins.â&#x20AC;? Exposure: ISO 400, f/5.6 at 1/4000 The Gear: Leica M 240, 28mm f/2.8

the cadence of

CUBA

With the U.S. policy toward Cuba shifting, this long-forbidden island has quickly jumped rank on personal map quests. A tour of Havana with National Geographic photographer, writer, and filmmaker Peter McBride reveals the rhythm of these storied streets can be bittersweet, yet dances with a culture and community as authentic as its Caribbean history.

round every crumbling corner, the rhythmical cadence of rumba and son, the musical signature of this Caribbean island, echoes down the street. The beat—a sultry, steady cadence—one, two… one, two, three… one, two— perfectly aligns with my pedestrian tempo. As I leave one block behind, another pocket of rumba floats toward me. It seems there is a band or musician behind every pastel-painted wooden door, linking the island beat from home to home. Even the clip-clop of horse hooves on stone falls into rhythm. The clank of a purple cruiser, built before Kennedy was president, rumbles past. Its tail fins sashay under a tired suspension as it motors into the dusk light. Otherwise, these streets are empty of wheeled traffic. Over the last 15 years, I have visited Cuba and these streets five times, working as a photographer and

journalist for magazines including National Geographic. I’ve captured stories on varied subjects, from Olympic athletes and tobacco farmers to diving with sharks and stalking tarpon on the island’s pristine marine parks. I’ve even followed some of the island’s famous musicians, finding my own beat with the members of Buena Vista Social Club and the Afro Cuban Allstars. Along the way, I toured music schools and too many musty cafes to recall, but my feet have retained a few amateur salsa steps. As the U.S. and Cuba step toward a warmer relationship, I wonder how life will change here and at what pace. From my limited perspective, rethinking the embargo is long overdue. The only visible affects I’ve noted from this U.S. policy are that it challenged the simple needs of local Cubans. Walking the streets, I ponder Cuban life as I look for an old friend.

Cuba’s rhythm and son, the island’s musical signature, is most alive on local Havana streets, where a vibrant community gracefully dances.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The island’s farm-to-hand tobacco, one of its many claims to fame; an older Papi flashes a smile as dynamic as his local community; the author, who has visited Cuba five times, says “Papi was one of my favorite fixers.”; Papi’s hometown Havana street, where the author returned in hopes to find his Cuban friend.

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

LIKE MOST CUBANS, HE HAD THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT OF A SILICON VALLEY STARTUP JUNKIE BUT THE WARMTH OF THE

CARIBBEAN IN HIS SOUL.

STREET-SAVVY HAVANA Despite the politics, there is a fiery, messy vitality that defines Havana life and caresses every corner of this weathered port. It dances around me. Kids play stickball mid-street; the home plate a rusty manhole cover. The air is warm and salty. The sun, now a giant, blood-orange lazy orb, bleeds behind a weathered skyline. I’m sauntering a few blocks off the Malecon, near such tourist spots as the Florida Hotel and La Bodeguita del Medio, the alleged birthplace of the mojito and haunt of Ernest Hemingway. I’m looking for Papi, a friend I met years prior. Since then, I’ve only heard from him once via a weathered, snail-mail letter written in Spanish. He asked when I was coming back. It was signed “tu hermano (your brother), Papi.” The return address offered Habana Vieja, Cuba. Nothing more. The letter had been carried by a traveler and mailed from an airport. Postmark, Texas. Without a proper mailing address, there’s little confidence in a post getting past the doors of an unpredictable embargo with a dated postal service. As such, I’m responding to Papi in person, by showing up, old school, at his doorstep. A promise I’m hoping to realize. I’m not sure he still lives here, or if he is even alive. On this return trip, my fifth, I find that the majority of Cuba and much of Havana remain timeless, with the exception of some new and unfamiliar development. The changes aren’t huge, but just enough to confuse my dusty memory and inner compass. Private restaurants are now more common, as are cell phones (service weak and inconsistent), both of which didn’t exist on my first visit a decade earlier. The most obvious change, however, isn’t what’s new, but what’s missing. Socialist propaganda signs in Spanish, which blanketed every corner during my visits in the 2000s—signs proclaiming “Work Hard and Beat Imperialism,” “Viva la Patría,” and “Until Victory”—are surprisingly gone from hand-painted, wooden billboards and concrete walls. Perhaps it’s the sign of changing times. Fidel has passed and Raul has been in control for probably longer than most admit. During my time dancing through this forbidden realm, I’ve learned I’m never completely in tune with the Havana rhythm. No matter how hard I try, I am always a step behind the real pace, be it on the dance floor, or be it the truth on the streets. As a result, I always seek local insight to navigate the labyrinth of the Castro world. These street-savvy locals can decipher the secrets that cloak much of this political island and have helped me do my job more effectively. Papi was one of my favorite fixers. We met on the street. He was in his early 20s at the time and bubbling with youthful energy. He wanted to practice his English with me, and quickly proved to be a logistical wizard. He found a cherry, white-vinyl-seated convertible Oldsmobile for me, with red trim, tail fins, and fuzzy dice (the full works, perfect for a travel story), for a quarter of the tourist price. After that, I hired Papi for any logistical Havana hurdle. He used his Cubano street savvy to land me a better deal or discover secret gems, ones I’d never uncover on my own, such as hidden restaurants or rumba concerts tucked away in artsy alleys. Cuba is a treasure trove of cultural jewels but sometimes you need a navigator to find them.

My favorites are small, non-descript homes that, only through local connections, you learn can double as headquarters for voodoo doctors that read past and future (hauntingly well), or serve as secret poetry societies and weekly rumba jams. “Rumba Alley” is just that, an alley, but loaded with art. On Sundays it explodes in a cacophony of all-age dancing which made the feet of my soul boogie. During the trip I met Papi, I hosted a party for him and his family at their home—my form of a thank you—the night before I departed the island. It was also an authentic way to see the “real Cuba” by spending time in Papi’s world. We ate, drank, and salsa-ed merrily inside the high-ceiling, one-bedroom, art-deco apartment, which Papi had retrofitted into a two-story family home. This cheerful, endlessly wheeling-and-dealing kid had lassoed the time and resources to stretch his average $15-a-month Cuban salary into a full apartment remodel. He created a bedroom for his mother and younger sister, and built a loft for himself. His father had passed years earlier, so Papi was living up to his name. I brought a case of Cuba’s finest, Cristal beer, and Papi’s mother whipped up a traditional meal of yucca, rice, and beans. It was a memorable goodbye to a friend I feared I potentially may never see again. When I rallied at 5 a.m. the following morning for my flight to Mexico, Papi was waiting at the door of my rented apartment, (cheaper than hotels, equally safe and legal). “Can I please come visit you Pedro?” he asked tearfully. I told him I didn’t know how he could. I honestly didn’t know how to help. But I replied, optimistically, that I’d return one day and find him. With that, I gave Papi what little cash I had left and my running shoes, a white pair of Nikes straight off my feet. They were slightly worn, but in good shape. I knew they would be gold to him—a tip he’d cherish more than cash, at least for a few months. Now, years later, I am attempting to live up to my promise, but only if I can find my friend. Without an email, cell phone, or physical mailing address, my only option is to revisit his home. I am also carrying a new pair of running shoes for him. I figure he is long overdue for an upgrade.

CARS, CIGARS & LOCAL FLAVOR What consistently fascinates me about this Communist enclave is the spirit and warmth of its people, whether they want to be there or not. It’s poor on many economic levels, but surprisingly rich in humanity— especially on the street. Behind government doors, I’ve witnessed families drown beneath the weight of bureaucracy and even corruption. But on the street, the country’s living room, genuine hospitality is often king. As a way to return the many gestures of local kindness, I always bring small gifts that Cubans can’t easily find—pens, toothbrushes, baseball mitts, bats. One colleague once brought a used violin for the music school. The student wept, and then played the most magical string version of “Guantanamera,” a Cuban classic, that I’ve ever heard. Such gifts, even trivial, material American items, can be significant to Cubans. And the display of gratitude is profund.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

Known as much for its spiritual celebrations as Havana cars, cigars, and culture, the island’s colonial churches demand full attention. OPPOSITE PAGE: A bustling Havana centro, where a gracious local community awaits.

That white, 1960 Oldsmobile Papi scored became a passport to discover rural Cuba and meet lifelong friends. The driver, a round, gentle man named Chino, quickly became my surrogate guide, watchdog, and buddy. He toured me to hidden beaches, tobacco farms, the UNESCO World Heritage site in the village of Trinidad, and Ernest Hemingway’s home, where, in 1951, he penned the Pulitzer-Prize winning The Old Man and the Sea. Today it’s a museum maintained in its original state, with typewriters and even a journal handwritten directly on the bathroom wall where Hemingway recorded his body weight. My gift for Chino was two cases of spark plugs utilized for pre-1960 American cars. His jaw nearly hit the steering column when I handed them over as an early thank you. No money could have enabled him to procure such parts. “You just added years to my ride, Pedro. Gracias.” Chino said, slightly emotional. We’ve stayed friends and crossed paths three times, but only in Cuba. That gift, I believe, also led to a one-leaf cigar experience, as Chino demanded I try a “real cigar,” “not the ones sold to gringos.” I told him I wasn’t a big smoker but he insisted I needed to experience this. So on a humid afternoon, on a farm in the remote hills of Viñales—some three hours outside of Havana—we sat on the veranda of Chino’s friend’s house, drinking rum. Children laughed and music lilted behind the house. Chickens roamed and two horses stood near the front door, saddled, awaiting riders. The scene felt like the verse of a Gabriel Garcia Marquez poem. The farmer then produced the sweetest cigar I’ve ever smoked. It didn’t

100

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

come from a nearby factory or a climate-controlled box. He just rolled one tobacco leaf that he had grown behind the house and dried in his barn. I marveled how the flavors tasted more like a creamy dessert than a cigar. As if thinking to himself aloud, the farmer stated, “Life in Cuba on $60 a month is perfect. Education, food, medicine, ocean, and good friends …” He paused and looked down at the red dirt. “Too bad we only make $10-20 a month.” His words rang true. Everything I’ve ever witnessed in Cuba is nearly perfect. I don’t romanticize the Cuban world. For us travelers, it’s easy to get swept up in its romance—the music, warm culture, and timeless antiques. In the perfectly preserved, 19th century, colonial village of Trinidad, some five hours inland from Havana, I witnessed a cowboy on horseback serenade a woman on a second-story balcony. His baritone voice echoed down the cobblestone street. The scene so perfect I thought it must be a movie in the making. Just young love. But behind such romantic charm, I also have too many friends like Papi that have struggled to get ahead. I respect the impressive 96 percent literacy rate. Women enjoy a progressive, extended maternity leave, and for the most part, the majority of residents enjoy some level of healthcare. You rarely, if ever, glimpse a homeless person. Yet Cubans such as Papi should have more opportunities to pursue their dreams. Warmer relations with the U.S. might help. But I’ve also seen enough on this marvelous planet to know that development can be double edged. As political tensions soften, it’s hard to say how the Cuban Castro economy will leap into the modern world. Perhaps more Cubans will make $60 a

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

101

OPPOSITE PAGE: A local fisherman, whose surrounding azul office is also a playground for tarpon fishing. ABOVE: Local musicians liven the Havana streets with an impromptu al fresco concert; a local street dance showcases the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poetic pace. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

103

WELCOME TO CUBA,

WHERE LEMONADE IS MADE DAILY, OFTEN WITHOUT EVEN LEMONS. month, or more. Hopefully estranged families will reunite after years apart and hard-working folks like Papi can afford new running shoes. But I wonder what may become of the magical, poetic pace and horseback serenades that can, at times, appear idyllic and dreamy to high-paced Western neighbors. What may happen to hand-rolled, one-leaf cigars, the sleepy, horse-and-buggy roads, and the pulse of rumba that gyrates throughout Havana’s alleys?

LOST & FOUND Back in Havana, after a fruitless few hours hunting my friend, I’m lost. Crumbling and being rebuilt in tandem, every building looks similar. I can’t find the blue door to Papi’s pad—a four-story colonial design with arched balconies. Before giving up, I decide to test my luck Cuban style; I ask the first person I see, a middle-aged woman confidently wearing a red spandex jumper (trendy Cuban fashion at the time). Papi is a generic nickname in Cuba, but this kid was special. Like most Cubans, he had the entrepreneurial spirit of a Silicon Valley startup junkie but the warmth of the Caribbean in his soul. And his smile stretched the length of his neighborhood street. I had a feeling everyone knew Papi, if he was still here. “Do you know a guy named Papi? He lives somewhere on this street I believe, mid-twenties, big smile?” I ask in my best Spanish. The woman nods, walks across the street, and talks to an elderly lady. Thirty seconds later, I hear voices ricocheting from balcony to balcony down streets and alleys, hollering over the percussion of more rumba. “Tell Papi there is a gringo here for him.” Cuba’s wireless, social network at its best. Within minutes, a lanky, mid 20s Papi trots down the street. He looks

104

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

anxious and ready to hustle a deal. I’m sure he has met hundreds of tourists over the years and probably can’t recall most. He looks all business as he saunters my way. But when he sees me, a smile creeps across his face. I can see the memory gears in his head ticking over. “Remember me, Papi?” I ask. “Peeeedro. Ha! I knew you would come back. Que rico!” He gives me a bone-jarring hug, then adds, “Quick, come back to my house. You have to see my mother.” We walk quickly, catching up while en route. His life is good, but hard, he says. There are signs of stress and fatigue on his face, lines I don’t recall from my last visit. He also seems hurried. We enter the blue door (I was a block off) and climb the stairs to his loft. A new rumba song beats nearby. This time, the lead singer a woman. Different block, different band. Before we meet his mother, Papi tells me he wants to show me something. He pulls a plastic bag from underneath his bed and delicately reveals the shiniest, whitest pair of Nike running shoes I’ve ever seen. Newer than nuevo. “Your shoes, Pedro, remember?” I’m shocked. Welcome to Cuba, where lemonade is made daily, often without even lemons. “It looks like you are ready for a new pair,” I say, smiling. I pull the new sneakers from my backpack. Papi’s grin grows wider and his youthful spark reappears. He replies, “Good to see you, hermano.” Peter McBride traveled to Cuba on a Foreign Correspondent Visa. This story, and its contents, in no way represents the activities that will be part of the people-to-people trips operated by Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC for Exclusive Resorts members in 2015.

OPPOSITE PAGE (FROM LEFT): The historic Hemingway Museum preserves the desk where the Old Man and the Sea was penned; Cuban flare isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for humans. ABOVE: A colonial street in neighboring Cuban historic gem, Trinidad, where the author witnessed this cowboy serenade his true love. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

105

MOD PURSUIT

INSPIRED BY ‘60S PHOTOGRAPHER SLIM AARONS’ JET-SET STYLE, A SOJOURN TO NEWPORT’S THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL ® CELEBRATES THE RETRO CULTURE OF THE CALIFORNIA COAST. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOVE SHORE

106

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

| STYLING BY LEAH ADICOFF

ON JULIA: Abito doppiopetto red dress, Elisabetta Franchi ($375), Elisabettafranchi. com. Black pom headpiece, Hartfield Studio, ($100), Hartfieldstudio.com. Octavia white marble clutch, Ashlynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d (price upon request), ashlynd.com. ON PAUL: Wellar HC Jacket, Theory, Barneys ($545); barneys.com. Stripe Linen T shirt, The Kooples, Bloomingdales ($110), bloomingdales.com. Mick Skinny fit jeans, J Brand, Neiman Marcus ($185), neimanmarcus.com. Classic Wayfarer sunglasses, Ray-Ban, Neiman Marcus ($155), neimanmarcus.com.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

107

ON JULIA: White cat -eye sunglasses, Miu Miu ($314), miumiu.com. Mini abito dolcevita dress, Elisabetta Franchi ($375). elisabettafranchi. com. Ponyhair coat, Longchamp ($4,335), longchamp.com. BB suede point toe pumps, Manolo Blahnik ($595), monoloblahnik.com. ON PAUL: Byard suit jacket, Paul Smith, Barneys ($1,295), barneys.com. Classic turtleneck sweater, Saint Laurent, Barneys ($1,490), barneys. com. Marlo U Lazerus Pants, Theory, Bloomingdales ($245), bloomingdales.com. Vintage creeper 108 shoes WINTER/SPRING and hat. 2015 CURATED

ON JULIA: White pleat dress, 3.1 Phillip Lim (price upon request), 31philliplim. com. Lesani pink jacket, Escada ($1,450), Escada Beverly Hills, 9502 Wilshire Boulevard, us.escada.com. Black Octagon cut clutch, Rauwolf, Tinker Tailor ($1,595), tinkertailor.com. ON PAUL: Wellar HC Jacket, Theory, Barneys ($545), barneys.com. Marlo U Lazerus pants, Theory, Bloomingdales ($245), bloomingdales.com. Sylvain Sport Shirt, Theory, Barneys ($195), barneys.com. Vintage shoes. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

109

110

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Bakhta polka dot blazer, Escada, Escada Beverly Hills ($1,925), 9502 Wilshire Boulevard, us.escada.com. Tina polka dot pant, Escada, $1,125 (SEE ABOVE). Ivory top, Longchamp ($285); longchamp. com. Black flats, ballet beautiful, Tinker Tailor ($280); tinkertailor.com. Mood ring, Hartfield Studio, ($200), hartfieldstudio.com.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

111

Vintage black hat. Belvin VP Voedar Coat in camel, Theory, Neiman Marcus ($745); neimanmarcus.com. Herringbone roll neck sweater, Alexander McQueen, Barneys, ($1,395), barneys.com. Vintage Dior tuxedo pants. Lace up boot, Alberto Guardiani (price upon request), albertoguardiani.com.

112

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Pratt Blouse, Dear Creatures, ($73), dearcreatures.com. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

113

114

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

ON JULIA: Locked Dress, Thomas Wylde, ($1,750), thomaswylde.com. ON PAUL: Byard suit jacket , Paul Smith, Barneys ($1,295), barneys.com. Signature Paris collar shirt, Saint Laurent, Barneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ($570); barneys.com. Vintage Dior pants. LUGGAGE: The Quartermaster by Ebby Rane in cloud white with sandstone and cadet interior ($1,145); ebbyrane.com

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

115

RESORT CHIC Get runway ready with fashion shows, etiquette classes, and California shopping at The Resort at Pelican Hill.

nown for both Hollywood glam and bohemian chic, California style setters and visitors flock to Newport Beach for fabulous fashion. And The Resort at Pelican Hill, a 504-acre property that opened in 2008 to rave reviews, offers complimentary shuttles to the famous Fashion Island® . The resort grounds, however, may be challenging to leave. And with Exclusive Resorts’ five, threebedroom villas on property, accommodations are as intriguing as Newport’s gorgeous coastline. With 54 holes of golf on Tom-Fazio designed courses (including nearby Oak Creek Golf Club), this coastal retreat has coveted tee times. In between fashion foraging on-property at The Shops at Pelican Hill (Allegra and the Spa Boutique are musts), take part in the resort’s seasonal La Bella Moda fashion series, which stages top trends at Andrea Ristorante. Or book one of the resort’s etiquette classes, led by Kathleen Cover, who helps wedding guests, children, and Newport locals finetune social and dining skills. Don’t miss the new Pelican Grill Tasting Table, where guests can watch Chef Luke Turpin in action while dining on local cuisine sourced from nearby Irvine Ranch. Cap the stay with an 80-minute Coastal Renewal Treatment at The Spa at Pelican Hill. If a girls’ trip, book the Spa Suite for the ultimate in private pampering. PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANCE BY Mat Dustin & Isaac Sterling STYLING ASSISTANCE BY Sarah Hertzog HAIR BY Luke Chamberlain MAKEUP BY Mia Yang of Atelier Management MODEL Julia for NEXT Models MODEL Paul for NEXT Models

SHOOT LIKE SLIM AARONS Celebrated for iconic, jet set photography, Slim Aarons chronicled the good life from the 1940s-70s. Decades later, his photos still serve as inspiration for the fashion and design industry. Learn to shoot like Slim alongside his daughter Mary Aarons and Leica Camera for a four-day photography workshop, held in Las Vegas May 14-17. The event includes private instruction from Leica Akademie photographers and access to $100,000 worth of Leica camera equipment.

STAY > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/NEWPORTBEACH

116

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

ON PAUL: Vintage mock turtle neck navy shirt. Vintage leather cap. 3 in one black jacket, Theory, Neiman Marcus ($675), neimanmarcus. com. Slim 5 pocket pant, Theory, Neiman Marcus ($225); neimanmarcus.com. ON JULIA: Cashmere long sleeve dress, Maison Ullens ($1,525), maisonullens.com.

True to his word and following his instincts, the Scholls have since acquired a 300-piece collection of contemporary Australian Aboriginal paintings, one of the five largest in the United States. While the collection focuses on abstract painters who had reached senior status in their communities and transcended not only the expectations of those communities but the art world as a whole, it was the intrinsic beauty of the paintings that ultimately drew them in. “There’s a whole spiritual underpinning to the work, which has a 50,000-year-old tradition, and that’s been very intellectually challenging and exciting,” Scholl shares. “But the reason we collect it is that it’s so extraordinary looking. You can disappear into the work in such a profound way. There’s a sense of optics that draws you in from the visual standpoint. It’s very hard to not fall in love with these pieces.” More than 75 paintings drawn from the Scholl’s collection, created between 1992 and 2012 by nine trailblazing Aboriginal artists, were shown at an exhibit titled “No Boundaries” at the Pérez Art Museum Miami during Art Basel Miami Beach. Each of the artists, including Warlimpirrnga Tjapaltjarri, Paddy Bedford, and Jananggoo Butcher Cherel, was a respected senior Lawman, knowledgeable in every aspect of Aboriginal ceremonial traditions. As skilled artists, they turned their knowledge into dynamic contemporary art. Their paintings speak across indigenous and Western cultures, a reminder that contemporary art comes from all corners of the globe.

Photography Assistance by Mat Dustin & Isaac Sterling Styling Assistance by Sarah Hertzog Hair by Luke Chamberlain for TK Makeup by Mia Yang of Atelier Management Model Julia for NEXT Models Model Paul for NEXT Models Notes for Erin: Resort at Pelican Hill: Complimentary Shuttles to Fashion Island Fashion Shows at Andrea Seasonal etiquette soirees New Pelican Grill Tasting Table (see iPhone notes) Brief ER info on Slim Aarons campaign

TK Duis Autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse Molestie Consequat, feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros Et Accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit Praesent Luptatum. CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

117

118

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Windy City inWinter? Pack your warmest coat and prepare for a tour of Chicago. With these haunts and happenings, this urban escape remains on our hot list, even during the big chill. BY NICOLE FREHSEE MAZUR

isiting Chicago during winter is not for the faint of heart: The average daytime temperature during February is a blisteringly cold 26.4 degrees and it often dips much lower (There’s a reason The Weather Channel ranked Chicago the sixth coldest major U.S. city in 2014.). Then there’s the snow, which topped 67 inches last year, and the grey skies—the sun peeks out only 44 percent of the time in the winter months.

Yet, if willing to brave the weather, a Chicago visit during off-peak

months makes for an exciting weekend jaunt. Countless indoor activities make the Windy City worth visiting when the mercury drops, including eating, drinking, shopping, and checking out Chicago’s bevy of theaters, museums, music, and comedy. Plus, with fewer tourists clogging the streets, dinner reservations and theater tickets are likely easier to score, museums are less crowded, and browsing the trendiest shops is a breeze. Herewith, your itinerary for the ultimate Chicago weekend.

FRIDAY Project Runway Anyone with an eye for fashion will drool over the designs showcased in Chicago Styled, a new exhibit at the Chicago History Museum that chronicles the decades-long growth of the city’s famed Michigan Avenue (a.k.a. the Magnificent Mile) into one of America’s most prominent shopping districts. But be warned: After perusing the exhibit, which features both new and vintage pieces by designers like Chanel and Gianni Versace, you might be inspired to hit the street’s luxury boutiques (everything from Burberry to Salvatore Ferragamo) for a shopping spree. 1601 N. Clark St.; chicagohistory.org

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

119

A Taste of Italy

Daytime Play Time It’s no secret Chicago is a die-hard sports town. Experience the fandom firsthand at the year-old Chicago Sports Museum, an ode to all things Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks, and Bulls. The space features interactive exhibits (shoot free throws as Scottie Pippen), unique artifacts (like Sammy Sosa’s cork-filled bat) and a room devoted to Chicago sports curses and superstitions. 835 N. Michigan Ave.; harrycarays.com/chicagosportsmuseum

Tokyo with a Twist It’s time to eat again. Head to Momotaro, a three-floor, 11,000-sqaure-foot space which features modern Japanese cuisine. The newest venture from the Boka Restaurant Group is “the most ambitious restaurant we’ve ever done,” say its owners. With two chefs (one of them a Tokyo-trained, Michelin-starred sushi master) and a seven-page menu that offers everything from robata-grilled meats to seasonally inspired entrees, it’s not hard to see why. 820 W. Lake St.; momotarochicago.com

Cocktail Paradise Craving a post-dinner drink? The Aviary is only a five-minute walk from Momotaro—and it promises the most creative nightcap you’ve ever sipped. Owned by molecular gastronomy icon Grant Achatz (who also runs Chicago’s celebrated Alinea and Next restaurants), the bar is meticulous about its cocktails: expect locally sourced herbs, perfectly carved ice (the Aviary employs two full-time ice chefs) and, most notably, superinventive presentations. The menu changes, but past drinks

have included an Old Fashioned that comes in a ball of ice (the server cracks it with a slingshot to release the booze) and a Rooibos tea-infused cocktail that’s presented in a vacuum pot. 955 W. Fulton Market St.; theaviary.com

SATURDAY Culture Shock A trip to Chicago isn’t complete without visiting one of the city’s renowned museums. While this winter won’t see the opening of many new exhibits, it’s worth checking out the permanent collections at the Art Institute of Chicago (where you can see everything from 5,000 Byzantine-era pieces to Jackson Pollock paintings) and the Museum of Contemporary Art (which includes 2,500 works of art from 1945 to the present). Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave.; artic.edu. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave.; mcachicago.org

License to Chill The booming Fulton Market District is home to buzzed-about restaurants, bars and, as of 2014, the Soho House, a hotel and members club that boasts killer views—both of beautiful patrons and the Chicago skyline. The main draw, though, may be the Cowshed Spa, where you can get perfectly pampered: try the Ultimate Cowshed Pedicure, during which a tech transforms your feet while you sip a cup of tea and slap on headphones to your own individual TV. Pre-pedi, check out the onsite 12,000-square-foot gym, complete with a professional boxing ring. 113-125 N. Green St.; sohohousechicago.com

Laugh Factory When it comes to comedy, Chicago’s pedigree is unrivaled— after all, superstars from John Belushi and Bill Murray to Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert cut their teeth in the city’s clubs. Upand-coming comedic geniuses are often plucked from the stage at Second City, Chicago’s most storied comedy institution. Check out the talent during a Saturday matinee (4 p.m. shows are typically offered; check Second City’s website for details). You just might discover America’s next top comic. 1616 N. Wells St.; secondcity.com

GO DAY IN THE LIFE Designer Karen Herold, who’s put her creative stamp on some of Chicago’s chicest restaurants with her design firm, Studio K, shares her favorite local hot spots. WINE & DINE Lula Cafe and Embeya Lula Cafe has my favorite brunch in the city. It’s charming and cozy with an eclectic menu that reflects the best seasonal ingredients from local farms. At night, you can’t beat Embeya’s ambience. Chef Dang’s contemporary Vietnamese cuisine is refined and approachable and they have a killer cocktail list to boot. Lula Cafe, 2537 N. Kedzie Ave., lulacafe. com; Embeya, 564 W. Randolph St., embeya.com SHOP Blake is my go-to whenever I need the perfect ensemble. They have a gorgeous collection of high-end European designers unrivaled by any other store in the city. 212 W. Chicago Ave., 312.202.0047 DESIGN IT Jayson Home and Garden is great for vintage finds and beautiful furniture. It’s also the best stop for high-end floral arrangements. 1885 N. Clybourn Ave., jaysonhome.com

The Cowshed Spa at the Soho House is one of Fulton Market Districts top draws. RIGHT: Chef Paul Kahn’s Nico Osteria dishes Italian fare and savory seafood.

120

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

NEIGHBORHOOD NODS Bucktown. I love Alexis Bittar’s mix of original design and vintage pieces, Stitch’s unique home goods and Helen Yi’s beautifully curated collection of designer clothing. The West Loop and Fulton Market has great galleries (don’t miss Morlen Sinoway), shopping , and amazing restaurants.

Soho House Photo by Dave Burk of Hedrich Blessing; Sandwich photo by Derek Richmond

Chicago has become one of the country’s best food cities; superprolific chefs like Paul Kahan, whose Nico Osteria opened in December 2013, is one reason why. This Gold Coast spot— which nabbed a place on Bon Appetit’s America’s Best New Restaurants list for 2014—offers a hearty lunch menu, with everything from Italian classics (bruschetta-style sandwiches, house-made pasta) to newfangled takes on meat and seafood (steak with shishito pepper and grape-truffle vinaigrette). 1015 N. Rush St.; nicoosteria.com

The legendary Buddy Guy, at his namesake club, is one of Chicago’s most celebrated musicians. RIGHT: Sample a flight of locally made wines at The West Loop’s City Winery.

Beefing Up

Hog Heaven

Want to dine like a president? Hit RPM Steak, where President Barack Obama has stopped for a bite. The restaurant, which opened in August 2014, is the latest offering from Bill and Giuliana Rancic (who also own Chicago’s wildly popular RPM Italian). As the name suggests, it’s all about the beef: choose from 15 types, including the $155, 42-ounce tomahawk. There’s also a 350-bottle wine list and a selection of more than 40 scotches. 66 W. Kinzie St.; rpmsteak.com

Freezing temperatures require stick-to-your-ribs food. That’s where the yearold Green Street Smoked Meats—the latest from hotshot local restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff—comes in. The restaurant, which lies behind an unmarked door in a West Loop alley, offers loads of down-home-style cooking: smoked brisket, pulled pork, chicken legs and, of course, all the fixings. And the grub isn’t the only attraction; barbecue aficionados will appreciate the restaurant’s 12,000-pound meat-smoker. 112 N. Green St., greenstreetmeats.com

Buddy Guy photo by Anthony Moser; The West Loop’s City Winery photo by Magi Wangler

Stage Stars Started in the 1970s by three college friends (one of whom is Chicago-born actor Gary Sinise), the Tony Award-winning Steppenwolf Theatre Company has put Chicago on the map as a theater destination with Pulitzer-worthy productions like August: Osage County and Clybourne Park. In February, it debuts the buzzed-about Marie Antoinette, playwright David Adjmi’s darkly funny, modern spin on the controversial French queen. More into musical theater? Check out the First Wives Club, which kicks off its pre-Broadway premiere in February. Expect lots of laughs (the show is based on the 1996 movie starring Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler, and Diane Keaton) and Motown tunes. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted Ave.; Steppenwolf.org. First Wives Club, Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.; broadwayinchicago.com

SUNDAY Sweat Session After all those Chicago calories, it’s time to sweat. The city’s most butt-kicking workout can be found at Shred 415, which relies on high-intensity interval training to torch fat and build muscle. The nightclub-worthy tunes and energetic instructors will pump you up for an entire hour, while you alternate between the treadmill (prepare to sprint!) and the floor, where you’ll squat, lunge, and crunch your way to oblivion. Locations citywide; shred415.com

Urban Winery Wandering through a museum has a way of working up an appetite. Cab it to the West Loop’s City Winery for a tour. You’ll explore the city’s first and only fully operational winery, plus sample a flight of locally made wines and a spread of appetizers. You can even customize your own wine—pick your preferred varietal, vineyard and label design, and City Winery will handle the rest—though thanks to the aging process, you won’t be able to uncork it for six to 10 months. (Tours offered at 3:30 and 4:30 on weekends; reservations required.) 1200 W. Randolph St.; citywinery.com

Decadent Desserts If you’re in the mood for some after-dinner indulgence, hail a taxi to the Langham Hotel’s Pavilion Restaurant, which recently launched a new, adult-themed dessert menu stocked with fancy, booze-infused ice cream. The highlight: the Victoria, a $1,000 sundae dusted with 24-karat gold and served in a Wedgewood bowl with a bottle of Dom Perignon. (Dessert is served until 10 p.m.) 330 N. Wabash Ave.; chicago.langhamhotels.com

Guitar Gods Chicago isn’t the birthplace of the blues, but thanks to iconic hometown musicians like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and Bo Diddley, the genre’s local roots run deep. Another local legend is Buddy Guy, whose namesake club has hosted guitar greats from Stevie Ray Vaughn to Eric Clapton. The lineup varies nightly, but no matter when you go, you’re guaranteed an amazing show. 700 S. Wabash, buddyguy.com

STAY CHICAGO EXCLUSIVE RESORTS RESIDENCES AT TRUMP INTERNATIONAL Six spacious luxury residences at Trump International Hotel & Tower® , Chicago, include two-bedroom, two-and-one-half bath apartments offering 2,245 square feet and plush features. Views of the Chicago River and glowing city skyline • Gas fireplaces marble-appointed bathrooms • gourmet kitchens • access to all services and amenities of Trump International Hotel & Tower, Chicago

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

121

Be a Collector O F

B R E A T H S

T A K E N

A W A Y .

Whatever amazes you – you’ll find it with us. Homes that make your jaw drop. Places that leave you awe-inspired. Experiences that make your heart skip a beat. ExclusiveResorts.com • 844.260.0338

122

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

winter spring 2015

MAPQUEST EXPERIENCES NEW DESTINATIONS 2015 EVENTS

124 Tackle the Himalayan peaks with the Exclusive Resorts Journeys Collection 2016

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

123

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

GRAND CANYON Lasso the spirit of the American West and experience the soul of the majestic Grand Canyon. This nine-day, action-packed adventure through Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park, and Las Vegas ensures top bragging rights.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> MEET a private astronomer in Sedona for an evening stargazing session under the desert sky.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 8 nights, 9 days

>> TACKLE Sedona via a private 4-wheel drive exploration. Climb over red rocks through majestic canyons and zip down narrow trails to ancient cliff dwellings, Native American rock art sites, and dramatic vista points.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: Spring/Summer 2016

>> VISIT a 100-year-old working cattle ranch and horseback ride along the property. View Sedona’s Red Rocks, the Mogollon Rim, Verde Valley, and the San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff. >> FLY a private charter to the put-in for the Grand Canyon rafting trip. >> RAFT the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Massive Canyon walls expose eons of natural history. The astounding scenery is enhanced by the thrill of over 60 rapids, with a variety of force between 4 and 8 (1-10 scale). >> SEE the Lower Canyon’s vibrant limestone cliffs, Anasazi ruins, Nautiloid fossils, stream carved alcoves, and petroglyphs, with crystalline waterfalls, fern-covered fairylands, and turquoise pools. >> GATHER for a celebration dinner, at the Sensi Restaurant at Bellagio followed by a visit to the downtown Las Vegas laser light show.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

124

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

>> GROUP SIZE: 24 (children 8 and older, must be water safe) >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Running the Grand Canyon with family or close friends, and private camping with gourmet meals? Whitewater stories for generations to come. Every year Exclusive Resorts hand-selects and customdesigns a new collection of Journeys to the word’s most enticing locales, with curated itineraries by the Club’s worldwide travel provider, Abercrombie & Kent. The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

THAILAND Discover Thailand’s sense of adventure and incredible local culture and cuisine, with a coveted itinerary that travels to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket Island.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> TAKE a private boat trip to Koh Kret Island, an area on the outskirts of Bangkok and a refuge to the large Mon hill tribe population, famous for hand-made pottery.

>> TRIP LENGTH: : 9 nights, 10 days

>> SEE a Bangkok temple and make a Sangatarn offering at a sacred ceremony, where a local monk will bless your onward journey. >> RIDE an elephant at the local Maesa Elephant Camp. Trek through the surrounding forest perched atop one of the majestic animals. >> EAT at a secret restaurant of the famous late writer and photographer Rong Wong-savun. His wife, Sumalee, has converted their elegant gardens into a unique dining destination, opening her home to an exclusive clientele as “The Writer’s Secret.”

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: February & March 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 18 >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Experience all the highlights of Thailand in one trip, with three unique stops – city, rural, and beach. Thailand’s gracious and welcoming locals are reason enough to make the trek. This country’s spirit will remain with you long after your return.

>> GIVE BACK during a visit to the Baan Mitratorn orphanage in Chiang Mai. >> GO on a day trip via private boat to the Kai islands to snorkel off beautiful Phuket Island.

Every year Exclusive Resorts hand-selects and custom-designs a new collection of Journeys to the word’s most enticing locales, with curated itineraries by the Club’s worldwide travel provider, Abercrombie & Kent. The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

125

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

HIMALAYAS One of the most spiritual and culturally rich destinations on the globe, travel to Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet. Explore the natural and man-made wonders of this magical part of the world and commune with the heart of the region—the people who live there.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> DINE at the Chakrabongse House, a former residence of the Thai royal family, next to a stunning backdrop of the city’s grandest temples. A sunset cruise down the River of Kings precedes this memorable meal.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 12 days/11nights

>> EXPERIENCE The Folk Heritage Museum and the National Textile Museum for a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life, including a group of textile weavers practicing ancient Bhutanese art. >> VISIT several of the holiest Buddhist shrines in the world >> HIKE to the famous Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery >> TAKE an exhilarating one-hour flight through the Himalayas, including close-up views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse Nuptse.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

126

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: October & November 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 12-16 people >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Located at the crossroads of several Asian cultures, Bhutan is a rich mosaic of lifestyles, ethnic groups, languages, and belief systems. Nepal boasts eight of the world’s tallest mountain peaks and is a cradle of both Hinduism and Buddhism. And Tibet is considered the roof of the world, and, until recently, nearly unreachable for geographic and political reasons.

GALAPAGOS Board an expedition cruise and experience one of the most celebrated natural habitats on earth. In collaboration with Linblad Expeditions & National Geographic

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> INSIDER ACCESS with only Exclusive Resorts members on the ship.

>> TRIP LENGTH: : 9 nights, 10 days

>> PHOTOGRAPH your trip with a sharper lens-eye-view after taking an onboard photo class.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: AugustSeptember 2016

>> VIEW the wildlife in the Galapagos and get up close to rare animals. >> MEET nature specialists on the trip, who are knowledgeable about the wildlife and geography of the Galapagos. >> TAKE snorkeling trips and spot playful sea lions or curious sea turtles. >> TRAVEL by boat to experience the most of the Galapagos Islands in a short period of time. >> SEE many animals in the Galapagos that are endemic species, only found in this rare natural habitat. >> BOND during this active trip, ideal for multi-generational families.

>> GROUP SIZE: 45 (children eight years and older) >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Charles Darwin studied this archipelago of volcanic islands, and only a fortunate few get this up close and personal to the incredible number of endemic Galapagos Islands species.

The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

127

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

ICELAND Tackle the adventurous nature of Iceland, with indelible experiences in Reykjavik, Thorsmork Glacial Valley, and South Iceland.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> TAKE a private cruise with just your Exclusive Resorts travelers to the bay of Faxafloi for whale watching, where there are nearly 20 whale species.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 8 nights, 9 days >> DATES OF TRAVEL: May-August 2016

>> DISCOVER the Reykjanes peninsula geothermal area with private education by a volcanologist. Visit numerous hot and sulphur springs.

>> GROUP SIZE: 24 (children 12 and older)

>> VISIT the Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal spa surrounded by lava fields and black sandy beaches. Take the swim of your life surrounded by warm lagoon water.

>> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Know many travelers or friends that can claim an Iceland passport stamp? Now you can.

>> EXPERIENCE a rune (stone) reading, a type of a fortune reading followed by Viking story telling. One of the strongest men in Iceland will show feats of strength to symbolize the forces of nature. >> SEE South Iceland’s geothermal pools and watch Strokkur erupt. Visit Gullfoss waterfall, the most famous waterfall in Iceland. >> HIKE to the Blafjoll Mountain volcano with a private tour guide and experience exclusive access to its majestic landscape. >> RELAX at the acclaimed Laugar Spa, nestled in the Laugardalur Valley.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

128

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Every year Exclusive Resorts hand-selects and customdesigns a new collection of Journeys to the word’s most enticing locales, with curated itineraries by the Club’s worldwide travel provider, Abercrombie & Kent. The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

THE

MIDDLE EAST A sojourn to one of the hottest destinations on the map, visit Dubai, Muscat, and Jordan for an exclusive collection of memories. HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> VISIT the Dubai family home of The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Learn the customs of Arabian hospitality.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 10 nights, 11 days

>> EXPERIENCE Ultimate Afternoon Tea and champagne at Burj Al Arab in Sahn Eddar, named the world’s most luxurious hotel. >> FLY in a Cessna 208 Caravan, the only amphibious aircraft in Dubai, to see the Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Creek. >> RIDE a four-wheel-drive vehicle during a Desert Safari Extravaganza that includes “dune bashing” along the high dunes. Visit a Bedouin camp where guests are welcomed with dates and Arabic coffee. The night is capped with a barbeque dinner and an Emirati dance show. >> SEE Oman’s House of Amouage, a niche perfume house that mixes raw materials of high quality. >> VIEW Bait Al Adam Museum, a unique collection of currency, paintings, photographs, and guns, and explore the venue with the museum owner and curator. >> EMBARK on a luxury catamaran for views of the spectacular Portuguese Forts, the beautiful palace of the Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, and original 18th century waterfront homes of the Muttrah corniche. >> ACCESS the Royal Stables for a catered breakfast and private horse show. All horses are owned by the Hashemite Royal family members, and the Saddles Museum dates back to the Islam & Arab Revolution. >> SIP award-winning vino in Jerash at The Winemaker, a boutique wine tasting venue named after the Saint George Church in Madaba and listed in Hachette’s 1000 Wines of the World Guide.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: April & September-November 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 16 >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: There’s a Dubai trip, and then there’s a Dubai, Oman, and Jordan jaunt with Abercrombie & Kent. Experience how this travel provider delivers the ultimate vacation experience.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

129

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

CHINA Board a private jet for the ultimate private sojourn to China. With stops in Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guilin/Yangshuo, and Shanghai, experience insider access to a region steeped in culture, tradition, and history.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> TOUR the Beijing Opera Training School and Tiananmen Square, proceeding through the Gate of Heavenly Peace to the Forbidden City with special access not open to the public.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 11 nights, 12 days

>> EXPLORE the archaeological site of the Terracotta Warriors. >> SEE Olympic Sites of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, including the “The Bird’s Nest,” the National Athletics Stadium, and “The Water Cube,” the National Aquatics Center. >> CUDDLE a baby giant panda in Chungdu at the Panda Breeding Center. >> TAKE a private Tai Chi Class with a Tai Chi Master at Temple of Heaven Park. >> DISCOVER an outdoor evening performance with over 600 performers of “Impression Liu San Jie,” a sound-and-light show developed by Zhang Yimou, the artist responsible for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. >> SHOP in the markets in Beijing and Shanghai.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

130

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: Spring & Fall 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 24 >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Ride to China in the comfort of your own private jet. Visit the Olympic sites of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, toast the Great Wall, see the Terra Cotta Warriors up close, adopt and hug a baby giant panda, and float a bamboo raft along a tributary of the scenic Li River, considered the most picturesque region of Guilin.

ITALY An Italian family affair, collect memories-in-the-making during visits to Rome, Florence, and Venice.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> INSIDER ACCESS to the Roman Coliseum’s underground hypogeum (where gladiators, wild animals, and boats were kept). Then visit the top tier for a bird’s-eye-view across the Coliseum and ancient Rome.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 8 nights, 9 days

>> LEARN the basic techniques of gladiatorial sword fighting at Rome’s Gladiator School. >> EXPERIENCE the Sistene Chapel in a private group, avoiding the usual throng of tourists. >> DINE on a privately reserved vintage tram as it tours Rome’s monuments. >> TAKE a family treasure hunt through Florence using text messages and Segways. Clues will bring you to various points of interest around the famous art city. >> MEET a professional oil taster at a private tasting school where adults taste and children cook with Italy’s claim to fame. >> CLIMB the Leaning Tower of Pisa, for a heightened view across the Square of Miracles (children 8 and over). >> GO beyond the velvet rope to the Chapel of Giambologna. View artisans at work as they repair 600-year damage of slow decay with support from Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy. >> VISIT the world-famous St Mark’s Square in Venice and continue to Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venetian power and glory. Float the Venice canals in a private gondola.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: March, April, June, July, August 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 20 (children 6 and older) >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Ah, Italy. The food. The history. A passionate culture and private, after-hours access to the Vatican. A family escape that may just become an annual event. Why wouldn’t you? Every year Exclusive Resorts hand-selects and customdesigns a new collection of Journeys to the word’s most enticing locales, with curated itineraries by the Club’s worldwide travel provider, Abercrombie & Kent. The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

131

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

PANAMA + COLOMBIA Step foot in both Central and South America and experience two of-the-moment destinations. With stops in Panama City, Bogota, and Cartagena, this journey embraces the cultural legacy of two iconic countries.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> TAKE a private yacht that travels through the Miraflores Locks, Pedro Miguel Locks, and the Gaillard Cut to observe the Panama Canal expansion project.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 8 nights, 9 days

>> WALK Panama’s major sights, including the spectacular ruins of Panama Viejo and the colonial city of Casco Antiguo. >> VISIT Bogota’s School of Arts and Crafts during a private tour, as well as the Gold Museum, which features the world’s largest collection of indigenous gold objects. >> EXPERIENCE the town of Zipaquirá and explore its famous underground salt cathedral, followed by lunch and a folkloric dance performance.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: January-April 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 18 >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Board a private yacht through the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering wonders of the modern world.

>> BIKE the narrow streets of Cartagena and take in its famous colonial architecture. >> DINE at Cartagena’s El Santísimo. Considered a fusion gastronomic temple, it serves the finest cuisine in Cartagena. >> YACHT to the Rosario Islands Archipelago and visit Isleta Barú to relax on the beach, swim, snorkel, or simply tuck into a hammock.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

132

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

KILIMANJARO Tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro’s famed Lemosho Route, with a curated itinerary that also includes inspired stops in Arusha and Serengeti.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> TAKE a drive to Arusha National Park for an acclimatization hike up Mt. Meru. Test gear, meet participants, and get to know your mountain guide.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 11 nights, 12 days

>> STAY at the Legendary Lodge in Arusha, nestled on a coffee farm. >> LEARN from a special guest speaker, who talks on his experience about leading guests to the glacier-clad peaks and operating Kilimanjaro climbs. >> CLIMB with skilled expedition leaders to various camps on the route to acclimatize and prepare for your summit bid.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: January-February & August-October, December 2016 >> GROUP SIZE: 16 (children 16 and older) >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Summit Mt. Kilimanjaro under a full moon. Enough said.

>> SEE Serengeti National Park during a morning game drive in search of the “Big Five” via a customdesigned, open-air, 4x4 safari vehicle. >> EXPERIENCE the Leopard Habituation Research Program. Join TAWIRI scientists as they partake in a dawn game drive for research and help identify the Leopard of Mwiba. >> INTERACT with the local Mang’ati and Masai as they give an authentic taste of their rich traditions. Visit the homestead with community leaders and learn their unique and rich cultural traditions.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

133

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

THE ROCKIES Colorado may be famous for champagne powder, but with this trip, held in conjunction with the acclaimed Eleven Experience and hosted at Crested Butte’s chic Scarp Ridge Lodge, access top terrain via luxury snowcats and experience a heli-ski adventure that will leave you begging for more descents.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> EXPERIENCE a complete buyout of Scarp Ridge Lodge, one of the top luxury lodges in the Rockies.

>> TRIP LENGTH: 6 nights, 7 days

>> TACKLE four days of guided cat skiing in the Elk Mountain Range with Crested Butte’s famed Irwin Guides.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: Starting February 2016

>> SKI one day of Helicopter Skiing with Helitrax in Telluride (includes flight to Telluride).

>> GROUP SIZE: 18 (children 12 and over for cat skiing)

>> NAVIGATE the Bentley Driving Experience through the picturesque roads of the Colorado Rockies. >> MEET a celebrity and professional skier for inside tips and tricks to sharpen your ski skills during the Celebrity/Pro Ski Day. >> GO fly fishing, ice climbing and snowshoeing in Crested Butte. >> DINE on gourmet, chef-prepared breakfast daily before hitting the slopes.

The 2016 Exclusive Journeys Collection destinations, itineraries, and dates are subject to change. Contact your Vacation Ambassador for complete Journeys information.

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/EXCLUSIVEJOURNEYS

134

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

>> BRAGGING RIGHTS: With this complete buy-out of the Scarp Ridge Lodge, the renowned Irwin Guides and the “Tucker,” a luxury snowcat, will whisk guests to four days cat skiing in the Elk Mountain Range. Plus, a day of heli-skiing and outdoor alternatives that include dogsledding, ice climbing, and snowshoeing. And a Bentley drive experience, while you’re at it.

Photo courtesy of Eleven Experience

In collaboration with the Eleven Experience.

CUBA Exclusive Resorts brings you this extraordinary travel through its partner, Abercrombie & Kent USA. Discover an enigmatic island neighbor through firsthand, people-to-people interactions that reveal the true spirit of a land long off-limits to American travelers.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP DETAILS

>> IMMERSE yourself in Cuban culture with only Exclusive Resorts travelers, exploring the country’s architecture, agriculture, music, art, and dining during intimate, one-on-one experiences with Cuban residents.

>> TRIP LENGTH: : 8 nights, 9 days

>> ENGAGE in discussions on women’s rights and current events with members of the Cuban Women’s Federation, and in discussions about Cuba’s well-regarded public health care system with a local physician. >> EXPLORE Las Terrazas eco-community and learn about Cuba’s environmental commitments at this unique UNESCO Biosphere Reserve through unique interactions with resident specialists and local artists. >> ENJOY Cuba’s and America’s shared passion, baseball, at a game where you will engage in discussions with players about baseball and sports in Cuban life and perhaps play an inning or two. >> MEET with local musicians during a private Buena Vista Social Club-style concert and cultural discussion. >> TAKE a private, chartered flight only for Exclusive Resorts members.

>> DATES OF TRAVEL: OctoberDecember 2015 >> GROUP SIZE: 16-20 >> BRAGGING RIGHTS: Discover the mystique, passion, and generous spirit of this storied island, where you’ll be immersed in Cuban culture via an adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime curated itinerary involving meaningful interaction with the Cuban people.

>> STAY at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami for a preview and briefing on the trip.

Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC is authorized by the U.S. Treasury Department (License #CT-2014-308550-1) to organize and operate people-to-people trips to Cuba.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

135

DESTINATIONS + RESIDENCES

Miami Beach, Florida South Beach Serenity LUXURY RESIDENCES

DON’T MISS

Three luxurious two-bedroom, two-bath residences—two measuring 1,237 square feet, and the other, 1,325 square feet.

•

• Asian-inspired interiors • Magnificent seaside views • Sleek bath in absolute black granite • Private rainfall shower • Soaking tub

DID YOU KNOW

ingredients in THE FAMOUS mojito cocktail

miles to MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

136

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

EVENTS Art Deco Weekend (January); South Beach Wine & Food Festival (February); Miami International Boat Show (March); Miami Spice (August & September); Art Basel (December)

• SEE art deco architecture and the famed Ocean Drive • VISIT Miami museums: Bass Museum of Art, The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), Deering Estate Museum of

POOLS on property, each with underwater sound systems

Contemporary Art (MOCA) and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

• DRIVE to Key Largo or Key West, home to Ernest Hemingway • DINE at culinary hot spots, from gourmet bistros to casual beachside cafes • TAKE a complimentary 60-minute beachside yoga class offered by The Spa

75,000

international visitors attend the annual ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH

couples treatment rooms at the SPA

NEW 2015

Sonoma, California Wine Country, Redefined LUXURY RESIDENCES

DON’T MISS

Three elegant, estate-style homes average 3,000 square feet, with such amenities as:

•

ENJOY private tastings at some of the most exceptional vineyards in the region—Banshee, Chateau St. Jean, Kaz, Arista, and Dutcher Crossing.

•

EXPERIENCE the annual harvest— stomp grapes with bare feet at one of the local wineries or enjoy one of the Valley’s celebratory harvest festivals.

• Private pools • Private rose gardens • Expansive outdoor living areas • Vineyard views • Gourmet kitchens

• SOURCE a gourmet picnic after visiting one of the region’s many local markets and savor an al fresco lunch. • SIP delicious vintages while relaxing in the Japanese-style garden at Arista Winery. • LEARN to prep gourmet cuisine during private cooking lessons with local chefs. • HIKE through colorful wildflowers on the slopes of Sugarloaf Ridge.

DID YOU KNOW

7.5

MILLION visitors vacation in Sonoma County annually

450

WINERIES call Sonoma home

650

PLANTED acres in the famous Bennett Valley

DEGREES temperature variance created by fog helps makes stellar Sonoma wine

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

137

DESTINATIONS + RESIDENCES

Virgin Gorda, B.V.I. Island Bliss. Explore at Your Own Pace. LUXURY RESIDENCE

DON’T MISS

An expansive private home that lives like a resort, with easy access to Pond Bay Beach and Savanna Bay Beach. In addition to a Main Pavilion with private pool, the master suite pavilion lives like a completely separate villa, with its own plunge pool, kitchen, terrace and outdoor shower. The other four suites all have their own outdoor living spaces and outdoor showers as well.

•

EXPLORE the rocky shoreline of The Baths and soak in the amazing sea pools. Then follow the trail to Devil’s bay to snorkel.

•

DISCOVER other cays and islands on a private sailboat. An expert crew will divulge top snorkel spots, secluded beaches, and an only-in-Virgin-Gorda lunch spot.

DID YOU KNOW

PRIVATE POOLS at your home

largest of the BVIs, Virgin Gorda is said to have been named “THE FAT VIRGIN” by Christopher Columbus

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

138

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

•

DIVE the incredible reefs worth seeing up close. If new to scuba, take a half-day lesson. If expert, go straight to the action and dive the “Chimney.” MEET lobster fishermen who come to Virgin Gorda weekly and buy live lobsters to cook in your private kitchen. VISIT luxury resorts that sprinkle the island, including Bitter End Yacht Club, Oil Nut Bay, the YCCS Clubhouse & Marina Virgin Gorda, and Little Dix Bay

square miles make up this ISLAND

PARADISE

INGREDIENTS in the mint and lychee cocktail at the new beachside Coco Maya restaurant

NEW 2015

St. John, U.S.V.I. Caribbean Chic LUXURY RESIDENCES

DON’T MISS

Two stunningly luxurious villas on pristine St. John—one a Moroccaninspired retreat, the other an Italian inspired home located in coveted Upper Peter Bay. Lavish comfort embraces island life.

• DINE at The Terrace or Waterfront Bistro • SNORKEL at Trunk Bay • PICNIC on one of the island’s pristine beaches

• EXPLORE via stand up paddleboard around the National Park in post-card turquoise water • DIVE the amazing and numerous dive sites and snorkeling right off the beach

• WINDSURF at Cinnamon Bay

DID YOU KNOW

5,000

ACRES of land dedicated to the National Park Service by Laurance Rockefeller

PERCENT of the island comprises a national park

1917

YEAR the U.S. purchased St. John from the Danish West India and Guinea Company

500 CURATED

YEARS of ceremonial activity from the Taino Indians can be found

WINTER/SPRING 2015

139

DESTINATIONS + RESIDENCES

NEW 2015

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Coastal Paradise LUXURY RESIDENCES

DON’T MISS

Five luxury villas at The Resort at Pelican Hill® feature three bedrooms, three baths and 2,573 square feet of space and include:

• CRUISE Newport Harbor at sunset in a Duffy Electric Boat and dine on a gourmet picnic.

• Ocean-view terrace, two-car garage

•

• Access to a private clubhouse with a fitness center, infinity pool and cabanas, whirlpool spa, and children’s wading pool •

Full access to the amenities at The Resort at Pelican Hill, including the Pelican Hill Golf Club, The Spa at Pelican Hill and extensive programs for kids and young adults

TAKE the family on a whalewatching cruise from Newport Beach and encounter giant blue, minke, grey, finback and humpback whales.

180

Pacific frame the resort’s famous wedding grounds

GO > EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS

140

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

• SURF at Crystal Cove Beach, surrounded by stretches of sand, tide pools, and wooded canyons.

• GOLF on 54 holes of golf designed by Tom Fazio.

DID YOU KNOW DEGREE views of the

• SHOP iconic department stores, upscale boutiques, and unique kiosks at Fashion Island® .

TREATMENT ROOMS at The Spa at Pelican Hill

CHAMPIONSHIP holes on the Tom-Fazio designed Ocean North and Ocean South courses

RESTAURANTS and cafes at The Resort at Pelican Hill

NEW 2015

abercrombiekent.com

Discover the World on an A&K Tailor Made Journey Abercrombie & Kent’s Tailor Made journeys take just you and your family on a privately guided adventure wherever you want to go — with support from 52 local offices in over 100 countries, the possibilities are endless. Contact your Exclusive Ambassador to create an A&K journey built exclusively around the things you want to see and do together.

after an introduction from our private guide, we were invited to join the locals on their way to market.

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

141

EVENTFUL

Book it! Insider access to Exclusive Resorts member events, as well as our picks of top global tournaments, seminars, and soirees.

The famous Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs

MARCH TED 2015: TRUTH AND DARE March 16-20 | Vancouver, Canada A fast-paced, five-day stage program featuring TED’s famous 18-minute talks, plus music, comedy, tech demos, short talks, video interludes and more. This anticipated and curated conference brings together some of the most exciting creators of the future, including inventors, designers, explorers, and change-makers. conferences.ted.com/TED2015; non-member event

APRIL MASTERS GOLF TOURNAMENT 2015 | April 7-10 & April 10-13 Augusta, Georgia Experience golf’s greatest tradition with the premier service, and luxury that are Exclusive Resorts hallmarks. Stay in one of the most beautiful homes in Augusta, with daily access

142

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

to Augusta National Golf Club and the historic Double Eagle Club for food, drinks and the ultimate in hospitality. Includes private transportation and instruction with Double Eagle Club’s resident PGA professional. April 7-10: $6,800 per person, 4-person minimum, 3 days usage; April 10-13: $8,600 per person, 4 person minimum, 3 days usage. 141ST KENTUCKY DERBY | April 30-May 3 | Churchill Downs Louisville, Kentucky Grab your mint julep and fanciest hat, and head to horse country to see who claims the first jewel in racing’s Triple Crown. From the Exclusive Resorts suite at Churchill Downs, place your bets and cheer on the ponies. The VIP weekend includes honored tradition, from the Kentucky Oaks Race to the Run for the Roses itself, and all the parties and festivities along the way. $7,150

per person, 2 person minimum. 3 days usage. Includes members-only suite, expedited entry, police escort, rooms at the official host hotel.

MAY DESTINATIONS IN FOCUS: SHOOT LIKE SLIM AARONS | May 14-17 Las Vegas, Nevada Celebrated for his iconic photography featuring candid moments of “attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places,” Slim Aarons spent the 1940s, ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s chronicling the good life. Decades later, his photos still serve as essential inspiration for top designers and art directors. Learn to shoot like Slim Aarons alongside his daughter, Mary, with Leica Camera for a four-day photography workshop inspired by his most renowned photographs. You’ll have access to private instruction from world-class Leica Akademie

photographers as well as more than $100,000 worth of Leica camera equipment. EDEN CLUB: THE LONG ISLAND CLASSIC | May 18–20 Long Island, New York The most popular classic on this year’s Eden Club calendar includes some of America’s finest private destinations where two-man teams compete on 54-holes over three days. Includes three outstanding courses, creating a combination of the very best golf the Hamptons has to offer: the spectacular Nicklaus-Doak creation, Sebonack as basecamp, and the second round at Maidstone.

JUNE NAPA VALLEY WINE AUCTION, June 4-7 | St. Helena, California Considered the American Wine Classic, the Napa Valley Vintners’ (NVV) annual charity wine

2015

FROM LEFT: Jacques Pepin, Gail Simmons, and Ming Tsai toast the Aspen FOOD+WINE Classic; Napa Valley Wine Auction; US Open; US Pro Challenge

Aspen Food and Wine Classic photo By Stefanie Michejda; US Open photo by Getty Images; US Pro Challenge photo by Stefanie Michejda

fundraiser features outstanding wines, locally sourced cuisine by top global chefs, and the splendor of America’s wine region. The auction raises funds for community health and children’s education nonprofit organizations. ASPEN FOOD & WINE CLASSIC June 19-21 | Aspen, Colorado This annual epicurean extravaganza descends on Aspen every June, with such headliners as Gail Simmons, Richard Blais, Marcus Samuelsson, and more. The three-day weekend hosts cooking demonstrations, wine panels, seminars, and a dizzying array of private and public events. Stay at an Exclusive Resorts luxury villa at the Timbers Club in Snowmass and enjoy a flavorful alpine weekend. foodandwine.com/classic; nonmember event EDEN CLUB: EUROPEAN COUPLES CLASSIC | June 21–23 Paris, France Paris is now on the global golf map as the future venue for the 2018 Ryder Cup. The Couples Classic features three exceptional golf courses and a superb base in the center of Paris. Morfontaine, considered one of the most prestigious private golf clubs in Europe, is complemented by the newly renovated Paris International and the venue of the 2018 Ryder Cup Paris National. Includes a special night of three-star Michelin cuisine plus fabulous shopping and sightseeing. ASPEN IDEAS FESTIVAL 2015 June 25–July 4 | Aspen, Colorado This global think-tank has fast become one of the most talked about intellectual events of the year. Presented by The Aspen Institute in partnership with The Atlantic magazine, the Aspen Ideas Festival stages leaders from around the globe and spanning several disciplines to discuss international ideas and issues. Stay

at an Exclusive Resorts luxury villa at the Timbers Club in Snowmass and enjoy access to this highly anticipated event. aspenideas.org; non-member event

JULY HELI-HIKING | July 14-18 Columbia Mountains British Columbia, Canada Helicopters fly to remote areas of the mountain wilderness where guests explore glistening glaciers, flowering alpine meadows, mountain ridges, and lush valleys. Journeys range from short leisurely hikes to daylong treks across the vast mountain expanse, all based from mountain lodge retreats. Guides are intuitive mountaineers that lead individual goals. An Exclusive Resorts, members-only lodge is staffed with a dedicated team of guides, hosts, and culinary talent. $2950 per person, 3 days usage. Exclusive use of the lodge, gratuities, F&B included and a glacier BBQ. NAPA VALLEY FESTIVAL DEL SOLE | July 17-20 | Napa, California Napa Valley’s 10-day summer festival is a singular experience, blending music, theater, and dance with fine wine and cuisine. Features renowned artists and emerging talent from around the globe, gastronomic adventures at stunning wineries, resorts and estates, free community concerts, yoga in the vineyards, and wellness conversations with leading practitioners. Includes three nights accommodations at Meadowood Napa Valley, two all-access opening weekend passes and luxury transfers.

and valleys of seven host cities throughout the Colorado Rockies. For seven consecutive days the world’s top athletes race in one of the largest cycling events in U.S. history and the largest spectator event in Colorado. Stay at one of Exclusive Resorts’ many Colorado properties and get in on all the action. usaprocyclingchallenge.com/ about; non-member event EDEN CLUB: FATHER-SON/ PARENT-CHILD | August 3-4 Winged Foot and Hudson National | New York Play two of Golf Digest’s Top 100 courses in one day, under competition format at the exclusive private golf club, Winged Foot. Designed by A. W. Tillinghast, Winged Foot has hosted five U.S. Open championships. The Tom Fazio-designed Hudson National has now become one of the go-to private golf clubs in New England. This 54-hole event is designed for 24 father-son (Parent-Child) teams (age 11+) who will compete over three days of 18-hole, best-ball matches.

SEPTEMBER

AUGUST

US Open 2015 | September 4-7 New York, New York Grand Slam tennis with a New York attitude. Kick off the week with a festive cocktail party, and experience the energy of this worldclass sporting event from a luxury suite in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Stay and play at luxury Exclusive Resorts residences in the city. Tickets to two matches (one day session and one night session of the Men’s/Women’s 3rd Round and Men’s/Women’s Round of 16). Seating is located in an Exclusive Resorts-only luxury suite within Arthur Ashe. $3,875 per person, minimum of 2 people.

USA PRO CHALLENGE | August 17-23 | Multiple cities, Colorado Considered “America’s Race,” this professional cycling competition is similar in format to the Tour de France, snaking through the peaks

11th Annual Members Golf Tournament | September 17-20 Held in Lake Tahoe at the Old Greenwood Course. Compete with fellow members for “Closest to

the Pin,” “Longest Drive,” or the big trophy. Stay at a luxurious Lake Tahoe residence and enjoy a welcome reception and awards cocktail party. Old Greenwood was rated among Golf Digest’s “America’s Top 100 Greatest Public Courses” in 2011, and its Golf Academy is led by the 2011 NC PGA Teacher of the Year, Keith Lyford. $1125 per person, 3 days usage, 4 person minimum WINE TOUR | September 23-27 Napa and Sonoma, California Exclusive Resorts returns to California to show the very best of both Napa and Sonoma valleys. Taste rare and exceptional wines from some of the most eclectic and special boutique wineries in the region. Some of the country’s top winemakers give an intimate look at the nuances of winemaking. $1950 per person, 4 days usage. Includes exclusive use of the wineries and barrel tastings.

OCTOBER BIG GAME FISHING TOURNAMENT | October 1-4 Los Cabos, Mexico Board a luxury yacht to hunt the elusive marlin in some of the best fishing spots on the Sea of Cortez. The International Game Fish Association sanctions this friendly Exclusive Resorts competition, and if your catch weighs in as The Big One, earn prizes and bragging rights. KIDS TAKE SAN FRANCISCO/ FLEET WEEK | October 9-12 This festive weekend for Exclusive Resorts member’s kids includes dinner and a sleepover at the San Francisco Bay Aquarium, a private viewing area to the Fleet Week Air Show, followed by dinner and fireworks cruise on a private yacht through San Francisco Bay. The weekend is capped with a private tour of San Francisco.

GO > FOR FULL EXCLUSIVE RESORTS EVENT LISTINGS AND SAMPLE ITINERARIES, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/VACATIONS/EVENTS CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

143

bucket list PHOTO BOMB: DURING A SELFDOCUMENTED SOJOURN, EXCLUSIVE RESORTS MEMBER PETER DAUTERMAN CELEBRATES PENINSULA PAPAGAYO WITH AN INDELIBLE MOMENT

“My wife and I were so pleased with the outcome of this adventure and bucket list item that we plan to do another Exclusive Resorts and Leica Akademie trip next year!” WHERE: Our school base was the excellent Exclusive Resorts vacation

homes on the Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. We enjoyed a sunset sail on a large catamaran with snorkeling, underwater photography, and a great Leica photo-teaching session at sunset. PHOTO FROM: A sunrise photo class. Over four days we had group

lessons and afternoon sunset classes. SHOT ON SITE: I shot my pictures with the Leica X- Vario and my wife

shot with her new Leica D-LUXE. NEVER THOUGHT I’D EXPERIENCE: Shooting photos from a zipline

high over a tropical river gorge. SURPRISE FACTOR: Ending a vigorous day with an unexpected bath in

the hot sulphur springs. We painted ourselves with special volcanic mud and soaked it off—a surprisingly fun and educational day! IF YOU GO: If buying a new camera, get it a few months early so

you have time to take a lot of photos and get familiar. We got a lot of understanding of the capabilities of the cameras and how to use those. BRAGGING RIGHTS: Our guest instructor was Craig Semetko, named by Leica Cameras as one of the Top 10 Living Photographers in the World. I never dreamed of hours of one-on-one time. He gave instruction, tips, and critiques of my wife’s and my work. We also learned the art of molecular mixology. Stathis Aparicio, who works at the Exclusive Resorts’ Poro Poro Beach Club, was the winner of the Best Mixologist in Costa Rica! I’m now the hit of cocktail hour with friends, in all lack of modesty.

GO > FOR ACCESS TO DESTINATIONS IN FOCUS WEEKENDS & EVENTS AND THE LEICA ON LOAN PROGRAM, VISIT EXCLUSIVERESORTS.COM/LEICA

144

WINTER/SPRING 2015

CURATED

Vintnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dozen

Introducing our 2012s For a private tasting of the Carte Blanche portfolio while visiting one of Exclusive Resortsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sonoma properties, contact Dj Warner at dj@carteblanchewine.com

carteblanchewine.com

/carteblanchewine

CURATED

WINTER/SPRING 2015

145

— What Delta Private Jets f lyers know —

SIMPLE PLEASURES { pair wonderfully with }

SIMPLE PRICING

Enjoy all-inclusive pricing with rates locked in for up to two years – one more benefit of being a Delta Private Jets Cardholder. Jet Card / Charter / Aircraft Management

BE IN THE KNOW. Call 877-541-3548 or visit DeltaPrivateJets.com.